It Is Not Too Late
Many gardeners think July is too late to plant anything. That is not true. July is the perfect time to plant a second round of warm-season crops and start preparing for fall. The key is choosing vegetables that mature quickly or are heat-tolerant.
Warm-Season Crops for July
You can still plant fast-maturing varieties of beans, cucumbers, and summer squash in early July. Bush beans produce in as little as 50 days. Succession plant a new batch every two weeks for a continuous harvest through September.
Heat-Loving Herbs
Basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary love hot weather and can be planted in July. Basil thrives in summer heat and grows quickly from transplants. Keep herbs well-watered and harvest regularly.
Starting Fall Crops
July is when to start thinking about fall gardening. Start seeds indoors for cool-season crops like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage in mid-to-late July. Check your first frost date and count backward for the right timing.
Tips for July Planting
Provide shade for transplants during the hottest part of the day for the first week. Water deeply and consistently. Mulch heavily to keep soil cool. Plant in the evening so plants settle in overnight before the heat.
What Not to Plant in July
Avoid planting cool-season crops like lettuce and spinach directly in the garden in July — heat causes them to bolt. Wait until late August or early September for a fall harvest.