July gardening: 7 crops you can still plant for fall harvest

Planting in July: a smart move

Even though summer is in full swing, July still brings plenty of chances for new plantings. This is the time when thoughtful sowing and planting can set you up for a bountiful harvest later on. Despite the heat, you can still get the ball rolling for future yields. By taking some well-thought-out risks now, your veggie garden can keep thriving into autumn.

This month is great for planting directly in the soil. Snap beans, which grow quickly, are a hit during this time. You can also look forward to harvesting summer beets and carrots in the fall. If you like a bit of spice, throw in some radishes and turnips. And for a fresh flavor boost, sow herbs like parsley and chervil. To keep your harvest coming steadily, try staggered sowing for a continuous supply of fresh produce.

Transplanting and direct planting

July isn’t just about direct sowing—it’s also a good time to prep your garden for the cooler months. You can transplant certain plants or set them directly into the soil. This works well for sturdy veggies like autumn leeks, which can handle a few early frosts. Similarly, Brussels sprouts are built to handle the late season and do well as the weather starts to cool.

If you’ve got enough space, think about planting zucchinis or tough lettuce varieties like Batavia, which can handle tougher conditions. For those with a sweet tooth, everbearing strawberries are a delightful choice over several months. Plus, planting green manures like mustard or phacelia not only nurtures the soil but also gets it ready for whatever you plant next.

Managing water and heat

Keeping your garden in good shape during the peak of summer means keeping a close eye on watering and protecting plants from the heat. Watering early in the morning or later in the evening helps cut down on evaporation so your plants get the hydration they need. Mulching is another handy trick; it holds in moisture and shields plant roots from getting too much heat.

On those extra hot days, setting up some shade for more delicate plants like lettuce or strawberries is a must. You can use old mosquito nets or shade cloths for a quick fix against the harsh sun. Watch your plants closely—a telltale droop or a change in leaf color often means they need some immediate care.

Enjoying July’s gardening opportunities

Gardening in July has its share of challenges and rewards, and it calls for a bit of planning and hard work. It’s time to roll up your sleeves, dive in, and get creative in your garden. By choosing a range of veggies like snap beans, summer beets, carrots, radishes, turnips, as well as herbs like parsley and chervil—and even prepping with transplants like autumn leeks and Brussels sprouts—you’re setting yourself up for a garden that keeps giving until autumn.

This journey through July’s garden scene not only makes you appreciate nature’s rhythms but also brings the joy of a colorful harvest when the time comes. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out on your green adventure, now is the time to cultivate growth that goes far beyond just filling your plate.