9 Seeds You Can Still Plant in July: A Gardener’s Guide to Late Summer Planting
July might seem like the middle of summer, a time when the major planting season is behind us. But for many garden enthusiasts, this is still a great time to plant certain seeds.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, there are plenty of vegetables and herbs that thrive when planted in July.
This guide will introduce you to nine seeds that are perfect for late summer planting, ensuring your garden remains productive and lush well into the fall.
1. Bush Beans
Why Plant Bush Beans in July?
Bush beans are a fantastic choice for July planting because they grow quickly and don’t require much space. These beans typically mature in about 50-60 days, making them ideal for late summer harvesting.
Tips for Planting:
- Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter.
- Spacing: Plant seeds 1 inch deep and about 3 inches apart in rows that are 18 inches apart.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
2. Beets
Why Plant Beets in July?
Beets are a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed both as roots and greens. They are fairly quick to mature, usually taking around 55-70 days, making them perfect for planting in mid-summer.
Tips for Planting:
- Soil Preparation: Beets prefer loose, well-drained soil with a neutral pH.
- Spacing: Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart, thinning to 3-4 inches once they sprout.
- Watering: Ensure consistent moisture to prevent tough, woody roots.
3. Carrots
Why Plant Carrots in July?
Carrots are an excellent choice for July planting, especially for a fall harvest. They thrive in cooler temperatures and typically take around 70-80 days to mature.
Tips for Planting:
- Soil Preparation: Carrots need loose, sandy soil free of rocks and debris.
- Spacing: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart, thinning to 2-3 inches as they grow.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist to prevent cracking.
4. Radishes
Why Plant Radishes in July?
Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables, maturing in as little as 25-30 days. This makes them perfect for succession planting throughout the summer.
Tips for Planting:
- Soil Preparation: Radishes prefer well-drained, sandy soil.
- Spacing: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart, thinning to 2 inches.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist to ensure tender roots.
5. Spinach
Why Plant Spinach in July?
Spinach is a cool-weather crop, but certain varieties can be planted in late summer for a fall harvest. Spinach matures quickly, typically within 40-50 days.
Tips for Planting:
- Soil Preparation: Spinach prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
- Spacing: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart, thinning to 4-6 inches.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot weather.
6. Lettuce
Why Plant Lettuce in July?
Lettuce is another cool-weather crop that can be planted in mid-summer for a fall harvest. Choose heat-tolerant varieties for the best results.
Tips for Planting:
- Soil Preparation: Lettuce grows best in loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
- Spacing: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart, thinning to 6-12 inches depending on the variety.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist to prevent bitter leaves.
7. Cucumbers
Why Plant Cucumbers in July?
Cucumbers grow quickly and can produce a bountiful harvest in as little as 50-60 days. They thrive in warm weather and can be planted throughout the summer.
Tips for Planting:
- Soil Preparation: Cucumbers prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
- Spacing: Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 12 inches apart in rows that are 3-4 feet apart.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
8. Kale
Why Plant Kale in July?
Kale is a hardy green that can withstand cooler temperatures, making it perfect for a fall harvest. It matures in about 55-75 days, depending on the variety.
Tips for Planting:
- Soil Preparation: Kale prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral pH.
- Spacing: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart, thinning to 12-18 inches.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
9. Turnips
Why Plant Turnips in July?
Turnips are a dual-purpose crop, providing both edible roots and greens. They mature quickly, typically within 40-60 days, making them ideal for late summer planting.
Tips for Planting:
- Soil Preparation: Turnips prefer loose, well-drained soil.
- Spacing: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart, thinning to 4-6 inches.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist to ensure tender roots.
Gardening doesn’t have to end with the arrival of July. With careful selection of the right seeds and proper planting techniques, you can extend your growing season and enjoy a bountiful harvest well into the fall.
The nine seeds listed above are just a few examples of what you can plant in July. Happy gardening!
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