What to Plant in a Garden in July: Extending Your Summer Growing Season

With warmer soil and air temperatures in July, seeds quickly germinate. By planting now, you'll enjoy a late summer or early fall harvest. Whether you're growing vegetables in a raised bed, container, or directly in the ground, July is an ideal time to make the most of your garden goals.

If you have space indoors, consider sowing seeds in containers or watering trays. Lettuces, microgreens, and winter salads like endive, spinach, and arugula sow well indoors in the summer months.

Starting seeds indoors is especially useful if you live in a region with hot summers. Using a seed starting tray with a dome can help ensure consistent seed germination. Keep your indoor plants by a sunny window or under a grow light for best results.

If you're ready to plant outdoors, July is a great month to sow seeds directly into the ground or in raised beds. Here are some vegetables to consider:

1. Carrots – These root vegetables thrive in the warm soil of July. Sow seeds directly in loose, well-drained soil. Thin seedlings after they sprout to avoid crowding.
2. Turnips – Another great root crop for mid-summer planting, turnips can grow quickly and will be ready for harvest by fall. Raised beds are ideal for turnips, allowing for deep soil that promotes healthy root growth.
3. Radishes – Fast-growing and fun for beginner gardeners, radishes are perfect for summer sowing. They sprout within days and can be picked in as little as a few weeks. Use a small hand rake to lightly cover seeds for better seed-to-soil contact.
4. Oriental Vegetables – Varieties like bok choy, mizuna, and tatsoi love hot weather and add diversity to your garden and cooking. Sow these seeds directly in your garden or raised bed.
5. Chicory and Fennel – Both are hardy crops that can tolerate summer heat and add unique flavors to your recipes. Fennel is great for attracting pollinators to your garden.
6. Squash and Sweet Corn – Summer and winter squash varieties as well as sweet corn are great for July planting in most zones. Be sure to water regularly and check for pests as they mature.
7. Winter Cabbage – Sow cabbage seeds in a partly shaded area to ensure they don’t bolt in the heat. By fall, you’ll have mature heads ready for harvest.

In July, it's crucial to keep an eye on water levels. The hot weather often means low water tables, so water your plants deeply to promote strong root systems. Consider using a soaker hose for even moisture distribution and efficient watering. You can also incorporate the use of self-watering containers and fiber pots that encourage better root expansion.

With a little planning and the right tools, you can make the most out of mid-summer sowing and picking!