July is a pivotal month for gardeners to maximize their yields and prepare for the upcoming seasons. While it might seem late to plant new crops, many varieties can thrive if planted now, especially in zones with extended growing seasons. This article explores ten crops that are highly recommended for planting in July, along with essential tips and strategies for successful gardening.
- Salvia
Salvia, a beautiful ornamental plant, is perfect for adding color and attracting pollinators to your garden. It’s a perennial in zones 8 and above, meaning it will return year after year. For colder climates, grow it in pots and bring it indoors during winter. Regular pruning helps maintain its beauty and encourages more blooms.
- Corn
Contrary to the old saying "knee-high by 4th of July," modern corn varieties often grow much taller by this time. However, to avoid cross-pollination between different corn types, stagger planting times or maintain physical distance between varieties. Planting corn in July ensures a harvest before the end of the growing season, provided there are at least three more months of warm weather.
- Arugula
Arugula, a cool-season crop, can still be grown in July with some adjustments. Plant it in shady spots or use shade cloth to protect it from extreme heat. Alternatively, grow arugula indoors under grow lights. Ensure the soil stays consistently moist to support healthy growth.
- Pumpkins
For gardeners in the Southeast, July is the perfect time to plant pumpkins for a fall harvest. Plant seeds about one inch deep in well-drained, rich soil, and ensure they receive full sun. Varieties like jack-o-lantern pumpkins and disease-resistant types like Bulldog pumpkin are excellent choices.
- Brassicas (Cauliflower, Broccoli, Cabbage, Brussel Sprouts)
Starting brassica seeds in late July gives them enough time to establish before transplanting in September. These crops thrive in cooler weather, so getting a head start ensures a robust fall harvest. Varieties like Twister cauliflower and Burgundy broccoli are particularly rewarding.
- Flowers (Cosmos, Chocolate Flower, Coreopsis)
Adding flowers like cosmos, chocolate flower, and coreopsis to your garden in July can enhance its beauty and attract beneficial insects. These flowers are drought and heat tolerant, making them suitable for mid-summer planting. Ensure they get light to germinate by not burying the seeds too deeply.
- Zucchini
Succession planting of zucchini ensures continuous production. Start a second round of seeds in July, especially if the first round has matured. Varieties like round zucchini, which mature in about 45 days, are ideal for a second crop before the first frost.
- Eggplants
In regions like Florida, late July is the optimal time to start eggplant seeds. Protect young seedlings with shade cloth and keep the soil moist. Once established, transplant them to a sunny spot with good air circulation. Varieties like Long Purple are well-suited for hot climates.
- Cucumbers
For a second round of cucumbers, choose varieties with shorter days to maturity. Transplanting cucumbers instead of direct sowing can give them a head start. Varieties like Spacemaster 80 and Homemade Pickles are great for quick production and can be harvested before the season ends.
- Summer Squash
Planting summer squash in late July can help avoid pests like the squash vine borer. By the time these pests stop laying eggs in mid-August, the new plants will be well on their way to producing a healthy harvest. Varieties like Black Beauty zucchini and Patty Pan squash are excellent choices.
July might seem late in the gardening season, but it's an ideal time to plant a variety of crops that can yield a bountiful harvest before the first frost. By choosing the right plants and employing strategic gardening techniques, you can make the most of your summer garden and enjoy fresh produce well into the fall.
