July can be a challenging month for gardening due to the heat, but it’s also a great time to plant certain vegetables, flowers, and herbs that thrive in warm weather. If you’re wondering what to plant in July, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your summer garden.

Vegetables to Plant in July

1. Beans – Green beans, bush beans, and pole beans can be planted for a late summer to early fall harvest.
2. Carrots – Planting carrots in July allows them to mature in cooler fall temperatures.
3. Beets – Beets can be planted in July for a fall harvest; they do well in cooler weather.
4. Radishes – These fast-growing vegetables can be planted for a quick late-summer crop.
5. Turnips – Like beets, turnips thrive in cooler weather and can be harvested in the fall.
6. Cucumbers – With enough water, cucumbers can be planted in July for a late summer harvest.
7. Kale – Kale can be planted in mid to late July for a fall and early winter harvest.
8. Spinach – Start spinach in late July for a fall crop as it prefers cooler temperatures.
9. Summer Squash – Zucchini and other summer squash can still be planted in July for a late harvest.
10. Lettuce – Heat-tolerant varieties of lettuce can be planted for a late summer harvest.

Flowers to Plant in July

1. Marigolds – These heat-tolerant flowers can be planted in July and will continue to bloom into the fall.
2. Zinnias – Zinnias thrive in the heat and will bloom until the first frost.
3. Cosmos – These flowers are drought-tolerant and can thrive in the July heat.
4. Sunflowers – Plant sunflowers in early July for a beautiful late-summer display.
5. Nasturtiums – These can be planted in July for a colorful and edible addition to your garden.
6. Petunias – Heat-loving petunias can be planted to brighten up your garden through the summer.
7. Portulaca – Also known as moss rose, these flowers are extremely heat and drought-tolerant.

Herbs to Plant in July

1. Basil – Basil thrives in warm weather and can be planted in July for a continuous supply.
2. Oregano – This hardy herb can withstand the summer heat and will provide fresh flavor for your dishes.
3. Thyme – Another heat-tolerant herb, thyme can be planted in July.
4. Chives – These can be planted in July and will continue to grow into the cooler months.
5. Cilantro – Plant cilantro in late July for a fall harvest as it prefers cooler temperatures.

Perennials and Shrubs to Plant in July

1. Daylilies – Plant daylilies in July for beautiful blooms next year.
2. Hostas – These shade-loving perennials can be planted in July.
3. Echinacea – Also known as coneflowers, these perennials are heat-tolerant and can be planted in July.
4. Black-eyed Susans – These hardy perennials thrive in the summer heat and can be planted in July.

Tips for Planting in July

• Watering – Make sure to water your plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry spells.
• Mulching – Use mulch to retain moisture in the soil and keep roots cool.
• Shade – Provide temporary shade for young seedlings if the sun is too intense.
• Soil Preparation – Ensure your soil is well-prepared with compost and organic matter to help retain moisture.

Conclusion

By choosing the right plants and taking care of them, you can keep your garden thriving and productive even in the heat of July. Whether you’re planting vegetables, flowers, or herbs, following these tips will help you succeed. Happy planting!

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