As spring fades and the full heat of summer begins to take hold, June offers a unique window for planting. But what to plant in June? While some regions are already basking in long, warm days, others are just catching up. Whether you’re filling in your garden beds, succession planting, or starting a second round of warm-weather crops, June is far from a “late start”—it’s a golden opportunity. Let’s dig into what you can still plant in June and how to give those seeds and seedlings the best shot at success.

Vegetables to Plant in June – Quick Growers and Heat Lovers

June might feel late in the season, but it’s actually the perfect time to direct sow fast-maturing vegetables and heat-tolerant crops. With soil temperatures high and days growing longer, these veggies will take off with the right care and watering.

• Beans – Bush and pole beans grow fast and love the heat. Soak seeds before planting to boost germination.
• Summer Squash – Zucchini and yellow squash grow rapidly and produce abundantly with warm soil.
• Cucumbers – Perfect for salads or pickling. Look for disease-resistant varieties if you’re in a humid region.
• Corn – It’s not too late! Plant in blocks for proper pollination and delicious summer corn.
• Melons – Watermelons and cantaloupes can go in now if you have a long, hot growing season.
• Okra – Thrives in heat and offers beautiful flowers before producing pods.

Herbs to Plant in June – Heat-Tolerant Flavors

Your summer kitchen garden can still be full of fresh, aromatic herbs. Many heat-loving herbs thrive when planted in early summer, especially in raised beds and containers with good drainage.

• Basil – A summer staple that loves full sun and warm soil.
• Oregano – Tough and drought-tolerant once established.
• Thyme – Perfect for rock gardens and sunny borders.
• Cilantro – Try succession planting every 2–3 weeks if you’re in a cooler zone—it bolts quickly in heat.

Flowers to Plant in June – Color Now, Blooms Later

Looking to add beauty and pollinator power to your garden? June is a fine time to direct sow summer annuals and even some perennials that will bloom this year or establish for next.

• Zinnias – These cheerful blooms sprout quickly from seed and bloom until frost.
• Sunflowers – Great for kids and adults alike. Try succession planting for a longer bloom time.
• Cosmos – Delicate, airy flowers that tolerate dry soil and hot conditions.
• Marigolds – Useful as companion plants and tough in the heat.
• Nasturtiums – Edible flowers that double as a trap crop for aphids.

Succession Planting and Filling Gaps

As spring vegetables come to an end, June offers the perfect moment to refresh your garden beds. Use this time to fill in with new crops and keep the harvest going strong all summer long.

• More lettuce or radishes, especially in partial shade or with afternoon protection
• Quick-turn beets or carrots, especially smaller varieties
• Green onions, which thrive through summer with consistent moisture

Master Gardener Tip – Use Mulch Like a Pro

When the sun beats down and water evaporates quickly, mulch becomes your best garden ally. This simple material does double (or triple) duty—regulating soil temperature, conserving moisture, and fighting weeds all at once.

Use straw, shredded leaves, or even grass clippings—but keep mulch a couple inches away from stems to prevent rot.

What Not to Plant in June

Even the best gardeners have limits, and not every crop is suited for a summer start. Cool-season favorites won’t perform well in June’s heat, so save them for fall planting when temperatures cool.

• Peas
• Broccoli
• Spinach
• Cauliflower

Final Thoughts – June Isn’t Too Late

If you think you’ve missed your planting window, think again. June is the month of second chances, fresh starts, and heat-loving crops ready to burst into life. With the right selections and smart timing, your garden can thrive well into late summer and fall.