July is a great month for planting herbs and vegetables, even though it falls in the middle of summer. It offers a unique combination of warm temperatures, ample sunlight, and the opportunity for both immediate and future harvests, making it a terrific time for planting herbs and vegetables.

The warm weather and long days provide ideal conditions for many plants to grow quickly and vigorously. The soil is usually warm, which helps seeds germinate faster, and young plants establish roots more easily. This means that you can enjoy a quicker turnaround from planting to harvest.

Many spring-planted vegetables are already being harvested during July, freeing up space in the garden for new crops. This makes it an excellent time for succession planting, where new plants take over the space previously occupied by earlier crops.

Also, many herbs thrive in the summer heat, making it a perfect season for their growth. The consistent warmth helps these plants produce more robust flavors and higher yields.

That said, hot weather can leave certain plants parched and dry out the soil, so consistent watering is necessary to maintain healthy growth. Mulching around plants can help retain moisture and keep the roots cool, further supporting their development.

If you’re eager to start growing crops in July here are some plants that are best grown this month:

What Vegetables to Plant in July

In July, you can plant a variety of vegetables such as lettuce, carrots, beans, cucumbers, radishes, and more. These vegetables thrive in the warm summer months and can be planted in July for a fall harvest.

Lettuce

Lettuce thrives in cooler temperatures but can still grow well in summer if provided with proper care. By planting in July, you can extend your harvest season into the cooler fall months. The warm weather helps lettuce seeds to germinate quickly, resulting in faster growth.

To successfully plant lettuce in July, choose heat-resistant varieties such as “Summer Crisp” or “Butterhead.” These types are better suited for warmer conditions and are less likely to bolt, which is when the plant starts to flower and turns bitter.

During hot July days, lettuce needs consistent moisture. Water the plants regularly, aiming to keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged.

Carrots and Radishes



Carrots and radishes grow well together because they have similar soil and water needs. Carrots take longer to mature, usually around 70-80 days, while radishes are ready to harvest in just 20-30 days. This allows for a continuous harvest, with radishes being harvested first, making room for the carrots to grow.

Carrots and radishes need plenty of sunlight, so choose a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sun each day. Thin the seedlings if they become too crowded to ensure adequate space for growth.

Both vegetables require consistent moisture, especially during the hot summer months. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants helps retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool.

Peas and Beans

Peas and beans can help enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen, which benefits future crops. Planting them in mid-summer allows for a second crop after earlier spring plants have been harvested.

Peas prefer slightly cooler conditions, so look for heat-tolerant varieties or provide some shade during the hottest part of the day. Beans thrive in warm weather and can handle July heat well. Both crops need regular watering during the hottest times of the day but do not overdo it because they cannot stand soggy soil.

Peas need support as they grow, so provide a trellis or stakes for them to climb. Beans can be either bush or pole varieties. Bush beans grow without support, while pole beans need something to climb on.

Monitor for pests like aphids and bean beetles. If possible, use organic pest control methods. Harvest peas when the pods are full and beans when they are firm and crisp.

Fennel



Fennel thrives in warm weather and can grow well in the heat of mid-summer. By planting in July, fennel can take advantage of the longer days and ample sunlight, leading to strong, healthy growth.

To plant fennel, choose a sunny spot in your garden. Fennel needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Prepare the soil by making sure it is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Adding compost or well-rotted manure can improve soil fertility.

Sow fennel seeds about a quarter-inch deep and 12 inches apart. Water the seeds gently after planting to help them settle into the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, to promote good germination and growth.

As fennel grows, it can reach heights of up to 4 feet. Ensure there is enough space between plants to allow for good air circulation. This reduces the risk of disease and promotes healthy growth.

Spring Cabbage

Planting spring cabbage in July ensures that the crop will mature in cooler weather, providing a tasty and tender crop in early spring. The warm mid-summer soil promotes quick germination and strong early growth.

Sow cabbage seeds about a quarter-inch deep in rows spaced about 12-18 inches apart. Water the seeds gently after planting to ensure good soil contact. As the seedlings grow, thin them to about 12-18 inches apart to give each plant enough room to develop.

Cabbage is susceptible to pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and slugs. Monitor your plants regularly and use organic pest control methods if necessary. Covering the plants with a fine mesh netting can help prevent insect damage.

As the weather cools in the fall, cabbage will continue to grow and develop. The cooler temperatures enhance the flavor and texture of the cabbage. Harvest the cabbage when the heads are firm and fully formed, usually in early spring.

Collard Greens

Collard greens thrive in warm weather and can grow well during the hot summer months. Planting in July allows them to establish strong roots before the cooler fall weather sets in, ensuring a healthy and productive crop.

Because collards need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, sow them in a sunny spot in the garden. Prepare the soil by making sure it is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Adding compost or well-rotted manure can improve soil fertility and structure.

Collard greens are hardy plants that can withstand heat and some frost. They are also relatively pest-resistant but watch out for common pests like aphids and caterpillars. Monitor your plants regularly and use organic pest control methods if needed.

Harvest collard greens when the leaves are large and tender. You can start harvesting the outer leaves once the plants reach about 10 inches tall. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and provides a continuous supply of fresh greens.

Spring Onions



July is perfect for planting spring onions because the warm soil helps seeds germinate quickly. This way, onions will be ready to harvest in the cooler months of fall.

Sow spring onion seeds about a quarter-inch deep and half an inch apart in rows. Space the rows about 6 inches apart. Water the seeds gently after planting to ensure they settle into the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the growing period.

Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and keeps the roots cool. This is especially important during the hot summer months. Spring onions are relatively low-maintenance but can benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer.

Harvest spring onions when they are about the thickness of a pencil, typically 8-12 weeks after planting. Gently pull them from the soil, taking care not to damage the bulbs. You can harvest the entire plant or trim the greens and leave the bulb to continue growing.

What Herbs to Plant in July

Coriander/Cilantro

Coriander, also known as cilantro, thrives in warm weather and can grow quickly in the summer heat. By planting in July, you can enjoy fresh coriander in late summer and early fall, when its vibrant flavor is a delightful addition to many dishes.

To plant coriander in July, choose a spot in your garden that gets at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Coriander prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and texture.

Sow coriander seeds about a quarter-inch deep and 6 inches apart. Water the seeds gently after planting to ensure good soil contact. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period, which typically takes 7-10 days.

Coriander is relatively low-maintenance but benefits from regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods. It can tolerate some shade, which can help prevent the herb from bolting or going to seed too quickly in the summer heat.

Dill



Dill thrives in warm weather, and July provides the perfect conditions for it to grow quickly and robustly.

Sow dill seeds about a quarter-inch deep and 12 inches apart. Water the seeds gently after planting to help them settle into the soil. Dill seeds usually germinate in 7-10 days. Keep the soil consistently moist during this period, but avoid overwatering.

Dill is relatively low-maintenance but benefits from regular watering, especially during intense heat. Just make sure to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Also, watch for pests such as aphids and caterpillars. Use organic pest control methods to keep your plants healthy. Companion planting with carrots or coriander can help deter pests.

For the best flavor, harvest dill leaves when the plants are about 8 inches tall. You can cut the leaves as needed, which encourages the plant to produce more. Dill can also be harvested for its seeds once the flowers turn brown.

Parsley

Planting parsley in July, you can ensure a continuous supply of fresh parsley well into the fall and even winter months, especially if you provide some protection from frost.

To plant parsley in July, choose a sunny spot in your garden that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Prepare the soil by ensuring it is well-drained and enriched with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. Parsley prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

Sow parsley seeds about a quarter-inch deep and 6-8 inches apart. Parsley seeds can be slow to germinate, taking up to 2-3 weeks. To speed up germination, soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during this period.

Harvest parsley leaves as needed by cutting the outer stems first. This encourages the plant to produce more foliage. Regular harvesting keeps the plant bushy and productive.

Basil



Basil thrives in warm weather and grows rapidly in the summer heat. Since July brings continuous sunshine, sowing basil ensures a steady supply of leaves to season everyday dishes.

To plant basil in July, choose a sunny spot in your garden where the plants will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Prepare the soil by making sure it is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Adding compost or well-rotted manure can enhance soil fertility and structure.

Sow basil seeds about a quarter-inch deep and 12 inches apart. Water the seeds gently after planting to help them settle into the soil. Basil seeds typically germinate within 5-10 days. Keep the soil consistently moist during this period, but avoid waterlogging.

Harvest basil leaves regularly to encourage new growth. Pinch off the top leaves and stems to keep the plant bushy and productive. Avoid letting the plant flower, as this can reduce leaf production. If flowers do appear, pinch them off immediately.

Oregano



Like most herbs, oregano loves continuous sunshine, and July provides plenty of that. To plant oregano, choose a sunny spot in your garden. Oregano needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to grow well. Prepare the soil by ensuring it is well-drained and enriched with organic matter, such as compost. Oregano prefers slightly alkaline to neutral soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0.

Sow oregano seeds about a quarter-inch deep and 12 inches apart. You can also plant seedlings if you prefer a quicker start. Water the seeds or seedlings gently after planting to help them settle into the soil. Oregano seeds usually germinate within 7-14 days.

Once the plants are established, they are relatively drought-tolerant, but regular watering is important during the hot summer months. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants helps retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool.

Harvest oregano leaves as needed, cutting the stems just above a leaf pair to encourage new growth. The best time to harvest is in the morning when the essential oils are at their peak. Regular harvesting keeps the plant bushy and productive.

Growing Herbs and Vegetables for Fall Harvest

July is also a strategic month for planting fall crops. By starting certain vegetables now, you can ensure a continuous supply of fresh produce into the cooler months. This planning helps extend the harvest season, providing fresh ingredients long after the peak of summer.