Complete Gardening
In July, gardeners often feel they’ve missed the boat on planting new crops. However, a variety of quick-growing vegetables and herbs can still be planted and harvested before the colder months set in.
This guide highlights twelve of these crops, offering a blend of leafy greens, root vegetables, and flavorful herbs to enrich your garden and kitchen.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned gardener, these crops provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy a bountiful harvest in a short time. Read on to discover these fast-growing wonders you can plant this month.
1. Radishes
Radishes are the epitome of quick and easy gardening. With a growth cycle as short as 25 days, they offer instant gratification to gardeners. Their spicy, crisp texture makes them a delightful addition to salads. Plant radish seeds directly into the soil, ensuring they get ample sunlight. Did you know? Radishes were one of the first European crops brought to the New World. Their adaptable nature makes them perfect for July planting, thriving even in the summer heat. Enjoy them raw or pickled for a zesty flavor boost.
2. Arugula
Arugula, with its peppery bite, grows rapidly and is often ready to harvest in just 20-30 days. This leafy green thrives in cooler summer nights, making July an ideal time to plant. Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil and watch them flourish. Arugula’s bold flavor is a favorite in salads and pestos. Historically, it was considered an aphrodisiac in ancient Rome. Its resilience and robust taste make it a must-grow for any garden. Harvest as baby greens for a tender texture or let it mature for a more intense taste.
3. Lettuce
Lettuce is a versatile staple that grows quickly and can be harvested throughout the season. Planting in July allows for multiple successive harvests. Its tender leaves are perfect for salads and sandwiches. Use well-drained soil to plant seeds, ensuring regular watering to prevent bitterness. The Romans believed lettuce induced sleep, eating it at the end of a meal. This belief highlights its calming properties. Whether you prefer crispheads or butterheads, lettuce offers diversity and rapid growth, making it a gardener’s favorite.
4. Spinach
Spinach is not just nutritious but also a fast grower. Often ready within 30-45 days, it’s a fantastic choice for July planting. Spinach prefers the cooler nights of late summer, thriving in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Its leaves are packed with vitamins, making it a powerhouse addition to any meal. Ancient Persians called it the “green hand” due to its widespread cultivation and popularity. Enjoy spinach raw in salads, or cooked in a variety of dishes. Its versatility and rapid growth are unmatched.
5. Green Beans
Green beans, whether bush or pole varieties, are quick to produce and rewarding to grow. Plant them in July for a late summer harvest. These beans thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Their crisp texture and mild flavor make them a favorite in stir-fries and salads. Historically, green beans were among the “Three Sisters” planted by Native Americans alongside corn and squash. This symbiotic planting method highlights their importance and adaptability. With regular watering, you’ll enjoy a bountiful harvest in no time.
6. Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a refreshing summer vegetable that grow rapidly, often ready to pick within 50-70 days. Plant seeds in July for a late season harvest. They thrive in warm weather and well-drained soil. Cucumbers’ high water content makes them incredibly hydrating, perfect for hot summer days. They’re not just for salads; try them in refreshing drinks or pickles. The ancient Sumerians valued cucumbers for their cooling properties, often using them in medicinal treatments. With moderate care, cucumbers can provide an abundant, crisp harvest.
7. Zucchini
Zucchini is a prolific grower that can be planted in July and harvested in as little as 45 days. Its rapid growth and versatility make it a garden staple. Zucchini plants require ample space and sunlight to flourish. Did you know? The largest zucchini on record weighed over 65 pounds! Known for its mild flavor, zucchini can be used in everything from breads to sautés. Its quick maturation means you’ll have plenty to share. Enjoy the bounty in various culinary creations throughout the season.
8. Basil
Basil is not only aromatic but also a fast-growing herb, perfect for a July planting. Ready to harvest in 30-60 days, it adds a burst of flavor to dishes. Basil thrives in warm climates and well-drained soil. Its fragrant leaves are a staple in Italian cuisine. Ancient Egyptians used basil in embalming rituals, symbolizing love and protection. Pinch off the tops regularly to encourage bushy growth. Whether in pesto or as a pizza topping, basil’s distinct aroma and taste are a gardener’s delight.
9. Dill
Dill’s feathery fronds are a delightful addition to any garden, growing rapidly and ready to harvest in about 40 days. Plant in July for a quick yield. Dill prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Its distinct flavor enhances pickles and seafood dishes. Did you know? The ancient Greeks believed dill brought wealth and prosperity. Regular trimming encourages bushier growth. This herb’s versatility in the kitchen is only matched by its ease of cultivation. Enjoy its aromatic presence in your garden and kitchen alike.
10. Kale
Kale is a robust and nutritious green that grows quickly, often ready for harvest in 50-70 days. Planting in July provides a bountiful harvest before the frost. Kale thrives in cooler weather, making it ideal for late summer planting. Its deep green leaves are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Historically, kale was a staple in World War II victory gardens for its nutritional value. Enjoy kale in salads, smoothies, or sautéed as a side dish. Its resilience and health benefits make it a garden favorite.
11. Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is known for its colorful stems and rapid growth, making it an exciting addition to any July garden. Ready in about 50 days, it offers continuous harvests. Chard thrives in sunny spots with nutrient-rich soil. Its earthy flavor shines in sautés and stews. Romans valued chard for its medicinal benefits, using it to aid digestion. Regular harvesting encourages new growth, ensuring a steady supply. Whether you enjoy its leaves or stems, Swiss chard is a versatile and attractive garden crop.
12. Beets
Beets are a dual-purpose crop, providing both flavorful greens and roots, ready to harvest in 50-70 days. July planting ensures a delicious fall harvest. Beets thrive in well-drained soil and full sun. Their sweet, earthy taste is perfect for salads and roasting. Did you know? Ancient Romans used beetroot as an aphrodisiac. The greens can be eaten like spinach while the roots offer a robust flavor. With minimal care, beets provide a rewarding and colorful addition to your garden plot.