As the summer sun continues to shine, it might feel like your gardening season is winding down. But here’s a little secret from my years of gardening: June and July are the ideal months to start seeds for a bountiful fall harvest. If you time it right, your garden won’t stop producing—it’ll come alive again with fresh veggies just when you thought the season was over.

Why Start Now?

You might wonder, "Isn’t it too hot to plant seeds in the middle of summer?" Actually, this is not always true! Many cool-season crops thrive when planted in late summer because they mature as the weather cools down. Starting seeds now helps you avoid summer heat stress that can scorch young plants.

Think of it like planting a second wave. While your tomatoes and peppers are finishing up, your fall crops are just getting started. Planting now means you're harvesting while everyone else's gardens are winding down. It’s like having a second season!

What to Plant in June and July

For a bountiful fall harvest, here are some of my recommended favorites:

1. Leafy Greens: Lettuce, Spinach, and Arugula

These fast-growing greens love the cooler temperatures of fall. Sow seeds directly outdoors in well-prepared soil. Spinach, for example, can go from seed to table in just 40-50 days. Arugula is even quicker — sometimes ready under 30 days!

Tip: Provide some afternoon shade if the summer heat rises. It will help prevent bolting.

2. Root Vegetables: Carrots, Beets, and Radishes

Root crops are often the unsung heroes of fall gardens. Carrots sown now will develop sweeter, crunchier roots thanks to the cooler climate. Radishes are some of the fastest-growing crops. I once planted a batch of radishes in July, and by September, I had enough for a whole family to snack on.

3. Brassicas: Cauliflower, Broccoli, and Cabbage

These cool-weather crops fare well when started indoors in June or July and then transplanted outside in late summer. They take a bit longer to mature but reward you with hearty heads as the first frosts approach. I remember one fall when my broccoli survived an early frost and still tasted delicious.

4. Peas and Beans

While it’s typically a spring crop, planting peas now in cooler climates can yield a nice fall harvest. Beans can also be sown in summer for a quick fall harvest, especially the bush varieties.

5. Asian Greens

Asian greens like bok choy and tatsoi are quick-growing and add a bit of spice to your salads. They're also quite cold-hardy.

6. Herbs

Herbs like cilantro and parsley bolt in hot weather but flourish when planted for fall. Cilantro especially prefers cooler temperatures and will give you fresh flavors right into autumn.

Tips for Success

Soil Prep: Ensure your soil is rich and well-draining. Add compost to boost nutrients and keep hydration consistent.

Watering: Young seedlings require consistent moisture, especially in the heat.

Pest Control: Keep an eye out for aphids and caterpillars who love snacking on tender greens.

Succession Planting: Sow seeds every couple of weeks for a continuous fall harvest.

Imagine this: It's a cool October afternoon. You stroll past fading tomato vines, while your garden bed is vibrant with beets, deep green kale, and even some late radishes. You pull up a carrot, brush off the soil, and take a bite into pure perfection. That’s the magic of a fall harvest you can be rewarded with if you plant seeds now.

Final Thoughts

Starting seeds in mid-summer sets you up for a garden that keeps giving long after summer has faded. It’s like tricking your garden into thinking fall is just around the corner. So grab your seed packets, and let’s make this fall harvest one to remember!