Late summer is the perfect time to get started on gardening projects with the family, especially now that school's out and there's plenty of sunlight. It's an ideal opportunity to teach kids about growing their own food while securing a harvest just before they head back to school. 

How this blog will be structured is that there will be a list with the planting dates and harvesting times so you can get planning, and then at the end, there will be tips on how to have a successful harvest.

Let's explore these fast-growing vegetables that you can plant now for a continuous supply of fresh produce all summer long.

27 Fast Growing Vegetables

Bush Beans

Planting: Late July to early August

Harvesting: 50-60 days after planting

Green Onions

Planting: Late August to early September

Harvesting: 20-30 days after planting

Radishes (Cherry Belle)

Planting: Late July to mid-August

Harvesting: 25-30 days after planting

Carrots

Planting: Late July to mid-August

Harvesting: 30-40 days after planting

Pak Choi (Baby Bok Choy)

Planting: Late August to early September

Harvesting: 40-50 days after planting

Spinach

Planting: Late August to early September

Harvesting: 35-45 days after planting

Lettuce

Planting: Late August to early September

Harvesting: 30-45 days after planting

Kale

Planting: Late August to early September

Harvesting: 50-60 days after planting

Beets

Planting: Late July to mid-August

Harvesting: 50-60 days after planting

Turnips

Planting: Late July to mid-August

Harvesting: 30-50 days after planting

Green Beans (Pole Beans)

Planting: Late July to mid-August

Harvesting: 60-70 days after planting

Peas

Planting: Late August to early September

Harvesting: 60-70 days after planting

Cucumbers

Planting: Late July to mid-August

Harvesting: 50-70 days after planting

Zucchini

Planting: Late July to mid-August

Harvesting: 40-50 days after planting

Broccoli Raab, Rabe or Rapini

Planting: Late August to early September

Harvesting: 40-60 days after planting but it’s best when young leaves are tender

Brussels Sprouts

Planting: Late June to early July

Harvesting: 90-100 days after planting

Sweet Corn

Planting: Late June to early July

Harvesting: 60-80 days after planting

Chinese Cabbage

Planting: Late August to early September

Harvesting: 50-70 days after planting

Radish Seeds (Daikon)

Planting: Late July to mid-August

Harvesting: 50-60 days after planting

Butternut Squash 

Planting: Late June to early July

Harvesting: 80-100 days after planting

Acorn Squash 

Planting: Late June to early July

Harvesting: 80-100 days after planting

Basil

Planting: Late July to mid-August

Harvesting: Continuously as needed but start harvesting leaves when plants are established

Cilantro

Planting: Late July to mid-August

Harvesting: Continuously as needed but start harvesting leaves when plants are established

Mustard Greens

Planting: Late August to early September

Harvesting: 30-40 days for baby leaves and 60-70 days for mature plants

Swiss Chard

Planting: Late August to early September

Harvesting: 30-40 days for baby leaves; 60-70 days for mature plants

Rosemary

Planting: Anytime in late summer to early fall

Harvesting: Continuously for fresh herbs.

Thyme

Planting: Anytime in late summer to early fall

Harvesting: Continuously for fresh herbs.

Caring Tips

Choosing the Right Vegetables

As you see, there are leafy greens to choose from like spinach, lettuce, and Asian greens; root crops like radishes, baby carrots, and beets; and other summer vegetables like bush beans, zucchini, and cucumbers.

Reading Seed Packets

Seed packets contain all the information on planting depth, spacing, and time to maturity. By following these guidelines closely, you'll secure a successful harvest.

Preparing the Raised Beds

Raised beds offer better drainage, controlled soil quality and temperatures, and effective weed management. Vego Garden provides a large collection of raised beds in various sizes to fit any type of backyard or garden, and they even offer planters for indoor gardens, perfect for those with limited backyard space.

For gardeners with a lack of space or mobility issues, elevated garden beds are recommended as they can be moved around easily to allow for flexibility, and lets you tend to your plants comfortably without bending repeatedly. 

Preparing the Soil 

Use a healthy soil mix for your raised beds and ensure the soil temperature stays between 60-75°F for summer crops.

Add Mulching

Use mulch around your plants to keep the soil cool and moist, reduce water evaporation, and suppress weed growth.

Don’t Stop Watering

Water early in the morning or late at night, but not during the afternoon heat, and don’t skip a watering day.

Feed with Fertilizer

Before planting your seeds, use a nutrient-rich and balanced slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth and ensure your plants are well-fed and growing quickly.

Final Thoughts

Planting in early summer and harvesting in late summer is a fun way to keep enjoying fresh veggies all season long. It's not just about the food though—it's a chance for kids to learn about how plants grow and to have fun projects together outside. 

Getting your hands dirty in the garden can teach them about soil, water, and the sun's role in making things grow. Plus, it's a great excuse to spend some quality time together as a family, away from screens!