July can be a tricky month to navigate for gardeners. This is the month when summer heat is in full swing, and your planting options can vary quite a bit depending on where you live. As an experienced summer gardener, I’m here to guide you on what to plant in July—tailored by regions in the US. Let’s dive in so your garden keeps thriving this season, no matter your area code!

Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon) 

July is the peak growing season in this region, with mild temperatures and plenty of sun.

Planting suggestions:

Second plantings: Sow quick-growing crops like radishes, turnips, and lettuce for a late summer harvest.

Fall brassicas: Transplant broccoli, cauliflower, and kale seedlings.

Carrots and beets: July sowing of these summer staples will give you a fall harvest.

Herbs: Garden herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage thrive in the Pacific Northwest summer.

Tip:

Because of the cooler nights, July is a great time to try planting some Asian greens like bok choy and tatsoi, which love the moderate Northwest climate.

Northeast (New England, Mid-Atlantic)

July in the Northeast means long, hot days, while there’s still plenty of growing time before the first frost hits in the fall.

Planting suggestions:

Fall crops: Start sowing broccoli,  cabbage, and Brussels sprouts for a fall harvest. These brassicas love the cooler weather that starts coming in July.

Bush beans: Quick to mature and a solid option for a late summer harvest.

Herbs: Varieties like basil, cilantro, and dill can still be planted, but give them some afternoon shade and consistent watering for optimal results.

Sweet corn: If you missed the spring window, some varieties can still be planted in early July for late summer harvest. Mulch heavily to retain moisture and shade plant roots during heat waves.

Tip:

Try interplanting fast-growing radishes with slower-growing brassicas. Radishes will mature quickly, giving you an early snack and loosening the soil for the bigger plants.

Southeast (Florida, Georgia, Carolinas)

The Southeast is sizzling hot in July, so timing and shade are key to growing well.

Planting suggestions:

Heat-tolerant greens: Try Malabar spinach, New Zealand spinach, and kangkong—these leafy greens thrive in humidity and high heat.

Okra: A classic garden staple from the south that loves the heat.

Sweet potatoes: If you haven’t planted yet, July is still good for slips.

Peppers and eggplants: If you have a shady spot or areas that can provide some afternoon relief, these can still be planted.

Tip:

July is the ideal time for starting a container herb garden indoors or on a shaded porch. Try growing lemongrass or Thai basil for tropical flair. Water early in the mornings to avoid fungal issues. Use shade cloth to protect your seedlings.

Midwest (Ohio, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri)

In the Midwest, July is prime time for succession planting to ensure continuous harvest.

Planting suggestions:

Fall crops: Start seeds of kale, spinach, and Swiss chard mid-July for a harvest of fall greens.

Bush beans and cucumbers: These will stay productive through to the end of summer.

Pumpkins: For Halloween and Thanksgiving, plant now for a late fall harvest and celebrations.

Tip:

Midwest gardeners often forget about sunchokes, which are easy-to-grow perennials that can be planted now and harvested in fall or even winter. Try planting beans near corn stalks for natural trellising, too. 

Southwest (Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada)

July is brutal here with heat often above 100°F, but monsoon rains bring relief and opportunities for growth.

Planting suggestions:

Heat-tolerant greens: Plant spinach varieties like  Malabar spinach or New Zealand spinach.

Okra and amaranth: Both varieties love the heat and will thrive in the season.

Melons: If you catch an early July rain, plant cantaloupe or watermelon seeds for a late summer harvest.

Fall crops: Start seedlings indoors for transplanting by late August or September.

Tip:

Consider planting tepary beans, a drought-tolerant native bean that grows beautifully in desert gardens during summer. Also, consider using drip irrigation and mulch to maintain happy plant roots. Avoid watering foliage to prevent sunburn.

Final Thoughts

Contrary to popular belief, July isn’t the end of planting season—it’s actually a great time to think ahead and plan your fall and winter garden. Whether you’re battling heat waves in the Southwest or enjoying mild summer days in the Northwest, there’s always something you can start growing.

Just remember, the key in July is managing heat and water wisely. Mulch heavily, water deeply but less frequently, and consider using shade cloth if your plants look stressed.