July's Top Picks: Best Plants to Start Growing Now

As the summer sun reaches its zenith in July, it's an ideal time to start your indoor or outdoor gardening journey. With longer days and warmer temperatures, many plants thrive in the summer months, making it a perfect time to begin your green thumb adventure. But with countless plant options, choosing the best ones to start can be overwhelming. Let's explore some of the best plants to start growing in July, categorized for easy selection.

Before we dive in, remember that July is a great time to start plants that have a longer growing season or those that prefer the heat. Also, consider your location's hardiness zone and adjust the suggestions based on your climate.

Best Vegetables to Start in July

Vegetables are a rewarding addition to any garden, and many can be started in July for a fall harvest. Here are two top picks:

Warm-season Greens

While lettuce and spinach are typically spring crops, warm-season greens like collard greens, kale, and Swiss chard can be started in July for a fall and winter harvest. These hardy greens can tolerate light frosts and provide continuous harvests until the first hard freeze.

To grow warm-season greens, ensure they receive at least six hours of sunlight daily and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Plant seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep and thin seedlings to about 12 inches apart.

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables like beets, carrots, and radishes can be sown directly into the garden in July for a fall harvest. These vegetables prefer cooler temperatures and can withstand light frosts, making them ideal for late summer planting.

Prepare your soil by removing any weeds and working in plenty of organic matter. Sow seeds shallowly, just beneath the soil surface, and keep the soil consistently moist until germination. Thin seedlings as needed to ensure proper root development.

Best Flowers to Start in July

Flowers not only add beauty to your garden but also attract beneficial pollinators. Here are two flower types to consider starting in July:

Annual Flowers

Annual flowers like marigolds, zinnia, and cosmos can be started from seed in July and will bloom throughout the fall and into winter in mild climates. These flowers prefer full sun and well-draining soil.

Sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost date. Plant seeds shallowly and keep the soil consistently moist until germination. Thin seedlings to about 12-18 inches apart, depending on the specific flower variety.

Perennial Flowers

Perennial flowers like black-eyed Susans, coneflowers, and asters can be started from seed or divisions in July. These flowers will return year after year, providing continuous color and attracting pollinators.

When starting perennials from seed, follow the same guidelines as annual flowers. If dividing perennials, dig up the plant, gently separate the roots, and replant the divisions in well-prepared soil. Water thoroughly and provide consistent moisture until established.

Starting your gardening journey in July opens up a world of possibilities for your green space. By choosing the best plants to grow this month, you'll be well on your way to a thriving, beautiful garden that will provide you with fresh produce and stunning blooms for months to come. So, get out there, get your hands dirty, and enjoy the rewards of your labor. Happy gardening!