Things to Do in the Garden in July

Watering your July gardens is crucial during the heat of summer. Watering during the morning can help keep plants healthy during the day. Water at ground level to avoid evaporation and to reach the roots. In areas where July weather is hot and humid, you may consider planting tropical bulbs. These plants can withstand hot temperatures and thrive during the summer. Other low-water options include wildflowers and drought-tolerant perennials. In the Southeast, you can also try repositioning the blade of your lawn mower.

If you live in zone 9, July is generally hot. Choose plants that need partial shade to avoid scalding from the sun. Plan a succession of crops that you can harvest in the fall. Fertilize your plants as needed. A fertilizer should be applied in July, but do not overdo it. You can always transplant your plants at a later date if you choose to grow them in July. A good rule of thumb is to plant only what will thrive in your climate.

While the end of June may seem far off, July is an excellent month to plant summer vegetables. This year’s warm temperatures and long winter kept our Southern California gardens in wait-and-see mode for several weeks. You may want to consider planting some basil, squash and pumpkins. The longer the season, the more harvest you’ll be able to enjoy them. Roasting, boiling, or slicing them into shavings will give you a bounty of delicious vegetables.

Wildflower meadows were first introduced to the American gardening public during the 1960s. But the colors never lasted. Now, native perennials can be used to create a lasting meadow. Wildflower meadows are reminiscent of the open fields that occur in the wild. Native perennials can be managed according to ecological processes and will grow long. They add colour and vibrancy to flower gardens and flowerbeds.

In zones 6 and 7, where temperatures are warmer, vegetable plants can grow in zones 8 and 9. This is ideal for the southern states, the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. If you live in the southern areas, however, it is important to plant nightshades. These plants will produce fruit into the winter. In addition, late-maturing vegetables, like arugula and kale, can be planted in July. You can also plant tomatoes, peas, and radishes in the mid-month. Moreover, you can also dry the leaves of your herbs and use them for cooking in the winter.