What Can You Plant in July?

When July rolls around in Cleveland, many gardeners assume it’s too late to plant anything new. But the reality is that plenty of vegetables, flowers, and herbs can still be planted for a productive late summer and fall harvest. Whether you’re filling gaps in your garden or starting a fresh round of crops, this guide will walk you through the best planting choices for Northeast Ohio in July.

Understanding Cleveland’s July Climate

Cleveland falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, meaning that summers are warm but not scorching, and the first frost typically arrives in mid to late October. July brings hot days (often in the 80s) and occasional rain, making it ideal for quick-growing warm-season crops and cool-season vegetables that can mature in fall.

Vegetables You Can Plant in July

Fast-Growing Warm-Season Crops

Since Cleveland’s summer heat is still in full swing, you can plant quick-growing summer crops that will mature before the first frost:

• Bush Beans – These mature in about 50–60 days, so you’ll have a harvest before frost hits. Stick with bush varieties for faster growth.
• Summer Squash & Zucchini – Fast-growing and highly productive, these can produce within 45–55 days.
• Cucumbers – Heat-loving and quick-growing (50–60 days), cucumbers will thrive in Cleveland’s warm July weather.
• Swiss Chard – This leafy green tolerates heat well but also survives into the cooler fall months. It can be harvested continually.

Cool-Season Crops for Fall Harvest

July is a great time to start cool-season vegetables that will mature in fall when temperatures drop:

• Carrots – Choose short or fast-maturing varieties that take 60–75 days to grow before frost.
• Beets – These can be harvested in about 50–60 days, making them ideal for summer planting.
• Kale – Extremely cold-hardy, kale grows well through summer and improves in flavor with fall’s cool nights.
• Lettuce & Spinach – For best results, plant heat-tolerant varieties now, then start additional sowings in late summer for fall harvests.
• Radishes – These mature quickly (20–30 days) and can be planted in multiple successions.
• Turnips – Both greens and roots can be harvested within 40–60 days, making them perfect for late summer planting.

Perennial Vegetables to Start Now

If you’re thinking long-term, asparagus and rhubarb crowns can be planted in July, though they require patience since they won’t be harvest-ready for a year or two.

Herbs to Plant in July

Many herbs thrive in July’s warmth, and some will continue producing into fall:

• Basil – Loves the summer heat and can be harvested continually.
• Cilantro – This herb bolts quickly in the heat but can be restarted in late July for fall use.
• Dill – Grows quickly and does well in warm conditions.
• Parsley – Slow to germinate but hardy enough to last through fall.
• Oregano & Thyme – Both heat-tolerant and great for fresh or dried use.
• Chives – A great perennial herb that can be planted now for future seasons.

Flowers to Plant in July

If you want to keep your garden colorful into fall, consider these flower options:

• Marigolds – These tolerate heat and deter pests.
• Zinnias – Bloom quickly and last into fall.
• Sunflowers – Can still be planted for a late-season bloom.
• Black-Eyed Susans – A great native perennial that attracts pollinators.
• Echinacea (Coneflowers) – Another hardy perennial for long-lasting summer blooms.

Tips for Gardening in July

1. Water Deeply & Regularly – Cleveland summers can be dry, so ensure plants get 1–2 inches of water per week. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation.
2. Use Mulch – A layer of mulch will keep soil moist and help regulate temperature.
3. Provide Shade for Seedlings – Use shade cloth or plant taller crops nearby to shield young plants from intense afternoon sun.
4. Watch for Pests – July heat brings pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and cucumber beetles. Use row covers or natural deterrents like neem oil.
5. Succession Planting – To maximize your harvest, stagger plantings every 1–2 weeks, especially for lettuce, beans, and radishes.

Colin’s Key Points

• July is not too late to plant in Cleveland! Many warm-season and cool-season crops can still be planted successfully.
• Fast-growing vegetables like bush beans, cucumbers, and summer squash thrive in July heat.
• Plan ahead for fall by starting crops like kale, carrots, and lettuce now.
• Keep your garden colorful with heat-tolerant flowers like marigolds and zinnias.
• Proper watering, mulching, and pest control will ensure a successful summer garden.