What plants should I grow this summer?
Zucchini, summer squash, cucumbers, beans, and herbs like rosemary and basil all can be sown in the summer, says Natasha Grosskopf, product development manager for PanAmerican Seed. “These are all heat-loving, quick-to-mature crops that should thrive early- to mid-summer.” The seeds will germinate quickly because of the warmer soil temperature, and you should have something to harvest within 45 to 60 days, she adds. However, if you want ready-to-go plants, you can also buy seedlings already started from your local garden center and transplant them. She especially recommends this for herbs, which are often more finicky to germinate.
4. Water and watch for unwanted garden guests
Young vegetable plants will take a while to put their roots out into the wider soil. Plus, seedlings can also dry out really quickly in summer heatwaves. “So, water thoroughly, ideally early in the morning so you don’t lose water to evaporation, as you would in the middle of the day,” says Farrell. And never make the garden soil too damp; you could unwittingly encourage slugs and snails to move in. Speaking of critters, an evening patrol to remove any common garden pests (like snails, which are not beneficial insects in a garden) from your plot can help avoid issues down the line. Collect them in a bucket and take them to a park or the other end of the garden.
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Frequently asked questions
Are raised garden beds or container gardens better than planting directly in the ground?
Raised beds and containers are often best for those with limited space, limited mobility, or limited time. However, an in-ground garden will typically get you a higher yield and a longer growing season but can be harder on the body and requires a little more attention to tasks like weeding, Sutherland says. Containers are also ideal if you have plenty of wildlife sneaking food from your garden because containers are easier to move around or cover.
What’s the best soil to grow veggies in?
Veggies will grow best in rich soil that holds moisture and that has a neutral pH level. However, this gardener’s paradise is rare, and you should be able to grow something even if your soil isn’t the perfect combo, Farrell says. “To understand if you have a soil that’s sandy or claylike, scoop a bit of wet soil into your hand—if you can roll it into a ball and then a sausage, it’s more clay.” If it falls apart and feels gritty, it’s more sand. “Sandy soils lose water and nutrients faster, so you might need to irrigate more often.”
How to test soil acidity
To test your soil’s acidity, you can get a simple home pH soil test kit from your local garden center or online. According to Farrell, whatever soil type you start with, the best thing to do is add a thick layer of good compost twice a year, as all the organic matter (rotted plant material) will optimize the soil’s structure, drainage, and nutrient levels.
What vegetables can be planted for a fall harvest?
When it comes to these veggies, you might be spoiled for choice. Root vegetables like carrots, radish, beets, and turnips; brassicas like cauliflower and broccoli; and great companion plants that are leafy greens like spinach, kale, lettuce, arugula, and Swiss chard are all excellent choices, says Grosskopf. “Pumpkins and winter squash also will thrive if planted early- to mid-summer. Just make sure you are checking the maturity time of the seed you purchase so that you are buying a variety that will mature in the amount of time left for your growing season.”
