What to Plant in July and August– Many gardeners wonder if it’s too late to plant anything in July or August, but the answer is no. You can still grow a variety of fast-maturing vegetables, herbs, and flowers during these summer months—especially in USDA zones 3 to 8. In this guide, we’ll explore what crops thrive during midsummer and share practical tips from years of hands-on gardening experience. Whether you’re growing in containers, raised beds, or backyard soil, this seasonal planting guide will help you make the most of your warm-weather growing season.
I’ve personally grown vegetables and herbs well into August using the right care techniques like mulching, succession planting, and selecting quick-harvest varieties. Based on this experience, here’s a complete list of what you can plant in July and August to still enjoy a healthy, productive garden.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Benefits of Planting in July and August
Many people skip midsummer gardening due to heat concerns, but with the right plant choices, you can take advantage of:
- Warm soil, which helps seeds germinate faster
- Long daylight hours for photosynthesis and faster growth
- Extended harvest window, especially for fall crops
- Second planting opportunities for fast-growing crops like radish, lettuce, and herbs
What to Plant in July and August –Vegetables
Carrots (Zones 4–8)
Carrots are perfect for July planting and will be ready for harvest by fall. Choose short-season varieties for quick results.
- Soil: Loose, sandy, and well-drained
- Sun: Full sun (6+ hours)
- Care tip: Water consistently and thin seedlings early
Beets (Zones 4–8)
Beets can tolerate heat early and thrive in cooler fall weather.
- Harvest time: 55–65 days
- Bonus: Both roots and leaves are edible
Radish (Zones 4–8)
Radishes are among the fastest-growing vegetables and do well with successive sowing.
- Maturity: 25–30 days
- Soil: Light and well-drained
- Tip: Plant every 2 weeks for a steady harvest
Swiss Chard (Zones 4–8)
Swiss chard handles heat well and continues to grow into the fall.
- Cut outer leaves and let the plant keep growing
- Great for: Stir-fries, soups, and smoothies
- A4Cucumber (Zones 4–8)
- Still time to plant bush or compact cucumber varieties in early July.
- Sun: Full sun
- Water: Consistent moisture is key
- Support: Trellising helps improve airflow and save space
Okra (Zones 6–8)
Okra thrives in hot, humid weather and grows quickly.
- Harvest time: 45–60 days
- Use: Ideal for Indian and Southern cuisine
Cantaloupe (Zones 5–8)
Cantaloupe or muskmelon can still be planted in early July for late summer harvest.
- Soil: Well-drained sandy soil
- Watering: Keep soil moist during fruiting
Cauliflower (Zones 5–8)
Start seeds indoors in July and transplant in August for a cool-weather fall harvest.
- Feed well and keep evenly watered
- Watch for: Aphids and cabbage worms
Kale (Zones 4–8)
Kale grows best in cooler months, so late July planting results in tender, sweet leaves by fall.
- Low maintenance and hardy
- Use: Smoothies, salads, soups
What to Plant in July and August – Herbs
Basil (Zones 4–8)
Basil loves heat and grows quickly, making it ideal for July planting.
- Harvest: Snip regularly to encourage growth
- Use: Pesto, tomato dishes, pasta
Cilantro (Zones 4–6)
Plant cilantro in late August for a fall harvest. It bolts quickly in hot sun.
- Ideal for: Salsa, Indian dishes, garnishing
- Shade in the afternoons if planting early
Parsley (Zones 4–8)
Slow to germinate but thrives in cooler late summer and early fall weather.
- Use: Juices, soups, salads
- Harvest: Cut from outside for continuous growth
Dill (Zones 4–8)
Dill grows fast and can be direct sown. Ideal for pickling season.
- Sun: Full sun
- Use: Pickles, seafood dishes
Thyme (Zones 5–8)
A low-maintenance, drought-tolerant herb perfect for container growing.
- Soil: Well-drained, sandy
- Use: Roasted veggies, marinades, herbal tea
Chives (Zones 4–8)
Easy to grow and ideal for borders or small spaces.
- Use: Egg dishes, soups, baked potatoes
- Cut: Grows back after each harvest
Flowers to Plant in July and August
Zinnias (Zones 4–8)
Zinnias bloom fast from seed and brighten your garden till the first frost.
- Sun: Full
- Deadhead to extend bloom period
Marigold (Zones 4–8)
Marigolds are heat-tolerant and protect vegetables from pests.
- Varieties: French, African
- Use: Beds, borders, and pots
Sunflower (Zones 4–6)
Sunflowers add height and color. They can still be planted in early July.
- Best for: Pollinators and bird lovers
- Support: Tall varieties may need staking
Shasta Daisy (Zones 5–8)
A perennial flower that blooms till fall. Plant transplants or seeds in July.
- Care: Deadhead and divide every 2 years
Echinacea (Zones 3–8)
Also known as coneflower, echinacea is drought-tolerant and attracts pollinators.
- Use: Ornamental and medicinal
- Care: Low maintenance perennial
Coreopsis (Zones 4–8)
Coreopsis is a wildflower with extended bloom time and low watering needs.
- Good for: Xeriscaping, natural gardens
Quick Gardening Tips for July and August
- Water deeply: Especially in the morning to avoid evaporation
- Mulch well: Helps cool soil and retain moisture
- Use shade cloth: For tender seedlings in hot afternoon sun
- Feed regularly: Balanced fertilizer supports rapid growth
- Pest monitoring: Warm weather brings insects—stay proactive
Summary Table – What to Plant in July and August
| Plant Name | USDA Zones | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Carrots | 4–8 | Fall harvest |
| Beets | 4–8 | Root + leaf vegetable |
| Swiss Chard | 4–8 | Summer greens |
| Radish | 4–8 | Fast harvest crop |
| Cucumber | 4–8 | Salads, pickles |
| Okra | 6–8 | Heat-tolerant veggie |
| Basil | 4–8 | Culinary herb |
| Dill | 4–8 | Herb for pickling |
| Zinnia | 4–8 | Summer flowers |
| Sunflower | 4–6 | Pollinator-friendly flower |
| Echinacea | 3–8 | Perennial & medicinal use |
Conclusion – Make the Most of Your Summer Garden
Even in the hottest months, July and August offer plenty of planting opportunities. With proper care and crop selection, your summer garden can thrive with fast-growing vegetables, useful herbs, and beautiful flowers. Focus on varieties suited for zones 3 to 8, keep up with watering and mulching, and you’ll enjoy a productive late-summer and early-fall harvest. Gardening isn’t limited by the calendar—it’s guided by your knowledge and effort.
