What to plant in July
Erin Hill
editor@prioritynews.net
July is here, and while the heat is cranking up in Tallahassee, that doesn’t mean it’s time to give up on gardening — in fact, it’s just getting good. With our warm, humid climate, North Florida gardeners can keep their hands in the dirt all summer long. The trick is choosing the right heat-loving crops that thrive in our long growing season.
Here’s what to plant this month if you want to make the most of your garden during a Tallahassee summer:
Vegetables that love the heat
If you’re starting from seed or transplanting, go for warm-weather crops that don’t mind soaking up the sun:
- Okra – Practically made for Florida heat, okra grows fast and tall. Just keep it picked to encourage new pods.
- Southern peas – Think black-eyed peas or crowder peas. These are drought-tolerant, hearty, and grow well even in sandy soil.
- Sweet potatoes – Now’s the time to plant slips. They love the heat and take off once they’re established.
- Peppers and eggplant – Still time to get these in the ground if you find healthy transplants.
- Cucumbers and squash – Quick growers but keep an eye out for squash vine borers and powdery mildew. Morning sun and airflow help.
- Malabar spinach – A great summer green that climbs and thrives when other leafy greens bolt.
Herbs that can take the heat
Summer herbs not only add flavor to your cooking but can also double as pollinator-friendly plants in your garden:
- Basil – Keep harvesting it to prevent flowering. Loves sun and makes a great companion to tomatoes.
- Oregano & thyme – These Mediterranean herbs like it dry and hot. Perfect for raised beds or containers.
- Rosemary – Hardy and drought-tolerant once established.
- Lemongrass – Adds a tropical vibe and flavor, and even deters mosquitoes.
Flowers for summer color
Don’t forget to add some blooms to brighten your beds and attract pollinators:
- Zinnias – Easy to grow and great for cutting.
- Marigolds – Not only pretty, they can help deter pests.
- Sunflowers – A backyard favorite that grows quickly and attracts bees.
- Vinca – Loves sun and tolerates dry spells like a champ.
Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal issues. You can use mulch to retain moisture and keep roots cool. However, I recently started using bush beans as cover crop instead of mulching.
- Watch for bugs — summer pests like aphids, caterpillars, and squash borers are active now.
So grab your gloves, fill up your watering can, and get planting! June may be hot, but it’s also full of opportunity. With the right plants and a little love, your summer garden can thrive right through the Tallahassee heat.
