What to Plant in Ohio Zone 6B at the Start of July

Believe it or not, it's not too late to plant in July! The warm temperatures, sunshine, and fertile soil make this an ideal time to plant. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just getting started, I hope this guide provides some insights on what to plant now. I've actually discovered there are some things that I can still plant, so I'm excited, too!

Why July is an Ideal Time for Planting

While I thought it was way too late to plant flowers or vegetables, the warm soil temperatures—typically between 60°F and 75°F—promote fast germination. Plants can establish themselves quickly, increasing yields for the season.

Longer daylight hours enable many crops to thrive. Fast-growing vegetables can produce results before the frost sets in, allowing you to maximize your garden output. Knowing what to plant now means more delicious produce later.

Vegetables to Plant in July

July offers a fantastic range of vegetables that love the heat. Con

sider these top picks for your July planting and check out this OSU planting guide HERE:

1. Beans

Bush beans and pole beans thrive when planted in early July. They are known for being easy to grow and require minimal care. Beans improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, making them great companions for corn and other crops. In fact, just one pound of bush beans can yield up to 5 pounds of produce.

2. Corn

Plant sweet corn by mid-July to ensure a harvest before the first frost. Corn grows rapidly; you'll see ears within 60 to 90 days, depending on the variety. This means sweet corn can mature as early as mid-September, giving it plenty of time to enjoy crisp fall evenings.

3. Cucumbers

Cucumbers love the warm weather of July. They can be directly sown or transplanted. With consistent watering—about 1 to 2 inches a week—cucumbers can produce large yields. Just one healthy plant can give you up to 20 cucumbers in a single season, making it a rewarding choice.

4. Squash

Summer varieties like zucchini and winter varieties like butternut squash can be planted in July. They grow quickly and can yield up to 10 to 15 pounds of squash per plant. This makes them excellent for mid-summer planting, as they provide plenty of produce for harvest.

5. Radishes

Radishes are a speedy crop that can be sown in July. Some varieties mature in just three weeks, allowing you to have multiple harvests in a single month. They not only add crunch to your salads but also come in various colors and flavors, with over 200 types available.

Herbs to Plant in July

Herbs are perfect for enhancing your dishes and attract beneficial insects to your garden. Here are some easy-to-grow herbs for July:

1. Basil

Basil grows rapidly in summer and is perfect for adding flavor to recipes like pesto and salads. For best results, plant seeds or seedlings where they can soak up 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. With proper care, one basil plant can produce enough leaves for numerous dishes.

2. Cilantro

Cilantro seeds can be planted in July, particularly if you time your sowing early in the month. This herb grows best in well-drained soil and can be harvested fresh or dried later. A single plant can produce enough leaves for several meals, making it a versatile addition to your garden.

3. Dill

Dill is quick to grow and can yield two harvests in one season when sown in July. Not only does it enhance the flavor of pickles, but its flowers also attract pollinators, benefiting your entire garden. Each dill plant can provide enough leaves for both culinary uses and garnish.

Flowers to Plant in July

If you seek to add beauty to your garden, July is a great time to plant flowers that thrive in Ohio's warm climate. Consider these:

1. Sunflowers

Sunflowers grow fast and reach tall heights, often as tall as 8 to 10 feet. They brighten your garden and are known to attract pollinators. Plant them in well-drained soil with plenty of sun for a colorful backdrop.

2. Zinnias

Zinnias are hardy annuals that can be sown directly in July. They thrive in full sun and will continually bloom until the first frost, providing vibrant color for your space. You can expect a variety of colors, enhancing the summer landscape. Zinnias are not only my favorite, but all the pollinators seem to prefer zinnias over everything else in our yard!

3. Marigolds

Marigolds are easy to grow and bloom profusely, making them a favorite among gardeners. Their pest-repelling qualities can protect other plants because they deter harmful nematodes. Marigolds can fill your garden with cheerful yellow and orange hues. I know that some folks don't really like marigolds - they do suffer from bad PR in the fragrance department, but they are the unpraised workhorse in the garden and landscape! They don't require any fuss and come in more than just your standard orange hue.

Care Tips for July Plantings

Once you've sown your seeds and planted seedlings, they need nurturing. Here are some effective care tips:

Watering

Ensure your new plants receive adequate water, aiming for at least 1 inch per week. During hot spells, check more often. Deep watering promotes strong root development, leading to healthier plants in the long run.

Mulching

Apply mulch around your plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain temperature. Organic options, like straw or wood chips, also enrich the soil as they break down over time. Around any food, I prefer to not use any mulch that's been color treated (we don't use this period).

Pest Management

Keep an eye out for pests that may harm your crops. Implement organic methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap to control infestations without harming beneficial insects. Regular monitoring can help catch infestations early, ensuring healthy plants.

Whether you choose to grow beans, vibrant zinnias, or fragrant basil, nurturing your garden will pay off. Embrace the warmth, dig in the soil, and watch your efforts bloom into beautiful and delicious results. Happy planting!