Planting calendar
July Planting Guide for Boston, MA: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground Gardens
In July, Boston gardeners can focus on heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs suitable for raised beds, containers, and in-ground planting. This is an ideal time to plant fast-maturing crops for a late summer or early fall harvest. Avoid planting frost-sensitive seedlings that won’t mature before the first fall frost.
Plant now (quick list)
Bush beans, Cucumbers, Summer squash, Sweet potatoes, Herbs like basil and oregano, Swiss chard, Beets, Radishes
Plant now
- Bush beans
- Cucumbers
- Summer squash
- Sweet potatoes
- Herbs like basil and oregano
- Swiss chard
- Beets
- Radishes
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Collards
Avoid
- Tomatoes (late July plantings may not mature before frost)
- Peppers (same as tomatoes)
- Corn (too late for a full season)
- Potatoes (harvest instead of planting)
- Root crops needing long growing seasons like parsnips
Next 2 weeks
- Direct sow fall crops like radishes and turnips
- Transplant cool-season seedlings started indoors
- Mulch raised beds and containers to conserve moisture
- Water deeply in early morning or late evening
- Monitor for pests like squash bugs and aphids
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in July in Boston?
July is generally too late to plant tomatoes outdoors in Boston because they may not mature before the first fall frost.
What vegetables grow well in containers during July?
Bush beans, herbs like basil, and summer squash do well in containers and can tolerate summer heat.
How often should I water raised beds in July?
Water raised beds deeply at least 2-3 times per week, adjusting for rainfall and heat, ideally in early morning or late evening.
Is it safe to start cool-season crops indoors in July?
Yes, starting broccoli, cabbage, and kale indoors in July prepares seedlings for transplanting in late summer for a fall harvest.
What are common pests to watch for in July?
Squash bugs, aphids, and cucumber beetles are common pests; monitor plants regularly and use organic controls if needed.
Next steps
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