Planting calendar
July Planting Guide for Charlotte, NC: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In July, Charlotte gardeners can continue warm-season crops and prepare for fall planting by starting heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs. Focus on crops that thrive in summer heat and begin planning for cooler weather with indoor seed starting. This month is ideal for maintaining raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens with proper watering and pest management.
Plant now (quick list)
Okra, Sweet potatoes slips, Bush beans, Southern peas (cowpeas), Eggplant, Peppers, Malabar spinach, Sweet corn
Plant now
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes slips
- Bush beans
- Southern peas (cowpeas)
- Eggplant
- Peppers
- Malabar spinach
- Sweet corn
- Sunflowers
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Brussels sprouts
- Kale
- Collards
- Lettuce
- Spinach
Avoid
- Cool-season crops outdoors (lettuce, broccoli, cabbage) due to heat stress
- Planting tomatoes (too late for good fall harvest)
- Root crops like carrots and beets (slow to mature in heat)
- Sensitive herbs like cilantro (bolts quickly in heat)
- Overcrowding plants in containers
Next 2 weeks
- Monitor soil moisture closely, especially in containers
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds
- Watch for pests like aphids and spider mites
- Pinch back herbs to encourage bushier growth
- Fertilize heavy feeders like tomatoes and peppers
FAQs
Can I plant lettuce in July in Charlotte, NC?
Lettuce planted outdoors in July will likely bolt quickly due to heat. Start lettuce indoors or wait until late August for fall planting.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in July?
Water raised beds and containers deeply every 1-2 days, depending on heat and rainfall, to keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Is it too late to plant tomatoes in July?
Yes, July is generally too late to plant tomatoes in Charlotte for a successful fall harvest because they need 60-80 days to mature.
What vegetables can I start indoors in July for fall planting?
Start broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, collards, lettuce, and spinach indoors in July to transplant outdoors in late August or early September.
How can I protect my garden from summer pests in July?
Regularly inspect plants for pests like aphids and spider mites, use insecticidal soap if needed, and encourage beneficial insects by planting flowers.
Next steps
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