Planting calendar
July Planting Guide for Columbus, OH: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground Gardens
In July, Columbus gardeners can focus on heat-tolerant vegetables and preparing for fall crops. Plant warm-season crops now and start planning cool-season vegetables indoors for transplant later. This month is ideal for maintaining summer crops and starting seeds for a successful autumn harvest.
Plant now (quick list)
Bush beans, Cucumbers, Summer squash, Okra, Sweet potatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Tomatoes (transplants)
Plant now
- Bush beans
- Cucumbers
- Summer squash
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Tomatoes (transplants)
- Herbs like basil and oregano
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Brussels sprouts
- Kale
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Collards
Avoid
- Peas
- Potatoes
- Onions (seed sets)
- Cool-season crops directly sown outdoors
- Late-season tomatoes (risk of frost before harvest)
- Corn (too late for good yield)
Next 2 weeks
- Continue watering deeply and regularly
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Watch for pests like squash bugs and aphids
- Pinch back herbs to encourage bushier growth
- Fertilize summer crops lightly
- Harden off seedlings started indoors
- Prepare soil for fall planting by adding compost
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in July in Columbus?
It's best to transplant tomato seedlings rather than direct sow in July. Late plantings may not mature before the first frost.
What vegetables can I start indoors in July for fall planting?
Start cool-season crops like broccoli, cabbage, and kale indoors in July to transplant outdoors in late summer.
How often should I water raised beds in July?
Water deeply at least 2-3 times per week, adjusting for rainfall and heat to keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Are there any crops to avoid planting in July in Columbus?
Avoid cool-season crops directly seeded outdoors and late-season crops that won’t mature before frost, like peas and potatoes.
How can I protect container plants from heat stress in July?
Place containers in partial shade during peak afternoon sun, water more frequently, and mulch the soil surface to retain moisture.
Next steps
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