Planting calendar
July Planting Guide for Columbus, OH: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In July, Columbus gardeners can focus on heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs in raised beds, containers, or in-ground. Plant quick-maturing crops now and start planning fall harvests by sowing seeds indoors or directly outdoors with care to avoid heat stress.
Plant now (quick list)
Bush beans, Cucumbers, Summer squash, Sweet potatoes, Okra, Peppers, Basil, Eggplant
Plant now
- Bush beans
- Cucumbers
- Summer squash
- Sweet potatoes
- Okra
- Peppers
- Basil
- Eggplant
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Collards
- Lettuce
- Spinach
Avoid
- Peas
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Beets
- Radishes
- Cool-season crops sensitive to heat
Next 2 weeks
- Continue watering deeply in raised beds and containers
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce heat stress
- Pinch back herbs like basil to encourage bushier growth
- Watch for pests such as aphids and squash bugs
- Succession sow beans and cucumbers for continuous harvest
- Harvest summer crops regularly to encourage production
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in July in Columbus?
It's best to plant tomatoes earlier in the season; July is too late for new transplants to mature before frost.
How often should I water containers in July?
Containers dry out quickly in summer heat; water daily or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
What are good heat-tolerant herbs to grow now?
Basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary thrive in July's warm conditions.
Is it safe to start cool-season crops indoors in July?
Yes, starting broccoli, cabbage, and kale indoors now prepares seedlings for transplanting in late summer.
How can I protect plants from heat stress in raised beds?
Use mulch to conserve moisture and provide shade during peak afternoon sun if possible.
Next steps
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