Planting calendar
July Planting Guide for Indianapolis, IN: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In July, Indianapolis gardeners can focus on heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. This is a good time to plant warm-season crops and start planning fall harvests by sowing seeds indoors for cooler weather vegetables.
Plant now (quick list)
Bush beans, Okra, Sweet potatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Basil, Tomatoes (transplants), Melons
Plant now
- Bush beans
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Basil
- Tomatoes (transplants)
- Melons
- Cucumbers
- Summer squash
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Collards
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Kohlrabi
- Swiss chard
Avoid
- Peas
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Beets
- Radishes
- Cool-season lettuce
- Broccoli (direct sow outdoors)
- Cauliflower (direct sow outdoors)
- Spinach (direct sow outdoors)
- Cabbage (direct sow outdoors)
Next 2 weeks
- Continue watering deeply and consistently
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Pinch back basil to encourage bushier growth
- Watch for pests like aphids and squash bugs
- Fertilize tomatoes and peppers every 2-3 weeks
- Harvest summer squash and beans regularly
- Thin seedlings started indoors as needed
- Start hardening off fall crop seedlings
- Monitor soil moisture in containers closely
- Remove any diseased or yellowing leaves promptly
FAQs
Can I plant cool-season crops directly outdoors in July?
July is generally too hot for direct sowing cool-season crops outdoors in Indianapolis; start them indoors to transplant later for fall harvest.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in July?
Water raised beds and containers deeply at least every 1-2 days during hot weather, as they dry out faster than in-ground gardens.
Is it too late to plant tomatoes in July?
Transplanting tomato seedlings in early July is still possible, but avoid late July to ensure they mature before the first frost.
What are good herbs to grow in containers during July?
Basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary thrive in containers during July with adequate sunlight and watering.
How can I protect my garden from heat stress in July?
Use mulch, provide afternoon shade if possible, and water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce heat stress.
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