Planting calendar
July Planting Guide for Jacksonville, FL: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In July, Jacksonville gardeners can focus on heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs for raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. This month is ideal for planting warm-season crops and starting fall garden preparations indoors. Be mindful of high summer heat and maintain consistent watering.
Plant now (quick list)
Okra, Sweet potatoes, Southern peas (cowpeas, black-eyed peas), Eggplant, Peppers, Malabar spinach, Basil, Roselle
Plant now
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Southern peas (cowpeas, black-eyed peas)
- Eggplant
- Peppers
- Malabar spinach
- Basil
- Roselle
- Yardlong beans
- Butter beans
Start indoors
- Tomatoes (for fall transplant)
- Peppers (for fall transplant)
- Cabbage
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Collards
- Brussels sprouts
- Lettuce (heat-tolerant varieties)
- Swiss chard
Avoid
- Cool-season crops like peas and spinach outdoors
- Potatoes (late summer planting is risky)
- Root crops sensitive to heat (carrots, radishes)
- Direct sowing lettuce without shade
- Overcrowding plants to reduce airflow
- Watering in the heat of the day
- Planting new seeds without soil moisture
- Ignoring pest control during humid months
- Over-fertilizing leafy greens
- Planting frost-sensitive crops late in the month
Next 2 weeks
- Transplant started cabbage and broccoli seedlings into raised beds
- Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture
- Begin monitoring for aphids and spider mites
- Water early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation
- Prepare soil for fall crops by adding compost
- Pinch basil to encourage bushier growth
- Plant heat-tolerant herbs like thyme and oregano
- Start hardening off indoor seedlings
- Check container drainage regularly
- Remove any yellowing or diseased leaves
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes outdoors in July in Jacksonville?
July is best for starting tomato seedlings indoors for a fall transplant, as outdoor heat can stress young plants.
How often should I water raised beds in July's heat?
Water deeply early morning or late evening 2-3 times per week, increasing frequency if soil dries quickly.
Are there any vegetables to avoid planting now due to heat?
Yes, cool-season crops like peas and spinach should be avoided outdoors as they struggle in high temperatures.
Can I grow lettuce in containers during July?
Choose heat-tolerant lettuce varieties and provide partial shade to prevent bolting and bitterness.
What pests should I watch for in July gardens in Jacksonville?
Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies; regular inspection and early intervention help control them.
Next steps
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