Planting calendar
July Planting Guide for Los Angeles Gardens: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In July, Los Angeles gardeners can focus on heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs for raised beds, containers, and in-ground planting. It's an ideal time to plant warm-season crops and start seeds indoors for fall harvests. Avoid sensitive cool-season plants that struggle in summer heat.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Okra, Basil, Sweet potatoes, Melons, Beans
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Okra
- Basil
- Sweet potatoes
- Melons
- Beans
- Corn
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Collard greens
Avoid
- Peas
- Radishes
- Carrots
- Potatoes
- Broccoli (direct sow outdoors)
- Lettuce (direct sow outdoors)
- Spinach (direct sow outdoors)
- Cabbage (direct sow outdoors)
Next 2 weeks
- Monitor soil moisture closely to prevent drought stress
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce weeds
- Pinch basil regularly to encourage bushy growth
- Start hardening off indoor seedlings for fall transplant
- Watch for pests like aphids and whiteflies
- Water early in the morning or late evening to reduce evaporation
- Fertilize tomatoes and peppers every 2-3 weeks
- Provide shade cloth if temperatures exceed 90°F
FAQs
Can I plant cool-season vegetables outdoors in July in Los Angeles?
July is generally too hot for direct sowing cool-season vegetables outdoors; start them indoors to transplant in fall when temperatures cool.
How often should I water raised beds in July?
Water raised beds deeply 2-3 times per week, adjusting based on heat and soil moisture to prevent drying out.
Are containers suitable for heat-loving plants in July?
Yes, containers can be ideal for heat-loving plants like tomatoes and peppers but require more frequent watering.
What are common pests to watch for in July in Los Angeles gardens?
Aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites are common; monitor plants regularly and use organic controls as needed.
Should I fertilize my summer crops in July?
Yes, applying balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks supports healthy growth during the active growing season.
Next steps
Get a personalized planting plan
Answer a few questions and generate a plan for your exact location and setup.
Build your garden shopping list
Get a starter kit checklist for what you want to grow (with optional links).
Ask the Gardener
Get quick answers and next-step guidance for your garden.
Want this page for a different city? Try the tool and enter your ZIP: Plant this month.