Planting calendar
July Planting Guide for New York, NY: Raised Beds, Containers, and In-Ground Gardens
In July, New York gardeners can focus on heat-tolerant vegetables and fall crops in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. It's a great time to plant quick-maturing greens and start seeds indoors for fall transplanting. Avoid planting heat-sensitive crops directly outdoors during peak summer heat.
Plant now (quick list)
Bush beans, Eggplant, Okra, Sweet potatoes, Peppers, Swiss chard, Malabar spinach, New Zealand spinach
Plant now
- Bush beans
- Eggplant
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Peppers
- Swiss chard
- Malabar spinach
- New Zealand spinach
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Lettuce
- Collards
- Spinach
Avoid
- Peas
- Broccoli (direct sow outdoors)
- Cabbage (direct sow outdoors)
- Cauliflower (direct sow outdoors)
- Lettuce (direct sow outdoors)
- Spinach (direct sow outdoors)
Next 2 weeks
- Monitor soil moisture closely to prevent drought stress
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and reduce weeds
- Pinch back herbs like basil to encourage bushier growth
- Harvest summer crops regularly to encourage continued production
- Prepare soil for fall crops by adding compost
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in July in New York?
It's best to plant tomatoes earlier in spring; July is late for starting tomatoes outdoors. However, you can still transplant healthy seedlings into containers or raised beds if they are established.
How often should I water container plants in July?
Container plants typically need daily watering during hot July weather, as they dry out faster than in-ground plants.
Is it too late to start fall vegetables in July?
No, July is an ideal time to start fall crops indoors or sow quick-maturing vegetables for a fall harvest.
What is the best way to protect plants from summer heat?
Use shade cloth during the hottest part of the day, mulch to retain soil moisture, and water deeply in the morning or evening.
Can I grow leafy greens in containers during July?
Yes, choose heat-tolerant greens like Swiss chard or Malabar spinach, and provide partial shade to prevent bolting.
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.