Planting calendar
July Planting Guide for New York, NY: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In July, New York gardeners can focus on heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. It's an ideal time to plant warm-season crops and start fall harvest vegetables indoors. Avoid planting cool-season crops directly outdoors due to summer heat stress.
Plant now (quick list)
Bush beans, Okra, Sweet potatoes, Eggplant, Peppers, Basil, Tomatoes (transplants), Cucumbers

Plant now
- Bush beans
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Eggplant
- Peppers
- Basil
- Tomatoes (transplants)
- Cucumbers
- Malabar spinach
- Summer squash
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Collards
- Leeks
- Celery
- Kohlrabi
- Swiss chard
Avoid
- Peas
- Spinach
- Lettuce (outdoor direct sow)
- Radishes
- Carrots (direct sow)
- Broccoli (direct sow outdoors)
- Cauliflower (direct sow outdoors)
- Potatoes
- Beets
- Turnips
Next 2 weeks
- Water raised beds and containers deeply in early morning
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce weeds
- Pinch basil flowers to encourage leaf growth
- Watch for pests like aphids and caterpillars
- Fertilize tomatoes and peppers every 2-3 weeks
- Thin seedlings started indoors before transplanting
- Provide shade for sensitive plants during heat waves
- Harvest summer crops regularly to encourage production
- Rotate crops in in-ground beds to prevent soil depletion
- Check soil moisture daily in containers
FAQs
Can I plant cool-season crops directly outdoors in July in New York?
No, July is too hot for cool-season crops outdoors. Start them indoors now to transplant in late summer for a fall harvest.
How often should I water containers during July heat?
Containers typically need daily watering in July heat, preferably early morning to reduce evaporation.
Is it too late to start tomatoes in July?
You can transplant tomato seedlings now, but choose fast-maturing varieties to ensure harvest before the first frost.
What are good herbs to plant in containers in July?
Basil, oregano, thyme, and mint thrive in containers during summer heat.
How can I protect my raised bed plants from summer heat stress?
Use mulch, provide afternoon shade, and water deeply in the mornings to help plants cope with heat.
Next steps
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