Planting calendar
July Planting Guide for San Jose, CA: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground Gardens
In July, San Jose gardeners can focus on heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs for raised beds, containers, and in-ground planting. This is a great time to plant warm-season crops and start some fall vegetables indoors for transplanting later. Avoid frost-sensitive plants as temperatures remain high.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Basil, Okra, Melons, Beans (bush and pole), Sweet potatoes
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Basil
- Okra
- Melons
- Beans (bush and pole)
- Sweet potatoes
- Swiss chard
- Malabar spinach
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Lettuce
- Collards
- Kohlrabi
Avoid
- Peas
- Spinach
- Radishes
- Carrots
- Beets
- Potatoes
- Broccoli (direct sow outdoors)
- Cauliflower (direct sow outdoors)
Next 2 weeks
- Monitor soil moisture closely; increase watering frequency
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce heat stress
- Pinch back basil to encourage bushier growth
- Watch for pests like aphids and whiteflies
- Fertilize tomatoes and peppers with balanced fertilizer
- Thin seedlings started indoors
- Prepare soil for fall crops by adding compost
- Check container drainage to prevent root rot
FAQs
Can I plant cool-season vegetables in July in San Jose?
July is generally too hot for direct sowing cool-season crops outdoors, but you can start them indoors to transplant in late summer.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in July?
Water daily or as needed to keep soil consistently moist, especially in containers which dry out faster.
Is it necessary to mulch during July's heat?
Yes, mulching helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cooler during hot summer days.
When can I transplant seedlings started indoors in July?
Transplant seedlings outdoors in late August or early September when temperatures begin to moderate.
What are common pests to watch for in July in San Jose?
Look out for aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites, which thrive in warm weather.
Next steps
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