Planting calendar
July Planting Guide for Seattle Gardens: Raised Beds, Containers, and In-Ground
In July, Seattle gardeners can continue planting warm-season vegetables and start planning for fall crops. Focus on heat-tolerant varieties in raised beds and containers, while preparing soil for late-season sowing in-ground. This month is ideal for succession planting and starting cool-season crops indoors.
Plant now (quick list)
Bush beans, Cucumbers, Summer squash, Tomatoes (transplants), Peppers, Basil, Swiss chard, Beets
Plant now
- Bush beans
- Cucumbers
- Summer squash
- Tomatoes (transplants)
- Peppers
- Basil
- Swiss chard
- Beets
- Carrots
- Herbs like dill and cilantro
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Collards
Avoid
- Peas (too hot for planting)
- Potatoes (harvest ongoing, no new planting)
- Early spring bulbs
- Cool-season crops directly sown outdoors
- New strawberry plants (best planted in fall)
Next 2 weeks
- Succession sow bush beans and carrots every 10-14 days
- Mulch raised beds to retain moisture
- Water containers daily during heat waves
- Pinch tomato suckers to encourage fruiting
- Watch for pests like aphids and treat early
- Thin seedlings in raised beds for better growth
- Start hardening off indoor seedlings for fall transplant
- Fertilize summer crops with balanced fertilizer
FAQs
Can I plant lettuce outdoors in July in Seattle?
Lettuce planted outdoors in July may bolt quickly due to heat; it’s better to start lettuce indoors now and transplant in late summer for fall harvest.
How often should I water container plants in July?
Container plants typically need daily watering in July due to heat and faster soil drying; check soil moisture regularly to avoid stress.
Is it too late to start tomatoes in July?
Starting tomato transplants in July is possible but choose fast-maturing varieties to ensure harvest before cooler fall weather.
What pests should I watch for in July?
Common pests include aphids, tomato hornworms, and spider mites; inspect plants regularly and use organic controls as needed.
Can I plant fall crops directly in the ground now?
Some fall crops can be started indoors now for transplanting later; direct sowing cool-season crops outdoors in July is generally too warm for good germination.
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