Planting calendar
June Planting Guide for Columbus, OH: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In June, Columbus gardeners can focus on warm-season crops and succession planting in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. This month is ideal for planting heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs while continuing to care for early spring crops. Be mindful of summer heat and water needs for all garden types.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Bush beans, Cucumbers, Summer squash, Okra, Basil
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Bush beans
- Cucumbers
- Summer squash
- Okra
- Basil
- Sweet potatoes
- Melons
Start indoors
- Fall broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Collard greens
- Lettuce (heat-tolerant varieties)
- Swiss chard
- Spinach (heat-tolerant varieties)
- Herbs like cilantro and parsley
Avoid
- Cool-season crops like peas
- Early spring root crops (carrots, radishes) as direct sowing slows
- Leafy greens that bolt quickly in heat
- Potatoes (late planting risks disease)
- Corn (late planting reduces yield)
- Broccoli and cabbage direct sowing outdoors
- Beets (heat stress affects quality)
- Asparagus (harvest, no planting)
- Onions (avoid late planting)
- Garlic (plant in fall only)
Next 2 weeks
- Mulch raised beds and containers to conserve moisture
- Monitor soil moisture daily and water deeply
- Pinch back herbs to encourage bushier growth
- Watch for pests like aphids and caterpillars
- Succession sow bush beans and cucumbers for extended harvest
- Fertilize tomatoes and peppers with balanced fertilizer
- Thin seedlings in newly planted areas
- Harvest early crops to free space
- Stake tall plants to prevent wind damage
- Check container drainage to avoid root rot
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in June in Columbus, OH?
Yes, June is a good time to transplant tomato seedlings outdoors as soil temperatures are warm enough for healthy growth.
Is it too late to start lettuce in June?
It's best to start heat-tolerant lettuce varieties indoors or in shaded areas, as most lettuce bolts quickly in summer heat.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in June?
Water daily or as needed to keep soil consistently moist, especially during hot spells, since containers dry out faster.
What pests should I watch for in June?
Common pests include aphids, tomato hornworms, cucumber beetles, and spider mites; regular inspection helps catch infestations early.
Can I plant fall crops now?
Yes, start fall crops like broccoli and cabbage indoors this month to transplant in late summer for a fall harvest.
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