Planting calendar
June Planting Guide for Detroit, MI: Raised Beds, Containers, and In-Ground Gardens
In June, Detroit gardeners can focus on planting heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. This is a great time to plant warm-season crops and continue succession planting for a steady harvest through summer.
Plant now (quick list)
Bush beans, Cucumbers, Eggplants, Peppers, Tomatoes, Summer squash, Basil, Okra

Plant now
- Bush beans
- Cucumbers
- Eggplants
- Peppers
- Tomatoes
- Summer squash
- Basil
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Melons
Start indoors
- Fall broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Collard greens
- Lettuce (heat-tolerant varieties)
- Swiss chard
Avoid
- Peas (too warm)
- Spinach (bolts quickly in heat)
- Potatoes (harvest usually done by June)
- Cool-season crops that bolt quickly
- Late-season root crops that prefer cooler soil
Next 2 weeks
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Monitor for pests like aphids and cucumber beetles
- Water deeply in early morning
- Thin seedlings for proper spacing
- Fertilize tomatoes and peppers with balanced fertilizer
- Pinch basil to encourage bushier growth
- Stake or cage tall plants like tomatoes
- Harvest early-maturing crops regularly to encourage production
FAQs
Can I still plant tomatoes in June in Detroit?
Yes, you can plant tomato seedlings in June, but choose early-maturing varieties to ensure harvest before the first fall frost.
Is it too late to start lettuce in June?
Lettuce can be started indoors in June for a late summer or fall harvest, but avoid direct sowing as heat may cause bolting.
How often should I water container plants in June?
Container plants typically need daily watering in June due to heat and faster drying, especially on sunny days.
What vegetables should I avoid planting in June in Detroit?
Avoid cool-season crops like peas and spinach, which do not perform well in the summer heat and tend to bolt quickly.
Can I grow herbs in raised beds and containers during June?
Yes, herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme thrive in raised beds and containers during June with adequate sunlight and watering.
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