Planting calendar
June Planting Guide for Nashville, TN: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground Gardens
In June, Nashville gardeners can focus on heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. Planting warm-season crops now will ensure a productive summer harvest. Avoid frost-sensitive seedlings and prepare for the summer heat by selecting appropriate varieties.
Plant now (quick list)
Okra, Sweet potatoes slips, Southern peas (cowpeas, black-eyed peas), Eggplant, Peppers, Basil, Cucumbers, Malabar spinach
Plant now
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes slips
- Southern peas (cowpeas, black-eyed peas)
- Eggplant
- Peppers
- Basil
- Cucumbers
- Malabar spinach
- Butter beans
- Sunflowers
Start indoors
- Fall broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Kale
- Collards
- Brussels sprouts
- Leeks
- Celery
- Parsley
- Chard
Avoid
- Lettuce (bolts quickly in heat)
- Spinach (bolts quickly in heat)
- Peas (prefer cooler weather)
- Broccoli (direct sow in June not ideal)
- Carrots (slow germination in heat)
- Radishes (bolt quickly)
- Potatoes (harvested or planted earlier)
- Strawberries (planting not recommended now)
- Beets (slow growth in heat)
- Garlic (plant in fall)
Next 2 weeks
- Monitor soil moisture closely; water deeply in raised beds and containers
- Mulch to retain moisture and reduce weed growth
- Pinch basil regularly to encourage bushier growth
- Watch for pests like aphids and flea beetles on young plants
- Fertilize warm-season vegetables every 3-4 weeks
- Provide shade for sensitive seedlings during hottest afternoons
- Harvest early-planted spring crops before they bolt
- Thin overcrowded seedlings to improve air circulation
- Rotate crops to prevent soil-borne diseases
- Check container drainage to avoid root rot
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in June in Nashville?
Yes, you can plant tomato transplants in June, but choose heat-tolerant varieties and provide afternoon shade if possible.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in June?
Water deeply at least 3 times a week, more frequently during heatwaves, ensuring soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
Is it too late to start herbs in June?
No, many herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme thrive when planted in June and will grow well through summer.
What vegetables should I avoid planting now due to heat?
Avoid cool-season crops like lettuce, spinach, peas, and broccoli as they bolt or fail in high temperatures.
Can I grow vegetables in containers during Nashville’s hot summer?
Yes, but choose heat-tolerant plants, use well-draining soil, and water containers more frequently to prevent drying out.
Next steps
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