Planting calendar
June Planting Guide for Nashville, TN: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground Gardens
In June, Nashville gardeners can focus on warm-season vegetables and herbs in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. Plant heat-tolerant crops now and start preparing for fall plantings by starting seeds indoors. Avoid planting cool-season crops that struggle with summer heat.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Okra, Sweet potatoes, Basil, Cucumbers, Beans
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Basil
- Cucumbers
- Beans
- Summer squash
- Melons
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Brussels sprouts
- Kale
- Collards
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Swiss chard
- Herbs like cilantro and parsley
Avoid
- Peas
- Radishes
- Carrots
- Broccoli (outdoor direct sow)
- Cauliflower (outdoor direct sow)
- Lettuce (outdoor direct sow)
- Spinach (outdoor direct sow)
- Potatoes
- Beets
- Turnips
Next 2 weeks
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture
- Water deeply in early morning or late evening
- Pinch back basil to encourage bushier growth
- Watch for pests like aphids and tomato hornworms
- Fertilize tomatoes and peppers with balanced fertilizer
- Thin seedlings in containers for better airflow
- Harvest early summer crops like lettuce and radishes
- Check soil moisture regularly in raised beds
- Shade young plants during extreme heat
- Prepare soil for fall crops by adding compost
FAQs
Can I plant cool-season crops directly in June?
No, cool-season crops like broccoli and lettuce tend to bolt or struggle in Nashville's summer heat. It's better to start them indoors now for fall transplanting.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in June?
Water daily or as needed to keep soil consistently moist, especially during hot, dry spells. Early morning or late evening watering reduces evaporation.
What are the best heat-tolerant vegetables to plant in June?
Tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, okra, beans, cucumbers, and summer squash perform well in warm weather.
Should I fertilize my container plants differently than in-ground plants?
Yes, container plants often need more frequent feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer since nutrients leach out faster.
How can I protect my plants from pests in June?
Regularly inspect plants, remove pests by hand, use insecticidal soaps if needed, and encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
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