Planting calendar
June Planting Guide for Philadelphia, PA: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground Gardens
In June, Philadelphia gardeners can focus on warm-season crops in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. It's an ideal time to plant heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs while continuing to care for spring plantings. Be mindful of summer heat and water needs for all garden types.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Basil, Cucumbers, Beans (bush and pole), Summer squash, Okra
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Basil
- Cucumbers
- Beans (bush and pole)
- Summer squash
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Herbs like oregano and thyme
Start indoors
- Fall broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Collards
- Leeks
- Celery
Avoid
- Cool-season crops like lettuce and spinach (may bolt in heat)
- Peas (past their season)
- Early spring root crops (carrots, radishes) as they may struggle in heat
- Overplanting heat-sensitive greens
- Planting frost-tender crops too late for fall harvest
Next 2 weeks
- Mulch raised beds and containers to conserve moisture
- Begin regular deep watering to support fruiting plants
- Pinch back basil to encourage bushier growth
- Watch for pests like aphids and tomato hornworms
- Fertilize tomatoes and peppers with balanced fertilizer
FAQs
Can I still plant lettuce in June in Philadelphia?
Lettuce tends to bolt quickly in summer heat, so it's best to avoid planting it in June. Opt for heat-tolerant greens or wait until late summer for fall crops.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in June?
Water daily or every other day depending on heat and rainfall, ensuring soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Is it too late to start tomatoes from seed in June?
Starting tomatoes from seed in June is possible but may result in a shorter harvest window. Transplants are generally preferred for better timing.
What are good herbs to plant in containers during June?
Basil, oregano, thyme, and parsley thrive in containers during June with proper sunlight and watering.
How can I protect my garden from pests in early summer?
Regularly inspect plants, remove affected leaves, use insecticidal soap if needed, and encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Next steps
Get a personalized planting plan
Answer a few questions and generate a plan for your exact location and setup.
Build your garden shopping list
Get a starter kit checklist for what you want to grow (with optional links).
Ask GrowGardens AI
Get quick answers and next-step guidance for your garden.
Want this page for a different city? Try the tool and enter your ZIP: Plant this month.