Gardening is not just about summer weather and lots of tomatoes. It's a year-round activity! July is a great time to start planning for your fall garden. Fall gardening means that you will be harvesting veggies during the fall season, from September through October. Cool-season plants thrive as the summer heat wanes and nighttime temperatures begin to drop. To learn more about gardening tips for July, visit the garden calendar.
Try These Plants in July for Fall Gardening!
Wondering what you can plant in July? Be sure to check the Oregon Garden Planner to get specifics on your region. Typically, you can start the following seeds indoors in July for transplanting in August if you are in the Oregon Coast or Western Valley regions:
• Broccoli
• Kale
• Lettuce
• Cabbage
Additionally, you can plant these directly into the soil:
• Beets
• Carrots
• Radishes
• Peas
• Spinach
For more detailed information, check out our garden tip sheets or ask your local master gardener.
Tips for Success
When planting for fall gardening, the key is to ensure your seedlings do not dry out in the summer heat. Here are some tips to help:
• Shading: Use the same techniques you use to protect your plants from heat. For instance, attach an old bedsheet to stakes above the planting area to shade your seedlings during the hottest part of the day.
• Watering: Water often to keep the top layer of soil from drying out. Consistent moisture is crucial for young seedlings.
By following these tips and planning accordingly, you'll set your fall garden up for success.
From the Garden to the Table: Recipes with Beets
If you harvest beets in the fall, here are some delicious recipes to make at home!
• Vegetarian Borscht: Borscht is a soup that was first made in Eastern Europe hundreds of years ago. This variation includes beets with cabbage, beans and other vegetables.
• Un-beet-able Berry Smoothie: This kid-approved recipe with berries, pineapple and colorful beets is quick and fun to make!
• Beet and Carrot Salad: Quick and simple to make, this creamy, colorful salad makes the perfect side dish.
To learn more about beets, check out the Food Hero Monthly.
Happy gardening!
