You Missed the Memo? No Worries, July's Your Second Chance at Garden Glory in New York!
So, you forgot about the whole "planting season" thing in the spring? Don't sweat it, my fellow forgetful friend! New York summers, with their warm days and (hopefully) not-too-drought-like conditions, are perfect for a victory garden round two. But wait, what can you actually shove in the dirt and expect results besides a thriving population of earthworms? Fear not, for I, your friendly neighborhood garden guru (with questionable qualifications, but hey, enthusiasm counts!), am here to guide you through the wonderful world of July planting in New York.
 |
| What Can I Plant In July In New York |
Here Comes the Hot Stuff (Literally): Vegetables That Thrive in the Summer Sun
- Tomatoes: Because what's a summer garden without a juicy, homegrown tomato? Just be sure to choose heat-resistant varieties like Cherry Cascade or Sun Gold.
- Peppers: Spice up your life (literally) with some peppers! Bell peppers, jalapenos, and even habaneros (if you're feeling adventurous) will all do well with a July planting.
- Summer Squash and Zucchini: Prolific growers, these guys will keep your grill happy well into fall. Just be prepared to dodge zucchini-wielding ninjas – they're sneaky that way.
- Beans: Green beans, snap peas, or even lima beans – take your pick! These nitrogen-fixing wonders will also benefit your soil.
Pro Tip: For these sun-loving crops, mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and keep those pesky weeds at bay.
Beat the Heat: Cooler Crops for Late Summer Success
Not everything needs to bask in the sun's glory. Here are some veggies that prefer things a little less toasty:
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
- Leafy Greens: Kale, Swiss Chard, and even a second planting of lettuce (heat-resistant varieties, of course) will do well as the summer heat starts to wane.
- Beets and Carrots: These guys are all about that underground action, so the hot sun won't bother them much. Plus, baby carrots are the perfect healthy snack for those afternoon munchies.
- Radishes: Looking for a quick and easy crop? Radishes are your answer! You can even plant them multiple times throughout the summer for a continuous harvest.
Remember: Keep these cooler-loving crops well-watered, especially during hot spells.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered (Briefly, Because We're Busy Planting!)
How to choose the right spot for my plants? Think sunlight! Most summer crops need at least 6-8 hours of direct sun per day.
QuickTip: Skim the first line of each paragraph.
How much should I water my plants? This depends on the weather and the specific plant, but a good rule of thumb is to water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
 |
What about fertilizer? Most vegetables don't need a ton of extra fertilizer, especially if you've amended your soil beforehand. However, a little organic fertilizer every few weeks can't hurt.
Tip: Take your time with each sentence.
How do I keep pests at bay? There are lots of natural methods for pest control, like encouraging beneficial insects (ladybugs, anyone?) or using insecticidal soap.
How do I harvest my vegetables? This varies depending on the crop, but generally, you want to harvest vegetables when they're ripe and at their peak flavor. A quick Google search for your specific vegetable will give you all the details.
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
So there you have it! With a little planning and some elbow grease (or should I say, trowel power?), you can still have a bountiful and delicious harvest from your July garden. Now get out there and get planting!
 |
