What to Plant in a Garden in July in West Central Georgia
Gardening in west central Georgia during July offers a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. The region’s hot and humid summers can be tough on both plants and gardeners, but with careful planning, this time of year is ideal for planting a range of heat-loving vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Here’s a guide to what you can successfully plant in your garden this month.
Vegetables to Plant in July
While many gardeners think of spring as the main planting season, July is actually a great time to start your fall vegetable garden. Here are some crops that thrive when planted mid- to late-summer in this region:
1. Beans (Bush and Pole)
- Time to maturity: 50–60 days
- Beans grow quickly in warm soil and can produce a harvest before the first frost. Sow seeds directly into the garden.
2. Okra
- Time to maturity: 50–65 days
- This Southern staple loves heat and thrives in July. Plant directly in full sun, and be prepared for steady production into the fall.
3. Peas (Southern peas or Cowpeas)
- Time to maturity: 60–70 days
- Black-eyed peas and other cowpeas are heat-tolerant and well-suited to Georgia’s July climate.
4. Corn (Late Crop)
- Time to maturity: 70–100 days
- A final planting of sweet corn can go in by mid-July, especially early maturing varieties.
5. Collards and Kale (for fall harvest)
- Time to maturity: 60–80 days
- Start seeds indoors or in a shaded outdoor area and transplant in late August. These greens will thrive as temperatures begin to cool.
6. Turnips and Rutabagas
- Time to maturity: 50–90 days
- Sow directly into the soil late in July for a fall harvest. These root vegetables do well with the gradually cooling temperatures in late summer.
Herbs to Plant
Many herbs grow well in the heat of summer and can be harvested into the fall with proper care.
1. Basil
- Basil loves hot weather and grows quickly. Regular harvesting encourages bushy growth and keeps the plant from flowering too early.
2. Oregano and Thyme
- Both thrive in full sun and can tolerate dry conditions once established.
3. Dill
- Dill can be direct-seeded in early July for a quick summer harvest or for seed collection in the fall.
Flowers to Plant
For gardeners who love color, July is a good time to plant hardy summer bloomers and start planning for autumn color.
1. Zinnias
- These heat-tolerant flowers bloom quickly and continuously. Sow directly in the garden for a fresh flush of color.
2. Marigolds
- Known for their pest-repelling qualities, marigolds thrive in hot, sunny areas and bloom into the fall.
3. Sunflowers
- These fast-growing giants add dramatic height and beauty to any summer garden. Choose a variety based on the size and color you prefer.
4. Chrysanthemums
- Start mums now for fall blooms. They’ll establish better if planted in summer rather than just before they’re expected to flower.
Tips for Gardening in July in Georgia
- Watering: Deep and infrequent watering is best to encourage strong root growth. Morning watering reduces disease risks.
- Mulching: Use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. It also helps keep soil temperatures more consistent.
- Pest Control: Stay vigilant about pests like aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars, which thrive in hot weather.
- Shade Cloth: For seedlings or tender crops, temporary shade structures can help reduce heat stress during extreme afternoons.
Final Thoughts
Though July may seem like the peak of summer’s heat in west central Georgia, it’s actually the beginning of a fruitful gardening window for fall crops. By focusing on heat-tolerant varieties and preparing for cooler weather ahead, your garden can continue to thrive well into autumn. With a little planning and persistence, your July planting can yield a bountiful late-season harvest.
Let the sun work for you—and keep those garden gloves handy!