Think planting season is over once July arrives? Think again.

In much of North America, July is one of the best times to plant a second round of vegetables. Warm soil speeds up seed germination, while the cooler days and nights of late summer create ideal growing conditions for many favorite crops.

RELATED: Farmers’ Almanac Planting Calendar

Whether you’re filling empty garden beds after an early harvest or starting a new vegetable patch, these seven vegetables can still reward you with a productive harvest before the first frost.

Before you plant: Check your area’s average first fall frost date to be sure your vegetables have enough time to mature. Gardeners in southern climates often have an even longer growing season.

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1. Bush Beans

Bush beans are among the easiest vegetables to grow in midsummer. Fast-growing varieties are often ready to harvest in just 50 to 60 days, making them perfect for July planting.

Their quick turnaround means you’ll enjoy fresh, tender beans before autumn arrives.

Growing Tip: Sow a short row every two weeks for a continuous harvest through late summer.

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2. Carrots

Carrots actually benefit from a July planting. The warm soil encourages quick germination, while cooler fall temperatures help develop sweeter, more flavorful roots.

Many gardeners say fall-grown carrots are the best of the year.

Days to Harvest: 60–80 days

Growing Tip: Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge.

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3. Beets

Beets offer two delicious harvests in one crop—the nutritious roots and the tender greens.

They’re easy to grow, tolerate cooling temperatures well, and often develop a sweeter flavor as fall approaches.

Growing Tip: Harvest young greens while allowing the roots to continue growing.

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4. Radishes

If you’re looking for nearly instant gratification, radishes are hard to beat.

Some varieties mature in as little as three to four weeks, making them one of the fastest vegetables you can grow.

Growing Tip: Plant small batches every seven to ten days for a steady harvest.

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5. Swiss Chard

Swiss chard is one of the most dependable vegetables in the summer garden.

It tolerates heat better than many leafy greens and often continues producing until the first hard frost. Its colorful stems also add beauty to raised beds and containers.

Growing Tip: Pick the outer leaves first and allow the center of the plant to continue producing.

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6. Kale

Kale loves cool weather, making July an excellent time to start a fall crop.

In fact, many gardeners believe kale becomes even sweeter after experiencing its first light frost.

Growing Tip: Harvest the outer leaves first to keep plants producing for weeks.

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7. Lettuce

Many gardeners think lettuce is strictly a spring crop, but many heat-tolerant varieties can be successfully planted in July for a crisp fall harvest.

Providing afternoon shade during hot weather can help reduce bolting and keep leaves tender.

Growing Tip: Water regularly to prevent bitterness and encourage steady growth.

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Gardening by the Moon

Many Farmers’ Almanac readers enjoy following the tradition of Gardening by the Moon.

According to this long-standing practice, the days immediately following the New Moon, as the Moon begins to wax, are considered a favorable time to sow many above-ground vegetables, including beans, lettuce, kale, and Swiss chard.

While scientific studies have produced mixed results, generations of gardeners have used the Moon’s phases as a seasonal guide, and many continue the tradition today.

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Tips for Success When Planting in July

A few simple practices can help your midsummer garden thrive:

• Water deeply after planting to encourage strong root growth.
• Mulch around seedlings to keep the soil cool and retain moisture.
• Plant during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.
• Harvest regularly to encourage continued production.
• Watch for midsummer pests like Japanese beetles, squash bugs, and tomato hornworms.

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It’s Not Too Late to Grow Fresh Food

One of the biggest gardening myths is that planting season ends after spring.

In reality, July offers a second chance to enjoy homegrown vegetables. With warm soil, long days, and careful planning, you can extend your harvest well into autumn.

So don’t put away your gardening gloves just yet—there’s still plenty of growing season left.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What vegetables can I still plant in July?

Some of the best vegetables to plant in July include bush beans, carrots, beets, radishes, Swiss chard, kale, and lettuce.

Is July too late to start a vegetable garden?

No. While it’s generally too late to start warm-season crops like tomatoes from seed, many fast-growing vegetables and cool-season crops thrive when planted in July.

Can I plant lettuce in July?

Yes. Heat-tolerant lettuce varieties can be planted in July for a fall harvest. In hot climates, afternoon shade and consistent watering will improve success.