What to Plant in Summer: A Beginner's Guide

As the weather warms up, many of us can't wait to get outside and start planting our gardens. Summer is the perfect time to grow a variety of delicious fruits, vegetables, and flowers. In this blog post, we'll cover the best plants to grow in the summer and provide some expert tips to help you get started.

What Makes a Good Summer Crop?

Before we dive into our top picks, let's talk about what makes a good summer crop. Look for plants that are:

• Heat-tolerant: Can withstand high temperatures and humidity.
• Drought-resistant: Can survive with minimal watering.
• Long-season producers: Can be harvested over an extended period, typically 60-90 days or more.

Top Summer Crops for Beginners

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are one of the most popular summer crops, and for good reason. They're easy to grow, produce a high yield, and are delicious on sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes.

• Varieties: Cherry tomatoes, beefsteak tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, and heirloom tomatoes.
• Growing Tips: Plant tomatoes in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8. Provide support with tomato cages or trellises.

2. Cucumbers

Cucumbers are a refreshing summer treat that can be enjoyed in salads, sandwiches, and as a snack on their own.

• Varieties: Slicing cucumbers, pickling cucumbers, and English cucumbers.
• Growing Tips: Plant cucumbers in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8. Provide support with a trellis or a fence.

3. Zucchini and Summer Squash

Zucchini and summer squash are easy to grow and can be harvested in as little as 35 days. They're perfect for grilling, sautéing, or baking.

• Varieties: Zucchini, yellow crookneck, acorn squash, and pattypan squash.
• Growing Tips: Plant zucchini and summer squash in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8. Provide support with a trellis or a cage.

4. Carrots

Carrots are a cool-season crop, but they can also be grown in the summer. They're perfect for snacking, salads, and as a crudité for dips.

• Varieties: Little Finger, Danver's Half-Long, and Imperator carrots.
• Growing Tips: Plant carrots in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8. Thin seedlings to 1-2 inches apart.

5. Radishes

Radishes are a fast-growing crop that can be harvested in as little as 20 days. They're perfect for adding a spicy kick to salads and sandwiches.

• Varieties: Cherry Belle, White Icicle, and Black Spanish radishes.
• Growing Tips: Plant radishes in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8. Thin seedlings to 1-2 inches apart.

6. Green Beans

Green beans are a classic summer crop that can be grown on a trellis or in a row. They're perfect for snacking, salads, and as a side dish.

• Varieties: Bush beans, pole beans, and snap beans.
• Growing Tips: Plant green beans in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8. Provide support with a trellis or a cage.

7. Corn

Corn is a warm-season crop that's perfect for summer. It's delicious grilled, boiled, or as a side dish.

• Varieties: Silver Queen, Golden Bantam, and Honey & Cream corn.
• Growing Tips: Plant corn in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8. Provide support with a stake or a trellis.

8. Okra

Okra is a heat-tolerant crop that's perfect for summer. It's delicious fried, grilled, or as a side dish.

• Varieties: Clemson Spineless, Lady Finger, and Red Burgundy okra.
• Growing Tips: Plant okra in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8. Provide support with a stake or a trellis.

9. Herbs

Herbs are a great addition to any summer garden. They're perfect for adding fresh flavor to salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish.

• Varieties: Basil, mint, cilantro, and dill.
• Growing Tips: Plant herbs in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8. Provide support with a trellis or a stake.

10. Flowers

Flowers are a great way to add color and beauty to your summer garden. They're perfect for attracting pollinators and adding a pop of color to your outdoor space.

• Varieties: Sunflowers, zinnias, marigolds, and cosmos.
• Growing Tips: Plant flowers in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-6.8. Provide support with stakes or trellises.

Tips for a Successful Summer Garden

• Soil: Make sure your soil is well-draining and has a pH between 6.0-6.8.
• Watering: Water your plants regularly, but avoid overwatering. Summer crops need consistent moisture to thrive.
• Sunlight: Most summer crops need full sun to produce well. Make sure to provide enough sunlight for your plants.
• Support: Provide support for plants that need it, such as tomatoes, peas, and beans.
• Pest control: Keep an eye out for pests like aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Use organic pest control methods whenever possible.

Conclusion

Summer is the perfect time to grow a variety of delicious fruits, vegetables, and flowers. By following these expert tips and planting the right crops, you'll be enjoying fresh, homegrown produce in no time. Happy gardening!