Planting certain vegetables in July can set you up for a thriving winter garden. July is an ideal month for planting various hardy vegetables that flourish in cooler temperatures and even improve in flavor after a frost.1
As summer crops begin to wind down, filling your garden with winter-hardy vegetables ensures a continuous supply of fresh produce throughout the colder months. Here are 15 top vegetables to plant in July for a bountiful winter harvest.
1. Kale
Kale is a cold-hardy green that actually improves in flavor after a frost. This nutrient-packed vegetable can be sown directly into your garden in July. Its hardy leaves are perfect for winter soups and stews, offering a hefty dose of vitamins A, C, and K.
By planting kale now, you give it ample time to establish strong roots and leafy growth before the cold sets in. Varieties like ‘Winterbor’ and ‘Red Russian’ are particularly well-suited for winter harvests, providing a steady supply of greens even in snowy conditions.
2. Spinach
Spinach loves cool weather, making July the ideal time to plant it for a fall and winter harvest. This leafy green is versatile and packed with iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. Spinach is a winter staple whether you enjoy it fresh in salads or cooked in dishes.
Planting spinach in July allows it to mature before the first frost hits. Consider varieties like ‘Bloomsdale’ and ‘Tyee’ that are known for their cold tolerance and productivity during the cooler months.
3. Basil
Basil thrives in warm summer weather but can be planted in July for late summer and early fall harvest. This aromatic herb is a kitchen favorite, adding flavor to various dishes, from pesto to salads.
By planting basil now, you can enjoy its fresh leaves well into the fall. Ensure it gets plenty of sunlight and regular watering. Varieties like ‘Genovese’ and ‘Thai’ are popular for their robust flavor and productivity.
4. Beets
Beets are robust root vegetables that do well when planted in July. They are packed with nutrients, including folate, manganese, and fiber. Beets can be roasted, pickled, or used fresh in salads, adding a sweet, earthy flavor to your winter meals.
Planting beets now ensure they have enough time to develop before the cold sets in. ‘Detroit Dark Red’ and ‘Golden’ beets are popular choices for their reliable growth and rich taste.
5. Cabbage
Cabbage is a staple in winter gardens due to its cold tolerance and versatility. This leafy vegetable is rich in vitamins C and K, and its dense heads are perfect for making hearty winter dishes like cabbage rolls and sauerkraut.
Planting cabbage in July allows it to mature fully before the first frosts. Varieties like Savoy and Red Drumhead are known for their winter hardiness and excellent flavor.
6. Broccoli
Broccoli is a cool-weather crop that thrives when planted in mid-summer. This vegetable contains vitamins C and K, fiber, and numerous antioxidants. It’s great for steaming, roasting, or adding to casseroles and soups.
Sowing broccoli in July gives it the time it needs to develop sturdy heads before winter. Look for varieties such as ‘Calabrese’ and ‘Waltham 29,’ which are known for their cold tolerance and high yields.
7. Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a long-growing vegetable that benefits from being planted in July. These mini cabbages are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your winter diet.
By planting Brussels sprouts now, you ensure they have enough time to develop their signature tight heads. Varieties like ‘Diablo’ and ‘Long Island Improved’ are particularly well-suited for winter harvesting and provide a continuous supply of sprouts.
8. Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is a versatile leafy green that can withstand cold temperatures. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, and K, magnesium, and potassium. Swiss chard can be used in salads, soups, and stir-fries, making it a valuable addition to any winter garden.
Planting Swiss chard in July ensures it has time to establish before the cold weather arrives. Varieties like Fordhook Giant and Bright Lights are known for their robust growth and colorful stalks.
9. Turnips
Turnips are a dual-purpose crop: both their roots and greens are edible and nutritious. They are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Turnips can be roasted, mashed, or used in soups and stews, providing a hearty addition to winter meals.
Sowing turnip seeds in July allows them to mature before winter sets in. Varieties like ‘Purple Top White Globe’ and ‘Golden Ball’ are excellent choices for their flavor and cold hardiness.
10. Radishes
Radishes are quick-growing root vegetables that can be planted multiple times throughout the summer and fall. They are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Radishes add a spicy crunch to salads and can also be pickled.
Planting radishes in July ensures a steady supply for your fall and winter meals. Varieties like ‘French Breakfast’ and ‘Daikon’ are well-suited for late-season planting, providing a crisp and spicy flavor.
11. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a cool-weather crop that can be planted in July for a fall and winter harvest. This vegetable contains vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Cauliflower can be roasted, steamed, or used in soups and casseroles.
By planting cauliflower now, you allow it to develop its edible heads before the cold weather arrives. Varieties like ‘Snowball’ and ‘Cheddar’ are popular for their excellent flavor and cold tolerance.
12. Cilantro
Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a fast-growing herb that thrives in cooler weather. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, cilantro adds a fresh, zesty flavor to various dishes, from salsas to curries.
Planting cilantro in July allows it to grow and be harvested before the first frost. It’s best to sow seeds directly into the soil and keep them well-watered. Varieties like ‘Santo’ and ‘Calypso’ are known for their vigorous growth and bolt resistance.
13. Bush Beans
Bush beans are a quick-growing vegetable that can be planted in July for a late summer and early fall harvest. These beans are rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins A and C, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.
Planting bush beans now ensures a harvest before the first frost. Varieties like ‘Contender’ and ‘Blue Lake’ are popular for their productivity and great taste. Ensure they get plenty of sunlight and regular watering for the best results.
14. Collard Greens
Collard greens are resilient leafy greens that thrive in cooler weather. They are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, and fiber. Collard greens are great for soups, stews, and braised dishes, adding a hearty green to your winter meals.
Planting collard greens in July establishes them before the cold sets in. Varieties like ‘Georgia’ and ‘Morris Heading’ are popular for their robust growth and flavor.
15. Mustard Greens
Mustard greens are spicy leafy greens that can withstand cold temperatures. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K and antioxidants. Mustard greens add a zesty flavor to salads, soups, and stir-fries, making them a versatile winter vegetable.
Sowing mustard greens in July ensures a steady supply throughout the colder months. Varieties like ‘Southern Giant Curled’ and ‘Red Giant’ are well-suited for winter harvesting and provide a spicy kick to your dishes.
Planting these vegetables in July will ensure a thriving winter garden, providing fresh, nutritious produce when needed. Get started now and enjoy the rewards of your labor all winter long!
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.