When summer hits full stride in July, many gardeners start harvesting, but savvy growers know it’s also the perfect time to plant again. The mid-season soil is warm, days are still long, and fall’s cool-weather crops are just waiting for their moment to shine. With thoughtful planning and the right organic soil, you can enjoy a second round of fresh produce well into autumn.
Why July is Prime Time for Fall Crops
Many vegetables thrive in cooler temperatures, developing better flavor and texture after the first frost. These fall crops need time to establish roots during warm weather before cooler nights set in. By planting in July, you’re getting ahead—while everyone else is winding down.
What to Plant in July for a Fall Harvest (and How)Here’s a list of reliable crops you can plant now in most zones:
Carrots
Days to maturity: 60–80
How to plant: Direct sow ¼” deep in loose, well-draining soil. Thin seedlings to 2" apart once sprouted.
Kale
Days to maturity: 50–65
How to plant: Start from seed or transplant young plants 12–18" apart.
Spinach
Days to maturity: 35–45
How to plant: Sow seeds ½” deep in rows 12–18” apart. Water gently and consistently.
Broccoli
Days to maturity: 70–100
How to plant: Best started as transplants. Space 18–24” apart.
Beets
Days to maturity: 55–70
How to plant: Direct sow ½” deep and thin to 3–4” apart once sprouted.
Lettuce (Loose-leaf varieties)
Days to maturity: 30–50
How to plant: Sow shallowly every 2 weeks for a steady harvest.
Radishes
Days to maturity: 25–35
How to plant: Direct sow in rows every 1–2 weeks. Thin to 1” apart.
Here's a helpful breakdown of planting in July across different USDA gardening zones, highlighting what you can grow for a successful late-summer or fall harvest, especially when using nutrient-rich Coast of Maine organic soil to support healthy root development in warm weather.
Zone 3–4 (Short Growing Season, Northern U.S.)
Frost comes early, so focus on fast-maturing crops.
What to plant: Radishes, spinach, lettuce, arugula, turnips
Tips: Use row covers to extend your season into fall. Start indoors if needed.
Zone 5–6 (Mid-Northern U.S.)
Moderate growing window—great for fall crops.
What to plant: Beets, carrots, broccoli, kale, bush beans, Swiss chard
Tips: Count backward from your average first frost date to plan your sowing.
Zone 7–8 (Mid-Southern U.S.)
Longer season allows for multiple successions.
What to plant: Collards, cucumbers, green beans, okra, summer squash, second round of tomatoes
Tips: Start fall crops indoors now to transplant in August. Water consistently in the heat.
Zone 9–10 (Southern U.S. & Gulf Coast)
Hot and humid—plant heat-tolerant crops now, prep for fall planting soon.
What to plant: Peppers, eggplant, southern peas, sweet potatoes, okra
Tips: Delay cool-weather crops until late August/early September.
Zone 11+ (Tropical/Subtropical)
Year-round gardening is possible, but July may be rainy or dry depending on region.
What to plant: Tropical fruits, herbs, beans, melons, heat-loving greens like amaranth
Tips: Time planting around wet/dry season patterns; consider shade cloth for tender crops.
Preparing Your Garden Beds:
Start with Coast of Maine Organic Soil. The success of your fall crops depends heavily on healthy soil that retains moisture, drains well, and offers essential nutrients. Here's how to set the stage:
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Remove spent summer crops and clear out weeds.
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Loosen the soil to a depth of 8–12 inches.
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Add organic soil or compost—aim for 2–3 inches mixed in.
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Rake smooth and water thoroughly before planting.
Coast of Maine OMRI-listed organic soil products offer balanced nutrition without synthetic chemicals. These promote strong root growth and support beneficial microbes that keep your soil alive and productive.
Ongoing Garden Care Tips
Keep your garden happy and productive with a few consistent care routines:
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Water deeply and early in the day. Hot summer temps can dry soil fast.
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Use Coast of Maine Organic Mulch to lock in moisture and reduce weeds.
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Keep an eye out for pests, especially cabbage worms, aphids, and flea beetles. Use organic treatments like neem oil if needed.
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Harvest regularly to encourage continued production (especially greens and lettuce).
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Know your first frost date and count back to ensure your crops have enough time to mature.
Why Organic Soil Makes All the Difference
By using Coast of Maine organic soil, you’re not just feeding your plants, you’re building a living, breathing ecosystem underground. That leads to:
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Improved water retention during dry spells
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Balanced nutrition for long-lasting plant health
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Healthier root zones thanks to beneficial microbes
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Better-tasting produce that’s free of synthetic additives
Whether you're topping off containers or prepping an entire raised bed, Coast of Maine organic soil gives your fall garden its best chance to thrive.
Fall gardening starts now. With just a few weekend hours and the right organic soil, you can turn your midsummer garden into a second season of abundance. From crunchy carrots to leafy greens, the rewards are rich, colorful, and delicious.
Wherever you garden, July is a transitional month, a great time to refresh beds, revive the soil with Coast of Maine organic amendments, and keep growing. With careful planning and the right crops for your zone, your garden can stay productive well into fall and beyond!
So, grab your gloves, dig in, and plant with purpose—your fall feast is waiting.
