The approximate time of harvest is a clue to what to plant in July. An important factor in planting in July is the zone in which you live. In most cases, planting Zones 1 through 6 allow a gardener to plant vegetables and flowers for harvesting in autumn without suffering frost damage. In a hotter climate, planting in July may not be as restrictive as in colder climates with early winters. In warmer climates, a bumper crop of green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, cabbage, lettuce and collard greens produce a full crop by late September and early October. In colder climates where winter begins in October, plant cabbage, potatoes, squash, pumpkin and herbs like Rosemary, Basil, Sage and Thyme in July. Further north where winters arrive early, plant beans, broccoli, brussels sprouts and cabbage. The Basic Guide to What to Plant in July Coordinate planting zones with the species of vegetables and flowers. Be aware that planting certain types of flowers planted in July are determined by the flower genus. For example, in Zones 1 through 6, plant bulbs like tulips, crocus and daffodils in late summer so they will bloom in early spring. The basic guide for planting vegetables in July is to consider the plants ability to withstand sudden changes in temperature. Plant root plants like carrots and radishes in the first week of July to produce a crop by mid September. In the warmer climates, plant black eyed peas, bush beans and cowpeas in July for harvest in late September or early October. Soil and Water is Important to July Planting Take note of the condition of garden soil in July. Many vegetables love sandy soil while others do poorly. This also applies to water and rain events. Vegetables and flowers need a certain amount of water and adequate rainfall to encourage natural growth. July is a good planting month in most areas since there is optimal amounts of warm sunshine. The amount of sunshine affects plants’ ability to evolve from seeds to seedlings within a few weeks. Ideally, your July plants should be at the midpoint of the harvest stage within four weeks. In MidAtlantic states in July, you can plant kohlrabi, leeks, rutabaga, beets, cucumber and turnips as well as peas, scallions and parsnips for fall harvesting.