July is heating up here in Zone 8, but your garden doesn’t have to slow down! Whether you're just getting started or want to refresh your beds, there are plenty of herbs, veggies, and flowers you can still plant this month to enjoy a thriving garden through summer and into fall.
Let’s dig into some top choices for July planting in Zone 8:
Vegetables to Plant in July
- Bush Beans – These quick growers are great for summer harvests. I’m planting some of my favorite varieties like kidney beans, black beans, and pigeon peas (gandules). Other fun types to try include Royal Burgundy, Dwayne Taylor, Gold Rush, and Yard Long.
- Okra – A heat-loving staple that keeps producing all season long.
- Cucumbers – Especially pickling varieties! Armenia, Burpless, Muncher, and Diva are some great picks. Just give them something to climb.
- Summer Squash – Think zucchini, yellow crookneck, and unique varieties like China Jade or Japanese Long. Start them indoors to protect against pests.
- Sweet Corn – Still time to plant if you get it in early this month. Be sure to plant in blocks for better pollination.
- Southern Peas – Black-eyed peas and purple hull peas love the heat and improve your soil.
- Collards & Mustard Greens – Sow later in July to enjoy in the fall.
- Carrots – I’m going with Danvers 126. Great for summer sowing with some shade.
- Peppers – Bell, jalapeño, and habanero all thrive now and are perfect for preserving.
- Spinach & Leafy Greens – Try Bloomsdale spinach and heat-loving greens like Sisso, Katuk, and Chaya in shady spots or containers.
- Bonus Crops: Tomatillos, eggplant, determinate tomatoes, and even avocado and mango (if you’re feeling adventurous!)
📝 Tip: Start collards in late July for a strong fall crop.
Herbs to Plant in July
Herbs are perfect for pots, windowsills, or even tucked into flower or veggie beds. Here are some that do well in the July heat:
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Basil – A summer favorite. Pinch regularly to keep it growing.
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Oregano & Thyme – Low maintenance and great companion plants.
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Cilantro – Use a slow-bolting variety and plant late in the month.
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Mint – Regular, peppermint, or chocolate—perfect in containers.
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Rosemary – Grows well with carrots, beans, and brassicas.
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Dill – Great for borders and beneficial insects.
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Lemongrass – Tough, aromatic, and pest-resistant.
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Yerba Mate – A unique, medicinal herb that’s worth trying!
Flowers to Plant in July
Bright blooms not only add beauty—they also bring in pollinators! Here’s what you can plant now:
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Zinnias – Fast-growing and butterfly-friendly.
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Marigolds – Pest control with a pop of color.
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Sunflowers – Try dwarf or quick-blooming types like ‘Teddy Bear.’
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Cosmos – Heat-loving and long-blooming.
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Other Strong Bloomers: Russian Sage, Lantana, Purslane, and Coneflowers (Echinacea).
🌺 Pollinator Tip: Mix flowers into your veggie beds and add a hummingbird feeder or two. I’ve noticed hummingbirds love zinnias, lantana, canna lilies, and especially my coneflowers.
Quick July Gardening Tips
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Mulch to retain moisture and cool roots.
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Water deeply in the early morning or late evening.
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Watch for pests like squash bugs and aphids—use neem oil or organic sprays
Final Thoughts
July might be hot, but it's far from the end of your growing season. With the right plants and a little care, your Zone 8 garden can flourish well into the fall. What are you planting this month? Drop your favorites in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
🌱 Until next time, keep growing with love!
— Anita, House of Flava Garden Series