In this comprehensive guide, we will explore  the various plants that can be successfully planted in Zone 6b during July.

Vegetables To Plant

July is an excellent time to plant vegetables that thrive in the warmth of summer or can withstand the coming cooler temperatures of fall. Here are ten vegetables to consider:

Bush Beans

Bush beans are a staple summer vegetable that thrives in hot weather. In Zone 6b, you can plant bush beans as late as mid-July, as they have a rapid growth cycle of 50–60 days from sowing to harvest. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun, tolerating temperatures up to 90°F before they begin to flower. Plant them in rows or individually spaced about 1 inch deep and spaced 2-3 inches apart.

Carrots

Although typically sown in early spring, carrots are excellent for a second round of planting in July. Summer planting helps yield a fall crop that can be harvested before the first frost. Choose a variety that matures quickly, such as Chantenay or Nantes, which can be sown directly in the garden. Carrots prefer cooler soil, so it’s best to plant them in the early part of July. These root vegetables can withstand light frosts but are best harvested before hard freeze.

Beets

Another great option for July planting, beets are not only nutritious but also thrive in cooler temperatures as they mature. Sowing beet seeds directly into the garden allows for easy growing, typically ready for harvest in 50–60 days. Sow seeds about 1 inch apart and thin them to 3–4 inches once seedlings emerge. Beets can endure temperatures as low as 40°F, making them ideal for late summer harvesting.

Turnips

Turnips are an excellent choice for planting in July, as they grow quickly and yield lush green leaves as well as edible roots. They can tolerate cooler temperatures, making them a perfect addition to a late-season garden. Plant turnip seeds about ½ inch deep and 1-2 inches apart in rich, fertile soil. They typically mature in 30–60 days, allowing for quick turnaround.

Radishes

One of the fastest-growing vegetables, radishes can be sown in succession throughout July for continuous harvesting. With maturation times of just around 30 days, you can expect a crunchy snack or salad topping from your July planting. Radishes prefer cooler weather and can withstand temperatures down to 40°F, making them perfect for a late summer crop. Plant them about ½ inch deep, and space closely together for smaller varieties.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are a prolific producer and can be planted in early July. Just ensure that temperatures remain above 70°F for optimal growth, as they love warmth. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun exposure, with seeds sown about 1 inch deep, and spaced 12 inches apart. Expect your first harvest in about 50–70 days.

Summer Squash

Summer squash, including varieties like zucchini and yellow squash, thrives in the heat and should be sown by mid-July to ensure a healthy harvest before the frosts. These plants love heat and should be planted in nutrient-rich soil around 1 inch deep. Spacing is vital; give them room to spread (about 3 feet apart), as summer squash can become quite large.

Swiss Chard

Swiss chard is a heat-tolerant leafy green that can be directly seeded into the ground in early July. This vegetable is quite resilient and can weather cooler temperatures, often lasting through light frosts. It takes about 50-60 days to mature and performs best when planted in loose, fertile soil, approximately 1 inch deep. Space plants about 6 inches apart for healthy growth.

Okra

Okra, a heat-loving plant, is fantastic for planting in July due to its need for warm soil (at least 65°F). This vegetable is native to warmer climates and will thrive in full sun, reaching maturity in approximately 50–65 days from planting. Sow seeds about 1 inch deep and yield space of about 12 to 18 inches between plants.

Lettuce

In July, you can assess the varied heat-resistant types for a late summer planting of lettuce. While typical varieties do not fare well in high summer temperatures, types such as Butterhead and Romaine can be seeded in the shade or during the cooler parts of the day. Plant shallowly about ¼ inch deep and thin seedlings to ensure your lettuces have enough air circulation to prevent bolting due to heat.

Flowers To Plant

July is not just a time for vegetables; it’s also perfect for planting flowers that will bloom either later in the summer or carry over into fall. Let’s look at ten flowers that thrive when planted in July in Zone 6b.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers are iconic summer blooms that are easy to grow. Plant seeds in July to enjoy a vibrant display later in the summer. Sunflowers thrive in full sun and well-draining soil, needing at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Seedlings should be spaced about 6 inches apart, and they typically grow quickly, reaching maturity within 70-100 days.

Marigolds

Known for their bright flowers and pest-repelling properties, marigolds can be planted in July for continued blooms throughout the late summer into fall. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil and can bloom within 8-10 weeks of planting. Space seedlings about 12 inches apart to allow room for growth.

Zinnias

Zinnias are excellent annuals for summer planting, displaying flowers in a multitude of colors. Plant seeds directly into the garden in July for flowering in late summer. They love sunny spots and tolerate warmer temperatures, needing about 60-70 days to mature. Space them 10-12 inches apart to encourage air circulation.

Cosmos

Cosmos flourish in heat and bloom beautifully in bright colors. They can be directly seeded into the garden in July, as they tolerate poor soil conditions. They thrive in sunny locations, require minimal care, and usually achieve blooming 70-90 days after planting. Space them about 12 inches apart.

Asters

Asters are perennial favorites that can be planted in July, specifically in the second half of the month. They provide stunning autumn color and thrive in cooler weather as they prepare for late blooms. It’s essential to select well-drained soil and a sunny location for best results. Asters typically take 100-120 days to bloom, so the timing here is ideal for a fall display.

Black-Eyed Susans

Black-eyed Susans are native wildflowers that thrive in the heat and can be sown in July. They attract pollinators and provide stunning yellow blooms through late summer and into fall. Space seeds or plants about 12 inches apart, and ensure they receive full sunlight. Expect blooms within 70-85 days.

Peonies

While peonies are usually planted in the fall, July is a great time to plant new roots or divisions of existing plants. These perennials favor well-drained soil and can handle heat but should be watered consistently as they establish roots. Keep them around 2-3 feet apart, as they can grow large. Peonies take a year or longer to bloom, but tending to them now allows for successful growth for the following spring.

Gladiolus

Gladiolus, with their stunning flower spikes, can be planted in July for late summer blooms. They thrive in full sun with well-drained soil and need to be planted about 4 inches deep and spaced around 4-6 inches apart. Originating from warmer climates, gladiolus enjoy heat and usually take 70-90 days to flower.

Snapdragons

Snapdragons are unique in that they can be planted in summer for a fall bloom. They enjoy cooler weather but can handle southern heat when shaded appropriately. Direct sow seeds in July for the opportunity to have beautiful blooms in late season. Space seedlings about 10-12 inches apart, allowing for their gradual growth.

Ornamental Kale

Ornamental kale is a unique, visually appealing addition to late summer gardens. Although usually planted in the spring, July planting will allow the plants to mature into their colorful varieties as the weather cools. Plant seedlings in full sun, space them about 12 inches apart, and expect vibrant colors through late fall.

Herbs To Plant

Herbs are invaluable in any garden, providing culinary delights as well as aromatic beauty. July is an opportune time to plant a variety of herbs in Zone 6b.

Basil

Basil is a classic summer herb that can be seeded in July for a bountiful harvest before the first frost. It thrives in warm weather and well-drained soil. Space seeds about 12 inches apart and expect a harvestable crop in approximately 60 days. Basil’s temperature tolerance extends to about 90°F, making it perfect for the summer months.

Cilantro

Cilantro is unique as it prefers cooler growing conditions. By planting in early July, you can harvest leaves through summer and fall before the temperatures turn too high. Seeds should be sown about ½ inch deep and spaced 6-10 inches apart. Expect growth in about 3-4 weeks, with a continual harvest available for about 90 days.

Dill

Dill is an aromatic herb that can be sown in July for a late season of flavor. Ideal for pickling, dill seeds should be planted about ¼ inch deep and spaced at least 12 inches apart. It thrives in warm areas, ideally between 70°F-85°F, and can be harvested within 40-60 days after sowing.

Oregano

Oregano seedlings can be established in July, as this perennial herb thrives in warm temperatures. Plant them in well-drained soil, spacing about 12 inches apart, as they can spread over time. Oregano benefits most from dry conditions and can reach maturity in about 80 days.

Chive

Chives are easy and resilient herbs that can be planted in July. This herb can be grown in well-drained soil and enjoys sunny spots, tolerating temperatures from 60°F up to 75°F. Spacing should be 8-12 inches apart, and you can start harvesting as soon as the leaves reach about 6 inches in height.

Thyme

Thyme is an excellent herb to plant in July. As a perennial, thyme can be established at this time for ongoing growth year after year. Ensure a sunny location with well-drained soil, spacing plants about 12 inches apart. Thyme prefers dry conditions and typically matures in 70-90 days.

Sage

Sage is a hardy herb that can be seeded or transplanted in July to ensure healthy growth through the rest of the season. Preferably, choose a sunny location with good drainage, spacing plants 18 inches apart. Sage can tolerate temperatures up to 90°F and can be harvested as soon as the leaves reach a decent size, maturing in about 75-80 days.

Parsley

Parsley, a versatile herb, can be sown in July and will remain productive into fall. This biennial thrives in rich, well-drained soil and will yield fresh leaves 70-90 days after planting. Space seeds about 6 inches apart and be sure to keep the soil moist but well-drained.

Mint

Mint is a vigorous herb that can handle a late summer planting. Due to its rapid growth, planting in July will grant you plenty of leaves for teas and dishes well into fall. Space mint plants 18 inches apart in a sunny or partially sunny area, as they can take over a garden if not monitored.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm enjoys summer warmth but can be sown up until mid-July for a late harvest. This herb grows well in rich soil with partial to full sun. Plant seeds about ½ inch deep and space them around 12 inches apart. Expect a harvest in about 60 days, and enjoy the refreshing citrus scent it provides.

Landscape Plants To Plant

Enhancing your garden with landscape plants not only improves aesthetics but also supports local wildlife. Here are ten remarkable plants to consider for your landscape in Zone 6b during July.

Daylilies

Daylilies are perennial plants that thrive in various weather conditions, making them ideal candidates for planting in July. They tolerate heat exceptionally well and can flower for an extended period. Plant them in well-drained soil and ensure they receive full sun. Space them about 18-24 inches apart, and they can bloom in as little as 60 days after planting.

Coneflowers

Coneflowers (Echinacea) are resilient perennials that can be planted in July. Known for their striking flowers and drought tolerance, these plants attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Plant coneflowers in well-drained soil with full sun exposure, spacing them at least 12-18 inches apart. They typically reach maturity within 70-90 days, providing beautiful blooms through late summer and into fall.

Ornamental Grasses

Ornamental grasses add texture and movement to any landscape. Planting in July allows these hardy plants to establish roots before the heat of late summer arrives. There are many varieties to choose from, like Maiden Grass and Sedges, which tolerate heat and drought. Space them 12-24 inches apart, depending on the variety, and expect a mature plant within several months to a year.

Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas can be planted in July, providing fabulous summer blooms and fall color changes. Ensure they are planted in well-draining soil with adequate moisture. Generally, they prefer partial shade but can tolerate full sun. Space them about 3 to 10 feet apart, depending on the variety, and enjoy blooms from July to September, with maturity depending on the type.

Russian Sage

Russian sage is a perennial favorite due to its drought-resistant properties and beautiful purple flowers. July is an optimal time to plant it to ensure it establishes roots before cooler weather arrives. Plant in well-drained soil with full sun and space them about 3 feet apart. They typically mature in about 2-3 months.

Black-Eyed Susans

This native wildflower is famous for its golden-yellow petals surrounding a dark brown center. With a long bloom time and excellent drought tolerance, Black-eyed Susans are perfect for planting in July. Plant them in well-drained, sunny locations, spacing them about 12-18 inches apart. Blooms typically appear within 70-85 days.

Butterfly Bush

As the name suggests, the butterfly bush attracts various pollinators, making it a wonderful addition to gardens planted in July. These bushes thrive in full sun and well-drained soil and can grow quite large. When planting, ensure they have 3-6 feet of space, and they can bloom from summer until frost, maturing in about a year.

Peonies

Though typically planted in fall, July is an excellent time for division or relocation of peony plants. These perennials thrive in well-drained, loamy soil with plenty of sunlight. Allow space for growth—about 2-3 feet apart—so they can reach their full size and maturity, showcasing stunning blooms in the spring.

Sedums

Sedums are hardy succulents that thrive in full sun and dry conditions, making them ideal for low-maintenance landscapes. Plant in July to prepare for quick establishment through the hotter months. Space different varieties 12-24 inches apart, and expect mature plants within a few months.

Wildflowers

Planting a mix of wildflowers in July can create a breathtaking display. Choose native species that thrive in your region and sow them directly into prepared soil. Ensure they receive sufficient sunlight and water for establishment. Depending on the mix and conditions, expect blooms from late summer through fall.