June marks the transition into the full swing of summer in Texas, which is characterized by increasing temperatures and, typically, dry conditions. It’s important for gardeners in this region to select plants that can withstand the heat, as well as to consider the optimal planting dates for each variety.
In this detailed guide, we’ll dig into each of the vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants suitable for planting in June, emphasizing their temperature tolerances and planting guidelines for various USDA zones in Texas.
Vegetables To Plant
Vegetables that thrive in June must be able to handle Texas heat, which often reaches above 90°F and can even surpass 100°F. Here are ten vegetables perfect for planting in June:
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a quintessential warm-season vegetable that thrives in the summer heat. For planting in Texas, it is best to start with transplants in early June, as they do well in well-draining soil and require plenty of sunlight.
Temperature Tolerance: Tomatoes prefer temperatures between 70°F and 85°F for optimal growth; however, they can withstand short periods of higher temperatures.
Ideal Planting Dates: While most plants are often recommended for earlier spring planting, transplants of heat-tolerant varieties can be put into the ground from late May through June for a summer harvest.
Peppers
Peppers—including both sweet and hot types—are perfect for Texas gardens due to their preference for hot weather conditions.
Temperature Tolerance: Peppers thrive best in temperatures from 70°F to 90°F, but they can tolerate higher temperatures if adequately watered.
Ideal Planting Dates: Plant seeds indoors by late February to mid-March or set out transplants in late May to June for a productive summer garden.
Squash
Summer squash varieties like zucchini or straightneck squash are well-suited for direct sowing or transplanting in June.
Temperature Tolerance: Summer squash grows best in temperatures between 70°F and 95°F but can endure short periods of heat over 100°F if watered properly.
Ideal Planting Dates: Direct sow seeds or plant transplants in June for harvest between 50 and 70 days later, depending on the variety.
Beans
Both bush and pole beans are quick to germinate and grow quickly in warm weather.
Temperature Tolerance: Beans prefer temperatures between 70°F and 90°F and generally don’t tolerate frost well. They can florish in warm soils and have a short germination time.
Ideal Planting Dates: Direct sowing can be done from spring through July in Texas, with June being ideal for ensuring a summer harvest.
Okra
Okra is renowned for its ability to perform in high temperatures and is a staple vegetable in southern cooking.
Temperature Tolerance: Okra thrives in heat and prefers temperatures between 75°F and 100°F, making it a great choice for Texas summers.
Ideal Planting Dates: Sow seeds directly into the garden by late April through June, as this will allow for a bountiful harvest in late summer.
Eggplant
Eggplant flourishes in warm weather and is an excellent transition plant for summer.
Temperature Tolerance: This plant thrives in temperatures between 70°F and 90°F but can handle higher humidity and heat with proper care.
Ideal Planting Dates: It is best to transplant seedlings in June for a late-summer harvest, typically 60-90 days from planting.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are fast-growing and highly productive warm-season vegetables.
Temperature Tolerance: Cucumbers prefer temperatures of around 70°F to 90°F but will thrive in higher temperatures as long as they receive consistent moisture.
Ideal Planting Dates: They can be direct-seeded or transplanted from the end of April to June. Planting in June will result in mature cucumbers by late summer, approximately 50-70 days later.
Corn
Sweet corn is a summer favorite that flourishes in heat and sun.
Temperature Tolerance: Corn thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 95°F. While young plants can be susceptible to frost, they’ll do well once the hot weather arrives.
Ideal Planting Dates: Corn can be sown directly in the ground from mid-March to June, with June sowings producing a harvest in about 70-100 days.
Melons
Melons, including watermelon and cantaloupe, love the heat and are perfect for planting in June.
Temperature Tolerance: Melons thrive in a temperature range of 70°F to 90°F, preferring warm soil for germination.
Ideal Planting Dates: Plant seeds directly in the soil in June, ensuring to allow at least 70 days for the fruits to mature.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are ideal for hot climates and thrive in warm soil.
Temperature Tolerance: These tubers prefer a growing temperature of around 75°F-95°F and require a long growing season.
Ideal Planting Dates: Sweet potatoes can be planted in June for a late-summer to fall harvest, typically needing about 90-120 days to mature.
Flowers To Plant
June is a vibrant month for planting flowers that can endure the Texas heat. Here, we explore ten types of flowers well-suited for planting during this month:
Sunflowers
Sunflowers are iconic for their bright-yellow blooms and tall stature, making them a favorite in many gardens.
Temperature Tolerance: They grow best in temperatures between 70°F and 95°F, tolerating heat and drought but requiring sufficient sun.
Ideal Planting Dates: June is perfect for direct sowing sunflowers, with blooms expected in about 70-90 days.
Zinnias
Zinnias are hardy annuals favored for their colorful blooms and low maintenance.
Temperature Tolerance: They thrive in full sun and can handle high heat (70°F – 100°F) as long as they have regular watering.
Ideal Planting Dates: Plant seeds directly in June for flowers to bloom by late summer, typically in about 60 days.
Marigolds
Marigolds are drought-tolerant and lovely flowers that can deter pests.
Temperature Tolerance: These annuals thrive in areas where day temperatures can range from 60°F to 90°F, flourishing in hot climates.
Ideal Planting Dates: Planting in June allows for a continuous display of blooms throughout the summer, maturing in 45-60 days.
Lantana
Lantana is a well-loved perennial that offers beautiful blooms and attracts butterflies.
Temperature Tolerance: Very tolerant of heat and drought, it grows best in temperatures of 70°F to 100°F.
Ideal Planting Dates: When planted in June, they establish quickly and will bloom heavily throughout the summer.
Cosmos
Cosmos are heat-tolerant flowers known for their flexibility in growing conditions.
Temperature Tolerance: They grow in temperatures from 70°F to 95°F and can withstand poor soil conditions.
Ideal Planting Dates: June planting will see blooms up to 90 days later.
Butterfly Bush
The butterfly bush’s fragrant flowers are a magnet for pollinators.
Temperature Tolerance: This plant flourishes in full sun and tolerates temperatures ranging from 70°F to 100°F.
Ideal Planting Dates: June planting allows it to set strong roots and bloom later in the summer.
Coneflowers
Coneflowers, or Echinacea, are popular for their bright blooms and medicinal properties.
Temperature Tolerance: Preferring full sun, they thrive in temperatures between 70°F and 90°F and handle drought well.
Ideal Planting Dates: June is an ideal time to plant for blooms by late summer and fall.
Salvia
Salvia varieties are excellent for adding vibrant colors to gardens and are quite resilient.
Temperature Tolerance: Salvia plants can tolerate high temperatures, flourishing between 70°F and 100°F.
Ideal Planting Dates: June planting allows for spring and summer blooms.
Petunias
Petunias add color to gardens and containers but need certain care in the heat.
Temperature Tolerance: These annuals prefer cooler nights but should be planted in part shade during very hot weather, thriving between 60°F and 90°F.
Ideal Planting Dates: Though typically planted in spring, they can still be put into containers in June for ongoing blooms.
Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea is known for its brilliant bracts and drought tolerance.
Temperature Tolerance: This plant is very tolerant of heat and grows best in full sun with temperatures above 70°F.
Ideal Planting Dates: Planting in June allows it to get well-established before the peak summer heat.
Herbs To Plant
Herbs are fantastic additions to the garden, providing flavors for cooking while being relatively easy to grow. Here are ten herbs that thrive in June:
Basil
Basil is essential for many culinary dishes, especially in Italian cuisine.
Temperature Tolerance: It thrives best in temperatures from 70°F to 90°F and prefers full sun with regular watering.
Ideal Planting Dates: Basil can be directly sown or transplanted in June. Expect to harvest within about 60 days.
Cilantro
This herb prefers cooler temperatures but can be sown in June for late summer growth.
Temperature Tolerance: Cilantro grows well in temperatures of 55°F to 75°F but can bolt in high heat, so partial shade is advisable during peak summer months.
Ideal Planting Dates: Sow directly in early June for a late summer harvest.
Rosemary
This perennial herb adds flavor to various dishes and is a drought-resistant option.
Temperature Tolerance: Rosemary thrives in hot, dry conditions (70°F to 100°F) and prefers well-draining soil.
Ideal Planting Dates: Plant in June to establish before the hotter parts of the summer.
Thyme
Thyme is another heat-tolerant herb that is easy to grow.
Temperature Tolerance: It tolerates heat well, thriving up to 90°F and needs full sun and well-drained soil.
Ideal Planting Dates: June is a great time for planting as this herb can establish quickly and is a perennial in most Texas regions.
Oregano
A culinary staple, oregano is a hardy herb that can endure summer heat.
Temperature Tolerance: Oregano prefers temperatures between 60°F and 90°F, firmly establishing itself in hot climates.
Ideal Planting Dates: June planting results in another round of flavorful leaves by late summer.
Dill
Dill is a fast-growing herb that benefits from quick sowing.
Temperature Tolerance: It performs best in temperatures from 60°F to 75°F but does well in full sun.
Ideal Planting Dates: Plant dill in early June for a quick harvest within 40-60 days.
Mint
Mint is renowned for its refreshing flavor, but it can spread aggressively.
Temperature Tolerance: This herb thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F but requires consistent moisture.
Ideal Planting Dates: Planting in June can keep it productive through the summer.
Chives
Chives are hardy and versatile, perfect for various dishes.
Temperature Tolerance: Chives can handle cool and warm conditions, with optimal growth in temperatures around 70°F to 80°F.
Ideal Planting Dates: June planting allows for harvesting within a few weeks, perfect for summer dishes.
Sage
Sage thrives in warmer conditions and is a lovely addition to any herb garden.
Temperature Tolerance: It grows well in summer heat, flourishing in temperatures up to 90°F.
Ideal Planting Dates: Planting in early June allows sage to produce robust flavors for the kitchen throughout summer.
Lemon Balm
This aromatic herb is excellent for teas and garnishes, and it’s very easy to grow.
Temperature Tolerance: Lemon balm thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F and likes full sun with some afternoon shade.
Ideal Planting Dates: Sow seeds in June for a quick summer harvest.
Landscape Plants To Plant In June
Selecting landscape plants that can handle the Texas heat is vital for maintaining a beautiful outdoor space. Below are ten landscape plants that are excellent for planting in June:
Crepe Myrtle
Crepe myrtle provides stunning blooms and has a long flowering season.
Temperature Tolerance: It thrives in temperatures between 75°F and 100°F and can tolerate drought once established.
Ideal Planting Dates: Planting in June ensures that the plant has enough time to establish roots and produce blooms during summer.
Texas Sage
This native shrub is known for its drought resistance and beautiful purple blooms.
Temperature Tolerance: Texas sage thrives in hot, dry conditions, thriving in temperatures from 70°F to 100°F.
Ideal Planting Dates: June is an excellent time to plant Texas sage, allowing it to establish itself through the summer months.
Red Yucca
A stunning landscape plant, red yucca withstands heat and dryness exceptionally well.
Temperature Tolerance: This plant thrives in high temperatures, often successfully growing in 80°F to 100°F conditions.
Ideal Planting Dates: June planting allows it to take root and bloom into summer.
Agave
Agave species are drought-tolerant, structural plants that enhance the southwestern landscape.
Temperature Tolerance: Agave can survive in extreme heat and prefers temperatures from 70°F to 100°F.
Ideal Planting Dates: Planting in June will help establish them before fall for continued growth.
Hollyhock
Hollyhocks offer tall spikes of colorful blooms and are a classic garden flower.
Temperature Tolerance: They thrive in warm summers, flourishing in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F, so partial shade is beneficial in scorching climates.
Ideal Planting Dates: June planting allows for beautiful summer blooms, coming to life by late summer.
Japanese Bluebell
Japanese bluebell adds charm and a touch of color to any garden.
Temperature Tolerance: They prefer temperatures between 60°F and 80°F and enjoy partial shade, making them suited for mixed plantings.
Ideal Planting Dates: Plantings in June will allow enough time for establishment and flowering.
Sedum
Sedums are hardy succulents that thrive in dry conditions and are resilient against heat.
Temperature Tolerance: They flourish in warm, sunny temperatures, generally thriving in ranges of 70°F to 100°F.
Ideal Planting Dates: June planting provides optimal growth time during long summer days for survival.
Liriope
Liriope serves as excellent ground cover, adding greenery and color to shaded areas.
Temperature Tolerance: It does well in temperatures varying from 70°F to 90°F and is tolerant of dry conditions once established.
Ideal Planting Dates: Planting in June allows it to establish and thrive throughout the summer.
Russian Sage
Russian sage adds height and a lovely lavender color, thriving in dryer conditions.
Temperature Tolerance: This plant prefers warm environments, flourishing between 70°F and 100°F.
Ideal Planting Dates: June planting ensures adequate establishment before the heat peaks.
Butterfly Weed
Butterfly weed is beneficial for attracting pollinators to the garden.
Temperature Tolerance: This plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F, flourishing in full sun and well-drained soils.
Ideal Planting Dates: Planting in June provides warmth and time for growth and blooming by late summer.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant in Texas? The best time to plant varies by plant type. Generally, vegetables, herbs, and flowers can be planted from late spring through summer, depending on local frost dates. June is particularly favorable for warm-season crops.
Can I plant in June in all regions of Texas? Yes, but it’s essential to consider the specific USDA hardiness zone of your area. Zones can vary from 6a to 9b, impacting which plants will thrive.
How do I prepare my soil for planting? Preparing your soil involves testing its pH, adding necessary amendments such as compost or fertilizer, and ensuring it has good drainage. Tilling the soil can also help aeration.
What if I miss the June planting window? While June is ideal for many crops, certain plants can still be planted in July or August. If you miss June, consider planting quick-maturing varieties or beneficial cover crops.
What can I do to protect my young plants from the summer heat? Young plants benefit from mulching to maintain soil moisture, providing afternoon shade through canopy planting, and regular watering. It’s crucial to check moisture levels, especially during prolonged dry spells.
By carefully selecting plants that thrive in Texas heat and planting them at the right times, you can ensure a vibrant and productive garden. June is an excellent time to diversify your landscape with these vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants, allowing your garden to flourish through the summer and beyond. Happy gardening!
