Late July marks a transitional period in the gardening calendar. As the summer heat continues in many regions, it’s also a pivotal time for planting, particularly for those looking to maximize their gardening efforts into the fall and even early winter.

This guide provides insights on what to plant in late July, focusing on vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants suitable for various USDA zones.

Vegetables To Plant

Beans

Beans are a fantastic choice for late July planting, especially in warmer regions. Varieties like bush beans and pole beans can thrive even with the increasing heat. In USDA zones 7 to 10, you can plant bush beans until mid-August, while pole beans can be planted up to the end of July. Beans prefer temperatures between 70°F to 90°F and need full sun. They are also nitrogen-fixing plants, which means they can improve soil fertility. As they mature quickly, you can begin to harvest within 50 to 60 days after planting.

Carrots

Carrots fit well into the late summer planting window since they thrive in cooler temperatures. Late July is an ideal time for sowing carrot seeds in USDA zones 3 to 9. They can germinate in soil temperatures as low as 45°F, making the gradual cooling of late summer perfect for their growth. Expect a harvest in about 70 to 80 days. Carrots benefit from well-drained, sandy soil and should be watered consistently as they develop to ensure a sweet flavor.

Radishes

Radishes are a quick-growing vegetable, making them perfect for late July planting. In USDA zones 3 to 9, you can sow radish seeds for a fall crop. They thrive in temperatures between 55°F to 75°F; thus, the cooling temperatures of late summer favor their growth. Radishes generally mature in about 25 to 30 days, making them great for successive planting. They prefer loose soil to grow well, and their crisp, peppery flavor is an asset to salads and garnishes.

Spinach

Spinach is an excellent choice for late July planting as it thrives in cooler weather. In USDA zones 4 to 9, you can sow spinach seeds in late July for a fall harvest. Spinach prefers temperatures between 50°F to 70°F, making it ideal for late summer and early fall conditions. Expect to harvest in about 40 to 50 days. Spinach will do best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter, as it also benefits from mulch to regulate temperature and conserve moisture.

Beets

Beets are versatile root vegetables that can be planted in late July for a harvest in the fall. They are well-suited for USDA zones 3 to 9 and prefer cooler temperatures, ideally between 50°F and 80°F. Beets take approximately 50 to 70 days to mature. Their greens are also edible and packed with nutrients. Ensure the soil is loose and well-drained, as beets need space to develop properly in the ground.

Turnips

Turnips are another excellent choice for late summer planting. They can be sown from late July to early August in USDA zones 3 to 9. Turnips thrive in cooler conditions and prefer temperatures between 50°F to 75°F. They generally mature within 50 to 60 days. Turnips also benefit from a rich, well-drained soil, and both the roots and greens can be harvested and utilized in various dishes.

Cucumbers

For gardeners in USDA zones 5 to 10, late July can still be a good time to plant cucumbers, particularly short-season varieties. Cucumbers prefer warm temperatures of 70°F to 95°F, making late July a great window in many climates. Planting in late July allows harvesting by late September, as cucumbers take about 50 to 70 days to mature. They thrive in well-drained soils rich in organic matter and should be watered regularly to maintain consistent moisture.

Lettuce

Lettuce is another quick-growing crop that can be planted in late July for a fall harvest. In USDA zones 4 to 9, you can start seeds indoors or direct sow them. Lettuce prefers cooler temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 70°F. Depending on the variety, lettuce can mature in 30 to 60 days, making it perfect for succession planting. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and can be harvested leaf by leaf or cut as a head.

Broccoli

Broccoli can be planted in late July for a fall harvest, especially in USDA zones 3 to 8. This hardy vegetable prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth and matures in about 60 to 90 days. Late July plantings allow for a robust crop in the cooler fall months. Broccoli thrives in rich, well-drained soil and should be regularly watered.

Kale

Kale is a leafy green that withstands colder temperatures, making it perfect for late July planting. It’s suitable for USDA zones 3 to 9, thriving in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F. You can expect to harvest kale in 55 to 75 days. Its nutritional density makes it a favorite in health-conscious diets. Kale prefers well-drained soil and can even tolerate light frost, which can enhance its flavor.

Flowers To Plant

Sunflowers

Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are a vibrant addition to any garden and can be planted in late July across most USDA zones. They thrive in full sun and require temperatures above 70°F for optimal growth. Sunflowers mature in approximately 70 to 90 days, offering stunning blooms well into the fall. They are also beneficial for attracting pollinators and can grow in various soil types, though they prefer well-drained, fertile soil.

Asters

Asters are beautiful fall-blooming perennials suited for late July planting in USDA zones 3 to 8. They flourish in sunny spots and can tolerate light frost. Asters thrive in well-drained soil, preferring temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. With a variety of colors, they attract butterflies and are perfect for late-season garden displays. Aster flowers take about 90 days to bloom after planting.

Zinnias

Zinnias are hardy annuals that are easy to plant in late July. Suitable for USDA zones 3 to 10, they love the sun and are not picky about soil, though well-drained conditions help them thrive. They bloom in vibrant colors and can be expected to flower within 60 to 70 days. Zinnias attract butterflies and are excellent for cut flower arrangements, making them popular among gardeners.

Cosmos

Cosmos are resilient flowers that can be planted in late July, particularly in zones 2 to 10. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating poor soil conditions well. Cosmos prefer temperatures around 65°F to 75°F and usually bloom within 70 to 90 days after planting. Their airy blooms are perfect for informal gardens and can add a whimsical touch to any landscape.

Marigolds

Marigolds are hardy annuals, perfect for late summer planting. They can be sown from late July through early August in USDA zones 3 to 10. They thrive in full sun and love warmer temperatures, around 70°F to 80°F. Marigolds bloom in as little as 50 to 60 days and are known for their pest-repelling qualities, making them ideal companions for vegetables.

Pansies

For gardeners in USDA zones 6 to 10, late July is an excellent time to plant pansies, especially if you aim for early fall blooms. Pansies prefer cooler temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F. They can be planted as transplants or seeds and will bloom within 70 to 90 days. These flowers are excellent for adding color in cooler seasons and can survive light frosts.

Snapdragons

Snapdragons can be directly sown or transplanted in late July in USDA zones 3 to 10, ideally when summer temperatures start to cool. They prefer full sun and average temperatures of around 60°F to 70°F. Snapdragons bloom in 70 to 90 days and are known for their unique flower shape. These resilient flowers can create striking vertical accents in garden beds.

Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susans)

Rudbeckia, commonly known as black-eyed Susans, are beautiful perennials suitable for late July planting in USDA zones 3 to 9. They thrive in full sun and prefer temperatures between 65°F to 85°F. Black-eyed Susans can take about 70 to 90 days to mature, providing cheerful yellow blooms that attract pollinators. They are drought-tolerant once established and thrive in various soil conditions.

Sedums

Sedums are succulent plants that thrive in various conditions, making them an excellent choice for late summer planting. Suitable for USDA zones 3 to 10, sedums prefer well-drained soil and full sun. They can manage temperatures as low as 30°F, making them hardy. Sedums require minimal maintenance and typically bloom late in summer with vibrant color variations, taking roughly 60 to 90 days to flower.

Dahlias

Dahlias can be planted in late July, offering a stunning late summer to fall display in USDA zones 8 to 10. They thrive in warm temperatures from 60°F to 80°F. Depending on the variety, dahlias bloom within 60 to 90 days and produce large, showy flowers in various colors. They prefer rich, well-drained soil and regular watering to promote healthy growth.

Herbs To Plant

Basil

Basil is an aromatic herb easily grown from seeds or transplants in late July in USDA zones 3 to 10. It thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 70°F and 90°F, making summer conditions perfect for its growth. Basil matures within 60 days and benefits from regular harvesting, which encourages bushier growth. Full sun and well-drained soil are essential for ensuring flavor concentration in its leaves.

Cilantro

Cilantro can be sown in late July, particularly in cooler regions (zones 3 to 9). It prefers cooler conditions and can tolerate temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. Cilantro typically takes about 50 to 70 days to mature and is a favorite in culinary dishes. Its growth can be a bit tricky in hot weather, so pay attention to regular watering and provide partial shade if temperatures soar.

Chives

Chives are perennial herbs that can be planted in late July, thriving in USDA zones 3 to 9. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F being ideal. Chives germinate quickly, usually within 14 days, and can be harvested in approximately 30 days. They offer a mild onion flavor, suited for various culinary applications.

Oregano

Oregano is a hardy herb that thrives in warmer temperatures, making late July an excellent time for planting in USDA zones 5 to 9. It flourishes in full sun and well-drained soil, preferring temperatures around 70°F to 85°F. Oregano takes about 70 to 90 days to mature and is sought for its aromatic leaves useful in many culinary traditions.

Thyme

Thyme is another aromatic perennial herb that can be planted in late July. It fared best in USDA zones 4 to 9 during this time, thriving in warm, dry conditions with plenty of sunlight. Temperatures around 60°F to 80°F will aid its growth, and thyme typically takes about 70 days to mature. This herb is incredibly versatile in cooking and attractive in decorative gardens.

Dill

Dill is an annual herb that can thrive when planted in late July, particularly in USDA zones 3 to 9. It enjoys full sun and prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. Dill will germinate quickly, taking only 7 to 14 days to sprout and maturing within about 40 to 60 days. As it grows, dill can self-seed, providing future crops with minimal effort.

Sage

Sage can be introduced into the garden in late July across USDA zones 4 to 10. This hardy perennial herb thrives in temperatures of 70°F to 80°F and prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Sage can take between 75 to 90 days to establish. Its aromatic leaves enhance culinary dishes and create a pleasant scent in the garden.

Mint

Mint varieties like spearmint and peppermint can be planted in late July in USDA zones 3 to 10. It tends to thrive under full sun but appreciates some shade in hotter areas. Mint prefers cooler temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. Growth is rapid; seeds germinate within 10 to 14 days and can be harvested within 80 days. Mint is invasive, so plant it in contained environments.

Fennel

Fennel is a unique herb that can be planted in late summer, particularly in USDA zones 5 to 10. It prefers full sun and can tolerate temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Fennel typically takes about 80 days to mature. It is used in culinary applications for both its bulb and feathery leaves, adding a distinct anise flavor to dishes.

Parsley

Late July is an ideal time to sow parsley seeds in USDA zones 4 to 9. It thrives in temperatures around 60°F to 75°F and prefers well-drained soil. Parsley can take a bit longer to germinate (two to three weeks), but once established, it can be harvested within 70 to 90 days. Parsley can also tolerate partial shade, making it versatile in mixed plantings.

Landscape Plants To Plant

Perennial Grasses

Late July is suitable for planting perennial grasses in USDA zones 3 to 8. These grasses, such as fountain grass and blue fescue, offer texture and movement to landscapes. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, thriving in temperatures between 60°F and 85°F. Perennial grasses can require at least 50 to 70 days to establish and are drought-tolerant once mature.

Shrubs

Consider planting flowering shrubs, such as hydrangeas or butterfly bush, in late July. In USDA zones 3 to 9, these shrubs thrive in warmer temperatures of about 70°F to 90°F. Hydrangeas prefer rich, evenly moist soil, while butterfly bushes are more tolerant of drought. These shrubs will establish quickly and provide beautiful blooms by next season.

Ornamental Cabbage

Ornamental cabbage and kale are fantastic choices for late July to early August planting. Suitable in USDA zones 2 to 10, they flourish in full sun and cooler temperatures, ideally around 60°F to 75°F. They take about 70 to 90 days to mature, providing vivid color throughout late fall and even during winter months.

Vines

Vining plants such as morning glory or clematis can be planted in late July for vertical interest in the garden. Suitable for USDA zones 3 to 10, they prefer full sun and will thrive in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F. These vines can take 60 to 90 days to establish, offering beautiful blooms that can attract pollinators.

Trees

For those interested in planting trees, late July is feasible for certain species in USDA zones 4 to 9, such as red maple and oak. While root establishment is critical, trees benefit from the warm soil to establish their root systems. They prefer temperatures of 60°F and above and may take several years to mature, demanding regular watering during their establishment phase.

Perennials

Planting perennials like coneflowers or daylilies in late July provides a lush garden. They thrive in USDA zones 3 to 9 under full sun and prefer soils that drain well, enjoying temperatures of about 60°F to 85°F. These perennials can bloom the following year, creating a resilient and colorful landscape.

Ground Covers

Ground cover plants, such as creeping thyme or sedum, can be established in late July. These plants are suitable for USDA zones 4 to 10 and are excellent for areas needing erosion control. They thrive in full sun and prefer warmer temperatures, about 70°F to 80°F. Ground cover plants take time to spread but offer lasting benefits in garden beds and borders.

Succulents

In warmer climates (USDA zones 7 to 10), late July is a perfect time to introduce succulents into your landscape. These drought-tolerant plants love hot conditions, ideally around 70°F to 90°F. Depending on the type, succulents can rapidly fill spaces once established, requiring minimal care beyond their initial establishment.

Native Plants

Consider planting native flora to support local wildlife. Late July is an ideal time to sow seeds or plant plugs for many native species in USDA zones 3 to 9. These plants typically thrive in local conditions, requiring less water and care once established. They can establish quickly in warm soil and adapt well to native pollinators and wildlife.

Bulbs

While most bulbs are typically planted in fall, certain summer-blooming bulbs can be planted in late July for a stunning display. For USDA zones 7 to 10, consider planting canna or calla lilies. These tropical plants prefer warmer soil temperatures and can be established in time for blooms by early fall.