Gardeners are being encouraged to make the most of July by planting a mix of vegetables, fruit and flowers that will provide harvests later in the year and colour into next spring. According to the team at GardeningExpress.co.uk, the warmer weather in July offers ideal conditions for sowing quick-growing crops and getting winter vegetables established before temperatures begin to cool.
Turnips for Autumn Harvest
One of the top recommendations is the popular turnip, which can be sown directly into well-drained soil for an autumn harvest. The experts advise keeping the soil moist while seedlings establish and thinning plants to give the roots room to grow.
Other Vegetables to Plant
Radishes are a fast-growing crop that can be sown little and often throughout July. Regular watering produces crisp, mild-flavoured roots. Winter cabbage is also ideal for July planting, as it has plenty of time to establish before colder weather. Choose a sunny position with fertile, firm soil and water regularly during dry spells.
Coriander grows well from seed in July but benefits from some shade during the hottest part of the day. Sow every few weeks for a continuous harvest and keep the soil evenly moist.
Fruit and Flowers
Container-grown blueberry plants can be planted throughout July provided they are watered well. They thrive in acidic soil or ericaceous compost and prefer a sunny or lightly shaded position. Gooseberry bushes can also be planted during July if grown in containers, preferring a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
For colour next year, July is a great time to plant pansies and foxgloves. Pansies will establish well now and provide colourful displays in autumn, winter and spring. Plant them in fertile, well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shaded position. Foxgloves, planted in July, produce spectacular flowers the following year in moist, well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.
Expert Advice
Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, said: "July is a brilliant month for planting because the warm soil helps plants establish quickly, provided they are kept well watered. Many people think the planting season is coming to an end, but there are still plenty of vegetables, fruit and flowers that can be started now."
He added: "We've pulled together a list of our top recommendations for July to help gardeners make the most of the rest of the growing season. Those looking to grow vegetables should consider turnips, radishes or winter cabbage, while herbs like coriander are quick and rewarding. If you're after colour next year, now is also a great time to plant pansies and foxgloves."
The experts note that although hot weather can dry out the ground, regular watering and planting during the cooler parts of the day will help plants settle in successfully. The warm soil helps seeds germinate quickly and allows young plants to establish strong root systems.
