If you want to plant in late June, you’re in luck — many heat-tolerant vegetables, herbs, and flowers can still sprout and thrive before autumn arrives. With long days and warm soil, here’s what you should sow now for a vibrant garden this season.
Best Vegetables to Plant in Late June
- Beans (Bush & Pole)
Sow beans directly into the garden now. Bush varieties provide quick yields, while pole beans offer longer harvests with a trellis. Ensure spacing — 12–18 inches for bush beans, 4-inch intervals for pole types. Water consistently to encourage germination and growth. - Cucumbers & Summer Squash
These summer staples thrive when planted in late June, needing rich, well-drained soil and full sun. Use disease-resistant or heat-tolerant varieties. Cucumbers develop quickly, and squash will flourish even as temperatures peak . - Melons & Watermelons
Choose early-maturing cultivars ideal for late-season planting. Varieties like Sugar Baby offer a sweet payoff into late summer when sown now. - Okra
This heat-loving plant thrives when seeded or transplanted in late June. For easier harvest, choose spineless types and give them plenty of space to reach 6–8 feet tall.
Herbs That Shine in Late June
- Basil, Sage, Thyme, Oregano, Mint
Now’s the time to start warm-weather herbs, either from seed or nursery starts. These herbs flourish in sunny, well-drained spots—even in containers—and many repel pests, adding value to your garden ecosystem.
Bright & Easy Flowers to Plant
- Zinnias, Marigolds, Cosmos, Sunflowers, Calendula, California Poppies
These annuals deliver fast blooms and vibrant color when planted in late June. They attract pollinators and often bloom within 6–10 weeks, adding beauty and biodiversity to your garden.
Tips for Success When You Plant in Late June
- Succession Sowing: Plant crops like beans or squash every few weeks to keep your harvest steady into fall.
- Mulch & Water Deeply: Hot weather and quick-drying soils require mulch to retain moisture and watering at the root zone weekly.
- Watch for Pests: Cucumber beetles, aphids, squash vine borers, and Mexican bean beetles peak in summer. Use row covers, hand-picking, or insecticidal soap to protect blossoms and young growth,
Why Late-June Planting Works
Starting a garden in late June isn’t just possible—it’s smart. The combination of warm soil and long daylight gives crops a strong growing window before fall arrives. Plus, you’ll enjoy fresh-from-the-garden produce while supporting local farms and extending your garden season.
So if you’re ready to plant in late June, grab seeds, get your soil ready, and sow a mix of veggies, herbs, and flowers for a season of flavor, beauty, and abundance.
