As we dive into the heart of summer here in Georgia, our gardens are basking in the warmth and energy of July. While the scorching temperatures may seem daunting, there’s plenty of beauty and productivity to be found in our gardens during this time. So, grab that incredibly ugly, wide brim sun hat and your watering can (a hose would be better) as we explore how to make the most of July in our Georgia gardens.
Let’s talk about embracing the heat. Yes, it can be intense, but complaining doesn’t help. Most of our plants are resilient and adaptable. July is not the time to shy away from the garden, but rather to lean into it. Make watering a priority, especially during dry spells, and consider mulching around your plants to help retain moisture in the soil.
Reviewing the moisture requirements of your plants will help you make the best use of water (and help a bit with the water bill). Early mornings are the best times to water because this minimizes water loss through evaporation and reduces the opportunities for fungus growth. It is also far cooler!
Believe it or not, there are still plenty of planting opportunities in July, particularly if you’re looking to add some heat-loving varieties to your garden. Consider planting some summer vegetables. Keep the harvest coming by planting heat-loving vegetables like okra, and sweet potatoes.
You can also plant a second set of tomato plants if your original plantings are playing out. Indeterminant varieties will keep going until the frost kills them. This link lists many of the various varieties.
All these crops thrive in the warm temperatures and will reward you with a bountiful harvest later in the season. Herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme love the heat and can add flavor to your summer meals. Plant them in containers or in sunny spots in your garden for easy access. You can keep your garden vibrant with heat-tolerant flowers such as zinnias, marigolds, and cosmos. These colorful blooms will add beauty to your landscape and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
If you’re looking for long-term additions to your garden, (these are my favorites) consider planting heat-loving perennials like black-eyed Susans, coneflowers, and daylilies. These hardy plants will come back year after year, bringing color to your garden even in the heat of summer.
July is a busy month in the garden, but with the right maintenance, you can keep your plants healthy and thriving. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming in your garden. Prune back any overgrown or dead branches to promote healthy growth and airflow.
Keep weeds at bay by regularly weeding your garden beds. Weeds compete with your plants for water and nutrients, so staying on top of them is essential, especially during the hot summer months. Have I recently mentioned the need to get a soil test so you can logically give your plants what they need? In the meantime, feed your plants with a balanced fertilizer to keep them nourished throughout the growing season. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn your plants’ roots.
Keep an eye out for pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can become more prevalent in the heat. Consider using natural methods of pest control such as insecticidal soap or neem oil to protect your plants without harming beneficial insects. Remember not every pest needs to be eliminated. Sometimes, small numbers can just be ignored. The latest edition of UGA Extension’s entire Home and Garden Georgia Pest Management Book is available for download at this link.
While our plants generally thrive in the heat, it’s essential to take care of ourselves as well. Stay hydrated while working in the garden and be sure to take breaks in the shade when needed. Heat injuries can be serious and are no joke. Consider gardening in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler, and wear lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable.
As we navigate the heat of July, remember to embrace the beauty and productivity that this time of year brings. With careful planning, maintenance, and a little bit of sweat, (and sometimes a lot), we can keep our gardens thriving throughout the summer months. So, grab your trowel and get ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor in the warmth of the Georgia sun. Happy gardening and stay cool!
