Your Guide to Gardening in July

Gardening is a great hobby to get outdoors and enjoy fresh produce. Knowing what steps to take at different points in the year will help your garden flourish, whether you’re taking on an ambitious variety of fruits and veggies or just trying to get your house plants some extra sunlight this summer. July in particular comes with the additional challenge of hot weather and heavy rain, but watering adequately will reward you with a beautiful backyard. It’s also a great time to start varieties of plants that can be harvested in the fall. 

Watering the Right Amount

When it comes to your lawn, watering just the right amount is important to keeping it green and healthy. Long periods of heat can cause your lawn to become dehydrated, potentially leading to damage that will need to be repaired later with grass seed. However, there is also such a thing as too much water. Overwatering a lawn can discourage the grass from growing roots deeper into the soil, leaving it vulnerable to future drought. It can even increase the likelihood that you’ll see damage from disease or insects. 

For plants, it’s important to know how much to water and when. Gardens should be watered deeply in the early morning or evening, though morning watering may be better for preparing your plants for a hot day. The frequency at which you water will depend on the plant, and on the drainage of the container they are in. Plants in smaller containers tend to dry up more quickly than those in the ground. Most vegetable gardens should be watered 2-3 times weekly, for instance, whereas potted plants may need water daily. 

Choosing Plants for the Season

In July, many parts of your garden have matured and you may be able to harvest fruits and vegetables from them.  In Indiana, there are many types of produce that are in season this month. Some of the most common ones that you may grow are tomatoes, squash, and cucumbers. These plants are likely to produce more if you harvest them as soon as they are ripe. 

While most people start their gardens in the spring, it’s not too late to add to your vegetable patch in July. According to Purdue University, you can continue planting beans and sweet corn at this time, and may also wish to start seeds to broccoli, cabbage, and brussel sprouts. These plants will be ready to harvest in the fall. 

Professional Landscaping With Redbud Landscape Inc.

Caring for a garden in the summer months can be difficult but rewarding work. A well-kept garden will provide you with fresh fruits and vegetables for your family to enjoy, and it can also add beauty to your outdoor spaces. When planning out your backyard, enlisting the help of a professional landscaper can help you determine the most effective placement for raised garden beds, ornamental plants, and more. Contact Redbud Landscape Inc. today to learn more about how our experts can enhance your landscaping with quality design and craftsmanship.