July Gardening in Alabama
July is survival season for gardeners and plants.
It is also the beginning of fall-garden planning.
This Month’s Priorities
Focus on:
- Heat survival
- Deep watering
- Mulch
- Removing failed crops
- Starting fall plants
- Fall-garden planning
Water Wisely
Check soil frequently.
Raised beds and containers may dry quickly.
Water deeply when needed.
Protect New Plants
Use temporary afternoon shade for:
- Fall transplants
- Seedlings
- Newly planted crops
Remove Declining Plants
Do not keep dead or badly diseased spring crops just because they are still technically alive.
Clear space for fall.
Plant a Second Summer Crop
Depending on your location, try:
- Cucumbers
- Squash
- Beans
- Southern peas
- Fall tomatoes
Start Fall Seeds
Begin:
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Collards
- Kale
in trays or protected seedbeds.
Watch for Spider Mites
Hot dry weather can increase spider mite problems.
Harvest Okra Often
Okra pods become woody quickly.
Check plants every day or two.
GardenGrowz Tip
July is not the end of the garden.
It is halftime.