When summer hits its peak, it’s easy to assume that your planting window has closed. However, midsummer remains a practical time to restart and grow more food. If your spring garden didn’t go as planned or if you have extra garden space, there’s still time to put seeds in the ground. The right crops and proper timing can grow you a fresh round of vegetables before the first frost and ensure that your survival garden will keep thriving. This guide covers why midsummer planting is still possible and tips to successfully grow your plants.
Why Midsummer Planting Still Works
During midsummer, the soil turns warm while the seeds germinate faster. What’s different about this period is that the growing window is shorter. That’s why you need to choose crops with shorter maturity times. Below are some of the ideal midsummer plants to grow:
Greens That Grow Fast
Midsummer is ideal for growing greens that can survive the heat and tolerate cooler nights. Kale is one of the best options as it grows well even in hot weather and survives light frosts which makes it a reliable pick for survival gardens. Collard greens are another solid choice as they’re slow to bolt and produce big, sturdy leaves that last well into fall.
Meanwhile, mustard greens grow quickly, with a harvest time of as little as 40 days. They have a peppery bite that complements stir-fries and fresh salads. Arugula is another green that handles midsummer soil temperatures without issue. It germinates fast and keeps producing until frost.
Another reliable option for this time of year is Swiss chard. It can handle both summer heat and cooler fall temperatures. The plant also grows sturdy stems and large leaves. Like many leafy greens, Swiss chard doesn’t need to reach full size before you can use it. You can start harvesting the baby leaves three weeks after planting.
Root Crops That Stay Strong
Root crops are another strong choice for midsummer planting. Start with radishes as they’re among the easiest and fastest crops to grow. They handle chilly nights without trouble and can provide you with a harvest in about a month. Turnips are another good fit as they improve in flavor as the weather cools down. Beets are another solid option because they grow steadily in warm soil and give you both tender greens and sweet roots.
If you have a little more time before your first frost, carrots are worth planting. They take longer to mature but are cold-tolerant and taste sweeter when the temperature drops. Just cover them with mulch once it gets cold to keep the soil from freezing solid. Meanwhile, parsnips take around 100 to 120 days to grow but they’re one of the most frost-resistant vegetables you can grow. Like carrots, they taste sweeter after a hard frost.
Smart Timing and Easy Tools for a Successful Midsummer Planting
Getting your timing right is the first step to successfully plant mid-summer. Before planting, find your region’s first average frost date then look at the maturity time listed on your seed packet. Subtract those days from the frost date to see if you have enough time left. If a vegetable takes 60 days to mature and your first frost is expected in 75 days, you’re good to go. But that timeline shrinks fast in northern climates, so starting sooner gives you more flexibility.
Additionally, plant in the sunniest parts of your garden. As summer shifts toward fall, there are fewer daylight hours, so plants need as much direct sun as possible to keep growing. Then, moisten the soil during hot afternoons to help seeds sprout and roots develop.
Once your seeds are below the ground, a few additions can help you get better results. Mulch helps lock in moisture and protect young seedlings from extreme heat. A thin layer over the soil surface also keeps weeds down and gives your plants a better chance to thrive.
As the season shifts, you might also want to add a little protection from the cold. Row covers can help extend your harvest by trapping warmth at night and shielding plants from early frost. Lightweight fabric or old sheets can do the trick as long as they don’t press down on the crops.
Midsummer Planting: Second Sowings, Stronger Harvests
Midsummer means there’s still time to grow some food. Midsummer planting allows your survival garden to produce a second round of food before winter. So pick a few crops that fit your climate and timeline and make the most of the weather.
FAQs: Midsummer Planting
- What can I plant in midsummer for fall harvest?
Fast greens, root crops, and cold-tolerant vegetables work well. - Is it too late to start a garden in July?
No, many crops still grow if planted now. - How do I know if a crop will mature in time?
Check the seed packet for days to maturity and count back from your frost date. - What greens grow well in late summer?
Kale, collards, mustard greens, arugula, and Swiss chard are good picks. - Can I grow root vegetables this late?
Yes, try radishes, turnips, beets, carrots, or parsnips. - Do I need to start seeds indoors for midsummer planting?
Only for heat-sensitive crops like lettuce or spinach. - How can I protect crops from early frost?
Use mulch, row covers, or cold frames as needed. - Why are some crops sweeter after a frost?
Cool temps trigger sugar production in many root vegetables. - How often should I water midsummer crops?
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during hot afternoons. - Can I replant where earlier crops were harvested?
Yes, cleared garden space is perfect for a second round.