As the summer season approaches, it’s the perfect time to indulge in the joy of gardening. Many summer vegetables thrive in various climates, offering a delightful experience for gardening enthusiasts and home gardeners. Here are some popular options to get you started:
Eggplants are low-carbs, dense, and rich in antioxidants, perfect for summer grilling. Eggplant thrives in warm weather and matures longer than other vegetables, but the wait is worth it. They need at least 6 hours of sunlight, a generous amount of mulch, and lots of watering (2 inches per week). If you live in New Jersey (“according to the Daily Record, the state produces 66% of the world’s eggplants”), you are lucky because it has the perfect weather for eggplant growth.
Tomatoes are sweet, juicy, acidic, potassium— and vitamin C-loaded vegetables that give the perfect flavor to your salads. They do well as the weather warms up. They need plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. Plant your seeds at least 5 inches deep and 18-24 inches apart. Tomatoes should be watered well, but do not over-water them, or they will split when ripening. Ohio, California, Florida, and Indiana are some states that grow tomatoes abundantly.
Cucumbers are succulent, vitamin K-rich vegetables that have a cooling effect and can enhance any salad. They grow exceptionally well in warm weather, and you can add trellis to allow the vines to flourish upwards, saving space in your garden. Plant seeds 1 inch deep, about 3-5 feet apart, give plenty of water and add mulch to retain moisture. Florida is one of the top states for producing cucumbers.
Zucchinis are highly nutritious vegetables that contain significant amounts of vitamin C, B6, protein, folate, manganese, and low carbohydrates. They are known for their rapid growth in warm weather and can be harvested throughout summer. Zucchini needs plenty of water, so monitor on sweltering days. Plant zucchini at least 2-3 feet apart, using sturdy stakes up to 6 feet to allow proper vertical growth. Michigan is known as one of the top producers of zucchini.
Green Beans, a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, K, riboflavin, magnesium, and thiamin, are a gardener’s dream. These easy-to-grow plants produce abundantly in the summer months, making them a perfect choice for beginners. With just 1 inch of water weekly and 6 hours of sunlight, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest. Plant them at least 4-12 inches apart with 2-4 inches of compact mulch. Wisconsin, the top producer of green beans, can attest to their ease of cultivation.
Okras are slimy, low in calories, and rich in vitamin K and magnesium. These plants should be planted 18-24 inches apart, with plenty of mulch and minimal watering (about 1/2-inch of water per week). This heat-loving vegetable thrives in hot weather and produces tender pods in summer. It grows bountiful in Florida.
Herbs: Basil, a plant rich in calcium, vitamin K, and antioxidants, thrives under 6-8 hours of sunlight and grows 4-8 inches tall. Hawaii produces the most basil in the country. Conversely, Cilantros are rich in vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and manganese. They need at least 6 hours of sunlight; seeds need to be 1 inch deep in the soil, and plants 2 inches apart. Similarly, Parsley is an excellent source of essential vitamins such as B12, B5, B3, B6, B1, and beta-carotene. Parsley needs at least 3 hours of sunlight, 11-15 inches apart, and lots of mulch. For best results, the soil must be moistened but not overly wet or too dry. California grows the most Cilantro and Parsley year-round. These herbs are surprisingly easy to grow, and love the warmth of summer. You can harvest them continuously, adding a fresh flavor to your dishes and a sense of accomplishment that comes with growing your food.
Bell Peppers contain vitamins (E, C, K, and A) and potassium. California, Florida, and Georgia are the top producers of bell peppers because of their ideal climates. Bell peppers thrive in warm weather and require plenty of sunlight. You should water them twice daily during humid temperatures and use black mulch to help retain soil moisture. You can choose various colors and sizes to add visual interest to your garden.
When planning your summer garden, it’s crucial to consider your local climate and growing conditions. This thoughtful approach will ensure the success of your garden and make you feel informed and prepared. Remember to provide adequate water and nutrient-rich soil to help your plants thrive. Enjoy the rewarding experience of gardening!