July Gardening

Regional Gardening Chores for July

Introduction

July is a busy month for gardeners across the country. The warm weather and sunshine are perfect for plant growth, but they can also bring challenges like drought and pests. To keep your garden thriving, it’s important to follow regional gardening chores for July.

Gardening in Different Regions

The best way to care for your garden is to follow the specific needs of your region. Here are some tips for gardening in different parts of the country:

Pacific Northwest

• Weed regularly to give your plants space to grow.
• Deadhead annual and perennial flowers to encourage new growth.
• Harvest vegetables as they get to size to prevent them from losing flavor.

West

• In Northern California, keep sowing heat-loving crops like tomatoes, eggplant, and peppers.
• Feed brambles like raspberries and blackberries.
• Spray grapevines to prevent mildew.
• In Southern California and Nevada, plant citrus trees and tropical fruit crops.
• Plan your fall garden.

Southwest

• Water regularly and deeply, and use mulch to lock moisture into the soil.
• Give young perennials and succulents some afternoon shade.

Northern Rockies and Plains

• Water your plants frequently, especially during heat waves.
• Water container plants more often, as they dry out quickly.
• Turn your compost pile regularly.
• Stop fertilizing perennials in late July to prevent new growth that could be damaged by frost in autumn.

Upper Midwest

• Water your plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
• Check your automatic irrigation system to make sure it’s working properly.
• Deadhead bulb plants when the flowers fade, but leave the leaves until they turn yellow.
• Sow fall crops like peas in late July.

Ohio Valley

• Water your garden well to prevent wilting and loss of crops.
• Look out for groundhog and rabbit damage, and consider using fencing to protect your plants.
• Buy on-sale annuals to nurture through summer and use in autumn beds.

Northeast

• Water your plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
• Harvest all crops regularly, from vegetables to berries.
• Check garden centers for on-sale annuals and nurture them through summer for planting in fall gardens.
• Spray a natural soap and water mix on harmful bugs in your flower or vegetable garden.

Southeast

• Water your plants regularly unless heavy rain is falling.
• Look out for fungal diseases during rainy periods.
• Thin flowers and crops to allow air circulation.
• Water in the mornings so that the leaves are dry by evening to prevent disease.
• Weed in early morning or evening to avoid the hottest sun.

South Central

• Water your plants deeply and regularly during heat waves.
• Sharpen your mower blade to prevent damage to your grass during dry spells.
• Mow your grass at a higher setting to help it withstand drought.
• Prune waterspouts from fruit trees.

Tips for Dealing with Heat and Drought

• Water your plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather.
• Use mulch around your plants to help retain moisture.
• Provide shade for your plants during the hottest part of the day.
• Use drought-tolerant plants in areas that receive less rainfall.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

• Inspect your plants regularly for pests and diseases.
• Use natural methods to control pests, such as companion planting and beneficial insects.
• Remove diseased plants from your garden to prevent the spread of disease.

Harvesting Your Crops

• Harvest vegetables and fruits when they are ripe.
• Store your harvested crops properly to extend their shelf life.
• Enjoy the fruits of your labor!