How to Plant Seeds in July

Overview

Early July is a good time to plant warm weather vegetables that have a short growing season. Look on the back of the seed package, or in a seed catalog, for crops that are early maturing or will mature in 75 days or less. Many areas of the country get their first frost by the end of September. July's temperatures are high enough that the seeds germinate quickly and summer rains keep the seeds and emerging seedlings moist.

Step 1

Prepare the soil. Dig the soil and turn it over. Add fertilizer per package directions. Remove rocks and weeds. Add compost and organic material. Turn the soil over again and rake smooth.

Step 2

Soak large seeds with hard shells like beans and corn overnight. That will give them a jump-start to sprouting. Small seeds don't require any preparation. Seeds to plant in early July include beans, corn, cucumbers and squash. Veggies that take too long to fruit and mature should not be planted because the first frost will likely hit before the veggies are ready. These include eggplant, peppers and tomatoes.

Step 3

Plant large seeds at least 3 inches apart and cover with 1/2 inch of soil. Lightly press the soil down after planting. Squash should be planted in groups of three seeds spaced 3 feet apart.

Step 4

Plant tiny seeds such as lettuce, spinach and carrots by broadcasting them over a 6-inch wide band. Cover the seeds by brushing the soil over the seeds no more than 1/4 inch deep.

Step 5

Water thoroughly after planting with a misting of water so the seeds don't get washed away. Keep seeds moist until they've sprouted. After they've sprouted, water about once every three or four days, gradually decreasing to once a week.

Step 6

Fertilize every three weeks with a water-soluble fertilizer at half-strength until seedlings are 6 inches high. Then switch to the fertilizing schedule for the rest of the garden.