NEWARK, NJ—June offers an ideal time for gardeners in New Jersey’s Zone 7 to enhance their gardens with a variety of plants suited for midsummer planting.
This month is perfect for adding both vegetables and flowers that thrive in the warm weather, ensuring a vibrant and productive garden through the summer and into the fall.
Starting with vegetables, beans are a great choice. You can plant both bush and pole beans now, as they enjoy the warm soil and air temperatures. Cucumbers also thrive when planted in June. They germinate quickly in warm soil and can be harvested in just a few weeks. Additionally, consider planting squash; both summer and winter varieties do well when sown directly into the garden during early June.
For those interested in late-season crops, it’s the perfect time to plant Brussels sprouts and cabbages. These crops benefit from maturing during cooler fall weather, so planting them in June allows them to establish themselves during the warmer months.
Flowering plants can also be started in June. Sunflowers are an excellent choice for adding a splash of color and attracting pollinators. They are easy to grow and can reach full bloom within just a few months.
Another good option is marigolds, which are not only beautiful but also help to deter pests from your vegetable crops with their pungent scent.
In addition to planting new seeds, June is a good time to keep up with garden maintenance. Regular watering, mulching, and weeding will help ensure that both new and existing plants thrive throughout the season. With the right care and selection, your Zone 7 garden can be a flourishing source of beauty and produce as the gardening year progresses.