6 plants to cultivate during summer

Most plants need to be pre-cultivated during spring, in order to be harvested during the summer. But if you did not have the time, forgot about it, or realized during the summer that you want to start cultivating - don’t worry. Here is a complete list of plants that can be cultivated during the summer!

1. Cultivate green leaves during the summer

Green leaves, such as lettuce, arugula, chard, beetroot, and spinach, are all convenient plants to cultivate because you can sow them basically everywhere. Either sow them directly into the soil in your garden or greenhouse, in plug boxes, or in propagation trays. Green leaves grow relatively fast. Even if you are late to cultivate them, they will probably be ready to be harvested before the summer ends. Spinach is perfect to cultivate starting late July, for example. 

Lettuce might have a hard time growing if the soil is too warm. During the warmest time of summer, or during the hottest days, move your lettuce cultivation into the shade if it is possible. The hottest period of summer is therefore not the best time to start your lettuce cultivation.

2. Cultivate kale during the summer

Kale is an excellent alternative to cultivate during summertime, especially during July. Kale easily blooms during this time and grows relatively fast. Sprinkle some seeds in the soil of pallet collar in your garden, in a large pot on your balcony, or on a tray in your kitchen. 

Some varieties like red, white, and savoy cabbage, for example, need to be pre-cultivated earlier in order to develop “heads” before the summer ends. Although, if you are late to cultivate these varieties, you might be able to harvest their leaves during late summer or early fall. Broccoli and cauliflowers also need to be pre-cultivated, otherwise, they will not grow into full size. But you can harvest their leaves if you are late to cultivate them.

3. Cultivate onions during the summer

Spring onions are perfect to cultivate in cycles during the summer, and they grow relatively quickly. Leek is another alternative to cultivating during summer, but they will not manage to grow to full size. Therefore, they might have a shorter expiration date after being harvested, so eat them fast. Despite their size, the taste is still delicious!

4. Cultivate herbs during the summer

Herbs, such as dill, chives, basil, lemon balm, oregano, and parsley, all thrive if planted during the summer. If you cultivate in pots, you can keep them both indoors and outdoors. In that way, you can protect them from heavy rain or bright sunshine, which might prolong the lifetime of your herbs. If they are still healthy during fall, you can prolong their lifetime further by using grow lights. 

5. Cultivate root vegetables during the summer

Radishes can be cultivated in cycles during the summer. Radishes prefer lots of water and do not thrive if their soil is too dry. That is the reason why radishes have a hard time growing during the warmest time of summer. Therefore, it would be wise to avoid sowing your first batch of radishes or pause your cultivation during this time if cultivating in cycles.

Carrots can also be cultivated in cycles during the summer. They are best harvested during late summer or early fall. Also, some carrots can be sowed during summer and then harvested during winter as they hibernate in the soil. 

Parsnips grow slower than carrots. If cultivated in a warm, well-drained place during summer, you will be able to harvest them during fall. Beetroots grow a bit faster but are also harvested in the fall if cultivated during summertime. 

6. Cultivate legumes during the summer

Snow peas, broad beans, and dwarf beans are also possible to grow in cycles during the summer. By sowing the beans and peas in cycles, you get a longer harvesting period. Some varieties can be harvested as late as October. You can sow most beans and peas indoors and outdoors. Most legume plants desire plenty of water, so keep their soil moist at all times and water often regularly.