From garden to table: july garden progress

This post contains affiliate links.

There is something magical about Maine in July. The crisp air is warming, the long daylight hours are generous, and everything in the garden seems to stretch toward the sun with new life and color. While June was all about getting plants into the soil, July is when the rhythm picks up. Growth becomes visible, harvest begins, each morning brings something new to admire.

Here is a look at what is happening in the garden this month:

• Lettuce, arugula, & spinach – We’re in the tail end of spring/summer greens season. While the arugula went to seed last week, the lettuce is still producing fresh greens daily.
• Radishes – Crisp and peppery radishes are ready to pull.
• Peas & beans – The vines are climbing, flowering, and will be producing pods any day now.
• Zucchini and summer squash – Blossoms are popping open, and the first fruits are starting to form. These plants develop quickly so daily checks are a must!
• Borage – The herb garden is doing very well and the borage flowers are ready to harvest for teas and tinctures.

What I’m watching for:

• Powdery mildew on squash and cucumbers, especially during humid stretches.
• Deer & ducks – yes, even with a fenced garden, the wildlife seems particularly curious this month. The ducks pick the weeds from the other side of the fencing and the deer helped themselves to the strawberry patch a couple weeks ago.

Garden Tasks for July:

• Water deeply a few times a week – especially after hot or windy days.
• Mulch around thirsty plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Harvest frequently to encourage continued growth (especially peas, beans, and zucchini).
• Deadhead herbs like basil and mint to keep them lush and leafy.