11 Best Plants to Grow in June

Welcome to June, a prime month for gardeners! As the temperatures climb, it’s the perfect time to plant a diverse array of crops that flourish in the warmth. Whether you’re an experienced green thumb or just beginning your gardening journey, June presents an opportunity to cultivate plants that will bring life and color to your garden. Join us as we explore the best plants to grow this June and transform your garden into a thriving paradise.

1. Mizuna (Japanese Mustard)

Mizuna, a popular choice at Asian farmers’ markets, flourishes as the mercury climbs. This Brassica family member is milder than typical mustard, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer subtler flavors.

It’s straightforward to cultivate, suitable for direct sowing or starting in trays. Whether steamed, sautéed, or tossed fresh into salads, mizuna offers versatility and ease, thriving even in the summer’s warmth. Suitable for USDA Zones 2-11, mizuna is highly adaptable to various climates, thriving in cooler weather but also heat-tolerant.

Tips

• Soil pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
• Watering Needs: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Common Pests: Watch out for flea beetles and slugs. Use floating row covers or organic pesticides as preventive measures.
• Harvest Time: Begin harvesting as soon as leaves reach a usable size, about 3-4 weeks after planting. For continual harvest, pick leaves regularly and allow the plant to regenerate.
• Maintenance Tips: Keep the soil consistently moist and fertilize lightly once a month with a balanced fertilizer. Remove any yellow leaves to maintain plant health and vigor.
• Design Suggestions: Mizuna’s delicate, feathery leaves make it an excellent border plant in both vegetable and ornamental gardens. It pairs well with radishes and carrots, which can help deter pests.

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2. Black-eyed Peas

Black-eyed peas, also recognized as cowpeas, revel in the heat and humidity and exhibit notable drought tolerance. Thriving when directly sown into the garden, these peas promise beauty and abundance.

Varieties like ‘Pinkeye Purple Hull’ and ‘California Blackeye No. 5’ not only adorn your garden with their attractive pods but also ensure a rewarding late-season yield, bursting with flavor. Best grown in USDA Zones 6-11, these peas love warm soil and air, making them ideal for hotter regions.

Tips

• Soil pH: Tolerates a wide range but prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5).
• Watering Needs: Drought-tolerant once established; water regularly until plants are mature.
• Common Pests: Susceptible to aphids and leafhoppers. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be effective.
• Harvest Time: Harvest pods when they are plump and feel firm to the touch, typically 60-90 days after planting. Leave some pods on the plants to dry if you want to harvest dry beans.
• Maintenance Tips: Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize after the plants have started to flower to boost pod production.
• Companion Planting: Plant alongside corn and squash in a traditional “Three Sisters” garden arrangement. The corn provides a natural trellis for the peas to climb, and the squash spreads over the soil to reduce weed growth.

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3. Peppers

Peppers are perfect for planting in June, thriving from the bustling rooftops of Chicago to expansive gardens in warmer climates. They flourish in daytime temperatures between 70-80°F and like their nights moderately warm.

Ideal for container gardening, peppers benefit from some structural support as they grow taller and start to fruit, ensuring they remain upright and healthy throughout the season. Thrive in USDA Zones 3-12 when planted after the danger of frost has passed, requiring warm temperatures for optimal growth.

Tips

• Soil pH: Prefers slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-6.8).
• Watering Needs: Requires consistent moisture, especially when fruits are forming.
• Common Pests: Beware of spider mites and aphids. Regularly inspect plants and treat with organic pesticides if necessary.
• Harvest Time: Harvest peppers when they are firm and fully sized, about 60-90 days after transplanting. Peppers can be picked green or allowed to ripen to red, yellow, or orange, depending on the variety.
• Maintenance Tips: Stake plants to support the weight of the fruit. Fertilize every two weeks with a high-potassium fertilizer once the first fruits form. Remove any diseased or damaged leaves promptly.
• Design Suggestions: Intersperse peppers with herbs such as basil and parsley, which can enhance growth and flavor. Group different colored peppers together for a vibrant, visually appealing section in your garden.

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4. Cassava

Cassava, also known as yuca in some areas, is a vital root crop renowned for its contribution to tapioca production. Thriving in frost-free environments for 6-11 months, cassava grows from stem cuttings rather than seeds.

When planting, angle the cuttings at 45 degrees to ensure the nodes—the small bumps along the stem—are facing upward. Remarkably resilient, cassava tolerates less fertile soils and dry conditions, making it a robust choice for diverse climates. Suitable for tropical climates, cassava does best in USDA Zones 9-11, needing a long frost-free growing period.

Tips

• Soil pH: Best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0).
• Watering Needs: Water sparingly; cassava is highly drought-resistant.
• Common Pests: Cassava mosaic disease can be a problem; choose resistant varieties and ensure good air circulation.
• Harvest Time: Cassava is typically ready to harvest in 6-12 months after planting. The roots should be harvested before the plant begins to flower for the best texture.
• Maintenance Tips: Weed regularly around cassava plants to prevent competition for nutrients. Cassava generally requires little fertilizer, but applying a balanced fertilizer at planting can enhance growth.
• Design Suggestions: Due to its height and leafy nature, cassava works well as a backdrop in a food garden or as a windbreak for more delicate crops.

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5. Sunflowers

Sunflowers, the towering icons of the garden, sometimes spark debate because of a chemical they emit that could stifle nearby plant growth. Despite this, many gardeners successfully integrate them with other crops, using the taller varieties as living trellises for climbing beans.

Direct sowing is the best method for these beauties, as their long taproots dislike being disturbed. This approach allows them to thrive, ensuring a robust and striking presence in your garden. Adaptable to a wide range of zones (USDA Zones 2-11), sunflowers are versatile but prefer full sun and well-draining soil.

Tips

• Soil pH: Adaptable but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.5).
• Watering Needs: Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
• Common Pests: Susceptible to squirrels and birds; use netting or scare tactics to protect seeds.
• Harvest Time: Harvest sunflowers when the back of the flower head turns brown and the seeds feel firm, about 30 days after the flower blooms. Cut the flower heads and let them dry in a ventilated space for seeds.
• Maintenance Tips: Support taller varieties with stakes or trellises to prevent wind damage. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root development.
• Companion Planting: Use sunflowers as a backdrop for lower-growing plants or as natural supports for climbing plants like cucumbers and pole beans. Their ability to attract pollinators benefits the entire garden.

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6. Seminole Pumpkin

Originating from Florida, the Seminole pumpkin is an heirloom variety that loves the heat and flourishes in humid climates. It can be directly sown into the garden, where it will spread its long trailing vines, making it an excellent choice for ground cover in a food forest setting.

Remarkably unfussy about soil conditions and drought-resistant once established, the Seminole pumpkin requires little watering, simplifying garden maintenance while providing plentiful yields. Ideal for USDA Zones 8-11, this pumpkin variety thrives in hot, humid climates typical of Florida and similar regions.

Tips

• Soil pH: Prefers a pH of 5.5-7.0.
• Watering Needs: Water regularly until established; then it is very drought-tolerant.
• Common Pests: Watch for squash vine borers and mildew. Use floating row covers and plant in well-draining soil to prevent issues.
• Harvest Time: Harvest when the pumpkins turn a deep orange and the rind is hard, about 90-120 days after planting. Leave a few inches of stem attached to improve storage life.
• Maintenance Tips: Use a trellis for the vines to save space and reduce pest exposure. Apply a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season.
• Design Suggestions: Allow Seminole pumpkin vines to sprawl along the edges of your garden or train them up a trellis or fence to save space and add vertical interest.

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7. Bitter Melon

Bitter melon, celebrated for its medicinal properties and distinctive taste, is a staple in Asian, African, and Caribbean kitchens. This robust climber thrives when directly sown and requires a sturdy trellis to support its vigorous growth.

Although its raw form is notably bitter, when cooked, bitter melon’s flavor mellows, making it a delightful complement to dishes like stir-fries and curries. Requires warm growing conditions, making it best suited for USDA Zones 9-12.

Tips

• Soil pH: Performs best in slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.7).
• Watering Needs: Requires consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruiting stages.
• Common Pests: Vulnerable to cucumber beetles and aphids. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.
• Harvest Time: Harvest bitter melon when they are green and firm, about 12-16 weeks after planting. They should be harvested before they start to turn yellow.
• Maintenance Tips: Train vines onto a trellis to improve air circulation and ease of harvest. Prune older leaves and any sickly fruit to encourage new growth and fruiting.
• Companion Planting: Bitter melon can be grown alongside okra and corn, which provide the necessary support for the vines. This also maximizes space usage in the garden.

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8. Chives

Chives are a gardener’s delight—easy to grow and resistant to deer. These hardy herbs can be sown directly into the soil with little fuss about spacing, making them perfect for containers and raised beds.

For those looking to add a touch of exotic flavor, garlic chives provide a wonderful variation with a subtle Asian flair, enhancing any culinary creation. Hardy from USDA Zones 3-12, chives can be planted early in the spring in cooler areas and withstand lower temperatures well.

Tips

• Soil pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
• Watering Needs: Keep soil moist but not soggy.
• Common Pests: Rarely troubled by pests, but keep an eye out for onion flies.
• Harvest Time: Harvest chives as needed by cutting the leaves down to the base. Avoid cutting the entire clump at once; allow it to regenerate.
• Maintenance Tips: Fertilize with a high-nitrogen fertilizer every month during the growing season to encourage lush growth. Regular cutting helps keep plants vigorous.
• Design Suggestions: Plant chives around the edges of flower beds or along garden paths for a functional yet decorative border that can also deter pests from roses and other ornamental plants.

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9. Fennel

Fennel is a versatile and attractive addition to any garden, offering both edible bulbs and aromatic fronds. It is particularly popular among swallowtail butterflies, which can be diverted by planting bronze fennel as a sacrificial crop.

To ensure a steady supply throughout the season, consider succession sowing fennel every few weeks, allowing for continuous harvests and a vibrant garden. Suitable for USDA Zones 4-9, fennel can tolerate mild freezes and thrives in cooler spring and fall temperatures.

Tips

• Soil pH: Thrives in acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0).
• Watering Needs: Needs regular watering to keep soil consistently moist.
• Common Pests: Aphids can be a problem; rinse plants with a strong water jet and use soapy water if necessary.
• Harvest Time: For the bulb, harvest when it is about the size of a tennis ball, usually 12-14 weeks after planting. Fronds can be harvested as needed.
• Maintenance Tips: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. If not harvesting the seeds, deadhead flowers to promote bulb growth.
• Companion Planting: Fennel should be planted away from most vegetables as it can inhibit growth but works well near plants that aren’t affected by its allelopathy, like dill and coriander, which can share similar growing conditions.

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10. Dill

Dill is a dual-purpose herb that can be cultivated for its fragrant leaves or its seeds. ‘Tetra Dill’ is a standout variety that resists bolting, making it excellent for those who prefer to harvest leaves.

On the other hand, ‘Bouquet Dill’ matures rapidly, producing seeds that are ideal for pickling. Similar to fennel, dill also attracts beneficial insects to the garden, contributing to a healthy ecosystem. Grows best in USDA Zones 3-11, thriving in cooler weather but can be planted in early spring or late summer to avoid the peak heat of summer.

Tips

• Soil pH: Best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0).
• Watering Needs: Water regularly to maintain moist soil.
• Common Pests: Can attract tomato hornworms; manually remove pests or use biological controls.
• Harvest Time: Harvest dill leaves as needed, typically 6-8 weeks after sowing. For seeds, allow the flower heads to dry on the plant, then cut and hang upside down in a bag to catch seeds.
• Maintenance Tips: Water evenly to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Fertilize with a liquid fertilizer every four weeks to support its fast growth.
• Design Suggestions: Dill’s feathery texture complements broad-leafed plants nicely. Plant it near cabbage or onions to help repel pests, and avoid planting near carrots to prevent cross-pollination issues.

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11. Gomphrena (Globe Amaranth)

Gomphrena, also known as Globe Amaranth, is a resilient flower that thrives in hot and dry conditions. It flowers abundantly from midsummer until the first frost, making it ideal for areas of the garden that receive full sun.

Not only does it serve as an excellent option for both fresh cut and dried floral arrangements, but its colorful blooms can also be used as edible garnishes, adding a vibrant touch to culinary presentations. Best in USDA Zones 3-10, this plant loves heat and will bloom profusely in full sun.

Tips

• Soil pH: Prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
• Watering Needs: Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply but infrequently.
• Common Pests: Generally pest-free but monitored for occasional aphid attacks.
• Harvest Time: Harvest flowers as they bloom, from midsummer to frost. For dried flowers, cut when blooms are vibrant and hang upside down in a dry, dark place.
• Maintenance Tips: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering. Water during prolonged dry periods, and apply a general-purpose fertilizer once a month.
• Design Suggestions: Gomphrena’s globular flowers provide excellent pops of color in both annual and perennial beds. Use them in rock gardens or dry areas where their drought tolerance is an asset. They also make great edges or highlights in container plantings.

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Conclusion

June stands out as a vibrant month for gardening, offering a rich palette of plants that thrive in its warm days. From hardy greens to colorful flowers, each plant adds unique beauty and benefits, enriching your garden’s ecosystem. Dive into the world of June gardening and enjoy the lush, vibrant growth it brings. Happy gardening!

FAQs

1. What is the best time of day to water my garden during the hot summer months?
   Watering early in the morning or late in the evening minimizes evaporation and allows water to penetrate deeper into the soil, providing better hydration to the plants.
2. How can I improve soil quality in my garden without using chemical fertilizers?
   Incorporating organic matter such as compost, manure, or leaf mold can significantly enhance soil fertility and structure. Regular mulching and crop rotation also help maintain soil health.
3. What are some effective natural remedies for pest control in gardens?
   Natural pest control methods include introducing beneficial insects, using neem oil or soap sprays, and planting pest-deterring plants like marigolds or garlic around susceptible crops.
4. Can you grow vegetables in partial shade?
   While most vegetables prefer full sun, some can tolerate and even thrive in partial shade, such as leafy greens, root vegetables, and herbs.
5. What are the signs of overwatering, and how can I revive an overwatered plant?
   Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, a lack of flower growth, soft rotting patches, and a general droopiness. To revive an overwatered plant, reduce watering, improve drainage, and allow the topsoil to dry out between watering sessions.
6. How do I choose the right mulch for my garden?
   The choice of mulch depends on the specific needs of your garden. Organic mulches like straw or wood chips are great for improving soil fertility, while inorganic mulches like pebbles or rubber chips are better for permanent solutions in areas where you want to suppress weeds without affecting soil chemistry.

We hope you’ve found these gardening tips helpful as you plant your June garden! Do you have any gardening experiences or tips of your own to share? Maybe a favorite plant that thrives in your garden around this time? Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments below—we love hearing from fellow green thumbs and learning from each other’s experiences. Happy gardening, and don’t forget to share this article with your gardening buddies!