July Gardening Tips from The Webster Arboretum

1. Water well.

The recommended vegetable watering requirements are one to two inches per week.

Deep watering will encourage young root systems to grow downward, enhancing their

ability to access moisture during dry periods. It is essential to focus on providing water

directly to plant roots rather than the leaves. Wet leaves, particularly in the evening, can lead to leaf diseases. Applying water slowly and at a low rate allows it to penetrate the soil effectively, making it accessible to plant roots. Regardless of the irrigation method, ensure that water is applied gradually to prevent puddling and runoff. Aim for water to seep 8-12 inches below the soil surface to promote healthy root growth and mitigate the risk of fungal diseases. Watering early in the day allows leaves to dry before evening, thereby reducing the likelihood of disease.  

2. Harvest often.

Get out into your vegetable garden every day. The best time to harvest is during the

morning or evening; when temperatures are cooler, plants will recover more quickly. For

many plants harvesting often will stimulate more fruit production, as regular harvesting

prevents plants from putting their energy into seed production, which slows down their

overall fruit production. Get to your lettuce before it bolts (otherwise the leaves can

become bitter) and thin your sowings of beets and kale for baby greens. Harvesting

often will also allow you to keep a close eye on your crops for signs of pests or fungus.

This is especially true for herbs. Most herbs grow into a bushy plant (basil, oregano, sage, etc) or from a central rosette close to the ground (cilantro, parsley, dill).

To encourage new growth and prevent bolting, cut or pinch your herbs right above a

new set of baby leaves, which can be found emerging from the elbow between the main stem and a branch. Herbs that grow as rosettes can be cut entirely, a few inches from the ground, so most of the new leaves coming up from the ground are not damaged.

3. Address pests.

July is a critical period for plant health, as they are vulnerable to both insect and disease attacks. It is essential to monitor plants meticulously and frequently to prevent

widespread infestations. Diseased parts of plants or entire plants should be removed

and disposed of in a separate compost pile, but it is advisable to accurately diagnose

the issue before taking action. For assistance with pest identification and management, contact your local Master Gardeners office.

Immediate pest control measures include manually removing pests from plants and

disposing of them in a bucket of soapy water. The long-term objective should be to

cultivate a balanced ecosystem within the garden where beneficial insects naturally

control harmful pests. Failing to do so might result in either a compromised harvest or

reliance on chemical treatments. Additional information about supporting beneficial

insects can be accessed here.

It can be discouraging to invest time and resources into planting only to observe

damage caused by pests such as flea beetles, tomato hornworms, and aphids. Instead

of resorting to pesticides, the primary defense should be consistent monitoring for signs of damage and learning to identify between beneficial and detrimental insects. Remove eggs, larvae, and adult pests manually whenever feasible, and ensure that plants receive adequate nutrition and hydration to bolster their natural defenses. Utilize row covers to protect crops from cabbage worms, cabbage loopers, flea beetles, onion maggots, thrips, and early-season cucumber beetles. A robust pest-prevention strategy involves cultivating a diverse range of plants that support beneficial insects.

4. Weed as you go.

Whenever you harvest, take time to weed. This period is when many weeds start to

seed. Weeding is crucial in vegetable gardens because it prevents competition for

water, nutrients, and sunlight, thus ensuring better yields. Early weeding also minimizes

pest and disease risks and makes the task easier on both gardener and plant roots.

5. Care for the soil.

Mid-season is ideal for aiding soil health. Side dress plants with compost, mulch, or

foliar feed to combat heat stress and keep soil healthy. When transitioning from

spring/summer crops to fall plantings, consider soil needs. Follow nitrogen-releasing

peas or beans with heavy feeders like carrots or beets to maintain mineral balance.

Always cover soil to prevent erosion and nutrient loss; use mulch or sow cover crops

like buckwheat or clover.

And just a few more things…

• Remove spent flowers from annuals and perennials to encourage more blooms.

• Store seeds in a cool, dry location.

• Use stakes or other supports to manage climbing or sprawling plants.

• Apply fertilizer to plants that require heavy feeding.

• Maintain your compost pile regularly.

• Stake dahlias if this has not been done yet.

• Due to slower grass growth in hot weather, mow less frequently and adjust blades to a higher setting.