Rather than buying expensive herbs from the grocery store in the monsoon, it’s the perfect time to start growing your own at home. According to gardening specialists, July is ideal for planting herbs like basil, dill, and parsley. If you’re wondering about herbs to grow in monsoon, these three are among the easiest and most rewarding options.
Knowing which herbs to grow in July can stretch your growing season well into autumn. Despite common perception, midsummer isn’t too late to plant as long as you choose varieties that can reach maturity before your region’s first frost. Many edible plants, especially those that allow for repeat harvesting, thrive when planted during this time of year.
Herbs to Grow in July
So, even if you think July is too late to get started, it’s not! There’s still time to plant herbs that will flourish in your garden before the season ends.
Parsley
Parsley is one of the most widely used aromatic herbs worldwide. It offers a mildly bitter taste with a fresh, grassy undertone. This nutrient-rich herb, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, deserves a permanent spot in your herb patch. It grows easily and keeps regenerating when trimmed regularly.
The best time to plant parsley seeds is during spring or summer. It thrives in direct sunlight but also manages well in partial shade. Flat-leaf parsley is the preferred variety thanks to its resilience to sunlight and rainfall.
Basil
Basil is a summertime favorite known for its bold aroma and unique flavor. It’s a staple in global kitchens, especially Italian. This tender herb enhances the taste of almost any dish when used fresh.
Caring for basil is simple. It needs plenty of sunlight and frequent harvesting to keep growing strong. Regular picking not only boosts its production but also improves leaf quality. When planted near tomatoes, basil helps ward off pests and enriches the flavor of neighboring plants.
Dill
Dill is a distinctive warm-season herb known for its delicate, feathery green foliage. It’s a refreshing addition to summer dishes with a bold, aromatic flavor reminiscent of caraway. It is grown best from seeds and is ready to harvest once it develops 4 to 5 leaves. Simply snip the leaves with garden shears or pinch them gently. This herb thrives in sunny spots with well-drained soil. Water it a day before harvesting, and prioritize picking the older leaves to encourage new growth.
Mint
Mint stands out as one of the most refreshing herbs of the season. It is robust, low-maintenance, and perfect for beginners. Among its many varieties, spearmint is a top pick for home gardens. Its fragrant, fruity leaves bring a burst of cool flavor to numerous dishes and drinks. Mint grows best in partial shade and needs consistent watering. Since younger leaves are more flavorful, harvest them early. Keep in mind that mint spreads aggressively, so it’s best to grow it in its own container to avoid garden takeover.
Oregano
Oregano is an excellent herb to plant from late spring through summer. As a perennial, it comes back year after year with minimal effort. Its bold, slightly bitter taste adds depth to Italian, Greek, and Mexican cuisines. Grow oregano in full to partial sun and keep the soil relatively dry for best results. A terracotta pot is ideal for promoting good drainage. This sun-loving herb flourishes with minimal care and becomes even more aromatic when grown in drier conditions.
Tips for Planting in July
- Plan your gardening tasks during the cooler hours, either early or late in the evening, to avoid the harsh midday heat of July and August.
- Shield delicate plants from the intense sun using shade cloths, especially those that struggle in high temperatures.
- If growing in pots, move the containers indoors or shaded areas when the sun becomes too strong.
- Water your plants in the early evening so moisture can reach the roots before evaporating. Avoid watering too late, as standing water may lead to rot.
- Maintain consistent soil moisture to help your plants survive the hottest summer days.
- For those wondering about herbs to grow in July, choose heat-tolerant varieties like basil, parsley, and dill, which thrive even in warm weather with proper care.
FAQ
Is it OK to plant seeds in July?
Absolutely! You can still enjoy a healthy harvest from seeds sown in July. Just ensure the plants have enough time to reach maturity before your area’s first frost. To save time, consider buying young seedlings from a nursery instead of starting everything from scratch.
What fruit can be planted in July?
Melons are a great fruit to grow in July, especially in warmer regions, since they typically mature within 80 to 100 days. Technically, tomatoes and zucchini also count as fruits and can be planted this month with good results.
Is July a good time to start a garden?
Yes, it’s not too late to begin your garden in July. With the right planning, you can still harvest fresh produce in the weeks or months ahead. If you’re starting now, act quickly, prepare your garden space, and plant seeds or transplants immediately. This gives your plants the best chance to grow and mature before the early autumn chill sets in.
