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From sugar snap peas to pak choi: what to plant in July for a bumper crop this winter
Don't miss the perfect window to sow these delicious veggies
Summer is a busy season for gardeners. From deadheading spent flowers to keeping plants hydrated during a heatwave, there's always something to do outside — but planting for winter now could be your smartest move.
According to the experts, July is the perfect time to plant your vegetables for a bumper autumn and winter harvest.
"Summer is a great time to sow a wide variety of vegetables and herbs that will keep your kitchen garden productive for months to come," says Julian Palphramand, Head of Plants at British Garden Centres.
"From radishes and oriental greens to overwintering brassicas and sweet carrots, there's something for every gardener to grow and enjoy."
Take a look at the top veggies to grow below. Gardening gloves at the ready...
Turnips
Turnips are a fantastic crop for sowing now as they offer both edible roots and leafy greens.
Julian explains: "When sown now, turnips mature as the weather cools, which tends to improve their flavour, making them sweeter and less bitter.
"They typically take between 6 and 10 weeks to reach harvest size, so you can expect fresh turnips on your plate by early autumn. They grow well in most soils and require minimal care, making them suitable for all gardeners, new and experienced."
Try roasting tasty turnips with thyme and honey or mashing them with spuds.
Lettuce
Ensure a steady supply of lettuce during autumn and winter by planting your seeds in July.
"Lettuce is a classic summer crop, beloved for its crisp, refreshing leaves that brighten up any meal. Now is an ideal time to sow varieties that will provide you with a steady supply of salad leaves for lunches, dinners, barbecues, and everything in between," says Julian.
"By sowing lettuce every two weeks, you can enjoy a continuous harvest well into autumn, keeping your salad bowl full and fresh."
For hearty winter salads, mix leaves with root vegetables, squash and crumbly blue cheese.
Sugar snap peas
July is your last chance to sow sugar snap peas and mangetout if you want them to accompany your autumn roast.
"These peas provide sweet, crunchy pods that are delicious fresh or cooked," says Julian.
"Sowing peas now allows you to enjoy their fresh taste well into autumn before the colder weather sets in, or simply freeze for a hearty pea and ham soup."
As well as soups, try them in warm winter grain bowls with quinoa and a piquant ginger and honey dressing.
Carrots
According to Hamid Ali, Airtasker's Horticulture and Gardening Expert, carrot varieties such as 'Autumn King 2' can be planted now and then pulled in autumn.
While they are typically harvested in October, you can also leave them in the ground for winter harvesting.
When it comes to cooking: always remember that carrots can be used in sweet as well as savoury dishes. Bring on the carrot cake with indulgent mascarpone icing...
Pak choi
Ideal for small pots and containers, pak choi is incredibly easy to grow. You can sow from seed indoors first, or place straight in the ground.
"They are fast growers, often ready to harvest in just 30 to 45 days. They are excellent for stir-fries, salads, and soups, offering a peppery, fresh flavour that complements many dishes," says Julian.
"Pak choi thrives in the warmth of summer and can provide a nutritious boost to your meals throughout late summer and early autumn."
Pak choi is delicious in stir fries, steamed or braised with shiitake mushrooms.
Beetroot
In the UK, July is a recommended growing timeframe for beetroot as the warmer temperatures are ideal for germination and growth.
Any organised gardeners who planted in early spring will enjoy continuous harvests from summer to mid-autumn.
"Beetroot grows well in a range of soils and is relatively low maintenance, making it ideal for those new to gardening," says Julian.
"You can harvest baby beetroot leaves early for salads or wait for the roots to mature in late summer. Their natural sweetness intensifies as the weather cools, making them a delicious autumn vegetable."
Try this recipe for hot smoked salmon, beetroot salad and horseradish crème fraîche
Cabbage
Don't forget to plant your cabbage, either. Sow them in seed trays first, then move to the ground for their final growing stage once seedlings have developed five or more leaves.
"Sowing cabbage in July sets you up for a winter harvest," adds Julian. "Varieties like 'Fizz' and 'Nero di Toscana' kale, and cabbages such as 'Sweetie' and spring cabbage, establish well now and can be eaten during the colder months."
Rich in vitamins K and C, simply sauté cabbage in lashings of butter for a sumptuous side dish for roast meats
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
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