15+ Vegetables to Plant in Summer

You don’t have to limit summer garden plants to outdoor spaces. Many summer plants also thrive well indoors. This indicates that you can enjoy a bountiful harvest even with limited outdoor spaces. 

Now, we’ll explore what vegetables to plant in summer at home.

Leafy Greens to Plant in Summer

Summer Vegetables to Grow - Lettuce

• Lettuce: Loose-leaf varieties can be planted in summer. After a quick lettuce growth, you can harvest it in about a month. It’s perfect for continuous salads.
• Kale: This highly nutritious green is packed with antioxidants, vitamins C, A, and K, as well as minerals like manganese and magnesium. It thrives in the summer heat and can be harvested multiple times.
• Spinach: Spinach thrives in cooler temperatures and partial shade in summer. It prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter and requires consistent moisture to prevent bolting.
• Kale: Kale is another top choice for summer planting. It is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, and antioxidants that promote eye health and boost the immune system. Kale is more tolerant of heat compared to spinach and can withstand a wider range of temperatures. It grows well in well-drained soil and can be harvested as baby leaves in as little as 25 to 30 days

Fruiting Vegetables to Plant in Summer

Summer Vegetables to Grow - Tomatoes

• Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a favorite for summer planting. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil and produce a bountiful harvest of sweet and juicy fruits. Regular watering and support structures like cages or stakes are essential for vertical gardening.
• Eggplants: Eggplants love heat, and they can do well in summer. They need full sun and fertile, well-drained soil to produce their glossy, purple fruits. Regular watering and support for the plants can help maximize yield.
• Cucumbers: Cucumbers are easy to grow and thrive in warm, sunny conditions. They need at least 8 hours of direct sunlight per day and well-drained soil. To prevent bitter-tasting fruits, you should work on regular watering.

Root Vegetables to Plant in Summer

Summer Vegetables to Grow - Carrots

• Carrots: Carrots grow fast in summer. Early varieties like Nantes 2 and Harlequin are particularly well-suited for summer. You can even harvest them in around 3 months. Carrots thrive in well-drained soil and can be grown in raised beds or pots to protect them from pests like slugs.
• Radishes: Radishes are also quick and easy to grow in summer. You can sow them every couple of weeks to achieve a continuous harvest. Radishes prefer cooler conditions and can tolerate partial shade.
• Onions: Onions are a reliable and easy summer vegetable to grow. If you plant them in early summer, you’ll get a harvest in late summer or early autumn. They require a warm, sunny spot with well-drained soil and minimal maintenance. You can grow onions from sets or seeds, and get a harvest when the tops start to yellow and fall over.
• Potatoes: Potatoes prefer well-drained soil and can be planted in raised beds or large containers. Potatoes can be harvested as “new” potatoes in early summer or left to mature for a larger yield later in the season.

Herbs to Plant in Summer 

Summer Vegetables to Grow - Basil

• Basil: Basil is a summer garden staple. It thrives in warm climates and loves plenty of sunlight. You can plant basil in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day, using rich, well-drained soil.
• Cilantro: Cilantro is a fast-growing herb that prefers cooler summer temperatures. It has a unique flavor that is a staple in many cuisines. Plant cilantro in well-drained soil and place it in a spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade.
• Thyme: Thyme thrives in hot sun and dry conditions. It has earthy, herbal notes that enhance meats, stews, and eggs.  Plant thyme in well-drained soil and place it in a sunny spot.  It is drought-tolerant, so allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
• Rosemary: Rosemary is a versatile herb that loves the full sun. It has a piney scent and a bold taste. It adds aromatic flavor to grilled meats, seafood dressings, and more. Plant rosemary in well-drained soil and place it in full sun. Once established, it is drought-tolerant.
• Chives: Sage is a robust herb with a strong flavor. It pairs well with meats, beans, and vegetables. Plant sage in well-drained soil and place it in a sunny spot. It is drought-tolerant, so water it sparingly.
• Parsley: Parsley is a workhorse herb with a fresh, peppery taste that complements many dishes. It prefers the cooler temperatures of early summer and can tolerate some shade. Plant parsley in well-drained soil and place it in a spot that receives partial to full sun. Normally, it will take around 70 to 90 days until you can harvest parsley.