The sun is blazing, the days are long, and the air is filled with the scent of wildflowers. July in Colorado is a prime time for gardening, but with the high altitude and unpredictable weather, you need to choose plants that can handle the heat, the dryness, and the occasional summer storm. But don’t worry! There are plenty of beautiful and delicious plants that thrive in Colorado’s unique climate.
Image: www.fspvail.com
This guide will take you through some of the best plants to sow, transplant, and enjoy in your Colorado garden during this vibrant month. From vibrant flowers to hearty vegetables, we’ll explore what thrives in the high country, giving your garden a burst of color and a bountiful harvest.
Get Ready for a Vibrant Garden with July’s Best Flowers:
July is a month for adding vibrant pops of color to your garden. While the earlier spring blooming flowers may have faded, an array of colorful and long-lasting flowers can be planted now. Not only do these flowers add visual beauty, they also attract pollinators, supporting the delicate balance of our ecosystems.
Sun-Loving Annuals:
For a burst of color in your sunny patches, consider these annuals:
- Zinnias: These cheerful blooms come in a rainbow of colors and attract butterflies and hummingbirds. They are easy to grow from seed and can handle the heat.
- Cosmos: With their airy, delicate blooms and long-lasting blossoms, Cosmos are a gardener’s delight. They attract pollinators and are easy to grow from seed, making them perfect for beginner gardeners.
- Marigolds: Marigolds are known for their spicy scent and bright orange or yellow blossoms. They deter pests, making them a natural way to protect your other plants.
- Sunflowers: A classic choice for Colorado gardens, sunflowers bring joy to any landscape. They provide a source of food for birds and attract pollinators. Plant them in a sunny location and enjoy their towering stature.
Drought-Tolerant Perennials for Long-Lasting Beauty:
Perennials offer a long-term investment for your garden, returning year after year. These hardy plants can withstand the dry conditions common in Colorado summers:
- Yarrow: Yarrow is a tough, drought-tolerant plant with beautiful flat-topped clusters of flowers that come in a variety of colors. You can plant it in full sun and let it thrive!
- Salvia: Known for their vibrant colors and ability to attract pollinators, Salvias are a great choice for Colorado gardens. They are generally low maintenance and can handle dry conditions.
- Coneflower: Coneflowers are a popular choice for Colorado gardeners due to their long-blooming season and vibrant colors. They are relatively low maintenance and attract butterflies and birds.
- Black-Eyed Susan: These bright yellow flowers with dark centers are a classic choice for Colorado gardens. They attract pollinators and are relatively low maintenance.
Image: www.pinterest.com
Harvesting Happiness: Vegetables to Plant in July:
Contrary to what some may think, July isn’t the end of the gardening season in Colorado. There are still plenty of vegetables that can be planted and will mature before the first frost arrives.
Fast-Growing Vegetables for Quick Results:
If you’re short on time but looking for fresh produce, try these fast-growing options:
- Radishes: These crispy, spicy root vegetables typically mature in a month or less from planting. They are a great option for those who want a quick harvest.
- Lettuce: Choose loose-leaf varieties like ‘Buttercrunch’ or ‘Black Seeded Simpson’ for a quick spring harvest. With some shade and watered regularly, lettuce can be grown in the warm weather of July.
- Spinach: Like lettuce, spinach thrives in cooler temperatures. Look for heat-tolerant varieties like ‘Tyee’ or ‘Space’ to have delicious spinach in your July garden.
- Beets: Beets are another quick-growing vegetable that can be planted in July. Choose varieties that mature in 60 days or less for a rewarding harvest.
Don’t Forget Your Fall Favorites:
Even though the summer heat is upon us, it’s not too late to start planting some of your fall favorites:
- Broccoli: Broccoli loves cooler temperatures, so July is a prime time to get it started. Choose varieties that mature in 60-80 days to ensure harvest before the first frost.
- Cauliflower: Similar to broccoli, cauliflower thrives in cooler temperatures. Plant in July and you’ll be enjoying fresh cauliflower in the fall.
- Kale: Kale is a cold-hardy vegetable that can be planted in July and harvested well into fall. Choose varieties that mature in 60-80 days for a successful fall harvest.
- Carrots: Carrots are a favorite fall vegetable, and while they may not mature until late fall, you can plant them in July. The cooler temperatures help them achieve their sweet flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Successful July Gardening:
Gardening in Colorado presents unique challenges, but with forethought and planning, you can have a successful and bountiful garden. Here are a few tips for maximizing your success in July:
Water Wisely:
Water is essential for a thriving garden. Water your plants in the early morning hours when the sun is low and less water is lost through evaporation. Use a watering can or drip irrigation system to deliver water directly to the roots, minimizing waste.
Mulch for Moisture Retention:
Mulching your garden beds with organic materials like wood chips or straw helps retain moisture in the soil. It also helps suppress weeds, reducing competition for water and nutrients.
Fight off Pests:
Keep an eye out for pesky pests like aphids, beetles, and slugs. Use natural pest control methods like hand-picking, introducing beneficial insects, or companion planting to discourage them.
Provide Shade:
Some of your plants, especially those newly planted or those with delicate foliage, may benefit from a little shade during the hottest part of the day. Consider using shade cloth, a tarp, or strategically place a shade tree to protect them from the harsh sun.
What To Plant In July In Colorado
Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor:
July is a time to celebrate the fruits of your labor! A well-maintained garden will reward you with vibrant colors, delicious food, and a sense of pride. Keep learning, keep experimenting, and enjoy the beauty and bounty that your Colorado garden offers.
As you embark on your July gardening adventure, remember that the landscape of Colorado is as diverse as the people who inhabit it. Share your tips and successes, and learn from others who have navigated the unique challenges and joys of gardening in the high country. Your garden is a testament to your dedication and a source of beauty and sustenance. Happy gardening!
