This post may contain affiliate links.
Still thinking about starting a summer garden? You haven’t missed your window. With warm soil and plenty of daylight, June is a great time to dig in and get planting.
Whether you’re sowing seeds or transplanting young starts, there’s no shortage of options this month—from fresh herbs and vibrant flowers to fast-growing vegetables. Just be sure to consider your local climate when picking what to grow.
Marigolds
Plant marigolds in June for a splash of color by late summer. These hardy, pest-resistant flowers thrive in full sunlight and well-drained soil, blooming continuously into the fall if deadheaded regularly.
Zinnias
Zinnias are perfect for a quick color boost in your garden. They flower rapidly in summer heat. Plant them in June for a spectrum of colors by late summer. They attract butterflies and serve as excellent cut flowers for home decoration.
Oregano
Oregano is a hardy herb that can be started in early to mid-June. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-resistant and can be harvested throughout the summer.
Radishes
Fast-maturing radishes planted in June will be ready to harvest before summer heat intensifies their flavor.
Coneflower
Coneflowers are robust perennials that thrive with minimal care. Plant nursery-grown seedlings in June for a summer full of vibrant purple blooms that attract pollinators and add a wildflower feel to any garden space.
Sunflowers
Iconic sunflowers are ideal for sowing in June. They require full sun and moist, well-drained soil. These majestic plants grow quickly, reaching for the sky and blooming by late summer, offering seeds for birds and beauty for your yard.
Lavender
Lavender, known for its soothing fragrance and beautiful purple spikes, is drought-resistant and thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Plant in June to establish strong roots for blooms that attract bees and butterflies, enhancing your garden’s ecosystem.
Cosmos
Cosmos are easy to grow from seeds planted in June, with blooms appearing in about two months. They tolerate summer heat well and add height and movement to garden beds, attracting pollinators with their delicate, daisy-like flowers.
They prefer sunny spots and well-drained soil, and once established, they require minimal watering. The variety of colors—pink, white, red, orange, and purple—ensures a match for any garden theme.
Mandevilla
Mandevilla vines are great for adding vertical interest to your garden or balcony. Plant in June to enjoy their lush foliage and trumpet-shaped blooms throughout the warmer months.
Hibiscus
Tropical hibiscus plants are best purchased as nursery stock and planted in June for their large, colorful blooms that last until fall. They are adaptable to various garden settings and offer a touch of the tropics.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes can be planted in June. As they grow, they will need to be supported with stakes or cages. Choose fast-maturing varieties to ensure a good harvest before fall.
Peppers
Also perfect for a June start, peppers require full sun and regular watering. They do well when mulched to maintain consistent soil moisture and temperature.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are known for their trailing growth and bright green leaves complemented by orange, yellow, and red flowers. They excel in covering bare soil and can crowd out smaller plants. Thriving in full sun or partial shade, they tolerate drought and poor soil, making them ideal for rock gardens and hanging baskets.
Beans
Both bush and pole beans can be planted in June. Pole beans require support, such as a trellis or stakes, and regular harvesting will encourage continued production.
Basil
This sun-loving herb should be planted in June and placed where it will receive full sunlight. Regular harvesting and pinching off the flower buds will keep it bushy and productive.
Globe Thistle
Distinctive for its spherical blue flower heads, globe thistle can be planted in June to enjoy blooms from mid-summer to fall. It’s a striking addition that brings texture and a hint of wild nature to your landscaping.
Cilantro
Best planted in a cooler, partially shaded part of the garden in June, as it tends to bolt in hot weather.
Okra
Okra thrives in the heat of July and August. Plant in June for a harvest of long, edible pods by late summer.
Borage
Known for its edible leaves and flowers, borage can be planted in summer. It also serves as an excellent companion plant for tomatoes.
Dill
Plant
Corn
For best results, plant corn in blocks in June to enhance pollination. It thrives in full sun and requires good soil moisture.
Scallions
Scallions are easy to grow and can be planted in June, with harvests progressing as needed.
Potatoes
Start potatoes in June to take advantage of the warm soil, ensuring they are planted in a location with full sun and well-drained soil. Select varieties with shorter maturity times for a successful late-summer or early-fall harvest.
Zucchini
Zucchini are fast-growing and can be sown in June for a summer harvest, with
15 Enchanting Plants for a Classic English Garden
More people are embracing the romantic, free-flowing style of English gardens. Here are some must-have plants to bring that English charm to your garden.
15 Enchanting Plants for a Classic English Garden
16 Gorgeous Wildflowers Perfect for Low-Maintenance Gardens
Starting a wildflower garden requires careful planning, especially if you want it to be low-maintenance. Selecting the right plants, known for their ease of growth, is crucial for success. Here are 16 gorgeous, easy-to-grow wildflowers perfect for creating a stunning, carefree garden.
19 Sun Loving Perennials Perfect for Sun-Kissed Gardens
From the drought-tolerant
19 Sun-Loving Perennials Perfect for Sun-Kissed Gardens
20 Best Plants for Container Gardening
Container gardening can be as fulfilling as large-scale farming in growing and harvesting food. Whether planting in your backyard, on a balcony, patio, or urban homestead, here are some of the best plants for growing in containers.
