Gardening in July in Nevada County

So far, we’ve been lucky this July—temperatures have stayed a bit cooler than in past years, giving our gardens a bit of a break from the extreme heat we usually expect. Still, with the long, dry days of summer in full swing, Nevada County gardeners know that July is a month that requires a little extra attention and care. From watering strategies to planning for fall, now’s the time to nurture what’s already growing and prepare for the seasons ahead.

Watering continues to be one of the most important tasks this month. Even with slightly milder weather, the lack of rain and intense sun mean your plants need consistent hydration. Deep watering in the early morning or late evening helps roots absorb moisture while minimizing evaporation. A good soak a few times a week is much more effective than light daily watering, which often just wets the surface without reaching the root zone.

If you haven’t already mulched your beds, now is a great time. A generous layer of organic mulch—such as bark, straw, or compost—will help keep the soil cool, conserve moisture, and suppress weeds. It also gives your garden a well-kept look and improves the soil over time as it breaks down.

July is also a great time to lean into heat-tolerant and drought-resistant plants. Many varieties, like lavender, Russian sage, salvia, echinacea, and catmint, are not only tough but beautiful—and they attract pollinators too. If you’re looking to refresh a garden bed or fill in bare spots, consider these resilient performers that are well suited to our dry summers.

Maintenance-wise, a little effort goes a long way this time of year. Regularly removing spent blooms (deadheading) keeps flowering plants looking tidy and can even encourage more blooms. Keep an eye on fast-growing or top-heavy plants, offering support with stakes or trellises when needed. And don’t forget to stay on top of weeding—unwanted plants compete for water and nutrients, and they seem to thrive even in the heat.

While summer crops are producing, it’s also time to start thinking ahead. Believe it or not, July is ideal for planting seeds for fall vegetables. Cool-season crops like kale, broccoli, cabbage, and chard can all be started now. Just be sure to keep young seedlings well-watered as they get established—shaded nursery beds or row covers can help during heatwaves.

Container gardens, in particular, need extra care this month. Pots dry out quickly and often need daily watering, especially during warm spells. Try placing containers where they receive morning sun and afternoon shade, and consider mulching even in your pots to help retain moisture.

With wildfire season approaching, it’s also smart to look at your garden with fire safety in mind. Clear dry brush, trim dead branches, and avoid planting flammable species too close to your home. Creating defensible space is a simple, proactive step that can make a big difference.

Even in the heat of summer, your garden can be a thriving, vibrant space. With thoughtful care and a little planning, July can be a time of both abundance and preparation. Whether you’re harvesting tomatoes, sowing seeds for fall greens, or simply enjoying the buzz of bees in the lavender, there’s still plenty of joy to be found in the garden.

If you need help choosing plants, planning your fall garden, or refreshing a tired space, we’re here to help at Kurt’s Garden.