Think June is too late to start planting vegetables? Think again! Even if you didn’t get your garden going in early spring, there’s still plenty of time to sow and grow a bountiful late summer harvest. June offers a golden window for certain veggies that thrive when planted a bit later in the season—giving you fresh, homegrown produce well into the fall.
These 16 vegetables are perfect for June planting because they mature quickly, handle the warming soil, and make the most of the long summer days ahead. Whether you have a large backyard plot, a small raised bed, or just a few containers on your balcony, these veggies fit right in and reward your efforts with delicious results.
If you want to extend your gardening season and enjoy fresh veggies before fall, these plants are your best bets. Plus, many are surprisingly easy to grow, even if you’re a beginner or short on time. Get ready to dig in and watch your late-season garden flourish with these top choices you can still plant this June!
Arugula
Arugula brings a peppery zest to salads and dishes, perfect for those wanting a quick addition to their garden. In June, the warm soil encourages rapid germination, often sprouting within a week. Sow seeds directly in well-drained soil and enjoy the first tender leaves in as little as 30 days.
Ideal for windowsill pots or garden beds, arugula thrives with minimal care. Harvest continuously to encourage new growth, ensuring a fresh supply through the summer months. Its robust flavor pairs well with milder greens, enhancing any salad bowl with its distinctive taste.
Bush Beans
Bush beans are the epitome of convenience for the late-summer harvest. As one of the easiest vegetables to grow, they require little more than a sunny spot and regular watering. Direct sowing in June means beans can be on your plate by late summer.
These compact plants are perfect for small spaces, producing a generous yield. With varieties ranging from green to purple, they add both color and texture to meals. Picking beans regularly encourages more production, allowing you to savor their crispness all season long.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers delight with their refreshing crunch, especially when freshly picked. By planting in June, you capitalize on warmer temperatures, which cucumbers adore. Whether using seeds or seedlings, ensure they have something to climb on, like a trellis or fence.
Their fast-growing nature means you could be enjoying cucumbers in salads and sandwiches by late summer. With both slicing and pickling varieties available, they offer versatility in the kitchen. Keep their soil consistently moist for the best fruit production and enjoy their bountiful harvest.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard adds a splash of color to any garden with its vivid stems and lush leaves. Quick to grow from seed, it’s a wonderful choice for June planting. This resilient vegetable tolerates heat well, making it ideal for summer gardens.
Chard is versatile in the kitchen, offering nutrient-rich leaves that can be used in salads or cooked dishes. Pick leaves from the outer stems for a continuous harvest, and its flavors will complement a range of culinary creations. Its beauty also makes it a decorative garden addition.
Zucchini
Zucchini is a garden staple, loved for its prolific nature and culinary flexibility. By planting in June, you allow this speedy grower to take advantage of the summer sun. Within weeks, you can spot vibrant flowers, signaling the forthcoming bounty.
These plants thrive in warm conditions and require ample space to spread. Regular harvesting encourages continual production, perfect for keeping the kitchen stocked with this versatile vegetable. Grilled, baked, or stir-fried, zucchini can adapt to countless recipes, making it invaluable in any garden.
Kale
Kale’s resilience to heat makes it an ideal candidate for June planting. This hardy leaf vegetable flourishes even in less-than-perfect soil, offering gardeners a dependable crop. As the weeks pass, you’ll notice its leaves unfurling, ready for harvest.
Known for its nutritional powerhouse properties, kale can be used in smoothies, soups, or salads. Regular leaf picking encourages new growth, allowing continued enjoyment. Its rich taste and health benefits make it a standout choice for late summer dishes, appealing to both health enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike.
Spinach
Spinach might seem like a springtime favorite, but it’s equally thriving when planted in June. With its rapid growth, you’ll harvest these tender leaves in no time. Perfect for salads or sautéing, spinach offers a delightful taste of summer greenery.
A shady spot can help keep spinach from bolting too quickly in the heat. Regular watering ensures plump, juicy leaves ready to be picked. This leafy green is not only rich in iron but also in culinary versatility, making it a must-have addition for any summer garden.
Radishes
Radishes, with their rapid growth cycle, are perfect for June planting. These crunchy root vegetables can be harvested in just a few weeks, making them ideal for impatient gardeners. Their peppery flavor adds a zing to salads and dishes.
Plant radish seeds directly in the soil for best results. As they grow, thin them to allow space for bulb development. Their bright colors and crisp texture make them a favorite for garnishing and snacking. A reliable crop, radishes can be planted multiple times throughout the growing season.
Carrots
Carrots, known for their sweetness, can still be sown in June for a rewarding late-summer harvest. These root vegetables thrive when planted directly into well-tilled soil, ensuring they have room to grow deep and straight.
Patience is key, as carrots take longer to mature. However, the wait is worthwhile, with flavors intensifying as they develop. Enjoy them raw, roasted, or in stews, where they bring a touch of natural sweetness. Their vibrant orange hue and nutritional benefits make carrots an attractive and healthy addition to any meal.
Beets
Beets are a dual-purpose plant, offering both flavorful roots and nutritious greens. June planting allows them to establish roots during the warm months, producing a robust late-summer crop.
Easy to grow, beets prefer loosened soil and regular moisture. The roots can be harvested when they reach desired size, while the greens can be picked earlier for salads. Their earthy sweetness enhances a variety of dishes, from roasted sides to fresh salads, making them a valuable addition to any garden’s repertoire.
Turnips
Turnips, often overlooked, are a fantastic choice for a late summer harvest. These hardy root vegetables thrive when sown in well-drained soil during June, providing both nourishing roots and greens.
Turnips grow relatively quickly, and their mild flavor adapts well to various culinary applications. Enjoy them roasted, mashed, or in salads, where they add a subtle sweetness and crunch. The leaves are also edible, offering a peppery taste similar to mustard greens. Turnips’ dual-purpose nature ensures a bountiful and versatile harvest.
Collard Greens
Collard greens, cherished especially in southern cuisines, are a resilient crop for June planting. Their broad, sturdy leaves withstand heat and pests, making them an excellent choice for summer gardens.
Plant collards in rich, fertile soil, and they will reward you with bountiful harvests. These greens are perfect for cooking, offering a hearty texture and mild flavor that pairs well with various dishes. Regular picking encourages growth, keeping your garden vibrant and your meals nutritious. Their robust nature makes them a reliable garden staple.
Lettuce
Lettuce, with its countless varieties, remains a favorite for quick summer planting. By sowing in June, you ensure a continuous supply of fresh, crisp leaves perfect for salads and sandwiches.
Though it prefers cooler temperatures, lettuce can thrive with careful watering and partial shade. Regularly harvesting outer leaves keeps plants productive and prevents bolting. With types ranging from buttery Bibb to crunchy Romaine, there’s a lettuce variety to suit every taste. Its adaptability and rapid growth make lettuce a cornerstone of summer gardening.
Broccoli
Broccoli, adored for its nutrient-rich florets, is surprisingly well-suited for June planting. As a member of the brassica family, it appreciates cooler nights and warm days, making it perfect for extended summer growth.
Direct sowing or transplanting seedlings can yield a substantial harvest by late summer. Broccoli’s versatility in the kitchen is unmatched, from raw snacks to hearty soups. Ensuring consistent moisture and good air circulation helps prevent bolting, providing gardeners with a rewarding and healthful crop.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts, with their miniature cabbage-like appearance, require patience but reward with an abundant late-season harvest. June is an excellent time to start these seedlings, giving them plenty of time to mature.
These plants thrive in cooler weather, so a late summer harvest is ideal. Their unique flavor shines when roasted, caramelizing into perfection. Regularly remove yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth. Brussels sprouts’ distinct taste and texture make them a noteworthy addition to any garden, especially for those who value homegrown produce.