By Benedict Vanheems | May 25, 2024
The garden is thriving, and all your hard work is finally paying off! But don’t rest yet—June is a critical month for sowing certain crops to keep your harvests coming long into fall and winter. Here are seven crops you can sow now to enjoy a bountiful, extended growing season.
1. Sprouting Broccoli: Royalty of Winter Veggies
Start winter-hardy sprouting broccoli now for a delightful harvest of delicate spears early next spring. Sow seeds in plug trays to save space while other crops like fava beans finish up. Once seedlings are strong, transplant them 16 inches (40 cm) apart. If garden space isn’t ready, pot them up temporarily. Protect plants with netting to deter pests.
2. Kohlrabi: The Outlandish Brassica
This quirky crop’s swollen stem is delicious raw in salads or roasted as fries. Sow seeds in early June before the heat intensifies. Like broccoli, sow two seeds per plug and thin to one. Transplant seedlings 10 inches (25 cm) apart. Protect with netting to prevent butterfly and bird damage. Harvest within a few weeks for a unique addition to your table.
3. Maincrop Carrots: Chunky Winter Storage Staples
Plan for winter by sowing robust maincrop carrot varieties now. Direct sow seeds into pre-watered rows in loose, fertile soil. Thin seedlings to 1-2 inches (3-5 cm) apart after germination and water lightly to deter carrot flies. Carrots store well for winter, and you can sow other root vegetables like beets and rutabaga alongside them.
4. Dill: Feathery Friend for Flavor and Bugs
Dill grows quickly and is perfect for pickling or garnishing. Broadcast seeds over raked soil, lightly rake them in, and water. Dill flowers attract beneficial insects, making it a valuable companion plant. Harvest soft foliage within two months to elevate your dishes.
5. Parsley: Versatile and Resilient
Sow flat-leaf parsley in drills under dappled shade for a steady supply of versatile leaves. Be patient—germination may take up to six weeks. Thin seedlings to 6 inches (15 cm) apart and transplant extras as needed. Parsley flowers in its second year, attracting pollinators and beneficial insects.
6. Cilantro: Quick and Flavorful
Best sown later in June, cilantro thrives in cooler weather. Sow seeds directly into pots or garden soil, spacing them about an inch (2-3 cm) apart. Water consistently, especially in hot weather, and expect to start harvesting leaves in 6-8 weeks. Later sowings are less prone to bolting.
7. Bulb Fennel: A Picky but Stunning Crop
Florence fennel’s subtle anise flavor shines in salads or as a cooked side. Sow seeds in plug trays to minimize root disturbance and delay planting until warmer weather to reduce bolting. Transplant seedlings into rich, well-drained soil in a sunny spot, spacing them 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) apart. With care, these “divas” will reward you with tender, plump bulbs.
Don’t Delay—Sow Today!
These crops ensure your garden remains productive through the months ahead. With a bit of effort now, you’ll enjoy fresh produce and flavors well into winter. So, grab your seeds, get sowing, and relish the fruits (and veggies) of your labor!