Hi gardening friend! Summer’s in full swing, and the sun is blazing, but that doesn’t mean your garden has to slow down. In fact, it’s the perfect time to plant a whole new wave of delicious, fast-growing vegetables!

Let’s face it, sometimes we start our gardens with grand plans in spring, only to get a little busy as summer rolls around. You might be thinking, “Isn’t it too late to plant anything new?” Nope! There are tons of amazing veggies that thrive in the warm weather and can be sown from seed right now, giving you a fresh harvest in no time.

Your Summer Garden Besties: Speedy Summer Vegetables!

These fast-growing vegetables are like the Usain Bolts of the garden world, bursting from seed to harvest in record time. These vegetables sprout fast and are the perfect solution for adding summer veggies to your table. As a result, they will fill your garden even if you’re feeling a bit behind.

Start Planting Fast-Growing Summer Vegetables!

Here are some of my favorite summer vegetables to grow fast:

• Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, arugula, and kale are ready to pick in a few short weeks. Perfect for adding a healthy dose of green to your salads and sandwiches! Tip: Lettuce grows best in partial shade during hot summer months to prevent bolting.
• Radishes: Speedy and crunchy summer veggies. They are superstars of growing speed, often maturing in 25 days. Enjoy them raw with a sprinkle of salt, or add a peppery kick to your stir-fries.
• Beans: Green beans, snap peas, and some bush bean varieties are ready to harvest in under 60 days. String some up for a classic summer side dish, or enjoy them fresh in salads.
• Squash & Zucchini: These veggies are prolific producers. Even though they can take a little longer, around 50-60 days, they’re worth the wait! You can spiralize them for noodles or grill them for a smoky flavor. You can also make zucchini bread. The possibilities are endless!

Quick Vegetable Gardening Tips for Summer Sowing Success:

• Read Your Seed Packet: Follow the specific planting instructions for each vegetable. Remember, these plants grow fast. Follow the spacing on the seed packet. This prevents overcrowding and ensures air can flow between plants.
• Location Location Location: Location matters. Choose a sunny spot for most fast-growing summer veggies. Some leafy greens might appreciate a bit of afternoon shade in the hottest areas. Most fast-growing vegetables thrive in full sun, so pick a spot with plenty of sunshine in your garden. As for soil, aim for something well-drained and rich in organic matter. Composting your soil is a great way to boost your seedlings’ growth.
• Water Wisely: Hot weather means thirstier plants. Water deeply and regularly, especially in the early morning or evening when evaporation rates are lower. Ensure the soil is always moist but not waterlogged. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Mulch Magic: Use organic mulch like straw or shredded leaves around your plants to retain moisture, keep the soil cool, and suppress weeds.
• Succession Planting: Don’t waste space! As your first round of veggies matures, sow new seeds in their place for a continuous harvest.

The Beauty of Summer Sowing:

There are many advantages to planting vegetables in the summer!

• Faster Growth: Warmer soil and longer days speed up these veggies. They go from seed to plate and are ready to harvest in just a few weeks.
• Second Chance: Didn’t quite get your spring garden going? No worries! This is your chance to redeem yourself with a summer harvest. You will enjoy fresh flavors all fall.
• Fresh Flavors: Homegrown vegetables are best. You can enjoy that peak taste all through fall with a summer crop.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your seeds, prepare your soil, and start planting! With some planning and these fast-growing summer vegetables, you can extend your harvest. You’ll enjoy fresh, tasty produce well into the fall. Happy gardening!