What to grow in June

June is one of the most rewarding months for gardeners. The soil is warm, frost risk has passed, and there's still plenty of growing season ahead. Whether you're tending beds, containers, or a vegetable patch, here's what thrives when planted now.

Vegetables for June Planting

This is prime time for tender crops that need warmth. Sow beans directly into the soil, both runner beans and French beans establish quickly and produce heavily through summer. Courgettes, squash, and pumpkins can go in now and will crop prolifically. Sweetcorn germinates reliably in warm June soil, and you can still sow lettuce, spinach, and rocket for continuous harvests through July and August.

Outdoor tomatoes planted as young plants in early June will have time to flower and set fruit before autumn. Cucumbers and melons also love the warmth and will reward you with abundant yields if given support and regular watering.

Herbs Worth Growing Now

Basil is at its best when sown in June, it germinates quickly and grows vigorously in the heat. Coriander, dill, and parsley can still be sown for summer harvests. Tender perennials like rosemary and bay can be planted out as young plants, and they'll establish well before winter.

Flowers and Ornamentals

Half-hardy annuals planted in June will flower from July onwards. Dahlias, cosmos, zinnias, and sunflowers all thrive when direct-sown or planted as young plants now. Tender perennials like fuchsias and tender salvias add colour and structure to borders and containers. If you missed spring planting, June is your last chance for many summer bedding schemes.

Succession Sowing

Don't forget succession sowing. Planting small batches of beans, lettuce, and other crops every two weeks ensures a continuous supply rather than a glut followed by a gap. June is ideal for starting this pattern.

Soil and Watering Tips

Warm soil in June means seeds germinate quickly, but it also dries out faster. Water newly sown areas regularly until seedlings are established. Adding compost or well-rotted manure before planting boosts fertility and water retention, especially important for hungry crops like courgettes and tomatoes.

Make the most of June's warmth and long days. it's one of the best months for getting plants in the ground and setting yourself up for a productive summer garden.