🔥 SUMMER (June–August) Garden Tasks

Austin summers are intense, and most plants struggle. Focus on survival, soil health, and heat-adapted crops.

Garden Tasks

• Water deeply and infrequently

• Aim for 1–1.5 inches/week.

• Water early morning only.

• Provide shade cloth (30–50%) for heat-stressed veggies.

• Remove bolted plants to prevent pests.

• Cut back tomatoes/peppers in late July for a fall flush.

Veggies That Actually Grow Well in Austin Summer

• Okra: ‘Clemson Spineless’, ‘Jambalaya’

• Sweet potatoes: ‘Beauregard’, ‘Georgia Jet’

• Black-eyed peas / cowpeas: nearly bulletproof

• Armenian cucumbers: thrive in extreme heat

• Malabar spinach: heat-loving green

• Hot peppers: jalapeño, serrano, cayenne, Thai peppers

• Eggplant: continues producing in high heat with water

Herbs:

• rosemary

• lavender

• lemongrass

• basil

• Mexican oregano