July Gardening Tips for Fayetteville, NC

Summer is in full swing here in Fayetteville, bringing heat, humidity, and plenty of gardening challenges—and opportunities. With thoughtful care, your garden can thrive all month long.

1. Water Wisely

July’s heat and dry spells demand careful watering. Water deeply at the base of plants, ideally in the early morning or late evening, to reduce evaporation and minimize leaf scorch. Vegetables typically need about one inch of water per week.

For newly planted shrubs and trees, water deeply 2–3 times weekly, adjusting based on rainfall and soil moisture. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

2. Mulch for Moisture and Temperature Control

Apply a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch—pine straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips are ideal. Mulch preserves moisture, cools roots, suppresses weeds, and gradually feeds the soil as it decomposes.

3. Tackle Pests and Diseases

July brings pests like aphids, spider mites, cucumber beetles, and Japanese beetles. Handpick larger pests, use insecticidal soaps for smaller insects, and consider introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs.

Also, watch for fungal issues like powdery mildew, especially on tomatoes and squash. Practice good garden hygiene: remove diseased plant parts and avoid splashing soil onto foliage.

4. Prune, Deadhead & Shape

Deadhead spent blooms on annuals and perennials to extend flowering. Mid-July marks the cutoff for most shrub pruning in our area. Keep herbs pinched to encourage fresh growth.

Prune fruiting canes (blackberries and raspberries) after harvest and remove water sprouts from fruit trees to reduce excess growth.

5. Feed Smartly

Vegetables and flowering plants can benefit from a light, balanced feed. Use slow-release fertilizer sparingly to encourage fruiting over foliage.

Avoid fertilizing shrubs and trees in mid-July to prevent stress during intense heat.

6. Keep Harvesting

Harvest veggies—tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers—frequently to encourage continued production. Harvest herbs before they flower to maintain flavor and aroma.

7. Plant Heat‑Tolerant & Fall Crops

Mid-July is still a great time to plant warm-season veggies such as okra, southern peas, sweet potatoes, pole beans, and lima beans. Certain winter squash varieties can also be planted now.

Start seeds indoors or in shaded beds for fall crops like brussels sprouts, collards, cabbage, and broccoli.

8. Cool and Shade Sensitive Plants

Use temporary shade cloth or plant taller companions nearby to protect delicate plants during the hottest part of the day. This helps reduce sunburn and stress—especially for container plants and seedlings.

9. Support Pollinators

Add pollinator-friendly plants like zinnias, echinacea, salvia, blue sage, and coreopsis to brighten your garden and support bees and butterflies.

10. Protect Yourself

Wear breathable clothing, take breaks in the shade, and stay hydrated. Aim to garden early in the morning or after 4 PM to avoid the worst heat of the day.

Why Choose Green Side Up Garden & Gifts?

At Green Side Up, we specialize in helping your garden succeed in Fayetteville’s unique climate. Whether you’re looking for expert advice, drought-tolerant plants, or the perfect gift—we’re here to help!

️ July Gardening Checklist

Final Thoughts

With focused care and a bit of strategy, your garden can shine in the July heat. Stop by Green Side Up Garden & Gifts for local gardening tips, fresh plants, and everything you need to keep growing strong.

Happy gardening!
– Your Green Side Up Team