I just scored some affordable soil and I'm excited to build raised beds! However, I'm on a tight budget, so buying seedlings isn't an option. Thankfully, I have a bunch of seeds at home. The catch is that I'm allergic to nightshades, so please don't suggest any tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, or eggplants! What seeds can I start planting outside right now in zone 7?
3 Answers
In zone 5, I’ve learned that carrots and beets are always safe bets. Lettuce and brassicas can handle some heat, although they thrive more in cooler weather. You could also try zucchini and cucumbers, but just check if downy mildew has started affecting them in your area. Green beans are perfect to start now too!
You should be good to start green beans right now! They’ll thrive in this weather. You might also consider planting squash or cucumbers, but keep in mind they require quite a bit of space and warm weather to produce well. Also, herbs like basil and cilantro can be planted, but watch out as they might bolt in the heat! Carrots are another option; they could do well in this late season, and radishes are quick-growing too! Don’t forget about planting garlic in the fall when you get a chance; it tends to do well!
You can definitely plant zucchini and green beans! If you have some indoor space, you could start cabbage or Brussels sprouts. As we move to the end of July, you should also think about starting broccoli indoors. For cool-weather crops, make sure to cover your planting area to keep things cooler, and don’t forget fall favorites like arugula and spinach! They can handle those cooler temperatures really well.
Radishes sound like a great idea! I’ll definitely throw some in with my carrots!