#560 The Most Exciting Seeds to Sow in July

The Veg Grower Podcast

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Veg Grower Podcast! In this episode, Richard, our dedicated host, dives deep into the seeds to sow in July, shares the seed of the month, and introduces a mouth-watering recipe from Chef Scott. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable tips and actionable advice to help you make the most of your garden this month. Let's break down the key points discussed in the episode and explore each tip in detail. Seed of the Month: Gourmet Loose Leaf Lettuce Why Gourmet Loose Leaf Lettuce? Richard kicks off the episode by highlighting the seed of the month: gourmet loose leaf lettuce. This variety is celebrated for its ease of growth and versatility in the kitchen. Loose leaf lettuce is perfect for gardeners of all levels, offering a continuous harvest throughout the growing season. Tips for Growing Gourmet Loose Leaf Lettuce Soil Preparation: Ensure your soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Loose leaf lettuce thrives in fertile soil with good moisture retention. Sowing Seeds: Sow the seeds directly into the ground or in containers. Space the seeds about 1 inch apart and cover them lightly with soil. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Lettuce has shallow roots, so regular watering is crucial, especially during dry spells. Thinning: Once the seedlings are about 2 inches tall, thin them to allow about 6 inches of space between plants. This ensures adequate air circulation and reduces the risk of disease. Harvesting: Harvest the outer leaves as needed, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. This method, known as "cut-and-come-again," provides a continuous supply of fresh lettuce. Special Offer Richard also mentions a discount code VEGPOD10 for purchasing seeds from Premier Seeds Direct, making it easier for listeners to get started with their gourmet loose leaf lettuce. What Seeds to Sow in July July is a busy month in the garden, and Richard provides a comprehensive list of seeds to sow in July. Here’s a detailed look at each category: Salad Greens Varieties: Lettuce, rocket, spinach, and mustard greens. Tips: Sow in succession every two weeks to ensure a continuous harvest. Use shade cloth to protect from intense summer heat. Radishes Varieties: French Breakfast, Cherry Belle, and White Icicle. Tips: Radishes grow quickly and can be harvested in as little as 4 weeks. Sow in well-drained soil and keep consistently moist. Spring Onions Varieties: White Lisbon and Ishikura. Tips: Sow directly into the ground or in containers. Thin seedlings to about 1 inch apart for optimal growth. Beetroots Varieties: Boltardy and Detroit Dark Red. Tips: Sow in rows about 12 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 4 inches apart to allow room for the roots to develop. Herbs Varieties: Basil, parsley, dill, and coriander. Tips: Sow in well-drained soil and provide plenty of sunlight. Regularly pinch back the growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Winter Vegetables Varieties: Cauliflowers, cabbages, and swedes. Tips: Start these seeds indoors or in a sheltered area. Transplant seedlings to their final positions once they are strong enough. The Importance of Herbs in a Vegetable Garden Richard emphasizes the role of herbs in a vegetable garden. Not only do they enhance the flavor of your dishes, but they also attract beneficial insects and can act as natural pest repellents. Sowing and Caring for Herbs Basil: Prefers warm conditions and plenty of sunlight. Water regularly but avoid waterlogging. Parsley: Can be grown in partial shade. Keep the soil moist and harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth. Dill: Sow directly into the ground. Dill prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Coriander: Best sown in cooler conditions. Provide partial shade and keep the soil moist.