Some locations in the Pacific Northwest just aren’t warm enough for planting until late spring, which means June planting in the northwest isn’t that unusual. Pacific northwest gardening varies region by region with some areas just too cool and wet into late spring. The key to a successful veggie garden is knowing what to plant in June. Read on to learn about northwest planting in June.
About Pacific Northwest Planting in June
The coastal areas and in around Puget sound tend to (or at least they used to) be a bit drizzly yet mild in the spring, but in the mountainous regions of the Pacific Northwest temperatures may still be closer to freezing at night. That means waiting to plant the garden, or having a greenhouse.
All that said, if you are not already growing your crops you need to start ASAP.
What to Plant in June
If you haven’t already, I would plant on transplanting basil, corn, cukes, melon, peppers, summer squash, tomatoes and winter squash immediately. Also immediately, sow seeds for beans, beets, carrots, collards, corn, cukes, melon, parsnips, spuds (short season), pumpkin, radishes, heat tolerant greens, scallions, Swiss chard, summer and winter squash.
Overwintering leeks can be sown in June, as well as all herbs.
The Pacific Northwest gardening season isn’t particularly long, so even sowing or transplanting some of the above in June might be an act of wishful thinking. Look for short season varieties to increase your chances for a crop.
June Planting in the Northwest
If you’ve suddenly realized the month is mostly gone, all is not lost. June, believe it or not, is the time to plant for fall crops. Much of the Pacific Northwest is suited for another shot at garden crops for fall. Now is the time to plant.
Brussels sprouts are a favorite crop but they take their sweet time growing, so start them now. Also start seeds for winter cabbage, broccoli and the large winter kohlrabi between mid-June and mid-July.
Start these winter crops outside either in a bed or small pots. Be sure to keep an eye on them and water consistently. Look for cold weather Brassicas and late maturing cabbages to start for your fall garden.