Summer vegetables that are actually fruits will produce more if they are picked two to three times a week. If the fruits of summer squash, cucumbers or beans get too large, the plant begins to die back and yields are reduced.

Sow slower growing hardy overwintering root crops and members of the brassica family in early July; sow the quicker growing crops for fall harvest later in the month. For a good germination environment in July, it's important to limit water evaporation and reduce soil temperature with shade cloth or floating row covers.

For plant lists and full details on gardening in July, order your copy of Seattle Tilth's Maritime Northwest Garden Guide, a planning calendar for year-round organic gardening.