Summer is the season of sunshine, growth, and fresh harvests. Whether you’re working with a backyard garden, raised beds, or a few containers, these ten vegetables are perfect for planting in summer 2025.

🥒 1. Cucumbers

Cucumbers thrive in warm weather and grow quickly. Choose bush varieties for small spaces or vining types for trellises.

Pro tip: Keep the soil consistently moist and harvest often to encourage more fruit.

🍅 2. Tomatoes

No summer garden is complete without tomatoes. From cherry to beefsteak, there’s a variety for every taste.

Pro tip: Start with transplants for a faster harvest, and give them plenty of sun and support.

🫑 3. Peppers

Bell peppers and hot peppers love the heat. They’re compact and colorful—great for containers and garden beds.

Pro tip: Water deeply and regularly. Add a balanced fertilizer when fruits begin to form.

🫘 4. Green Beans

Quick to mature and easy to grow. Pole beans save space; bush types are perfect for small gardens.

Pro tip: Harvest frequently to keep plants producing all summer.

🥬 5. Heat-Tolerant Lettuce

Try oakleaf or butterhead lettuce in partial shade for summer greens.

Pro tip: Plant new rows every 2 weeks to ensure a continuous harvest.

🥕 6. Carrots

Still plantable early summer in cooler regions. Look for fast-maturing types.

Pro tip: Loose, sandy soil helps roots grow straight and smooth.

🎃 7. Zucchini and Summer Squash

One of the most productive summer crops. Quick to grow and easy to care for.

Pro tip: Harvest young for the best flavor and tenderness.

🌽 8. Sweet Corn

Corn needs space and sunlight, but rewards with sweet, golden ears.

Pro tip: Plant in square blocks (not rows) for better pollination.

🧅 9. Green Onions (Scallions)

Fast-growing and space-saving. Great for adding flavor to summer dishes.

Pro tip: Snip greens regularly to encourage fresh regrowth.

10. Okra

This heat-loving plant is a Southern favorite, with stunning flowers and edible pods.

Pro tip: Pick pods when 2–4 inches long to avoid toughness.

🌿 Final Thoughts

These top 10 vegetables are perfect for the summer heat and easy enough for beginners. With the right care and timing, your garden will thrive all season long.

🌞 Happy growing from The Tiny Acre!