By John Monzingo, Assistant County Agent
The dog days of summer are rapidly approaching. According to “The Old Farmer’s Almanac”, the dog days of summer are July 3-August 11. These days often have longer hours of sunlight, higher temperatures, and high humidity. For many vegetable growers, their garden is slowing production or has stopped producing vegetables. However, there are plants that can be started during this period. Below are examples of vegetables that can be grown in late summer:
| Plants | Dates to plant | How to plant | Spacing | Harvest |
| Cantaloupe | 7/1-7/31 | plant seeds ¼ inch deep | 18-36 inches | 80-85 days |
| Pea | 7/1-7/31 | plant seeds ½ inch deep | 4-6 inches | 70-80 days |
| Bell Peppers | 6/15-7/31 | transplants 1 inch deep | 12-18 inches | 70-80 days |
| Okra | 7/1-8/15 | plant seeds ½ inch deep | 8-12 inches | 60 days |
| Tomatoes | 7/1-8/10 | transplants 1 inch deep | 18-24 inches | 60-75 days |
| Pumpkin | 6/15-7/10 | plant seeds ½ inch deep | 36-60 inches | 60-120 days |
| Squash | 7/1-8/31 | transplants 1 inch deep | 12-36 inches | 50-90 days |
| Eggplant | 7/1-8/15 | transplant 1 inch deep | 18-36 inches | 80-85 days |
| Irish Potatoes | 7/15-9/1 | plant pieces 4 inches deep | 9-12 inches | 90-120 days |
The dog days of summer not only bring higher temperatures but, in many cases, they bring drought conditions. A watering schedule may need to be added to have a successful late summer crop. For more vegetables and varieties, please contact John Monzingo at 318-927-3110 or 318-371-1371.
It is the policy of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service that no person shall be subject to discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, or disability.