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Best Vegetables to Grow in Summer Season

13 Best Vegetables to Grow in Summer Season in Your Kitchen Garden 

Best Vegetables to Grow in Summer Season

in Your Kitchen Garden 

 

Spring season is an ideal season for cultivating vegetables in your kitchen garden. Many vegetable plants thrive under full sunlight, enjoying longer days and warmer temperatures, making them well-suited for the intense Indian summer.

Summer vegetables

One of the advantages of growing vegetables in spring season is that several of them can continue flourishing into the monsoon season. Depending on your preferences and the time you can dedicate to gardening, here’s a list of some excellent summer vegetables you can grow!

1. Tomato

2. Brinjal

3. Chili

4. Pumpkin (Kaddu)

5. Cucumber

6. Bottle Gourd (Lauki)

7. Okra

8. Amaranth (Chaulai)

9. Ridge Gourd (Taroi)

10. Round Gourd (Tinda)

11. Bitter Gourd (Karela)

12. Capsicum (Bell Pepper)

13. Herbs (Spinach & Mint)

Essential Growing Requirements for Summer Vegetables

 

1. Sunlight

 

Most summer vegetables require 5 – 6 hours of direct sunlight for healthy growth.

  • Herbs like spinach, coriander, and mint require 2 to 3 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth.
    Ensure they are placed in a sunny spot, such as a terrace, balcony, or open garden area.

 

2. Suitable Grow Bags

 

grow bags for gardening
Grow bags for vegetable gardening

Choosing the right grow bags or pots is essential for proper root development.

Here’s what you need:

  • 10×10 or 12×12 inch grow bags – Suitable for tomatoes, chili, capsicum
  • 15×15 or 16×16 inch grow bags – Ideal for brinjal, ridge gourd, bottle gourd, and round gourd
  • Rectangular pots – Best for leafy vegetables and herbs like amaranth, mint and spinach. 

3. Soil Preparation

 

A well-draining, nutrient-rich soil is essential. Use a mix of:

  • 50% garden soil
  • 30% organic compost (vermicompost/cow dung compost)
  • 20% coco peat or sand for aeration

4. Fertilizer

 

  • Use organic compost or vermicompost every 15-20 days to maintain soil fertility.
  • Apply liquid fertilizers like compost tea or diluted cow dung water every 10-15 days for better growth.

5. Watering

 

  • Deep watering is required during summer, especially in grow bags.
  • Water early morning or late evening to prevent moisture loss.
  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Best Vegetables to Grow in Summer Season

 

1. Tomato

tomatoes
Tomato

Tomatoes thrive in summer with abundant sunshine.

  • They can be grown easily in containers or grow bags, making them a great choice for home gardeners.
  • Tomatoes need moist soil to produce juicy fruits. Dry soil will result in less juicy produce.

Click here to read:

How To Grow Tomatoes At Home: Complete Guide

 

2. Brinjal (Eggplant)

 

eggplant
Eggplant (Brinjal)

Brinjal is a warm-season vegetable that comes in different sizes, shapes, and colors.

  • It grows well in grow bags and requires regular watering and fertilization.

3. Chili

 

green chili leaves
Green Chili

Chilies are one of the most popular spices in Indian cuisine.

  • Pungent varieties are more resistant to diseases and thrive in hot weather.

 

4. Pumpkin

 

pumpkin
Pumpkin

Pumpkins grow best in summer and require plenty of space to spread.

  • They are best grown on the ground rather than on a trellis due to their large size.

5. Cucumber

 

cucumber
Cucumber

 

Cucumbers are perfect for summer and can be trained to grow on trellises, rooftops, or pergolas.

  • They require consistent watering for juicy and crisp fruits.

6. Bottle Gourd

 

bottle gourd
Bottle Gourd

A fast-growing vine that thrives in hot weather, bottle gourd is a staple in Indian cuisine.

  • It grows best in large grow bags or direct ground planting.

7. Lady’s Finger (Okra)

 

Okra plant
Okra

Okra loves the summer heat and grows quickly.

  • It requires regular pruning to encourage new growth and a higher yield.

8. Amaranth (Chaulai)

 

Amaranth
Amaranth (Chaulai)

Amaranth is a hardy leafy vegetable that grows well in hot summers.

  • It is an excellent source of iron and can be harvested multiple times in a season.

9. Ridge Gourd

 

Ridge gourd
Ridge gourd

Ridge gourd is a climber that thrives in warm weather and requires support for vertical growth. Regular harvesting ensures continuous yield throughout the season.

10. Round Gourd (Apple Gourd/Tinda)

 

Apple Gourd Tinda
Apple Gourd (Tinda)

This small, round gourd is easy to grow and ideal for summer.

  • It requires well-drained soil and regular watering.

11. Bitter Gourd (Karela)

 

bitter-gourd
Bitter Gourd

Bitter gourd, also known as Karela, thrives in warm temperatures and is an excellent choice for summer gardening. It is packed with nutrients and offers numerous health benefits.

  • Sunlight: Requires full sunlight for at least 5-6 hours.

12. Capsicum (Bell Pepper)

 

capsicum green
capsicum green

 

Capsicum grows well in summer with partial shade.

  • It requires rich soil and consistent moisture for the best yield.

Herbs You Can Grow in Summer:

 

1. Spinach

 

spinach
Spinach
  • Spinach can be grown for both the summer and winter seasons.
  • The pot should be wider in size in comparison to the depth of the pot, it can be 6 to 8 inches in height.
  • Any old tub or bucket or rectangular plastic pot can also be preferred for planting spinach.

Click here to read:

How to Grow Spinach at home, Complete Guide

2. Mint

 

Mint
Mint

The ideal period for sowing mint seeds is either in February-March or during the rainy season.

  •  Mint thrives in consistently moist soil, so water before the soil dries out.
  • Rectangular pot is best for mint.

Click here to read:

How To Grow Mint at home: Complete Guide

 

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Happy Gardening!

grow bags for gardening

Benefits of Using Grow Bags in Gardening

Benefits of Grow Bags in Gardening

 

If you are exploring container gardening and considering various types of pots such as cement, plastic, clay, or ceramic, it is also crucial to understand the concept of grow bags. 

grow bags for gardening

Grow bags offer a flexible and efficient solution to your gardening needs. But, are grow bags truly good for gardening? Let’s dive deep into this topic and discover the myriad benefits these unassuming containers offer.

What Are Grow Bags?

 

Grow bags are a type of container used for planting, typically made from breathable materials such as fabric. Grow bags typically come in a cylindrical shape with a solid base at the bottom, which provides stability and prevents them from rolling or tipping over.

grow bags

They are commonly made of HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) plastic, which offers several advantages. Unlike traditional plastic pots, HDPE grow bags don’t absorb as much heat during hot weather, especially in the scorching months of May and June.

This helps maintain a cooler environment for plant roots, preventing overheating and potential damage. When selecting plastic grow bags, it is crucial to opt for those made from HDPE to ensure adequate insulation against external heat.

Additionally, another important factor to consider is the GSM (Grams per Square Meter) rating.

  • The higher the GSM, the sturdier the grow bag tends to be, ensuring its longevity and durability.
  • GSM values are typically indicated on each type of grow bag, whether it’s made of plastic, jute, or cloth, making it easier to choose the right one for your needs.

Unlike traditional pots, grow bags allow for superior aeration and drainage, which can significantly benefit plant health. They come in various sizes and materials, each suited to different types of plants and gardening setups.

Benefits of Using Grow Bags

 

Improved Root Health

 

grow bags for gardening
grow bags for gardening

 

One of the standout benefits of grow bags is their impact on root health.

  • The breathable fabric allows for air pruning, where roots are naturally pruned by exposure to air.
  • This prevents root circling and encourages a more fibrous root system, enhancing nutrient uptake and overall plant vitality.

Better Aeration

 

The porous nature of grow bags ensures that the soil remains well-aerated.

  • This means oxygen can reach the roots more efficiently, promoting healthier and faster growth.

Enhanced Drainage

 

grow bag drainage

Overwatering is a common problem in traditional pots, leading to root rot and other issues.

  • Grow bags excel in drainage, preventing water from pooling at the bottom and ensuring a healthier root environment.

Portability and Versatility

 

Grow bags are lightweight and easy to move, making them perfect for gardeners who like to rearrange their plants or those who have limited space. Their flexibility also means they can be used in a variety of settings, from balconies to backyards.

Types of Grow Bags

 

Fabric Grow Bags

 

These are the most common and popular type of grow bags. Made from breathable fabric, they provide excellent aeration and drainage.

Plastic Grow Bags

 

plastic grow bags

Though less common, plastic grow bags are durable and can be a more affordable option. They typically have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Biodegradable Grow Bags

 

For the eco-conscious gardener, biodegradable grow bags offer an environmentally friendly option. These bags decompose over time, enriching the soil as they break down.

Comparing Grow Bags to Traditional Pots

 

Durability:

 

Grow bags are made from tough materials, making them resistant to breaking.

  • Unlike clay or cement pots that can shatter or plastic pots that can crack, grow bags stay strong for years.

Low Maintenance:

 

With proper care, grow bags can last 4-5 years without tearing.

  • They do not need repainting like some pots and maintain their look over time. Just handle them gently to avoid damage.

Mobility:

 

Grow bags are easier to move around, making them ideal for urban gardens or spaces where flexibility is key.

Reusability:

 

Grow bags can be reused multiple times.

  • After a plant is done growing, simply empty, clean, and reuse the bag for another plant. This makes them a sustainable and cost-effective option.

Quality and Sizes:

 

Grow bags come in various materials like jute, plastic, and cloth, and they offer many sizes from small to large.

  • Special designs are available for specific crops, and their foldable nature makes storage easy.

Lightweight:

 

Grow bags are much lighter than traditional pots, making them ideal for rooftops and balconies.

  • They do not put extra strain on structures and are easy to move around.

Setting Up Your Grow Bag Garden

 

Selecting the Right Location

 

Place your grow bags in a location that receives adequate sunlight and has good air circulation.

Create holes for drainage

 

When using plastic grow bags, it is important to create holes for drainage.

  • However, avoid making holes at the very bottom. Instead, make holes around the bottom edge of the grow bags.
  • This prevents soil from spilling out and keeps the bags lightweight, avoiding the need for heavy materials to cover bottom holes.

To make the holes, use a lit incense stick. This method creates neat, symmetrical holes and reduces the risk of tearing the grow bags. Avoid using sharp tools, as they can damage the bags.

Preparing the Grow Bags

 

grow bags for radish

Fill the grow bags with high-quality soil mixed with compost.

  • Ensure the soil is loose and well-draining.

Use a mix of organic compost and potting soil. Supplement with slow-release fertilizers to provide essential nutrients over time.

Planting in Grow Bags

 

Which types of plants are suitable for Grow Bags

 

Tomato plant in grow bag
Tomato plant in grow bag

Vegetables such as: Tomatoes, Brinjal, Capsicum, Peppers, herbs, and root vegetables like carrots and potatoes thrive in grow bags.

  • Choose plants based on the size of your bags and your climate.

While traditional clay pots have their charm, grow bags offer a practical, durable, and flexible alternative for modern gardening.

Happy Gardening!