When summer brings high temperatures and little rain, many gardeners wonder what, if anything, they can plant that will survive—let alone thrive. Uriah Israel of Texas Small Farmers and Ranchers–CBO offers a clear answer: heat-tolerant crops.
Here are three resilient crops that can handle the pressure of mid-July sun while offering quick harvests and steady nutrition.
1. Arugula: Fast and Flavorful
Arugula isn’t just for fancy salads. It’s a practical choice for hot-weather planting. With a harvest window of just 30 days, it’s ideal for growers looking to get food from soil to table in a short time.
To succeed, plant it in shaded areas and keep an eye on the temperature. If the mercury climbs past 95°F, you may see stress on the plant. Partial shade and consistent watering are key.
2. Kale: A Classic Resilient Green
Kale continues to prove its worth. Not only is it rich in nutrients, but it’s also relatively heat-tolerant when planted in the right environment. Shaded spots in your yard or field can help mitigate stress during peak afternoon sun.
Kale grows well with regular watering, and its strong leaves can hold up against moderate heat. It’s a smart pick for backyard growers and small farms alike.
3. Swiss Chard: Bright, Hardy, and Versatile
Swiss chard can be surprisingly sturdy under heat—but only to a point. If exposed to prolonged high temperatures without relief, it may bolt. Bolting happens when the plant sends up a flower stalk, signaling the end of its productive life.
To delay bolting, grow chard in shaded plots, maintain consistent moisture levels, and avoid planting during extreme heat spikes. Like kale and arugula, chard prefers protection over exposure.
Why Shade and Water Matter
All three crops mentioned have one common requirement: protection. Shade helps manage heat stress, while steady watering ensures survival during long, dry weeks. Leafy greens may grow in the heat—but only when conditions are right.
And remember—when these plants bolt, they’re not dying. They’re completing their life cycle. Your job as a grower is to delay that as long as possible to extend your harvest window.
Start Small, Grow Smart
These summer greens aren’t miracle crops. They still need attention and observation. But they’re a great option for Texas growers and anyone farming in hot climates. As Uriah mentions, more heat-tolerant crops will be shared soon, offering even more solutions for warm-weather growing.
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