Summer is an important season for farming, with long days and perfect temperatures for the majority of crops. The choice of the right summer crops guarantees a good harvest while reducing heat stress on the plants. Careful planning, soil preparation, and irrigation methods are crucial in attaining maximum yields.
You may refer to this guide to look for a brief description of what to plant.
Top 8 Crops to Plant this Summer
If you want a successful harvest, then the selection of crop for the summer season is a crucial decision. For getting more assistance on this, here are the 8 Best Summer Crops which you can plant:
1. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are among the common vegetables due to their various applications and simple cultivation process. They are cultivated during hot seasons and need at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. With proper maintenance, they yield high output in a short period. Moreover, several farmers use a tractor for field preparation and managing large-scale fields.
Tips for growing:
- Select a heat-tolerant variety like Cherry, Roma, and Beefsteak tomatoes.
- Plant in rich and well-nourished soil.
- Use supports for the vine to prevent the vegetable from coming into contact with the ground.
- Water thoroughly but at intervals to promote improved root growth.
- Apply mulch to maintain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
2. Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is a summer crop that can develop very well under hot weather. It develops rapidly and provides a nutritious yield. Corn occupies a big space and needs sunlight but is simple to cultivate.
Tips for growing:
- Plant the corn in blocks instead of rows to facilitate pollination.
- Grow in well-fertilized loamy soil with proper drainage.
- Give at least an inch of water a week, particularly when tasseling and silking.
- Harvest when kernels are plump and milky when pierced.
3. Cucumbers
Cucumbers are another great crop for farming. They take a short time to grow and can be consumed fresh on salads or pickled to be stored for years. Given proper care, it can yield a constant harvest during summer.
Tips for growing:
- Choose a heat-tolerant crop such as Armenian and Marketmore cucumbers.
- Vine support is used to conserve space and prevent fruit from touching the ground.
- Provide regular watering to avoid bitter-flavored cucumbers.
- Regular harvesting to promote more fruiting.
4. Peppers
Peppers such as bell peppers, chilli peppers, and jalapeños are hot to grow and not high maintenance. They are a good source of vitamins and are mostly used in most dishes.
Tips for growing:
- Start seeds indoors before transplanting outside when temperatures are consistently above 60°F.
- Use well-drained high organic matter soil.
- Water thoroughly, but do not overwater as it causes root rot.
- Pick when fruits are crisp and fully coloured for the best flavour.
5. Okra
Okra is a warm-season crop that does well in hot climates. It is very nutritious and is used primarily in soups, stews, and fried foods. The plants are drought-resistant and need minimal care after they are planted.
Tips for growing:
- Directly sow seeds in warm soil after the last frost.
- Space plants about 12 inches apart for proper air circulation.
- Harvest pods when they are 2-3 inches long to ensure tenderness.
- Picking regularly encourages continuous production.
6. Watermelon
Watermelons are perfect for summer farming as they develop best in hot temperatures and require plenty of sunlight. Their sweet and hydrating fruit makes them a favourite among farmers.
Tips for growing:
- Plant in well-drained, sandy soil with sufficient organic matter.
- Provide deep watering to support fruit development.
- Use mulch to retain soil moisture and control weeds.
- Harvest when the fruit produces a hollow sound when tapped.
7. Eggplant
Eggplants love heat and can produce a steady harvest throughout the summer. They are a great ingredient in a wide variety of dishes and also have high nutritional value.
Tips for growing:
- Choose heat-tolerant varieties like Black Beauty and Japanese eggplants.
- Provide support for the plants as they can grow tall and bear heavy fruit.
- Water consistently, but avoid waterlogging the soil.
- Harvest when the skin is glossy and firm.
8. Green Beans
Green beans is a soft crop that comes in summer with a continuous yield. They are rapidly grown and have their harvest repeated twice or thrice in the season. In addition, when planting on a large scale, using a powerful tractor like a Mahindra tractor is highly recommended. This tractor can improve operational efficiency and reduce labour expenses.
Tips for growing:
- Either take bush beans or pole beans as per area requirements.
- Sow in well-drained soil with proper sunlight.
- Supply trellises for the pole beans to climb on.
- Pick regularly to promote more pod development.
Conclusion
Summer farming involves choosing plants that are tolerant to heat, need less water, and are productive under conditions of long days. All the above crops are among the top choices for farming this season and will yield a great harvest. If farmers use correct planting and maintenance methods, they can get maximum output and enjoy fresh food throughout the summer.
