June in the Garden: Growing Slow & Steady in Central Oregon
June marks a gentle turning point in the garden. The soil has warmed just enough, the days stretch longer, and the promise of summer feels real — but there’s still a quiet pace to the work. The last frost is behind us (hopefully), the days are long and warm, and those first real signs of summer are everywhere — herbs spilling over their pots, fresh soil under your nails, and a to-do list that feels more like a joy than a job.
Here in Central Oregon’s Zone 5 climate, we garden with the rhythms of the high desert in mind — cool nights, warm days, and the kind of dry air that reminds us to slow down and stay grounded. Whether you’re planting new starts or caring for what’s already growing, June is the month to nurture patiently, enjoy small victories, and watch your garden settle into its summer groove.
What to Plant This Month
Warm-Season Veggies
Now’s the time. The soil has warmed and those tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, and peppers have been patiently waiting for their moment. In Central Oregon, it’s smart to keep a frost cloth or row cover nearby — just in case the weather decides to throw us a surprise.
Herbs + Kitchen Favorites
There’s something so satisfying about stepping out your door and snipping fresh basil for a caprese salad or a sprig of rosemary for dinner. Basil, parsley, cilantro, and thyme all love being planted this time of year. And they look just as lovely in a pot on the porch as they do in a raised bed.
Perennials & Shrubs
If you’re adding new perennials, grasses, or flowering shrubs, early June is still a wonderful window. Just remember: around here, deep watering and a good layer of mulch make all the difference.
A Few Gentle To-Dos
Deadhead & Pinch Back
Taking a few minutes to snip back spent blooms or gently pinch leggy annuals will help your plants stay full and flourishing. It’s a small task that makes a big difference.
Check the Soil
Even if it doesn’t feel hot yet, the sun and wind can dry things out faster than we think. We recommend checking your soil in the morning — just a quick finger test is all it takes — and watering deeply, not just often.
Feed What’s Growing
Your plants are doing a lot of work right now. A light feeding with an organic fertilizer can help them stay strong and vibrant through the rest of the season.
Support Tall Growers
Now’s the perfect time to tuck in cages, stakes, and trellises — before your tomatoes and vines get too wild. Trust us, it’s a lot easier to do now than in July.
Pest Management: Keep It Natural & Gentle
June’s warmth also means pests start to stir. Before reaching for harsh chemicals, try these natural pest management tips:
Inspect regularly. Catching problems early is key. Look under leaves and around stems for aphids, mites, or caterpillars.
Encourage beneficial insects. Ladybugs, lacewings, and praying mantises love to eat pests — plant pollinator-friendly flowers like lavender, dill, and marigolds to invite them in.
Use organic sprays sparingly. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be effective without harming pollinators or pets.
Keep your garden tidy. Remove fallen leaves and debris where pests can hide or overwinter.
If you have pets, remember to choose pest control methods that are safe for them — avoid sprays that contain harsh chemicals and always store products out of reach.
Invite the Buzz
We’re big believers in planting for the bees. Lavender, bee balm, echinacea, and alyssum not only look beautiful — they support pollinators and create balance in your garden. Plus, there’s something magical about watching a honeybee float from bloom to bloom on a warm afternoon.
Most of All… Take It In
The best part of June? Slowing down enough to really enjoy the space you’ve created. Morning light on your new seedlings, the scent of herbs when you brush past, the hum of life all around. That’s what gardening is all about.