How to Get More Vegetables from Your Garden This Summer

By early June, vegetable gardens across Billings, Laurel, and Yellowstone County are starting to take off.

Tomatoes are stretching taller, peppers are settling into their new homes, and cucumbers and squash are beginning to spread.

This is one of the most exciting times of the gardening season — but it’s also when a few small adjustments can make a huge difference in how much food your garden produces.

Give vegetables room to grow

Vegetable plants grow quickly once the weather warms up.

Tomatoes, squash, and cucumbers in particular can spread much larger than people expect. Making sure plants have enough space allows them to get proper airflow and sunlight, which helps prevent disease and encourages stronger growth.

Feed your plants regularly

Vegetables are heavy feeders.

As plants grow and begin producing fruit, they use nutrients from the soil quickly. Adding fertilizer during the growing season helps plants stay strong and productive.

A simple feeding routine every couple of weeks can dramatically improve harvest size.

Water deeply and consistently

Montana’s dry climate means vegetable gardens need consistent moisture.

Deep watering encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil where moisture lasts longer. This helps plants stay healthier during hot summer days.

Early morning watering is usually the most effective approach.

Support plants as they grow

Many vegetables benefit from extra support.

Tomatoes, cucumbers, and some peppers can grow tall and heavy once they begin producing. Using cages, stakes, or trellises helps keep plants upright and prevents branches from breaking.

Harvest regularly

One of the best ways to encourage vegetables to keep producing is simply to harvest them.

Picking vegetables regularly signals to the plant to keep growing and producing more.

The more often you harvest, the more productive many plants will become.

Gardening is about enjoying the process

Vegetable gardening is incredibly rewarding. Watching plants grow from small starts into productive plants is one of the great joys of summer.

And nothing quite compares to eating vegetables that came straight from your own garden.

Need help with your garden?

If you have questions about your vegetable garden or want help choosing plants for your space, stop by Nana’s Bloomers.

We love helping gardeners in Billings, Laurel, and Yellowstone County grow successful gardens all season long.