As the mercury rises, many gardeners face the daunting task of keeping their crops thriving in scorching temperatures. Whether you’re battling the effects of climate change or simply seeking a refreshing salad from your own backyard, this selection of heat-tolerant greens will provide inspiration for your gardening endeavors. For those living in hot and dry climates, the challenges are all too real: parched soil, reduced moisture levels, and limited water resources for your plants.
On the other hand, even gardeners in more temperate zones can appreciate the value of growing greens that can withstand the heat, providing a consistent supply of fresh, flavorful leaves throughout the warmer months.
Bok Choy
Bok choy (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis) is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a versatile and heat-resistant leafy green that can thrive in a variety of environments. Native to China, this crop’s distinctive bulbous base sets it apart from other garden greens. Once harvested, bok choy can be easily cleaned and chopped into a stir-fry with other vegetables, or enjoyed raw in a salad.
Its ability to withstand heat makes it an excellent option for warm climates, as it takes time to bolt in high temperatures, allowing it to survive longer than other greens like lettuce.
Dinosaur Kale
Dinosaur kale, a Brassica oleracea var. palmifolia, is a popular ingredient in many Italian-inspired dishes such as soups and pasta recipes. Its striking dark green color, often mistaken for purple in the evening light, makes it an attractive addition to ornamental edible gardens. When left on its stalk, dinosaur kale becomes tough and ideal for use as livestock feed. However, when harvested at the right time, it adds a delightful texture and pop of color to warm-season gardens.
Egyptian Spinach
When discussing heat-tolerant greens, Egyptian spinach (Corchorus olitorius) is an essential mention. Similar to bok choy, it takes time for the plant to bolt, making it ideal for cultivation in warm climates. The unique aspect of this crop is its transformation into edible pods after pollination, which resemble okra. Known as ‘Molokhia’, Egyptian spinach grows tall when planted and can be used in a range of Middle Eastern dishes, as well as adding a fresh twist to classic garden salads.
Collards
Biennial collard greens (Brassica olaracea) offer versatility in their cultivation methods, thriving in raised beds, soil, or containers. This hardy crop is perfect for indoor gardening enthusiasts seeking a bountiful harvest of fresh greens. With a yield that can easily sustain a family’s needs, collards prove to be an excellent choice for home gardeners. Furthermore, they exhibit remarkable heat tolerance and cooking resilience, making them a reliable addition to any meal.
Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) may seem out of place in a list of heat-tolerant greens, but their leaves are not only delicious but also surprisingly resilient to high temperatures. For some enthusiasts, the real draw is the taste of the greens, which can be harvested while the sweet potatoes are still developing underground. This dual-purpose crop offers a unique advantage: you can reap the benefits of two harvests without increasing your workload.
To encourage healthy growth and maximize yields, simply snip off the leaves with scissors, clean them as needed, and enjoy their culinary potential. Just remember to leave at least half the foliage intact to allow the plant to focus its energy on producing a substantial tuber.
Longevity Spinach
Gynura procumbens, a type of spinach, thrives in warm weather and boasts low maintenance requirements. Its attractive appearance makes it an excellent choice for gardeners who desire visual appeal without sacrificing ease of care. Moreover, this variety can be neglected during spring or summer travel, as it’s self-sufficient and requires minimal attention.
Notably, studies have linked consuming spinach to a reduced risk of certain health issues and lower blood sugar levels, underscoring the importance of incorporating this nutritious leafy green into one’s diet.
Moringa
Moringa oleifera, also affectionately referred to as the drumstick tree, is an extraordinary plant that has adapted to thrive in extreme temperatures, from scorching heat to freezing cold. Its remarkable resilience has made it a sought-after addition for many gardeners. Furthermore, its nutritional profile is truly impressive, making it an excellent choice for those looking to expand their crop list.
The leaves of this miraculous plant are incredibly versatile.
Not only can they be used in fresh salads or blended into invigorating smoothies to give your immune system a boost, but they also make a soothing and calming cup of tea. Whether you’re looking to enhance your overall health or simply indulge in a delightful beverage, Moringa oleifera is definitely worth considering.
Chaya
Native to Mexico and Central America, Cnidoscolus aconitifolius is an edible leafy green that boasts impressive nutritional benefits and antioxidant properties. When cultivated in the United States, chaya thrives in warm regions, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking to grow this crop domestically.
While it’s crucial to cook chaya thoroughly – a minimum of 20 minutes – to remove any potentially hazardous cyanide traces, proper preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable culinary experience.
Katuk
The Phyllanthaceae family is home to Auropus androgynus, a versatile leafy crop commonly found in traditional Southeast Asian cuisine. Its ability to thrive in warm temperatures makes it an easy addition to any garden. What’s more, the edible berries that grow on this plant can be harvested for a nutritious snack. The uncooked leaves have a distinctive peanut-like flavor, while cooked leaves take on a spinach-like taste. But Auropus androgynus offers more than just a unique culinary experience.
Research published in the Journal of Ethnic Foods reveals its impressive array of health benefits, including antifungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-cancerous properties. With such a wealth of advantages, it’s no wonder this plant is a popular choice for many food enthusiasts.
Edible Leaf Hibiscus
The humble Abelmoschus manihot, also known as a perennial leafy green, is a low-maintenance gem that thrives in hot gardens. With proper growing conditions, it can reach up to 2 feet in height, making it an ideal choice for self-sufficient homesteaders seeking a bountiful harvest. A bonus feature of this versatile green is its edible leaves and flowers, providing a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.
Cranberry Hibiscus
The cranberry hibiscus (Hibiscus acetosella) is a sun-loving shrub that’s often grown for ornamental purposes, but it also offers a wealth of edible uses and potential health benefits. This heat-tolerant crop produces leaves with a distinct red hue, making it an excellent addition to any garden seeking diversity. Not only can you incorporate its flavorful leaves into home-cooked meals, but the cranberry hibiscus also provides a unique opportunity to diversify your culinary repertoire.
Swiss Chard
For gardeners of all levels, Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris) is an indispensable heat-tolerant green that thrives in a variety of conditions. Despite its resemblance to celery, the leaves and stems of Swiss chard possess a subtle sweetness reminiscent of spinach. One of its most notable characteristics is its ability to grow well in cold temperatures, making it an excellent choice for gardens with varying climates.
With its impressive heat tolerance and adaptability, Swiss chard is an ideal crop for many gardeners.
Ethiopian Mustard
Brassica carinata, also known as Ethiopian rape or mustard, is a versatile crop perfect for warm climates. Its heat-tolerant greens and flowers make it an attractive option for gardeners looking to cultivate a diverse harvest. This green, a cousin of mustard, produces thousands of seeds, likely a natural hybrid of black mustard (B. nigra) and wild cabbage (B. oleracea). While it may bolt more quickly than other varieties, the abundant yield makes it well worth the minor inconvenience.
Ethiopian rape is also notable for its hardiness, withstanding few pests and diseases. Its robust nature makes it a reliable choice for gardeners seeking to minimize maintenance.
Amaranth
Amaranth greens are an excellent choice for small homesteaders, boasting a rich history that spans centuries. Originally discovered in Oaxaca, Mexico, this versatile crop has been a staple for many gardeners worldwide who thrive in hot weather conditions. Not only does it offer a delicious taste, but it also produces striking purple stems while growing, making it a visually appealing addition to any garden.
Furthermore, its heat tolerance allows you to harvest greens even during the most scorching summer days, making it an ideal crop for those looking to grow their own food in warm climates.
Arugula
Arugula, a reliable and fast-growing heat-tolerant green, completes our list of top picks. While not all arugula cultivars can withstand high temperatures, look for specific varieties like ‘Astro,’ ‘Slow Bolt,’ or wild types to ensure a bountiful harvest. By maintaining consistent soil moisture and providing partial shade during the warmest months, you can further minimize bolting time and enjoy a longer growing season.
A Few Extras
When it comes to growing crops in warm climates, there are many more options beyond the 15 heat-tolerant greens listed earlier. In fact, some of the most impressive performers can be found among these lesser-known varieties: Curly-leafed Kale (Brassica oleracea var.
sabellica), a hardy and versatile addition to any salad; Ceylon Spinach (Talinum fruticosum), with its delicate flavor and crunchy texture; Sissoo Spinach (Alternanthera sissoo), prized for its deep green color and low-growing habit; and Tat Soi (Brassica rapa ssp. Narinosa), a sweet and slightly bitter delight that pairs perfectly with a vinaigrette.
Salad Greens That Grow in Hot Weather
When it comes to lettuces that can withstand the heat, butter-heads are a top choice. These varieties won’t bolt when temperatures rise, making them ideal for salads throughout the growing season. In many regions, you can start planting early in the spring and harvest continuously through summer, as long as the heat doesn’t become too intense. Of course, temperature tolerance varies by region, so it’s essential to consider your local climate.
Once planted, butter-head lettuce requires minimal maintenance – simply water every week or two and add a layer of mulch to promote healthy growth and provide essential nutrients. If you’re looking for other heat-tolerant options, try ‘Bronze Mignonette’, ‘Buttercrunch’, ‘Ermosa’, ‘Marvel of Four Season’, ‘Red Cross’, ‘Summer Bibb’, or ‘White Boston’ varieties. For a pop of color, opt for red-leafed lettuces like ‘Lollo Rosso’, ‘Paradai Oak Leaf’, ‘Red Sails’, or ‘Ruby Green’.
Tips for Growing in the Summer
When selecting crops for a thriving summer harvest, prioritize loose-leaf varieties, which are more heat-tolerant and slower to bolt. Timing is also crucial when sowing seeds, as some lettuce varieties, like most types, go dormant once temperatures reach 80°F. To ensure optimal growth, monitor soil moisture levels carefully and provide extra water as needed, while also providing shade during the hottest parts of the day to prevent leaf scorch.
Regular harvesting is essential to promote future growth by signaling the plant that it should continue producing new foliage. With a steady supply of fresh greens, you’ll be able to enjoy an endless array of delicious salads throughout the summer.
