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Gardening in Saint John, NB in June

Gardening in Saint John, NB in June

June is one of the busiest and most rewarding gardening months in Saint John. By mid-June, the danger of frost has usually passed, and the soil has warmed enough for most vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Saint John’s Bay of Fundy climate gives gardeners a relatively long growing season compared with many other parts of New Brunswick.

What to Plant in June

Vegetables

  • Beans
  • Cucumbers
  • Zucchini and summer squash
  • Pumpkins
  • Corn
  • Beets
  • Carrots
  • Lettuce
  • Radishes
  • Swiss chard

Herbs

  • Basil
  • Dill
  • Parsley
  • Cilantro
  • Chives

Flowers

  • Marigolds
  • Nasturtiums
  • Cosmos
  • Zinnias
  • Sunflowers
  • Petunias

Warm-season crops such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, and basil are typically safe to plant outdoors after the May frost period has passed.

June Garden Tasks

🌱 Mulch garden beds

  • Helps retain moisture.
  • Reduces weeds.
  • Keeps soil temperatures more stable.

💧 Water deeply

  • Aim for about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water per week.
  • Morning watering helps prevent disease.

🌿 Feed plants

  • Apply compost or a balanced fertilizer to vegetables and annual flowers.

🦋 Watch for pests

  • Slugs can be a problem during wet Fundy weather.
  • Check brassicas (cabbage, broccoli, kale) for caterpillars.

Flowers Looking Good in June

Many perennial gardens in Saint John reach their peak in June with:

  • Peonies
  • Irises
  • Lupins
  • Rhododendrons
  • Early roses

Looking Ahead to July

By late June, consider sowing a second crop of:

  • Lettuce
  • Radishes
  • Spinach
  • Bush beans

Succession planting keeps fresh vegetables coming through summer and into early fall.

June gardening tip for Saint John: The Bay of Fundy often keeps temperatures cooler than inland New Brunswick. Tomatoes, peppers, and basil grow best in the sunniest, most sheltered part of your yard.