Ahhh, July. A month where you break out the fireworks, popsicles, and sprinklers (for both you AND your yard!) July is a month bursting with exciting activities and opportunities. Here’s a rundown of everything you need to know about the seventh month of the year.
Hi there! John Kelly here.
Here at Chippewa Valley Growers, we welcome July with open arms. This month brings long sunny days, vibrant gardens, and a wealth of natural phenomena. From the beauty of summer blooms to the cosmic spectacle of the moon and stars, July offers endless inspiration for nature enthusiasts.
Here are some of our favorite things about this month:
Weather
Here Comes the Sun
The heat is on!
July temperatures in Eau Claire typically range from 80-85°F during the day, with occasional peaks in the low 90s, while nighttime temps usually drop to 60-65°F. Precipitation is moderate, with occasional thunderstorms that bring short but intense bursts of rain.
While July’s higher temperatures and increased sunlight stimulate plant growth, they can also bring challenges such as heat stress and rapid evaporation of soil moisture. To prevent this, water your garden early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation and apply a layer of mulch to conserve soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. You can also provide coverage for heat-sensitive plants using shade cloth or temporary structures during the hottest parts of the day and place container plants in shaded areas if they show signs of wilting or heat stress.
Significant Days in July
July 7 – Father/Daughter Take a Walk Day
National Father/Daughter Take A Walk Day encourages fathers and daughters to get outdoors and take a walk, which provides opportunities for quality time and meaningful conversations. This day highlights the importance of fostering strong relationships between dads and daughters as they walk together along scenic routes, through local parks, or just around the neighborhood. It’s also an opportunity to explore a new trail, visit a botanical garden, or walk along the beach.
July 8 – Raspberry Day
National Raspberry Day celebrates these sweet, nutritious, and versatile berries packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. This day promotes the healthy benefits of eating raspberries – whether fresh, in desserts, mixed into drinks, or as a key ingredient in many recipes.
This month, visit a local farm or orchard to pick raspberries and take a bushel home to enjoy and share with friends, family, or neighbors. You can also take a stab at making raspberry-based recipes such as jams, pies, smoothies, and salads.
July 20 – Moon Day
National Moon Day commemorates the historic moon landing of Apollo 11 on July 20, 1969. On that day, astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the lunar surface – one of humanity’s greatest achievements in space exploration. National Moon Day celebrates the ingenuity, bravery, and teamwork that made the moon landing possible and encourages interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
A simple activity for this day is spending time observing the moon through a telescope or with the naked eye searching for craters, seas, and other lunar features. You can also read books or watch documentaries to learn more about the Apollo missions and space exploration or check out your local planetariums and science museums, as they may feature special events and exhibits related to the moon landing.
Honorable Mentions
Other fun national days this month are National Strawberry Sundae Day (July 7), National Rainier Cherry Day (July 11), National Tropical Fruit Day (July 18), National Parents’ Day (July 28), and National Avocado Day (July 31).
Fun Facts
Buck Moon
The “Buck Moon” is the traditional name given to July’s full moon, originating from Native American tribes that observed male deer, known as bucks, began growing new antlers during this time of year. The full Buck Moon usually marks the peak of summer, symbolizing growth, strength, and renewal in the natural world. It’s also a time to appreciate the lushness of the season and reflect on one’s personal growth and development. Gardeners also use this period to assess their progress and make adjustments to ensure a bountiful harvest. This year’s Buck Moon will reach its peak on Friday, July 21st at 6:17am.
“July” Etymology
The word “July” is named for Julius Caesar, the famous Roman general and statesman. Originally, the month was called “Quintilis,” which means “fifth” in Latin, as it was the fifth month of the Roman calendar (which started in March). In 44 B.C., after Caesar’s assassination, the Roman Senate honored him by renaming the month to “Julius.” This renaming was part of the Julian calendar reform, which Caesar had introduced to better align the calendar year with the solar year.
Dog Star
The term “dog days of summer” refers to the hottest period of the summer, typically occuring in the northern hemisphere between early July and early August. Dog Days are characterized by high temperatures, humidity, and often stagnant, oppressive weather conditions. The phrase originates from ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian times and is linked to the star Sirius (aka the “Dog Star”), which is the brightest in the constellation Canis Major (aka “Greater Dog”). During the peak of summer, Sirius rises and sets with the sun, and ancient civilizations believed that the combined heat from Sirius and the sun caused extreme temperatures during this period.
Birth Flowers of the Month
Larkspur
Larkspurs are tall, striking plants that come in a range of colors including blue, purple, pink, and white, making them popular in garden landscapes and flower arrangements. These flowers typically bloom in early to mid-summer and are known for their intricate, spurred petals.
Larkspurs often symbolize an open heart, loving bonds, and ardent attachment. They are also associated with lightness and levity due to their delicate, airy appearance. Different colors of larkspurs carry varied meanings: blue for dignity and grace, pink for fickleness and changeable nature, white for happiness and joy, and purple for a sign of first love.
Water Lily
Water lilies are aquatic plants known for their broad, floating leaves and stunning, fragrant flowers that bloom in a variety of colors, such as white, pink, yellow, and red. Depending on the variety, the petals may open in the morning and close at night, or vice versa. Water lilies are a staple in water gardens and ponds, providing aesthetic beauty while also offering shade, serving as a habitat for fish and other aquatic life, and helping maintain water quality by reducing algae growth.
These flowers hold deep symbolic meanings across different cultures. Water lilies are often associated with purity, enlightenment, and rebirth, largely due to their ability to bloom in muddy water and emerge clean and beautiful. In Buddhism, water lilies (especially the lotus variety) symbolize spiritual enlightenment and purity of the mind and soul.
One More Thing…
As the weather warms, it’s important to take care of your plants AND yourself! Remember to stay hydrated while working in the garden and use sunscreen, hats, and other gear to protect you from the extra sunshine.
As always, if you need supplies, ideas, or advice, stop by Chippewa Valley Growers – we’re happy to help.
Until next time… Keep Smiling! Keep Living the Dream!
For summertime gardening tips, check out: The Ten-Step July Gardening Checklist, Six DIY Ways to Upcycle Your Garden, and Top Ten Tips for Gardening on a Budget.
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