In India, the summer season is characterized by high temperatures and dry weather. While many crops prefer cooler temperatures, there are still several seeds that can be sown during the summer months. Here are some common seeds that can be sown in India during the summer season along with methods to sow them:

1. Okra (Ladyfinger)         

   • Seeds should be sown directly in well-drained soil.
   • Make rows about 1-2 feet apart and sow the seeds about 1 inch deep.
   • Keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs, which typically takes 7-14 days.
   • Thin the seedlings to about 12-18 inches apart once they have a few true leaves.
2. Bitter Gourd (Karela):
   • Seeds can be sown directly in the soil or in containers.
   • Make small mounds of soil spaced about 3-4 feet apart in rows.
   • Plant 3-4 seeds per mound, about 1 inch deep.
   • Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7-14 days.
   • Once seedlings emerge, thin to the healthiest one or two plants per mound.
3. Cowpeas (Lobia):
   • Directly sow the seeds in well-drained soil, spaced about 3-4 inches apart in rows.
   • Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep.
   • Keep the soil moist until germination, which usually takes 7-10 days.
   • Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, thin them to about 6-8 inches apart.
4. Cucumber:

   Seeds can be sown directly in the soil or in containers.

   • Make small hills of soil spaced about 3-4 feet apart in rows.
   • Plant 4-6 seeds per hill, about 1 inch deep.
   • Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs within 7-10 days.
   • Once seedlings emerge, thin to the healthiest one or two plants per hill.
5. Sorghum (Jowar):
   • Sow seeds directly in the soil, spaced about 6-8 inches apart in rows.
   • Plant seeds about 1 inch deep.
   • Sorghum is relatively drought-tolerant but benefits from watering during dry spells until established.
   • Thin seedlings to about 12-18 inches apart once they have grown a few inches tall.

Regardless of the crop, it’s essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and reduce weed growth. Additionally, providing some shade or protection from intense sunlight during the hottest part of the day can aid in seedling establishment.