Since I haven't done this before (planted anything mid-summer), was just wondering what all would be reasonable to plant now (zone 5), and would I need to put some shade cloth over it?
Thanks!

On the other hand, I've had a very hard time with growing veggies in preparation for the fall, at least in my area. If the seeds actually germinate in the heat of summer, it's not long before pests find the little sprout and decimate them before they can get established. If you can start your plants indoors and grow them big enough to withstand heat and bug attacks, you should be able to have a nice fall garden. Starting plants outdoors will require constant supervision. Protection from pests and maintaining adequate moisture are major issues that have to be addressed.

Wish I'd left more room for okra - I forgot and started filling the end of the bush bean row with determinate tomatoes. Probably just as well since it was the south end and I don't want the okra to shade the beans. Though still tempted to plant in between the beans (north of tomatoes) since those were seeded a month ago so should be done sometime in Aug.

In my zone 7B/8A I can grow cool crops practically all summer long through fall. Rght now my lettuce , chards, chives, leeks , .. are going well. Just planted cukes. It was too cold for'em up until now.

I think beans and summer squash would be good choices if you don't have 'em going.

Otherwise in a couple weeks it might be better for planting, carrots and broccoli and peas.