SUMMER GARDENING IN SOUTH FLORIDA

Gardening in South Florida can be a challenge whether you are a long time resident or new resident.  The soil is more sand than nutritious soil.  The subtropical climate may mean some plants may grow nearly year round.  Select plants carefully.

To live in harmony with our South Florida environment it is best to be aware of how plants, animals, insects exist and how we intersect with them and affect them.  Florida has more than eighty distinct ecosystems, which are home to many different plant and animal species.  Please DO NOT introduce invasive species into your home garden.  Invasive species cause harm to the environment, the economy and/or human health.  

Start preparing your garden site in the spring when it is still nice and cool outside.  Build raised beds; amend your soil and plan vegetable and flower crop timing for the “best yield”.  Now is a good time to crop back leggy or overgrown plants from trees and shrubs.  Remember to use a slow release fertilizer. It is a good idea to plant heat loving and colorful annuals like moss rose early on.   Also, double-check your irrigation system and make sure it is in working order.

For more information on gardening in Florida please, visit floridayards.org.