On the edge of this treasure, September is a hot, brutal month, but it leads to the heart of the garden. Moving home has encouraged many to try their hand at gardening, landscaping, or parenting.
Welcome to newlyweds; Gardening is a lifelong endeavor. Here are some ideas, tips, and tricks for getting ready to grow.
During the butterfly season and in the gardening season, they are completely entering the treasury. There are about 100 species of butterflies that call home Florida. A good butterfly garden provides housing for all stages of the butterfly life cycle.
There should be shelter for adults, nectar, chewing larvae and chrysalis. Pentas are one of the most beautiful butterfly plants for Florida gardens.
Inspect tools, trim edges if necessary and make tools easier to find. Immerse the handles in brightly colored rubber to prolong its life, increase visibility among plants, and encourage safe, secure grip. There are also wraps to highlight and protect the handles.
The smartest way to store equipment is to take a pallet, turn it on, and copy it to the storage wall. Pop up long-handled tools in an open space for a cluttered-free storage pool.
Start or review your garden magazine. Plan or review a garden plan. Record in the magazine the failed, selected choices and any pests that invaded the garden. Be ruthless by avoiding those who have poor performance or are troubled by problems. Trying something new is easy. At dinner, discuss the family’s favorite vegetables to be included in this year’s garden.
Start seeds and be environmentally friendly. In early September, it is time to plant seeds for spring gardens and annual beds. Breeding is easy, as any container with a drain can be used. Good ideas for recycling include paper cups, egg cartons and jars made of tightly wrapped newspaper.
If you are planting a few vegetables for family and friends, generously planting a garden and a few extra rows, take the abundant produce to local shelters and food warehouses. Fresh vegetables are sometimes challenging and always appreciated.
It is the beginning of the bird migration season. Take a few minutes to see and listen. Last week, a swarm of swallows was seen feeding on dragon flies and many other flying insects. Their legends were interesting to watch and they adopted insect control practices in the garden.
Carol Cloud Bailey is a landscape consultant and gardener. Send inquiries to carol@yard-doc.com or visit www.yard-doc.com for more information.