| Especially for TCPalm
Here on the Treasure Coast, September is a hot, brutal month, but it marks the middle of the gardening season. Staying closer to home has led many people to try their hand at the vegetable garden, expanding landscaping, or maintaining an indoor jungle.
Welcome to the newbies; Gardening is an endeavor that will bring you a lifetime of pleasure. Here are a few ideas, tips, and tricks to help you prepare for growth.
The butterfly and gardening seasons are in full swing along the Treasure Coast. There are approximately 100 species of butterflies that call Florida home. A good butterfly garden provides a home for all phases of the butterfly life cycle.
There should be nectar plants for the adults, larvae plants for the caterpillars to chew and shelter for the pupae. Pentas are some of the best butterfly nectar plants for Florida gardens.
Inspect tools, sharpen edges if necessary and make tools easier to find. Dip the handles in a light-colored rubber to extend their life, increase visibility between plants, and promote a safe, secure grip. Wraps are also available to accentuate and protect the handles.
A clever way to store tools is to take a pallet, turn it over, and bolt it to the storage room wall. Place long-handled tools for a tidy storage container.
Start or review your vegetable garden diary. Create or revise a garden plan. In the journal, write down what failed, what selections thrived, and what pests have invaded the garden. Be reckless in eliminating poor performers or those riddled with problems; it’s easy to try something new. Over dinner, discuss the family’s favorite vegetables for this year’s garden.
Start seeds and be environmentally friendly too. Early September is the time to plant seeds for the fall vegetable gardens and annual beds. Starting the seed is easy as any container with drainage can be used. Good ideas for reusing seed growing items include paper cups, egg cartons, and pots made from tightly rolled newspapers.
When you plant some vegetables for family and friends, garden generously, and sow a few extra rows, bring some of the abundant produce to local animal shelters and pantries. Fresh vegetables are sometimes hard to come by and are always valued.
It is the start of the bird migration season. Take a few minutes to watch and listen. A swarm of swallows was spotted last week feeding on dragonflies and other abundant flying insects. Their antics were fun to watch, and insect control habits in the garden were welcome.
Carol Cloud Bailey is a landscape consultant and gardener. Send questions to carol@yard-doc.com or visit www.yard-doc.com for more information.
