Are you a Central Florida gardener? Here's your to-do list heading into August, but with a twist. While the Almanac provides a wealth of information, I'm going to take you on a journey through the heart of August gardening, sharing my insights and opinions on what really matters. Get ready to dive deep into the world of Central Florida gardening, where the heat is on, but so are the rewards.
The Heat is On, But So Are the Rewards
Central Florida in August is a hotbed of activity for gardeners. The average temperature of 92 degrees and 6.25 inches of rainfall create a unique environment for both seasoned and novice gardeners. But it's not just about the numbers; it's about understanding the nuances of this season and how to make the most of it.
Moon Phases and Planting Dates
The moon phases play a crucial role in gardening, and August is no exception. The last quarter moon on August 5th and the new moon on August 12th are key moments for planting and tending to your garden. Personally, I think it's fascinating how the moon's cycles can influence plant growth, and it's a reminder that nature operates on a grand, interconnected scale.
Vegetables and Flowers to Plant
The list of vegetables and flowers to plant in August is a treasure trove for any gardener. From cantaloupe and collard greens to angelonia and black-eyed Susans, there's something for every taste and preference. What makes this particularly fascinating is the diversity of options, and how each plant has its own unique characteristics and care requirements.
Vegetable and Fruit Care
August is a critical month for vegetable and fruit care. It's not too late to start tomato, pepper, and eggplant transplants from seed, but you'll want to hurry. Fertilizing new seedlings every other week with a half-strength fertilizer solution is essential for their growth. Personally, I think it's amazing how a little extra care can make a big difference in the health and productivity of your garden.
Lawn Care
Lawn care in August is all about maintaining the green look and addressing common summer problems. Dense shade can cause lawns to thin, which is normal, but declining yellow grass may be a sign of take-all root rot. Expanding yellow spots in St. Augustine grass could be due to chinch bugs, and chewed grass blades may result from caterpillars. It's important to stay vigilant and take action when needed.
Landscape Care
Landscape care in August is about adding new plants and maintaining the health of existing ones. Summer rains can help water new plantings, but it's crucial to check daily to ensure the soil remains moist. Tough bedding plants like bush daisy, coleus, pentas, torenia, and classic zinnias are ideal for this season. Inviting pollinators with butterfly weed, coreopsis, pentas, Porter weed, and salvias can enhance the beauty and productivity of your garden.
Foliage and Houseplant Care
Foliage and houseplant care in August is about controlling pests and encouraging new growth. Mealy bugs and scale insects can cause plants to decline, so it's important to control them with insecticidal soaps. Trimming foliage plants to encourage dense new growth and transplanting root-bound plants are also key tasks. Personally, I think it's fascinating how a little care can make a big difference in the health and appearance of your indoor and outdoor plants.
A Final Thought
As August comes to a close, it's important to reflect on the journey you've taken as a gardener. The heat and challenges of this season have tested your skills and resilience, but the rewards have been well worth it. Whether you've seen your garden flourish or faced setbacks, the experience has been a valuable one. So, as you look forward to the fall, remember the lessons learned and the joy found in the process of gardening. It's not just about the plants; it's about the connection to nature and the satisfaction of nurturing life.
Tom MacCubbin, an urban horticulturist emeritus with the University of Florida Cooperative Extension Service, has shared his expertise and insights throughout this article. His passion for gardening and commitment to helping others is evident in every word. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out to him at TomMac1996@aol.com.
