Simple Summer Garden Projects

Florida summers can be brutal on our gardens. Between the blazing temperatures and frequent afternoon showers, our plants take a real beating. Here are a few project ideas that will help your gardens during these next few hot months.

Deadhead

So, I’m not referring to folks who can’t get enough of the 70’s Rock band, the Grateful Dead. When I talk about deadheading, I’m talking about removing spent flowers, browning leaves, or wimpy limbs. Noticing the signs of a stressed out plant can help you maintain the look of your garden and save unhealthy plants. By deadheading or pruning the plant’s least healthy part(s), gardeners are allowing the plant to redistribute energy for new growth or other areas of need. I try to deadhead my flowers and plants once a week, so it’s not an all day project. But I do find myself extra committed when my mother-in-law is on her way into town;)

Click here to watch my short video on Deadheading/Pruning.

Mulch

Frequent and heavy rain storms can wash away good soil, microbes, and other good nutrients. Laying down mulch will help protect the roots and healthy soil. Every few years it is good practice to remove old mulch to prevent mold and mildew. This is a perfect time to put down cardboard! If you place cardboard down before mulching, it minimizes the need to weed so frequently. And let’s face it, weeding is every gardener’s least favorite project!

Water Responsibly

Starting in June, us Floridians learn to expect afternoon rain showers. It doesn’t rain every day, but almost every day. By installing a rain gauge, you can inexpensively conserve your water usage - which will save you money and plants from potential root rot. If you’re one of those who like to hand water your garden, be mindful of the weather and try to water early mornings so the plant’s have time to soak up the H2O before the sun evaporates it.

By deadheading/pruning, mulching, and being conservative with water, your garden will be in the best shape possible. Don’t beat yourself up if you loose a plant, or two, or several. It’s common, even in my garden, to experience the death of plants during the summer. (Especially, when I go out of town and my hubby’s in charge of my plant’s well being!) Summer is also a great time to start researching and planning for what to plant in the Fall, because it will be here before we know it!