Summer Planting Guide: Heat-Tolerant Plants for Northeast Florida | |
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Lantana
Lantanas are a favorite for summer gardens due to their vibrant clusters of flowers that come in a variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, pink, and purple. These hardy perennials are drought-tolerant once established and attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Plant them in well-drained soil and full sun for the best results.
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Hibiscus
Hibiscus plants are renowned for their large, showy blooms that can brighten any garden. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Regular watering is essential, especially during the hottest days, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Hibiscus flowers come in many colors, including red, pink, yellow, and white.
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Purslane
Purslane is a low-growing succulent that produces an abundance of small, colorful flowers throughout the summer. It is highly heat-tolerant and can grow in poor, sandy soils, making it an excellent choice for areas with intense sunlight. Its spreading habit also makes it ideal for ground cover.
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Marigolds
Marigolds are another excellent choice for summer gardens. These hardy annuals produce vibrant flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red. Marigolds are known for their pest-repellent properties, making them a beneficial addition to vegetable gardens. Plant them in full sun and well-drained soil.
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Vinca
Also known as periwinkle, vinca flowers are excellent heat-tolerant plants. They produce an abundance of blooms in shades of white, pink, and purple. Vinca is highly resistant to drought and thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it a versatile choice for summer gardens.
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Coneflower
Coneflowers are hardy perennials that produce large, daisy-like flowers with prominent centers. They come in shades of purple, pink, and white. Coneflowers are drought-tolerant and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Plant them in well-drained soil and full sun for optimal growth.
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Rudbeckia
Also known as Black-eyed Susan, rudbeckia is a reliable summer bloomer with bright yellow petals and dark centers. These plants are drought-resistant and thrive in full sun. They make excellent cut flowers and add a cheerful splash of color to any garden.
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Bulbine
Bulbine is a succulent perennial that produces star-shaped yellow or orange flowers. It is extremely drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun to partial shade. Bulbine is also known for its medicinal properties and can be used to soothe minor skin irritations.
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Sedum
Sedums, or stonecrops, are succulents that come in a variety of shapes and colors. They are highly drought-resistant and thrive in hot, dry conditions. Sedums are perfect for rock gardens, borders, and containers. They require minimal maintenance and are excellent for ground cover.
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Here are a few more great plants for the summer heat:
Crown of Thorns, Mandevilla, Dipladenia, Bougainvillea, Desert Rose, Cacti, Agave, Aloe, Stapelia, Mangave, Ice Plant and most Salvias.
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4 Keys to Summer Gardening
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Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
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Watering: Water your plants early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system for efficient watering.
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Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients to your plants. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flowering or fruiting.
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Pruning: Regularly prune and deadhead flowering plants to encourage new growth and continuous blooming.
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Watering Tips for the Hot Months | |
Proper watering is essential to keeping your garden and lawn healthy during the intense summer heat. Here are some best practices to help you conserve water and ensure your plants thrive: | |
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Water Early or Late: Water your plants early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation and ensure the water reaches the roots.
Deep, Infrequent Watering: Water deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth. This helps plants become more drought-tolerant and reduces the risk of disease.
Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Organic mulches like wood chips, straw, or compost work best.
Drip Irrigation: A drip irrigation system or soaker hoses deliver water directly to the plant roots. This method reduces water waste and ensures efficient watering.
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Check Soil Moisture: Before watering, check the soil moisture by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry at this depth, it's time to water.
Adjust Sprinklers: Ensure your sprinklers are adjusted to avoid watering sidewalks, driveways, and other non-planted areas. This conserves water and ensures it goes where it's needed most.
Collect Rainwater: Use rain barrels to collect and store rainwater for use during dry periods. This is an eco-friendly way to water your garden without increasing your water bill.
By following these tips, you can keep your garden and lawn healthy while conserving water during the hot summer months.
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Blank Slate Backyard Transformation:
Fire Pit, Tropical Plants, & More!
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Follow us on this complete backyard transformation. In this video, we take on the challenge of revamping the backyard by transplanting plants from the front yard, creating a cozy fire pit area, and adding a variety of stunning tropical plants. Watch as we breathe new life into this space with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and a beautiful new layout. Don't miss out on seeing this backyard oasis's step-by-step process and final reveal! | |
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Ignite Your Garden with "Flame Kissed"
A Sizzling Symphony of Summer Blooms!
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Introducing the "Flame Kissed" container garden recipe, a vibrant and fiery blend of warm-colored flowers that are perfectly suited for the scorching Florida summer heat. This dazzling combination of Celosia Flamma, Coreopsis Uptick, Coneflower Sombrero Fiesta Orange, Lantana Hot Blooded, and Purslane Pazzaz will bring a burst of color and heat tolerance to any outdoor space. With their brilliant red, yellow, and orange hues, these plants create a stunning display that thrives under the sun's intense rays.
Whether you're looking to brighten your patio, porch, or garden, the Flame Kissed container garden is designed to withstand the summer heat while providing a spectacular visual treat.
1. Coreopsis Uptick: Coreopsis Uptick is a compact, hardy perennial with stunning yellow flowers that bloom profusely throughout the summer. It is drought-tolerant and attracts butterflies, adding beauty and ecological value to your garden.
2. Celosia Flamma: Celosia Flamma, known for its vibrant, flame-like flower spikes, is a heat-loving plant that adds a bold touch to any garden. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for hot, sunny locations.
3. Coneflower Sombrero Fiesta Orange: This variety of coneflower features bright orange petals that radiate warmth and energy. Known for its heat and drought tolerance, Sombrero Fiesta Orange is also a magnet for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
4. Lantana Hot Blooded: Lantana Hot Blooded boasts vibrant red and orange clusters of flowers that bloom continuously throughout the summer. It is a tough, heat-resistant plant that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, adding a touch of tropical flair to your container garden.
5. Purslane Pazzaz: Purslane Pazzaz is a trailing plant with succulent leaves and bright, cheerful flowers that spill gracefully over the edges of containers. It loves the heat and can tolerate dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for summer gardens.
With this "Flame Kissed" recipe, you'll enjoy a resilient and radiant garden that stands up to the heat while bringing a vibrant splash of color to your outdoor spaces
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Summer is a critical time for lawn maintenance. The intense heat, occasional drought, and increased foot traffic can stress your turf. Proper mowing, fertilizing, and disease prevention are essential to keep your lawn lush and healthy. Here’s a comprehensive guide to summer lawn care. | |
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Mow at the Right Height: It’s best to raise your mower blades in the summer. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing water evaporation and protecting the roots from heat. A height of 3 to 4 inches is ideal for most grass types.
Mow Regularly: Consistent mowing helps maintain healthy grass. Aim to mow once a week, but never cut more than one-third of the grass blade length. This prevents stress and promotes a stronger root system.
Keep Blades Sharp: Dull mower blades tear the grass, causing ragged edges that can lead to disease. Ensure your blades are sharp to make clean cuts and minimize lawn stress.
Leave Grass Clippings: Grass clippings decompose quickly and return valuable nutrients to the soil. This practice, known as grasscycling, can reduce the need for additional fertilization.
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Use a Balanced Fertilizer: A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (e.g., 10-10-10) provides essential nutrients for summer growth. Apply fertilizer in early summer to support robust growth.
Slow-Release Fertilizers: Opt for slow-release fertilizers to provide a steady supply of nutrients over time. This reduces the risk of burning the grass and ensures consistent feeding.
Follow the Directions: Over-fertilization can damage your lawn and contribute to nutrient runoff. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding application rates and timing.
Water After Fertilizing: Watering after fertilizing helps the nutrients penetrate the soil and reach the roots. To minimize evaporation, avoid watering during the hottest part of the day.
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Water Wisely: Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Water early in the morning to reduce the risk of fungal diseases, which thrive in damp conditions. Aim for about one inch of water per week, including rainfall.
Improve Air Circulation: Dense, overgrown lawns are more prone to diseases. Aerate your lawn to improve air circulation and reduce thatch buildup. Aeration helps water, nutrients, and air reach the roots more effectively.
Look for discolored patches, powdery coatings, or slimy spots on the grass blades. Early detection allows for prompt treatment.
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Fungicide Applications: If you notice signs of disease, applying a fungicide can help control the spread. Choose a product labeled for the specific disease affecting your lawn and follow the application instructions carefully.
Maintain Healthy Soil: Healthy soil supports a healthy lawn. Test your soil regularly and amend it with organic matter if needed. Compost, aged manure, and leaf mold can improve soil structure and fertility.
Avoid Overwatering: Overwatering can lead to shallow roots and increased disease risk. Stick to deep, infrequent watering to promote healthy root development.
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How to Treat and Control Pond Algae | |
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Aquascapes Inc., April 11, 2024
About Algae
Before you panic upon seeing a buildup of algae in your pond, remember that algae are a completely normal part of any organic pond ecosystem. A small amount of algae in your water feature is perfectly okay! In fact, it’s a sign of a healthy ecosystem. Algae only become a problem when the growth becomes excessive and therefore difficult to manage.
The main goal in keeping clear, healthy water is not to completely rid your pond of algae, but rather to keep it in balance with nature. Dealing with excess algae growth doesn’t have to be complicated. Avoid certain behaviors and incorporate a few treatments to keep it under control.
Before treating, it’s important to understand the two most common forms of algae seen in backyard water features. It’s also important to know the causes, prevention methods, and solutions to excessive algae growth.
Read On to learn about these two forms of Algae.
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Saturday, July 6
4 to 8 p.m.
Another great FREE event at the Jacksonville Arboretum!
At this event, you and your four-legged friends are invited to a delightful dog-themed market as you enjoy an evening stroll through the Arboretum.
This tail-wagging event will include, local vendors, live music, raffle prizes, food trucks and more!
Let's celebrate one of the best features of our Arboretum– dog-friendly trails.
Tickets are free for this event and only require the $3 park admission.
We’ll see you there!
To keep up with all the fun happenings or to learn more about volunteering at the Arboretum check out their website @ https://jacksonvillearboretum.org/
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Garden Center Hours
Monday through Saturday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm / Sunday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
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We would like to thank you all for your continued support! | |
Earth Works Gardens | earthworksjax.com |996-0712 | 12501 Beach Blvd. | | | | |
