As May rolls in, it’s time for a transition in the garden to accommodate the upcoming summer heat and humid weather typical of Florida. During this transition month, we typically see our hottest temperatures. As well, it can be quite dry. Here’s your guide to Florida 10A May Gardening!
The current humidity levels might not yet induce afternoon storms, but the heat is rising, making daily watering a crucial chore to prevent plants from burning up quickly.
Another essential task before hurricane season begins on June 1st is preparing the garden for potential storms. Clearing tree limbs from the roof and removing live oak debris are crucial steps already taken by my husband.
Next on the list is trimming back the towering podocarpus, which has begun encroaching on electrical wires. Addressing this before summer storms arrive is vital for safety and garden aesthetics.
The number of plants that will survive the summer here are definitely limited, especially in comparison to the plants that this former northern gardener knows about. It’s too late for the crops that I am use to planting in May: brussels sprouts, sweet corn, most tomato varieties, and lettuce, to name only a few.
Edible Plants
There are many edible options suited to the hot and humid climate of Florida. From cherry tomatoes, especially everglades cherry tomatoes, southern peas, and hot peppers to okra and sweet potatoes, there’s a variety of edibles that thrive in these conditions.
However, I can now plant and enjoy plants that are considered tropical that I could NEVER have grown before: ginger, roselle, sugar cane, and other heat-loving crops like tropical spinaches, amaranth, and boniato. Herbs such as tarragon, cumin, rosemary, and basil also flourish in the heat.
Tomatoes
I am currently growing three varieties of tomatoes.
My husband bought an heirloom Red Beefsteak plant. Large tomatoes typically don’t do well in the Florida summer, but it is blooming. I’ll keep an eye out for pests as they typically get to these large tomatoes before we do!
I am also growing two Floridade tomato plants. This southern tomato, developed in 1976 by the University of Florida in Dade County, has excellent disease resistance and adapts well to heat and humidity.
This variety does well in hot, humid climates. The red tomatoes weigh about 6 ounces and grow on determinate vines. They are firm and have good flavor, making a good choice for home gardens. They are ready in 80 days.
As well, I am growing an Everglades tomato. The Everglades tomato, also known as wild tomato or currant tomato, will even grow in the Florida Keys! Unlike traditional tomatoes, this wonder plant blooms and bears fruit year-round. It thrives in our alkaline soil, tolerates brackish water and salt winds, and resists common fungal diseases like verticillium and fusarium wilts, as well as late blight. It’s truly a resilient gem!
Growing as an annual or biennial, the Everglades tomato ensures a continuous supply of tomatoes because its thin-skinned fruits self-seed readily if left to do so. While young plants may appear shrub-like, their stems can sprawl out up to 10 feet over time. Although a trellis is optional, the plant happily rambles across the garden. Like most solanums, it thrives in full sun and can withstand drought conditions, but for optimal bloom and fruit production, moderate watering and occasional application of a complete, slow-release fertilizer are recommended.
However, there’s one drawback: the fruit size is small, measuring just a little over ½ inch in diameter. But don’t let that deter you, because the flavor is where this tomato truly shines. Bursting with the intense tomato taste reminiscent of your grandmother’s garden, it’s a delightful addition to any garden.
Okra
While I’ve never been a fan of okra due to its slimy texture, my husband enjoys it, especially when fried. I’ve heard that okra chips are another tasty option, and if I find them agreeable, I’ll share the recipe later in the year.
To grow okra successfully, choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. The variety I am growing is called Jing Orange Okra. As okra seeds can be slow to sprout, before planting, soak the seeds in water for six hours to improve germination. I soaked mine overnight.
Okra’s growth rate is primarily influenced by temperature and soil moisture. It thrives when the soil temperature is above 65°F and receives adequate water. Using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer is beneficial for okra in home gardens. Weed control before planting is crucial to prevent competition with okra plants. As okra matures, its canopy shades the soil, further suppressing weed growth.
Okra is known for its rapid growth and high yields, with some cultivars ready for harvest in just 50 to 70 days after planting. Once the plants begin to bloom, harvesting typically begins shortly afterward. Pods should be picked when they reach a length of about two to three inches.
For optimal tenderness and flavor, it’s essential to harvest okra early and frequently. If left to mature on the plant, the pods become tough and unpalatable. During peak harvest season, daily picking may be necessary to ensure a continuous supply of tender okra pods.
Other Varieties of Edibles Coming Soon
I’m still in the process of planting all my edibles, and next on my list are two different varieties of eggplant. I have a preference for the long, slender ones, so I’m hoping to find at least one Ichibod Crane eggplant. Interestingly, eggplant can grow as a perennial here in our region.
Recently, I joined a seed club run by a local gardener named Elise Pickett, who owns and operates Urban Harvest. I’m eagerly awaiting the arrival of six varieties of seeds from her club, excited to experiment with something new. I’m particularly hopeful she includes an amaranth variety!
Additionally, I’m excited about growing peanuts. I’ve just purchased some seeds and will start them as soon as they arrive. It’s an exciting time for my garden as I continue to explore new varieties and expand my edible plant collection.
Spring Garden Clean Up
As I wrap up my spring garden, I have two important tasks to complete.
First, I need to harvest the seeds from the lettuce that has bolted.
Additionally, I’ve noticed that the plants in one of my bags of potatoes are dying back, indicating that it’s time to harvest the potatoes. I’ll be sharing more information about these tasks once I’ve completed them later this week, so stay tuned for updates!
Specifics on Growing Annuals in Florida:
Annual flowers grow for just one season, and in Florida, some varieties like petunias and snapdragons struggle to survive past May, even with shade protection. For successful annuals in this region, focus on marigolds, salvia, verbena, purslane, and portulaca. Some shade-tolerant options include coleus, impatiens, torenia, and wax begonias.
If you’re starting annuals from seeds, begin by using small, clean pots or cell packs filled with germination mix. Press larger seeds into the soil and lightly cover smaller seeds.
Place the containers in a bright, sunny spot and transfer them to a growing light once sprouts appear. Protect young plants from heavy afternoon rains, as they can damage delicate seedlings.
Once your annuals reach a height of 4 to 6 inches, transplant them into flower beds or containers. Fertilize the plants weekly with a half-strength fertilizer solution to promote healthy growth. Keep an eye out for pests that may harm your plants.
Many annuals, such as marigolds, benefit from dead-heading, which involves removing spent flowers. This encourages the plant to keep producing blooms instead of going to seed, resulting in a longer flowering period.
This year, I started several annuals by seed: moonflower, morning glory, and sunflower. They are ready to transplant from their germination cell pack to larger pots.
One of my favorite shade-loving annuals is the coleus, with its stunning foliage. I plan to select a couple of varieties to grow in pots and place them in shady spots throughout my yard. Coleus adds a vibrant pop of color and texture to shaded areas.
Underground Storage Organs: Bulbs
Certain plants have underground storage organs called bulbs, which have evolved to store nutrients and water during periods of dormancy or stress caused by cold, heat, or drought.
While bulbs like tulips are famous for their spring displays in colder climates, you can also grow bulbs in Florida. The state offers a wide variety of tropical and subtropical bulbs, including crinum, cannas, and amaryllis.
Bulbous plants serve various purposes in landscapes, functioning as bedding plants, borders, or even for indoor arrangements when cut.
Most bulbs prefer sunny locations, although some, like caladiums, tolerate partial shade. Avoid heavy shade, as it can lead to weak growth and dull foliage color.
For optimal growth, ensure your planting site is well-drained and enriched with organic matter. Arrange bulbs in orderly rows or naturalistic drifts for a relaxed garden ambiance. Adding bulbs to your landscape promises years of colorful delight.
Here are some bulbs recommended for Florida gardening:
- Agapanthus
- Amaryllis
- Blood Lily
- Cannas
- Crinum Lilies
- Crocosmia
- Hurricane Lily
- Rain Lilies
- Society Garlic
- Spider Lily
Exploring Crinum Lilies
Crinum lilies are not true lilies but part of the amaryllis family, boast lush foliage and stunning lily-like flowers on long stems. Resilient and adaptable, crinums are known for their toughness and longevity, with large underground bulbs that can endure for decades, often outlasting their caretakers.
With a rich horticultural history, crinums were among the first garden plants widely hybridized. They were popular as pass-along plants in the 1800s and 1900s, exchanged among friends and gardens for generations. While they’re less common in modern suburban yards, crinums thrive in old homesteads, cemeteries, and historical sites, often enduring neglect.
The decline in popularity may be due in part to their limited commercial production, but crinums remain a top choice for 10A gardeners seeking stunning seasonal displays. Native to tropical regions, they excel in hot climates and tolerate drought and flooding.
I obtained several crinum bulbs at a plant exchange years ago. It features dark pink to almost cranberry-colored blooms and blooms in May – June. The variety I have multiplies prolifically and has been shared with many others. As they prepare to bloom again this year, the crowded bed will be pruned and dug up, ready for a new cycle of growth. I expect blooms by the end of the month.
Introducing Fruit Trees and Bushes
In my garden, I’ve been missing fruit trees and bushes, but that’s about to change. Recently, I added several blueberry bushes and a blackberry to my collection. While I’m still learning about caring for these new additions, I’m excited to share more about them later on. Stay tuned for updates as these fruit-bearing plants become a vibrant part of my garden.
Preparing and Seeding the Backyard
Another task on my list for this month is to seed a section of the backyard. Currently, this area is mostly bare dirt with a few stubborn weeds. To get it ready for new growth, I’ll need to mow down any existing vegetation, rake up debris, and then plant the Bahia seeds that I’ve been holding onto. I’ve been spending a lot of time working in this part of the yard, so I’ve held off on planting the seed until I’m done with stomping around in this area. Stay tuned for updates as I bring this area of my yard to life.
Adding Perennials and Native Plants to the Landscape
I’m planning to fill some bare spots in my landscape with a mix of perennials and native plants. Here in my area, plants like blue daze, bush daisy, butterfly weed, fire spike, pentas, and cat whiskers thrive. Cat whiskers happen to be one of my favorites, so I’m especially excited about including them in my garden. As I search for these plants to add to my landscape, I look forward to seeing my garden come to life with vibrant colors and natural beauty.
Embracing Vining Plants
I find great joy in cultivating vining plants in my garden. Got a bare spot next to a wall? A vine is the perfect solution!
Bleeding Heart Vine
One of my favorites is the bleeding heart vine, which graces my yard with its beauty. In late winter or early spring, when it sheds its leaves, I give it a trim, and without fail, it returns even stronger and more vibrant.
While my bleeding heart vines enjoy some sunlight, they tend to wilt in the late afternoon sun. However, a refreshing drink of water always perks them right up.
Morning Glory Vines
Along the side of my shed, I cultivate morning glories, including heavenly blue and moon flower varieties. Although I could sow the seeds directly into the ground, I’ve learned from experience that hungry rabbits will devour them before they have a chance to grow.
So, for now, I’m patiently nurturing my baby plants until they’re big enough to fend for themselves in the garden. Soon, I hope to see them flourishing alongside my other vining beauties.
Night-Blooming Cereus
The night-blooming cereus, a flowering cactus belonging to the ceroid cactus family, is known by several nicknames, including princess of the night, queen of the night, and Honolulu Queen. Unlike typical cacti, it lacks spines or spikes, instead growing thick, broad leaves that form vines and shoots.
Its most remarkable feature is its night-blooming flowers, among the most beautiful and fragrant of any cactus. These large, showy blooms make it a sought-after plant for those who appreciate spectacular floral displays.
While the plant itself may appear gangly and unconventional, its growth and transformation over time can be captivating. Witnessing its bloom is a special event, perfect for sharing with friends and sparking conversations among gardening enthusiasts.
Finalizing the May Checklist
As May unfolds, I’m gearing up for the transition in my garden to accommodate the impending hot and humid weather characteristic of Florida. With rising temperatures and dry spells, daily watering becomes essential to prevent plants from withering under the scorching sun.
Meanwhile, preparations for the upcoming hurricane season are underway, ensuring the garden is fortified against potential storms.
Despite the challenges, I’m excited about the opportunities this season brings, from harvesting lettuce seeds to planting a variety of annuals, perennials, and bulbs. As I continue to nurture my garden, I look forward to witnessing its vibrant transformation in the months ahead.