Florida’s heat can make seed starting tricky. Weak, leggy seedlings often struggle once transplanted. The Double-Cup Method, popularized by home gardeners and YouTube growers, is a simple solution for growing sturdy, deep-rooted seedlings that thrive in Florida’s Zone 10a heat. Why the Double-Cup Method Works Bottom watering = stronger roots: Moisture wicks upward, encouraging deep … Read more
Florida’s hot, humid climate doesn’t just make tomatoes grow—it also makes pests thrive. From aphids to whiteflies, it can feel like bugs are always one step ahead. But you don’t need harsh chemicals to protect your plants. With the right natural methods, you can keep your tomatoes healthy and productive all season long. Here’s what … Read more
How to grow strong, healthy tomatoes in Palmetto and beyond—starting right now! If you live in Palmetto, Florida (Zone 10a) and dream of plump, healthy tomatoes this year, late July is the time to get serious. Florida’s long growing season gives you an advantage, but success depends on timing, soil prep, and smart planting methods. … Read more
What do the phases of the moon and a community garden have in common? More than you think. Today, July 23, isn’t just any midsummer day—it’s Inclusive Gardening Day and one of the best lunar planting days of the month, according to the Farmers’ Almanac. The stars (and soil) are aligning to give gardeners a … Read more
Florida summers can be brutal—especially for gardeners. With temperatures soaring into the mid‑90s, many vegetables wilt under the stress, leaving frustrated gardeners with sun-scorched leaves and shriveled harvests. But don’t give up on your summer garden just yet! With the right heat-loving varieties, smart watering strategies, and a few creative tricks, you can still enjoy … Read more
There’s something quietly magical about fall gardening in Central Florida. The sun softens, the pests retreat, and—best of all—you can grow a huge variety of vegetables that struggle during our scorching summers. But not all seed varieties are created equal. Some bolt in our heat. Others get gobbled up by bugs before they take off. … Read more
A Beginner’s Guide to This Timeless Garden Guild If you’re new to gardening in Central Florida, the idea of planting corn in the land of lizards and sandy soil might feel… a little foreign. But here’s a beautiful surprise: Florida’s long growing season makes it an ideal place to grow the “Three Sisters” — corn, … Read more
If the heat of July has you wilting, your garden might be feeling it too. But here’s the good news: while much of the country is still deep in summer mode, Central Florida gardeners can already begin preparing for fall—our most bountiful growing season. Yes, now’s the perfect time to plan—and even start planting—your fall … Read more
From Backyard Garden to Gumbo Pot—Season After Season I first planted okra a few years ago from a seed packet I grabbed on impulse. I wasn’t sure how it would do in my Central Florida garden, but I figured I’d give it a try. It did beautifully. By the end of summer, the plants towered … Read more
When it comes to growing sweet potatoes in Central Florida, the internet is full of advice—some of it helpful, some of it… not so much. Whether you’re dreaming of a lush patch of leafy vines or wondering if it’s too hot (or too late!) to start planting, let’s clear up a few common sweet potato … Read more