The Neighborhood Gardener – September
Happy gardening!
Fragrant Houseplants
Houseplants are selected for a number of reasons: because they are low maintenance, clean the air, are good for kids and classrooms, or simply for looks. But what about selecting a houseplant for scent?
We have some aromatic options that may pique your interest.
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Smilax
Unwanted plants in the landscape can be a real downer to any gardener. Smilax is a vine that's not only difficult to get rid of, it can also be a real pain — literally. There are nine commonly found species of this native vine in Florida, and they are all fast-growing. Wakulla County Extension Director Les Harrison wrote an informative and interesting piece in 2017 on this unwanted plant that remains helpful and relevant today. More
(Photo of Smilax tamnoides thorns by Lynn Proenza, UF/IFAS.)
Choosing a Pest Control Company
Pest control is an important part of regular home maintenance. As diligent about pests as you may be, sometimes the help of a professional might be needed. But with over 4,000 pest control companies in Florida, it can be a little overwhelming to select the right one. This comprehensive article written by UF/IFAS specialists has detailed information (including important questions to ask) that will arm you in the quest to keep your house invader free. More
Wendy's Wanderings
Even though it is hotter than blazes and we are dodging storms like quarterbacks evading sacks, it is time to consider your fall garden. I was reminded of this last week when I was in the ag-lands of South Florida admiring the dragon fruit crop and saw a crew planting something in fresh rows. I drove closer to see, and the smell hit me before I reached them. It was onions — sweet onions to be specific. It is September after all and for South Florida that means they plant both the green and shallot types of onions. More
Plant of the Month: Hurricane Lily
Few flowers begin blooming in late summer, but hurricane lily is a fascinating example of one that does. What makes hurricane lilies interesting is that the flowers appear on their own, unfettered by foliage. The foliage comes later, appearing in the fall and winter before dying away as the heat rises again.
Hurricane lilies can be grown successfully in North and Central Florida. Plant them in late summer or early fall, in a sunny or lightly shaded spot that has moist, well-drained soil. Find out more about these flowers that often appear after a heavy rain.
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September in Your Garden
The coming of September opens the door for the planting of many vegetables and herbs throughout the state. For those more inclined to floral plantings, this month is a wonderful time to switch your summer planting beds up to add some fall color. Late September to early October is the time to start establishing strawberries.
For more month-by-month gardening tips, check out the Florida Gardening Calendar. Three different editions of the calendar provide specific tips for each of Florida's gardening regions—North, Central, and South.
What's Going On?
If your Master Gardener program or Extension office is having an event, be sure to share it with us.