The Neighborhood Gardener – May
Rain Barrels
Florida receives anywhere between 40 to 60 inches of rain every year, mainly between June and October. Wouldn’t it be great if you could save some of that rain for other times of the year? A rain barrel captures rainwater, which can then be used to water plants, wash the car, or rinse out recyclables, even when your area might be under water restrictions. Learn more about the benefits of capturing water with a rain barrel.
Tree Risk Assessment
As we approach hurricane season, it’s a good time to take a critical look at the trees in your landscape. Not only are unhealthy trees unattractive, they can be a serious safety hazard. The best way to determine if your trees are ready for a storm is to contact a certified arborist, but you can do some scouting first. Learn what signs you should look for when assessing your trees for risk.
Mint
Mint is a favorite herb for both beginning and experienced gardeners. It’s easy to grow, attracts pollinators, and thrives in Florida’s hot and humid weather. Beyond the popular peppermint and spearmint, there are other types such as apple mint, orange mint, and even chocolate mint. It should be noted that mint grows and spreads rapidly. To avoid having the rest of your garden overrun with mint, plant it in containers. Learn how to plant and care for mint.
Wendy's Wanderings
For gardeners the springtime is a whirlwind of activity. From tending to our own yards to exploring numerous plant festivals and sales, life can become a rush. That is why I was so encouraged to see that we celebrate National Garden Meditation Day in May. Every May 3rd, we're all encouraged to pause our busy routines and find solace in the sanctuary of a garden. Read Wendy's suggestions for making a quiet space in your own garden.
Plant of the Month: Hibiscus
Evoking beachside paradises and far-flung vacations, hibiscus has flowers that come in a rainbow of colors. Tropical hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) is what's commonly seen in garden centers and landscapes. However, there are about 35 species of native hibiscus, also called rosemallows, in the United States. Read more about both the native and introduced hibiscuses that add a touch of the tropics to Florida landscapes.
May in Your Garden
The landscape is heating up this month, so choose plants that can handle it: vegetables like sweet potato and tropical "spinaches," herbs like Mexican tarragon and rosemary, and flowering plants like daylilies, salvias, and angelonia. Now is the time to prepare your landscape for hurricane season, which starts June 1st.
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 Volunteer program or Extension office is having an event, be sure to share it with us.