The Neighborhood Gardener July 2024
Fancy Moths
Moth are often overlooked in favor of showier butterflies, but there are species of moths that stand out for their exceptional beauty and intriguing behaviors. Essential pollinators and a food source for many other wildlife species, moths are an important part of the food chain. They outnumber butterflies, with over 10,000 species in North America, compared to approximately 700 butterfly species. This new article on Gardening Solutions features six of Florida’s fancier moths.
Poolside Plants
It’s tricky finding plants for your poolside landscape. In a perfect world, they would look beautiful for most of the year without making a mess by dropping leaves, flowers, or seeds on the pool deck. These plants wouldn’t outgrow designated areas or spread over pool screens. Plus, they must be able to tolerate the occasional splash of pool water. It’s a lot to ask of a plant! But we have a few plants perfect for poolside.
Blackberries
Blackberries are well known for their health benefits, including high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Currently available varieties that do relatively well in North and North Central Florida include Osage, Ouachita, Ponca, and Kiowa. University of Florida researchers are developing new varieties with more of the beneficial compounds for home gardeners. Learn more about planting and growing blackberries in Florida.
Wendy’s Wanderings
Growing up on our South Florida farm, we always had at least a dozen pineapple plants in various stages of growth. This ensured a steady supply of delicious ripe pineapples to enjoy. If you’ve never tasted a perfectly ripe pineapple straight from the plant, you’re missing out on a true delicacy. Wendy shares tips on growing pineapples and how to keep your pineapple safe from hungry wildlife.
Plant of the Month: Mango
It’s mango season! Often called the king of fruit, there are more than 1,000 cultivars of mango. Native to South Asia, this tropical fruit grows best in hardiness zones 10B through 11. An attractive tree with a rounded canopy, mango can grow very large, so it’s best for South Florida gardeners with ample space. Depending upon the variety, fruit may be harvested from May through August, so you can enjoy this sweet treat all summer long. Learn more about this “royal” fruit.
July in Your Garden
Plant heat-tolerant annuals like celosia (pictured), coleus, torenia, and ornamental pepper. Gardeners in South Florida can continue to plant tropical vegetables, while those in the north and central parts of the state can start their Halloween pumpkins now. Continue planting palms while the rainy season is in full swing.
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.
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