From my garden to yours

Florida has four very distinct growing seasons that contrast remarkably with the temperate climates of many of our previous generations. Toss in the extremes of Florida’s weather, soils and pests, and many gardeners from another growing zone might hang up the trowel early in their endeavors. But no matter where you are, spring always brings the new season of hope and opportunities. It is now time to grow our gardens to their fullest potential, as in “Make hey while the sun is shining (by “hey” I mean, have fun).”

Suffering through the depths of winter as we are now, guests to my gardens frequently remark at the number of different crops flourishing in the middle of January. Most chilly weather here in Central Florida bottoms out suspiciously close to freezing. Just a few degrees of temperature difference can spell survival for many plants for the whole year. Our beloved citrus trees can skate just below the 30-degree mark, but time duration is very critical. The task at hand is to recognize those crops that will prosper as our winter skirts with disaster. Productive crops in my garden right now include scallions, radishes, lettuce, turnips, collards, kale, chard, kumquats, grapefruit, broccoli, Asian greens and herbs.

The days are getting longer, afternoons warmer, plants are budding, wildlife is singing; all are anticipating spring. We have not suffered a serious freeze after late January in my almost 30 years of experience here at my homestead. Although the last frost date for us came on the night of a St. Patrick’s Day party, only moderate protection would suffice by that time. These minimal risks can now be brushed aside for an unfettered spree in the garden soil!

Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, cucumbers, beans, basil, zinnias, okra, potatoes and squash seeds are ordered, procured, planted, sprouted or planned for this impending spring season. While temperatures are still cool, the crops of the winter list are still growing strong. Dormant plants break from their naps soon, so now is transplant time to do your worst and yet succeed. Better still, the weeds’ hiatus will last a few more precious weeks. Take advantage of seedling and seed racks at retail nursery centers, which will be heavily inventoried during the next few months.

As spring soars into the hotter, drier and then wetter conditions of summer, our garden party will then be shuttered. Lettuce bolts, kale withers, scallions sharpen and radishes bite when the days scorch. Any investment now with warm season crops will stave off a late spring declining crop list. So now is the time to grow and enjoy!