Seasonal Suggestions

Edible Gardens

Monday, April 29th, 2013

Along with other trends like great color, no chemical use, and slow growing, by far the greatest trend in recent years is being able to eat what you plant.  According to the National Gardening Association, edible garden growing has increased nearly 20% over the past year.  In fact, publications nationwide from Home and Garden to the Wall Street Journal have taken to the veggieharvesttrend and are reporting on the various benefits of growing a garden.

First-time gardeners having various reasons and motives for cultivating an edible garden.  Some are looking to help the environment – growing your own food actually helps to reduce our contributions to climate change and has been shown to be more water efficient than broadscale agriculture.  Others are trying to practice healthier eating habits, as homegrown foods are typically far more nutritious than their grocery-store counterparts.  Still some people are just trying to save a few dollars – $500 and more per year for a typical family with an average-sized garden.

In order to start your own edible garden, it’s first beneficial to know what grows well and fairly easily in your region and climate – click this link for a full list of edibles that grow in Florida.  Just as important as knowing what to plant is knowing when to plant it.  Flower, plant, and crop planting times should be spaced out accordingly for successful growth.  Onions, peas, zucchini squash, and beets are easy growing crops and can be planted early in the growing season.  Crops like tomatoes and peppers need more planning and may be more delicate.  Ideally, you should plant your tomatoes, squash, beans and watermelon, after any possible frost has passed.  Other commonly grown crops and herbs include: leaf lettuce, eggplant, cucumbers, cilantro, basil, mint, and tricolor sage.  Fruits are also fun to include in to your edible garden – berries are common and only take one season to produce fruit, versus many tree fruits that can take several years to produce.

Not content with the usual fruits and vegetables?  Add a twist to your garden with edible flowers.  Flowers like Calendula, also known as Marigolds are great flowers that range in taste.  Some are spicy while others are a bit tangy.  Carnations on the other hand are sweet and can be used as cake decorations or mixed in to salads.  Other edible flowers include: Cornflowers, Dandelions, Day Lilies, Banana Blossoms, and many others.  Keep in mind to never consume flowers from florists, nurseries, or garden centers as the might contain pesticides.

Creating a Butterfly Garden

Sunday, April 28th, 2013

butterflyWith summer quickly approaching, what could add a better touch to your home garden than a yard full of butterflies?  Growing a butterfly garden adds a creative flair to your own backyard, as well as provides a safe habitat for these delicate, beautiful creatures to grow and prosper.

To help you get started, follow these simple steps:

Step One: Conduct Your Research

First, it’s important to find what butterflies are native to your area, and make a list of all the different kinds you would like to attract.  From there, determine which plants and flowers the butterflies lay their eggs on, and on which their larvae (caterpillars) feed.  It is important to include host plants for the caterpillars’ homes, and nectar plants for the butterflies to feed.  For example, the Painted Lady butterfly larvae prefer sunflowers as the host plants, and the butterfly bush as their source of nectar.  Note that butterflies tend to look for sources of food by color, size, shape and fragrance – all important when choosing your flowers.

Step Two: Choose Your Location

Do not get discouraged if you lack a garden of your own, or even a backyard.  A butterfly garden can be any size ranging from a small window box to an area of your property.  Here are a few necessary tips in choosing your site:

1)  Choose a large, open, sunny area.  Butterflies tend to be more active in the sun!

2)  Make sure the area is protected from the wind.  If this is impossible, determine which direction the wind generally comes from and plant windbreakers such as shrubby nectar and food plants.  Other examples include small fences and even large rocks.

3)  Keep in mind the estimated full growth of your plants.  The area should be large enough, and also allow the plants to receive enough light and water.

All of this could require some planning on paper, but get creative!

Step Three: Cultivate Your Soil

Once you have designed your layout and purchased the seeds necessary to start your garden, the next step is to plant them.  Constructing the garden will vary, depending on how much work needs to be completed before preparing your fresh plot of soil.  Make sure the soil is loose enough to softly crumble in your hands, then rake it lightly, and scatter the seeds evenly throughout.  If necessary, eliminate any weeds from the area, and always remember to water the area daily until the seeds germinate and the plants are well established.

Step Four: Create Mud Puddle Areas

Since butterflies can’t drink from open water, permanent puddles are also an important addition to your garden.  One way to create these is to bury a bucket to the rim and fill it with gravel or sand.  Then, pour liquids such as stale beer, sweet drinks, or even water inside.  Finally add some twigs or rocks on top for perches.  If your area is too small for this, a small pan filled with mud will do just fine.

Additional Tips:

1)  Add some garden accessories, such as a butterfly house, which has slots to keep birds out, and also protects the butterflies from the wind.

2)  Offer additional sources of nectar to supplement your flowers.

3)  Avoid the use of pesticides – this one’s a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many gardeners overlook this simple step.

With the right conditions and care, butterfly gardens are fairly easy to grow, but be patient.  It usually takes a few weeks for the butterflies to appear.

Happy Gardening!

Caring for Poinsettias

Sunday, November 18th, 2012

Poinsettias are beautiful flowers brought to the United States from Mexico, by Joel Poinsett in the early 1800′s.  Botanically, the plant is known as Euphorbia Pulcherrima, and they are most popular during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season.  With the proper care, however, these plants can last well into the summer season!  Here are a few tips that will help your poinsettias last:

  • Where you place your Poinsettia in your home is crucial.  These flowers need at least 6 hours of indirect natural sunlight daily.  Place them in front of a window, and if direct sun is unavoidable, use a shade.  Do not plant under a heat or air vent, as the plant will quickly dry out.  In mild climates like Florida, the plant can be placed outside (preferably in an enclosed area), as long as temperatures do not fall below 40°F.  Keep in mind that the more sunlight and heat they receive, the more water they need to thrive.  Poinsettias should not be taken out of the containers they are grown in.  If you desire them to be planted, plant the container in the ground with the plant whenever possible.  Be sure to bring the plants indoors during high winds, as they can break.
  • Keep the soil moderately moist.  If the soil feels dry when touched, remove the Poinsettia from its decorative pot, and use enough water to completely saturate the soil.  Be careful not to over-water, and do not let the plant sit in water!  Remember to water poinsettias at the soil not through the leaves.  This will ensure the water does not spot the leaves.  Keep in mind that the poinsettias will require much more water outside.  Fertilization is not necessary when the flower is already in bloom.
  • After the holidays, proper care for the plant is still needed.  Around late March or early April, the branches begin to loose their luster and should be cut back to about 8 inches in height.  New growth will occur by May, and the Poinsettia should be pruned during the summer months up to the beginning of September.  Continue to water and maintain proper sunlight and temperature throughout the months.

Sip ‘n’ See

Wednesday, August 8th, 2012

NEXT EVENT….

3rd Anual “Sip n SEE”

Come see our selection for fall decorating ideas.

October 5, 2012 from 6-8pm

Palmer’s Tips for Summer Lawn and Garden Maintenance

Thursday, June 17th, 2010

We know it’s tough to beat the heat of the summer – especially when it comes to keeping your lawn and garden green and pest-free.  Here’s a few tips from our garden to yours!

June:

1. Fruits and Citrus

Watch for pests, mainly whitefly and aphids. If infected, you can treat with a malathion oil and follow the directions on the label.  It’s VERY IMPORTANT to make sure you apply this product at dusk or out of a direct sun exposure because the oil will burn the leaves.  Fertilize with a slow release that contains the three macroelements (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) as well as the microelements.

2. Ornamentals

You can fertilize all your ornamental plants during this month.  We recommend using a general Plant Tone or feel free to use a Palm Tone that will contain more of the micro-elements which plants do need from time to time.  Watch for any pests – it is summer and they are out there, so treat as necessary.  Prune when needed.

3. Lawn

Apply a “summer fertilizer” to the lawn at this time – anything with a slow release nitrogen will work.  Just be cautious of products with a weed control because of the heat.  The overall temperature in the summer can be too hot for those kinds of chemicals.  However, you can use fertilizers with a pesticide or treat with a Bug Blaster separate from the fertilizer application.  Feel free to bump your watering schedule to three times a week on the lawn.  Be mindful of the rainfall totals, too much water equals rot!

4. Palms

Now is a good time to fertilize with a Palm Tone.  All palms should have flushed out new fronds, even if they were affected by a cold snap or frost.  Feel free to remove any discolored fronds.

July:

1. Fruits and Citrus

Just prune when needed and keep an eye out for any pests.  Treat as needed.

2. Ornamentals

If you missed the chance to fertilize in June, you are more than welcome to do so during July.  If any pruning is done, go light, nothing too heavy.

3. Lawn

Summer has really set in by now, so it is hot and humid which equals disease and pests.  Get out there weekly if you can and just take a look around the yard and see if you can find anything that may look like a disease or pest issue.  If so, treat as needed.  A good tip to help reduce some fungal issues is to be sure your mower blades are kept sharp.  Dull blades don’t cut grass, but tear and shred it instead.

4. Palms

Simply keep up with any necessary pruning.

August

1. Fruits and Citrus

Keep an eye out for any nutrient deficiencies, which you can easily solve with a fertilization.  Also watch for any pest issues, particularly sucking pests.  You can treat with an organic systemic insecticide – follow the directions on the label.

2. Ornamentals

Check weekly for any pests in the landscape and treat only as needed.  If you do see some yellowing in leaves, it is alright.  It’s summer, so a lot of rain, heat and humidity can do that to plants.

3. Lawn

Make sure you keep on top of a regular watering schedule of two to three times a week and sharpened mower blades. A lawn in poor condition can increase your chance of disease and pest problems.  You can fertilize if you want, but if it isn’t necessary, you’re best not to.  Fertilizer will simply make your lawn grow even quicker and need to be cut every few days.

4. Palms

You can do another fertilization if you desire.  Use a Palm Tone to ensure you are getting the micro-nutrients necessary for the palm to remain healthy.  One common problem in Florida with palms is a magnesium deficiency.  It will start in the older leaves and will progress to the newer growth through time.  The leaf margins will yellow, while the centers will remain destinctly green.  Fortunately, this is an easy treatment – simply apply an epsom salt once per month until all leaves appear normal once again.

First Time Gardener Tips

Thursday, February 25th, 2010

pretty-gardener-thumb2098203With spring around the corner, it’s time to start planning your yearly garden planting.  First time planting a garden?  Palmer’s has made it easy for you, by offering a few helpful tips for our budding green thumbs:

Step One: Determine where you want your garden.
Ideally the perfect planting spot should receive 6-8 hrs of sunlight, have easy access to a hose for watering, and won’t catch too much wind. Don’t have a spot that meets all those requirements? Many gardeners don’t – picking the sunniest part of your yard will due just fine!

Step Two: Decide what method you’re using for growing.
Some gardeners prefer containers or raised beds while others enjoy the traditional garden bed dug into the soil. When gardening with containers, soil conditions won’t be an issue. If you’re gardening in raised beds, all grass and weeds will need to be cleared from the area. With a traditional garden, it’s important to dig an ample-sized hole and perform the following, simple soil tests:

1. The squeeze test will determine the type of soil you have. This can be done by taking a handful of moist soil and squeezing it together in your hand. When you open it, your soil will do one of three things. Ideally, you would like your hand-filled soil to crumble when poked. But, it might keep it’s form even after being poked, indicating hard soil or fall apart when you open your hand indicating sandy soil.

2. The percolation test will show any drainage problems you might have. This can simply be done by digging a hole, filling it with water, and keeping track of how long it takes to drain.

3. The worm test helps determine how healthy your soil is. Dig a whole one foot across and one foot deep and search for earthworms. If at least ten earthworms are found then you’re in good shape, if not the soil could be too acidic or alkaline.

4. The Ph test will also determine acidity levels. Don’t like the idea of digging for worms or just want a more accurate reading? Investing in a Ph test kit will provide accurate results without the mess.  Ph test kits are available at Palmer’s.

Step Three: Decide what to grow.
Where you grow will ultimately decide what you grow. Stop in at Palmer’s and ask any of our staff what plants grow best in your location and climate. We’re happy to point you in the right direction!

Step Four: Determine the layout of your garden.
It’s important not to plant taller plants in a location that might potentially shade the shorter plants. Much of the rest of the layout is personal preference, but also keep in mind any fencing or wire that you’ll want to enclose your garden in. This can improve looks and helps keep critters from terrorizing all your hard work!

Step Five: Gather supplies
Make sure to have enough pots, buckets, and any other type of container when gardening with containers. With raised beds, wood, bricks, and any other items will most likely be needed. It’s probably a good idea to start ordering plants and seeds from catalogs now, so you’ll be all set in the spring. Then of course all the basics will be needed – tools like a spade, hand trowel, rake, watering can, and pruners should all be purchased ahead of time and be on hand.

Step Six: Plant and enjoy your garden!

For even more information on planting your garden, please join us at our “Under the Oak” class on March 20th.  We will discuss vegetable gardens, herb gardens, and composting.

It’s Fall…Finally!

Monday, October 19th, 2009

For Central Floridians, the fall season marks the beginning of cool weather that will – hopefully – last through April.  Fall is the perfect season for gardening both edibles, like vegetables, and ornamentals, like flowers.

For the vegetable garden, leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, cabbage, collards, arugula, turnips, and kale can begin to be planted.  These crops, as well as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, onions, and potatoes, thrive in Florida’s “cool” weather and are often only available from October through April.

In the landscape, it is time for new plantings, replacing sod, and adding fall annuals to brighten up the yard.  Geraniums, Mums, and other cool season annuals have already arrived, along with pumpkins, cornstalks, and straw bales.  The next six months will provide the best opportunity to be outside, so take advantage of the weather and get out there and start planting.  See you in the garden!

Growing Herbs in a Pot

Wednesday, May 22nd, 2013

 wirtten by …..Allison Palmer   

        Growing herbs in a pot is an easy, visually appealing way to have fresh cuttings at your fingertips.  I always think of two things when planting a pot of fresh herbs, their water requirements and growth habit.  I like to place the herbs that drink more water together.  Subsequently, I place the herbs requiring drier conditions together.  The herbs that require more water here in Florida are: basil, parsley, dill, cilantro & mint.  Those that require less water are: rosemary, thyme, oregano, bay leaves, culantro (similar to cilantro, but can handle our warmer months), lemon verbena, & tarragon.  Next, when I look at growth habit, I place the trailers close to the side of the pot and the more upright growers in the middle.  The trailers like to hang over the side to keep their leaves from too much contact with wet soil.  I find this especially true for thyme and oregano.  For dry and wet herbs,  the upright growers are: basil,dill, parsley (this can work nicely on the side of a pot too), cilantro, rosemary (there are creeping Rosemaries that do well too), tarragon & lemon verbena.  The trailers are: mint, thyme, oregano, and prostrate rosemary.  Use a liquid fish emulsion fertilizer every other week. Have fun creating your herb pot and mix it up with a few colorful annuals too!