Grow Like a Pro: Summer Gardening Tips

Alright, you know the drill. Summer in Florida isn't just hot—it's a full-blown sauna with bonus thunderstorms. It might feel like the sun’s got a personal grudge, but you can still get your hands dirty in the garden. In fact, this is prime time for growing some of the best stuff our subtropical climate has to offer. 

Whether you’re a seasoned planter or new to the gardening game, there’s plenty to be planted this summer. Let’s talk about how to plant the perfect summer garden and handle the humidity like a champ. 

Setting the Scene

We all know that Florida summers are nothing to joke about. Temperatures regularly hang out in the high 80s to mid-90s, and that’s before you factor in the humidity, which often pushes the heat index well over 100°F. Afternoon thunderstorms are as predictable as sunrise and usually drop buckets of rain in short bursts. That means your plants get drenched, then baked. Add in intense UV rays, fluctuating soil moisture, and the occasional tropical storm, and you've got a truly wild growing environment.

 But luckily, plants are like Floridians. While some of us wilt in the sun and dream of autumn, others thrive in the heat and sunshine. The key is finding the right plants to weather the summer storm. 

What to Grow

So what should you grow this summer? Heat-tolerant vegetables like okra, black-eyed peas, sweet potatoes, eggplant, and peppers are summer staples that thrive in humidity and intense sun. But if you’re in the mood for something sweet, tropical and sub-tropical fruits are another great option, from pineapples and papayas to mangos and citrus. And if you’re looking to spice things up, there are plenty of herbs that love the heat. Try basil, rosemary, lemongrass, and mint. 

But summer gardening isn’t just about fruits and veggies. If plants are more your speed, hibiscus, plumbago, bougainvillea, firebush, and vinca (periwinkle) are some great options that can handle the heat while still brightening up your summer with vibrant colors and tropical blooms. 

Tips and Tricks

Now that you’ve picked the perfect plant, it’s time to…well, plant. Here’s some tips to help your garden thrive all summer long:

• Water Early: Before the sun gets too aggressive. Drip hoses are your BFF.
• Mulch Like a Pro: Keeps roots cool and weeds in check. Bonus: your garden looks neat.
• Shade Wisely: Use a little shade cloth for the wimpy plants.
• Soil Love: Mix in compost or peat moss if your dirt drains too fast (or not at all).
• Bug Patrol: Keep an eye out for the usual suspects like aphids and spider mites. Neem oil to the rescue.
• Harvest Often: The more you pick, the more they grow. True story.

Where to Look

If you’re looking to stock up on plants this summer, Florida offers plenty of great local spots to find exactly what your garden needs. For a wide selection of native and tropical plants, swing by Florida Native Plants Nursery & Landscaping in Sarasota. The Loxahatchee area has plenty of nurseries to suit your needs, including A One Stop Garden Shop, where—you guessed it—you’ll find everything you need for your garden in one location. And if you’re in Groveland, Green Isle Gardens specializes in Florida native plants and wildflowers. 

But that’s not all—there are plenty of other nurseries and plant stores in Florida. Check out this guide for even more local favorites that’ll help your garden flourish all season long. 

Let’s be honest—summer gardening around here comes with its quirks. Between the blazing heat, steamy afternoons, and a few flying critters with attitude, you’ve got your hands full. But with the right mix of hardy plants and a bit of sweat equity, your garden can flourish all season long. Think vibrant, tropical, and maybe even a little wild—in the best way.

Stay cool out there, and happy planting! Find more to help your garden grow at www.guidetoflorida.com/home-garden!