Air Circulation

Just a reminder that at this time of year with all of these rains it is very important to make sure your orchids have plenty of space between them for proper air circulation. Fungus can take over quickly, jumping from plant to plant without it.

Indoor Veggie and Herb Gardens

Many of you out there have asked me how to grow an edible garden in Florida. It can be done but vigilance is the key to watching out for, and eliminating pests, and ensuring proper irrigation to prevent damage from our infamous heat.

One option is planting a garden indoors which is especially enjoyable for all you condo dwellers out there that have no yard. I don't often recommend specific products but I don't think you can beat the Aero Gardens for indoor use. They can be purchased at numerous stores including Bed Bath and Beyond.

With the Aero Garden, you have the option of growing many things from herbs to tomatoes to peppers to flowers, etc. The plus side is you don't have to worry about all the pests outdoors and you can better monitor the lighting, water, etc. I've tried this myself and really enjoyed watching the herbs and tomato plants grow.

For those of you that really desire the outdoor edible garden experience, I highly recommend that you contact your local County Extension Service for advice specific to your area.

Drying Out

August is a good month for letting your orchids dry out completely at least a couple of times between waterings. This helps give your orchids an edge against fungus that will be an issue during the rainier month of September.

Are You Ready

With these Tropical Storms out there now is the time to check over your lawn and garden for potential hazards. Please see my previous post on Hurricane Preparedness.

Vanilla Trivia

Did you know that the vanilla we use in cooking actually comes from the vanilla beans of the Vanilla Orchid? This orchid can be grown on trees (it grows in all directions like a vine) or in baskets. If grown on a tree it will need to be protected in the cold weather with a blanket. Because we don't have the actual insect that will pollinate the orchid for the vanilla production you will have to pollinate them by hand (if you want to produce the beans). I am growing two different types of these orchids on two different trees in our yard and will keep you posted as to my success.

Re-potting Orchids

To all you orchid loving procrastinators out there, the month of August is the last month of the year that you should be re-potting. With the up-coming peak of hurricane season and the winter season ahead, your orchids need the chance to grasp hold of any new surroundings so they won't be blown out of their pots.

Snails In My Garden - Argghhh

I was recently disappointed to find that an emerging bud on one of my newest orchid acquisitions was gnawed off completely over night. Upon further inspection the next evening I discovered the culprit - a very small snail! These little critters have a voracious appetite and I have found that they love orchid foliage (and buds), sweet potato vines, and antheriums among other things in our yard. During the wetter season is when you will have the most difficulty with these varmints. They especially love to hide in any debris such as mulch and potting mixes during the day and begin their eating frenzy in the evenings. You can either find and squish them yourself at night as you snoop about your yard with a flashlight or purchase some snail bait from your local garden center. Use the snail bait sparingly and as directed. Snails are attracted to the bait like flies on dead fish! Also use caution if you have pets because snail bait can be harmful to your furry little friends.

Hurricane Preparedness for Your Yard

Did you know that hurricane season runs from June 1st til November 30th? I want to take this near mid-season opportunity to provide you with some hurricane preparation tips for your yard. All deadwood should be removed from any trees on-site as this helps to eliminate extra weight within the tree canopy as well as helps to prevent limbs from crashing through your roof tops, windows and vehicles. Additionally, when a storm threatens, potential "missile" items that should temporarily be removed from your yard are: coconuts hanging from your coconut palms; dead palm fronds, garden tools, yard statues; garden flags and their posts; lawn furniture; hanging plants, wind chimes and any other items that are not securely attached to the buildings on site. Any one of these objects can become projectiles in a strong storm causing significant damage to yours or your neighbor's property as well as being human hazards. Coconuts will grow back and yard art can be put back in place after the storm.