Source(s):
James Stephens (352) 392-1928
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Thanks to Florida’s mild climate, gardeners can grow an abundant, year-round vegetable supply – even during the fall and winter as temperatures drop. However, selecting the proper varieties for this time of year is critical, says James Stephens, the author of Vegetable Gardening in Florida, a book published by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.
“Concentrate on lettuce, cabbage, radishes, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower and other varieties that can take the cooler weather,” said Stephens, a UF professor emeritus of horticultural sciences. “Stay away from tomatoes, beans, cucumbers, squash and the warm-season vegetables.”
The 135-page, full-color Vegetable Gardening in Florida contains a complete list of cool-season crops, which not only tolerate low temperatures, but also thrive under those conditions; planting guidelines for spacing and depth; ideal planting dates in different Florida regions; and a sample layout for fall gardens.
Stephens recommends starting with plants rather than seeds whenever possible in the fall.
“There are exceptions, such as carrots, which you should start from seeds,” Stephens said. “But with cabbage, broccoli and most others, starting from plants will speed up the process.”
Vegetables started from transplants typically are ready to harvest approximately two weeks earlier than those started from seeds.
Growers also should keep in mind that now is the perfect time to plant crops that are harvested in spring, even though it is six months away.
“There are several other crops that must be planted in fall if you want them to grow at all,” Stephens said. “Those include bulbing onions – Vidalias, for example. Plant those now so they’ll be ready in spring. The same goes for strawberries. The month of October is perfect for setting out strawberry plants.”
In addition, Stephens advises growers to irrigate their gardens because rain during the cooler seasons is sporadic.
Vegetable Gardening in Florida is packed with information that can help growers design, plant and maintain successful vegetable and herb gardens in fall, winter and throughout the year. The book covers types of gardens, including hydroponic and organic; site and vegetable variety selection; soil fertilization and management; climatic implications; pest management; and harvesting, storing and exhibiting produce.
Vegetable Gardening in Florida is available for $15.95, plus appropriate local Florida tax and shipping charge, from the IFAS-Extension Bookstore at UF in Gainesville. Order online at www.ifasbooks.com or call 1-800-226-1764. Visa and MasterCard are accepted.
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