If you garden in Florida, you already know the rules are different, and that’s exactly where Vegetable Gardening in Florida shines. This affordable, full-color paperback is designed specifically for growing vegetables and edible herbs in Florida’s climate, whether your garden lives in raised beds, containers, or a larger backyard plot.
Author James M. Stephens, UF/IFAS horticulture emeritus professor, brings together decades of hands-on experience with the research-based expertise of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. From spring peas and sweet corn to crisp cucumbers and the dill you’ll need when it’s time to can, Stephens explains gardening terms and techniques in a clear, approachable way—no jargon, no guesswork.
The book walks readers through every stage of the process, including:
- Types of gardens, from traditional beds to organic and hydroponic systems
- Choosing the right site and vegetable varieties for Florida conditions
- Garden establishment, care, and cultivation practices
- Soil fertilization and management
- Climate considerations that impact planting and growth
- Harvesting and storing crops to maximize yield
Stephens also takes on one of the biggest challenges Florida gardeners face: pests and diseases. The guide includes detailed, illustrated descriptions of both major and minor crops commonly grown in the state, helping gardeners identify issues early and manage them effectively.
What really sets this guide apart, though, is the practical advice woven throughout. Thin the turnips. Keep tools clean and sharp. Don’t use lawn fertilizer on vegetables. These small but critical tips reflect years of Extension work and real-world gardening experience.
Vegetable Gardening in Florida is a go-to resource for county Extension agents, educators, garden writers, and home gardeners alike. If you enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting your own fresh, flavorful vegetables, this is one guide that earns a permanent spot on your shelf.
You can find Vegetable Gardening in Florida at the UF/IFAS Bookstore, along with other trusted, research-based resources for Florida gardeners.
Print length: 144 pages; Language: English; Publisher: University Press of Florida; Dimensions: 8.5 x 0.3 x 10.9 inches,
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