🍹 August Growing Guide: Riding the Heat Wave

Florida Zone 9 & Tropical Growers:
This is the toughest month—heat, humidity, and pests peak. Morning water, thick mulch, and evening pest control (like neem) keep plants happy. Start seeds for fall veggies like peppers, eggplant, and tomatoes so they’re ready to plant when temps ease.

For Growers in Cooler Zones:
Your tropicals will keep producing with light feeding and consistent water. As nights start cooling slightly toward month’s end, prepare your overwintering plan—especially for large potted trees.

What to Plant Now:

• Zone 9+: Tropical peppers, okra, winged beans, sweet potatoes, cassava, ginger, turmeric, pigeon peas, bananas, taro, malanga, papaya.

• Cooler zones or indoors: Container-grown citrus, dwarf bananas, edible gingers, and leafy greens for an indoor harvest.

Harvest Highlights:
Avocados like Brogdon, Russell, and Choquette are coming in, along with guavas, pineapples, and the last flush of mangoes. Okra, tropical peppers, and winged beans are thriving.

Pro Tip: Keep a planting journal—note which varieties thrive under summer stress for future planning.