April 14th marks National Gardening Day! This day is dedicated to encouraging aspiring gardeners to begin their planting. In Central Florida, we can grow vegetables all year long. We are fortunate to have amazing weather for gardening. So why not start today?
The advantages of gardening extend far beyond the satisfaction of growing your food. It also provides the opportunity to cut grocery bills and contributes to reducing your environmental impact. Research indicates that people who garden vegetables tend to consume more fruits and vegetables than others who don't garden.
For those eager to kickstart their gardening journey, resources such as eatright.org explain how to start gardening vegetables step by step. Let's embrace National Gardening Day as an opportunity to delve into the joys and benefits of gardening in Central Florida.
How Do We Start Gardening? 1. Gather Gardening Supplies
Having the right gardening supplies is essential. Equip yourself with basic tools such as a shovel, hoe, rake, trowel, and more. Conveniently, we have ACE Hardware right here in DeBary, with many other home stores in neighboring cities as well!
2. Choosing Seeds Wisely
When selecting seeds for your garden, consider the climate you live in and the amount of space you have when you decide which vegetable to garden. You will see a variety of seed options, including conventional, heirloom, and organic seeds. Conventional seeds are often recommended for beginner gardeners due to their resistance to pests and diseases.
3. Soil, Water, and Fertilizer
Good soil is the secret to growing healthy plants. Ideally, gardeners want loose soil that is well-drained and rich in organic matter. It is advised to test the soil to ensure its safety and nutrient levels by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Additionally, providing safe water to your vegetables and fruits is also crucial. If you are unsure of the quality of water, consider having it professionally tested. Learn more about checking and maintaining soil health.
Fertilizer strengthens plants. There are a variety of fertilizers such as organic, synthetic, and soil. Following Volusia County’s fertilizer ordinance can help residents lessen their impact on our local water bodies. The ordinance includes a ban on the application of any product containing nitrogen or phosphorus from June 1 through September 30. Outside of that ban, from October 1st through May 30th, any nitrogen that is applied must be at least 50% slow-release. Phosphorus may not be applied at any time of the year without a proven deficiency from a soil test.
4. Compost Compost is a natural fertilizer that is made from organic matter such as animal manure, old leaves, food scraps like banana peels and eggshells, commercial soil mixes, and/or cover crops. Compost is not only beneficial to plants but also serves as a solution to reducing food waste. Click HERE to learn how to create your own compost.
5. It's Time to Plant!
Make sure you choose a location that has enough space for the type of plants you choose to grow before start digging. At least 6 hours of sunlight daily is needed for the plants that grow best in full sun. Budget how much you want to invest in your garden based on your goals.
6. Ways to Grow a Garden There are mainly three ways to grow a garden. Each presents its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
- Containers -
This option presents an excellent solution for those with limited space or a desire for flexibility in garden arrangement. By opting for containers, there's no need for soil tilling, offering convenience and versatility in gardening practices. However, it's important to note that container size may constrain the growth of your garden plants.
- In the Ground -
This traditional and cost-effective method is well-suited for individuals with ample space looking to cultivate larger gardens. However, its cons include challenges in weed and pest control.
- Raised beds -
This option is ideal for gardeners facing challenges such as poor soil quality like clay or sand, don't have ground space to till for a garden, who have ground space to till for a garden, or who have limited mobility or difficulty to bend over. However, one drawback of this method is that the initial setup can incur significant expenses.
Learn more about gardening tips HERE.
Gardening in Central Florida: What to Grow When?
These vegetables listed below are relatively easy to grow and can be harvested quickly.
According to IFAS Extension University of Central Florida, April is the perfect time to plant vegetables such as corn, Okura, Chinese cabbage, pumpkin, and more. Additionally, fruits like papaya, passionfruit, and pineapple thrive when planted during this month.
Useful Resources:
Plant NOW - Enter your zip code to uncover the perfect fruits and vegetables for your location.
Edibles to Plant This Month - Check back each month for curated recommendations on what edibles to cultivate in North, Central, and South Florida.
Central Florida Gardening Calendar - Explore the monthly planting recommendations to determine the ideal crops for each season and discover essential strategies for nurturing healthy plants. Learn how to safeguard them from adverse weather conditions, pests, and other potential threats to ensure successful growth.
Gardening in DeBary:
Discover the Butterfly Garden at Gateway Park in DeBary, lovingly cared for by the DeBary Garden Club.
Embarking on a gardening journey in DeBary, Florida, is an adventure enriched by the presence of two exceptional local businesses dedicated to nurturing greenery and fostering community connections. Natalia's Garden Center and DeBary Nursery are helpful resources for novice and seasoned gardeners alike, offering plants and a wealth of knowledge and support to cultivate your landscapes.
Located at 665 S Charles Richard Beall Blvd, DeBary, FL, 32713, Natalia's Garden Center is a haven for plant enthusiasts. Beyond offering plants, Natalia's Garden Center also hosts classes and workshops aimed at enriching visitors' gardening knowledge and skills. Whether you're looking to cultivate a vegetable patch or adorn your space with ornamental blooms, Natalia's Garden Center provides both the resources and guidance necessary to make your gardening dreams a reality.
Conveniently situated at 61 South Charles Richard Beall Blvd., DeBary Nursery stands as another pillar of DeBary's gardening community. With extended springtime hours, including select Sundays throughout March and April, DeBary Nursery is committed to providing accessibility and convenience to its patrons. Whether you're seeking advice on soil composition, plant care, or landscaping ideas, the friendly team at DeBary Nursery is dedicated to ensuring your gardening experience is both fruitful and enjoyable.
As you embark on your gardening journey in DeBary, seize the opportunity to support these local businesses and tap into the wealth of expertise they offer. Whether you're a budding enthusiast or a seasoned green thumb, Natalia's Garden Center and DeBary Nursery are invaluable resources for enhancing your gardening endeavors. So, roll up your sleeves, dig into the soil, and let the vibrant blooms and verdant foliage of DeBary flourish under your care.
Happy gardening!