August Gardening in Indian River?

Beans, Carrots, Okra, Southern Peas, Squash & More!

It’s still hot as a habanero outside but we’re still growing things down here in Indian River County, east central Florida.

A few things to consider planting in August

If you want to start from seeds, now is a good time to plant these into containers inside with controlled lighting and watering. By August, they will be ready to transplant right into your garden! Pay close attention to where these plants will be happiest on your property. The slogan is “Right Plant, Right Place”. You’re on the right track here because these are the “right plants” that will do great here in Indian River County (10a see below). If you put them in the “right place” you’ll get to enjoy easy maintenance veggies.

1. Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) Learn more about Bush Beans

2. Carrots (Daucus carota) Learn more about Carrots

3. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) Learn more about Okra

4. Southern Peas (Vigna unguiculata) Learn more about Southern Peas

5. Summer Squash (Cucurbita) Learn more about Summer Squash

Hardiness Zone 10a

I remember it as “Ten Ayyyyyyy!”

10a? 9b? What does this mean? The USDA takes in temperature data and creates a map of temperature zones so that we know what grows best in each zone. Looking at the map below you can see that in 2023 it was updated so that Indian River County is primarily zone 10a but there are a few areas out west that can still be 9b. Depending on your backyard’s micro-climate and your gardening skills, you might be able to grow plants from both!

The Mission

Let’s help Indian River County residents grow their own food. Together we can have flourishing home gardens that supply food for ourselves, friends, and families. Groceries have gotten so expensive and the quality isn’t keeping up. They are importing food from other countries that can be grown easily right in your backyard. Enjoy a fresh tomato from your garden instead of one that was sprayed with chemicals, picked early, gassed, coated, shipped across borders, unpacked and handled. Together we can eat better and healthier.

I need help with my garden!

Check out these great resources

• Central FL Gardening Calendar - University of Florida IFAS
• University of Florida IFAS Extension
• USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map
• Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide - University of Florida IFAS
• Heat-Tolerant Vegetables

A Community Stands Stronger Together

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