Summer is here. The thermometer knows it and the plants are responding with unrestrained growth and production.
The ample moisture adds to the lush growth of both ornamental horticulture specimens and of fruit and vegetable production. As such there is plenty to do in the gardens and landscapes of panhandle Florida.
One of the first tasks is to monitor for destructive insects. It is important to remember there are many beneficial insects and just because a creature has six legs does not mean it should be automatically sent to its demise.
Chewing insects are currently active in north Florida along with piercing and sucking insects. Each is highly effective at damaging and destroying a variety of leafy species.
June gardens and landscapes are producing, and the resident destructive insects are quite aware of the offerings available. One of the big chores currently is to monitor for the appearance of problems like piercing/sucking insects. Their work, likely a stinkbug or leaf-footed bug in this case, is evident on these tomatoes.
The most common chewing insects are grasshoppers and caterpillars. There are many local species in each group, and some can be quite destructive.
The armyworm, really a caterpillar for a bland colored moth, is likely the reigning champion for individual consumption of desirable plant material. This boneless bug has the appearance of an elongated balloon inflated to the point of splitting.
It is not a persnickety eater, so it may be seen on a wide variety of plants, shrubs and even weeds. Its presence is quickly evident in the vast number of gnawed and missing leaves.
As for the grasshoppers, the lubber species is the prince of pigging out on the landscape. Also known as the Georgia Thumper, this eating machine is happy to dine wherever it lands.
The piercing and sucking insects include stinkbugs, leaf-footed bugs and aphids. Each uses its proboscis, a straw-like structure on the front of its head, to pierce a plant’s surface and suck its juices.
The openings created at the feeding site can admit plant diseases to the host species. Additionally, each of these pests can act as a vector for fungal and viral diseases to plants.
June is a great time to finish pruning those early blooming shrubs common to the area. Azaleas, spiraea and gardenias should be pruned and shaped before July 4 if the homeowner wants to avoid reducing next year’s bloom.
Monitor for nutrient deficiencies or environmental problems with palms and cycads. Identify the condition and correct by using an appropriate treatment.
One common deficiency in both palms and cycads is magnesium. The remedy for this situation is easy to locate, relatively inexpensive (even today) and simple to apply – a true rarity.
Epsom salt, a staple in drug stores and pharmacies worldwide for footbaths, is chemically known as magnesium sulfate. Sprinkling it in the root zone of palms and cycads can supply their need for this micronutrient which is limited or absent in local soils.
There is still time to plant heat tolerant vegetables. Okra, southern peas, and sweet potatoes can all be started now.
Clemson spineless is the standard bearer for local okra production, with plants having the potential to reach eight feet in height by frost. Other varieties are available, but the yield will not be as great as Clemson spineless.
Black-eyed peas, pinkeye-purple hull, Crowder and other long-serving southern pea cultivars will produce well in the north Florida summer. It is important to remember other area residents like these legumes also.
Deer, rabbits, some insects and others enjoy this summer garden staple. It is time to enjoy the summer’s bounty but stay on guard. Many others enjoy the buffet, too.
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