Planting and Growing Potatoes in Alabama

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Planting and Growing Potatoes in Alabama

If you’re an Alabamian looking to plant potatoes, the timing of your planting is essential. Plant too soon, and the cold temperatures may cause damage to the crop; plant too late, and there may need to be more time for a successful harvest before Summer temperatures. Fortunately, with some knowledge and planning, you can ensure that your potato-planting project will yield a bountiful harvest. This blog post is for the cool season type of potatoes. Check out the Sweet Potato page for warm season potatoes.

When To Plant Potatoes In Alabama

The best time to plant potatoes in Alabama is typically between early February and early March. This gives them plenty of time to fully develop before the hot summer months arrive. It’s essential to remember that each variety of potato has its own needs regarding planting times, so be sure to check the instructions on your seed potato for specifics.

Before you start planting, make sure that your soil is ready. The ideal soil temperature should be between 55°F and 65°F (12-18°C). You can check this by taking a six or eight inch-deep soil sample from several different points in your garden area and measuring the temperature with a thermometer. Once the soil has reached this temperature range, you can begin planting.

One important thing to remember when planting potatoes in Alabama is that there are two main types—early and late varieties—and each requires different timing for optimal success. Early varieties are best planted early, while late varieties should wait until mid-March or later. Additionally, certain areas within Alabama may require different planting times due to differences in climate or terrain; talk to local gardeners or specialists at your local garden center for advice specific to your area if needed.

In conclusion, timing is critical if you’re an Alabamian looking to plant potatoes this year! Aim for February through March as an optimal time frame for most potato varieties. However, always double-check the instructions on your seed potato before getting started, and remember that certain areas within Alabama may require different planting times due to differences in climate or terrain. With some knowledge and planning, you can ensure that your potato-planting project yields a delicious harvest!

Planting Potatoes in the Right Soil

Potatoes are a hardy crop that grows well in various soils and climates. However, growing them successfully means understanding which type of soil is best for planting potatoes. Let’s look at what makes the perfect soil for planting your potatoes.

The ideal soil for growing potatoes is loamy soil with good drainage. Loam is a combination of sand, silt, and clay particles that help structure the soil and enable it to hold both water and nutrients. This soil also has plenty of organic matter, which helps create an environment that encourages healthy potato growth.

If your soil is less loamy than you would like, there are ways to improve it before planting your potatoes. You can do this by adding compost or manure to the soil, which will help add more organic material and improve its texture over time. You should also ensure your soil has plenty of drainage by testing it with a shovel or spade and providing it doesn’t become saturated when watering it.

The pH level of your soil is another important factor when it comes to growing potatoes successfully. The optimal pH level for potato plants is between 4.8 and 5.4, but they will still grow if the pH level is slightly higher or lower than this range as long as other environmental factors are favorable for their growth. To test the pH level of your soil, use an inexpensive testing kit from your local gardening store or nursery.

The Basics of Planting and Harvesting Potatoes

When planting potatoes, you want to ensure they are buried deep enough in the soil so their stems have plenty of room to grow and develop. Generally, you want your potatoes planted 4-6 inches into the soil. However, this may vary depending on your climate and the type of soil you’re working with. If your soil is heavy and moist, you may need to plant it closer to six inches down; if it is light and sandy, closer to four inches will do.

You also want to ensure you leave about 12-18 inches between each potato when planting them in a row. This gives each potato ample space for its roots and stem growth. This spacing also applies when planting multiple rows of potatoes—it’s important not to overcrowd them! Potato plants will yield more abundantly when given plenty of space.

It usually takes about 70-80 days from planting for your potatoes to be ready for harvest! Digging only a little deep when harvesting potatoes is essential, as this can harm or damage the tubers while growing underground. The best way is to use a garden fork or hoe around the base of the plant, gently pushing away some dirt until you see a few tubers near the surface, which can then be easily pulled up from the ground by hand. Be sure not to wait too long, though – once potato tops turn yellow and begin dying off, and it means that they are done growing, and any remaining tubers left in the ground won’t mature enough before winter sets in, so they must be harvested quickly!

Planting potatoes can be simple and easy. If you know what depth you should bury them at and give them adequate spacing between plants, you’ll have no problem achieving a bountiful harvest come harvest time! Just remember: Plant your potatoes 4-6 inches down into the soil with 12-18 inches between each potato when planting in rows or beds, wait until 70-80 days from planting time has passed before harvesting, and use a garden fork or hoe around the base of your plants when harvesting instead of digging deeply so as not disturb any still-growing tubers underground! With these tips in mind, happy gardening!

Harnessing the Sun’s Energy with Passive Solar Greenhouse

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Harnessing the Sun’s Energy with Passive Solar Greenhouse

Have you ever wanted to use the sun’s energy to heat your greenhouse more efficiently? If so, passive solar heating is worth considering. This type of harnessing of the sun’s energy works by trapping and storing heat from the sun during the day and then releasing it at night. Read on to learn more about passive solar heating and how it can work in a greenhouse environment.

What is Passive Solar Heating?

Passive solar heating is a method of collecting, transferring, and storing energy from sunlight with minimal use of other energy sources. The idea is to have a structure that catches, stores, and distributes solar radiation as heat throughout the day. How this works in practice is that you install materials in your greenhouse (such as walls or windows) that absorb some of the sun’s radiation and store it for later use. This stored heat then radiates back into your greenhouse space during cooler nights when there isn’t direct sunlight, keeping your plants warm without having to use electric or gas-powered heating systems.

How Does Passive Solar Heating Work In A Greenhouse?

The basics of passive solar heating involve utilizing materials that absorb heat from the sun during hours when there is direct sunlight. These materials then store this heat until nightfall when they release it back into the greenhouse environment, keeping things warm even when there isn’t direct sunlight available. To make sure this system works correctly, you need to place these materials strategically around your greenhouse and also ensure proper insulation so that any excess heat doesn’t escape before it can be used. The most suitable materials for this are usually dark colored surfaces such as stone or asphalt which can absorb large amounts of light directly from the sun while still holding onto enough warmth to last through a cold night.

Passive solar heating systems are an efficient way to keep your plants warm without having to rely on traditional gas or electric powered heating systems. By strategically placing materials around your greenhouse which absorb and store heat from direct sunlight during peak hours of sunshine, you can ensure that your plants stay warm even during colder nights where there isn’t direct sunlight available. With careful planning and implementation, passive solar heating can drastically reduce your reliance on external sources of energy while also saving you money over time!

Designing the Perfect Passive Solar Greenhouse

If you’re looking to grow your own produce, creating a passive solar greenhouse is one of the best ways to do it. Not only is a passive solar greenhouse energy-efficient and inexpensive to build, but it also allows you to control the climate inside your greenhouse, giving you the perfect environment for growing healthy and delicious fruits and vegetables. Here are some tips on how to design a great passive solar greenhouse.

Location is Key: When building your passive solar greenhouse, it’s important to consider where you place it in relation to sunlight exposure. Find an area that receives maximum sun exposure throughout the day—ideally 6 or more hours of direct sunlight. Consider any potential shade from trees or buildings and make sure there’s enough room for air circulation around the structure.

Glazing Material Matters: The type of glazing material you use for your greenhouse will have an impact on its overall performance. Single-glazed polyethylene plastic film is lightweight and offers excellent UV protection, but it can be easily damaged by hail or strong winds. Look for a double-glazed option with two layers of plastic film that provides better insulation without compromising visibility or light transmission. You can also opt for rigid glazing options like glass or acrylic panels which provide better insulation but require additional support structures and may be more expensive than plastic films.

Orientation Counts: Orienting your greenhouse correctly is an important factor in optimizing its performance and efficiency. For maximum heat gain, position your structure so that the long side faces south while the short sides face east/west (depending on which hemisphere you live in). This will give you maximum solar exposure during winter when days are shorter while still allowing optimal ventilation during summer when temperatures tend to rise quickly inside greenhouses. Make sure all windows are facing south as well so that they get plenty of sun throughout the day and help keep temperatures warm at night.

Designing a passive solar greenhouse doesn’t have to be difficult if you follow these simple tips! Finding the right location with ample sunlight exposure, using appropriate glazing materials, and orienting your structure correctly are all essential steps in designing an efficient and energy-saving passive solar greenhouse that will help you grow delicious fruits and vegetables with minimal effort! Whether you’re a beginner gardener looking to save on energy costs or an experienced green thumb looking for new ways of controlling climate conditions within their greenhouses, following these tips should guarantee success! Good luck out there!

Fall Vegetable Garden in Alabama: What, When, and How

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If you’re like me, you enjoy spending time in your garden all year long. Although the weather is turning cooler, it’s not too late to plant a fall vegetable garden in Alabama. In this blog post, I’ll share some tips on how to get started. So if you’re looking for something to keep you busy in the coming weeks, planting a fall garden is a great option!

What to Plant in Your Fall Garden

Some of the best fall vegetable garden crops include leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables. Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach and kale are fast-growing and can be harvested just a few weeks after planting. Cruciferous vegetables like collards, cabbage and broccoli are also great for fall gardens. They take a little longer to mature than leafy greens but are packed with nutrients.

Broccolli
Brussels Sprouts
Cabbage
Cauliflower
Collards
Kale

Lettuce
Mustard
Onion
Pac Choi
Spinach
Swiss Chard

When to Plant Your Fall Garden Crops

The best time to plant your fall garden crops in Alabama depends on the type of crop you’re planting and the soil temperature. Leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables all have different planting and harvest times. For leafy greens, the best time to plant is September, October and November. For cruciferous vegetables, the best time to plant is September and October. Frost can slow maturity or damage some crops. Frost can also significantly increase the intensity and flavor of many fall vegetable crops.

How to Plant Your Fall Garden Crops

Planting your fall garden crops is easy! Just follow these simple steps:

Prepare your garden bed by tilling the soil and removing any weeds or rocks.
Sow your seeds or transplants in furrows or rows at the recommended spacing for each crop.
Mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
Water regularly and fertilize as needed.

That’s it! Just sit back and watch your garden grow!

Harvesting Fall Vegetable Crops

Broccolli – Most varieties mature in 60-80 days, but a few can take up to 100. Cut the center head out before the flowers begin to open. The side shoots will be harvest-able a few weeks later. Frost can damage the heads.
Cabbage – Varieties mature in 50-80 days with some taking up to 120 days. Each plant is only a single harvest by cutting the head out. Hard freeze frost can cause plants to begin to rot from the inside.
Collards and Kale – Can be harvested at any time. For a long and sustainable harvest, only remove the outer most leaves and the center will continue to grow new leaves. Cutting the center stem will terminate the growth of new leaves. The flavor intensifies with frost and plants can survive hard frost.

Autumn Farmhouse Design: How to Incorporate Rustic Decor into Your Home

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The leaves are changing color and the days are getting shorter. That can only mean one thing: autumn is here! This time of year is perfect for cozy, rustic decor. If you’re looking to add a touch of farmhouse charm to your home, read on for some tips. We’ll show you how to incorporate natural materials like wood and stone into your design, and give you some ideas for adding warm colors and textures. Let’s get started!

One of the best things about autumn farmhouse design is that it’s all about cozy, comfortable living. This time of year is perfect for snuggling up by the fire with a good book or spending time outdoors in the crisp air. To get started incorporating this style into your home, start with natural materials like wood and stone. Exposed beams, hardwood floors, and stone fireplaces are all great ways to add rustic charm. Then, add in some warm colors and textures to really make your space feel cozy. Rich earth tones like deep reds and oranges are perfect for fall, and adding a few throws or pillows in these colors can really transform a room. Finally, don’t forget the finishing touches. Pumpkins, hay bales, and corn stalks are all great ways to add a touch of seasonal flair to your home.

Using Garden Mums in Fall Decor

Mums are a great way to add color and texture to your home this fall, and there are many different ways to use them. We’ll show you how to incorporate mums into your decor in both traditional and nontraditional ways, and give you some ideas for using them in both indoor and outdoor spaces. Let’s get started!

One of the best things about garden mums is that they come in so many different colors. This makes them perfect for adding color and interest to your fall decor. You can use them in arrangements indoors or out, and there are many different ways to do it. For a classic look, try grouping mums in baskets or pots on your porch or patio. You can also use them to create colorful floral arrangements for your Thanksgiving table. If you’re looking for a more unconventional approach, try using mums in place of leaves on a wreath or garland. You can also make a mum centerpiece for your dining table or coffee table. No matter how you choose to use them, mums are a great way to add some autumn flair to your home.

Check Your Hay Bales for Critters

Ants can be a nuisance, and you don’t want them invading your home just because you’re trying to add a little bit of autumn charm. So before you go out and buy any hay bales, take a few minutes to inspect them for ants. You can do this by looking for ant trails or by shaking the bale and seeing if any ants fall out. If you find any ants, try to find a different source for your hay bales, or take steps to get rid of the ants before using them.

So what are you waiting for? Get started on your autumn farmhouse design today! With these tips, you’ll have your home looking cozy and stylish in no time. Happy decorating!

The Truth About Fertilizer: Debunking the Myths

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The Truth About Fertilizer: Debunking the Myths

There are a lot of myths created by marketing companies about fertilizer. Marketing has convinced people that it is some kind of magical substance that will make their plants grow big and strong overnight. The truth is, however, that fertilizer is just like any other tool- it can be used effectively or it can be misused. In this blog post, we will debunk the marketing myths about fertilizer and discuss how you can use it to improve your garden!

What do the fertilizer numbers really mean?

All growing plants need essential elements to grow to their full genetic potential. The NPK, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, makes up the primary nutrients plants need. The other elements needed by plants are called minor elements, micronutrients or secondary nutrients. These include: sulfur, magnesium, calcium, iron, manganese, copper, zinc, boron, molybdenum and chlorine.

Fertilizer comes in different NPK ratios. The number on the bag or bottle is the percentage of how much of each kind of nutrient is in it. For example, 10-10-10 has 10% of Nitrogen, 10% of Phosphorus, and 10% of Potassium.

Nitrogen is the most important nutrient and helps with leaf growth.
Phosphorus helps plants to use and store energy.
Potassium helps with overall plant health and plants’ abilities to resist disease.

Nitrogen comes in many forms, but can only be used by plants in ammonium or nitrate form. Urea, the cheapest form, must first be broken down to ammonium before plants can utilize it. Ammonium is fast-acting and can burn plants if not used correctly. Nitrate is the safest and most effective form of nitrogen for plants. Excessive amounts of urea can build up over colder months and burn plants once the weather warms up due to increased break down to ammonium form.

Phosphorus is essential for plant growth and is found in every cell of a plant. Marketing Myth: High levels of phosphorus make plants bloom more aka bloom booster. Fact: Phosphorus helps plants to use and store energy, but too much phosphorus can make plants weak and unhealthy. Excess phosphorus easily combines with minor elements and prevents their uptake by plants, leading to minor element deficiencies.

Potassium is found in all plant tissues and is important for overall plant health and the plant’s ability to resist disease. It is associated with the movement of water, nutrients and carbohydrates in plant tissue.

When to apply fertilizer?

The best time to apply fertilizer is when plants are actively growing. This is typically in the spring and summer, but can also be in the fall for certain plants. Applying fertilizer to late in the growing cycle can make plants more susceptible to cold damage and disease. Fertilizer applied to dormant plants can actually do more harm than good because the plant cannot utilize the nutrients and the excess nutrients build up in the soil. The excess nutrients can also leach through the soil and contaminate groundwater.

Plants can tell you when and what type of fertilizer to use. The location of yellowing leaves can indicate a lack of several types of nutrients, iron deficiency will show in newer leaves while nitrogen and magnesium deficiency will show in older leaves first. Older leaves turning purple can be a sign of low phosphorus.

Other factors that affect fertilizer

Soil pH plays a big part in the availability of nutrient up take by plants. Most nutrients are available to plants with a soil pH range of 5.6-6.2. Some plants grow better in the lower range and other prefer the higher range. Petunia and calibrachoa are two types of annuals that prefer the lower range and will quickly show iron deficiency above 5.8 pH. Geraniums and marigolds prefer the higher range and show iron toxicity below 5.8 pH.

Kale: The Perfect Vegetable to Grow in Your Garden

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Kale: The Perfect Vegetable to Grow in Your Garden

Need a easy to grow leafy green to add to your garden, kale is a great choice. Kale is hardy and can withstand cold weather, so it’s a good option for gardeners in colder climates. Kale also grows well in containers, so it’s a good choice for urban gardeners or those with limited space.

Kale comes in several varieties, so be sure to choose the variety that best suits your needs. Some varieties are more heat tolerant than others, so if you live in a warm climate, be sure to choose a heat-tolerant variety.

Kale is relatively easy vegetable to grow and doesn’t require a lot of care. Just be sure to water it regularly and fertilize it every few weeks. You can also mulch around the plants to help keep the soil moist.

If you’re looking for a nutritious leafy green to add to your garden, kale is a great choice. Kale is packed with vitamins and minerals, and it’s a good source of fiber. Kale is also low in calories, so it’s a great choice for those watching their weight.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start growing some kale! Your garden will thank you for it.

When to Plant Kale in Alabama

Kale is considered a cool season vegetable for Alabama, but can be planted at any time. But the best time to plant kale is in the fall, around September or October. Kale can also be planted in the spring, around March or April. It can tolerate frost and temperatures well below freezing.

For season long harvest, take only the oldest lower leaves and new leaves will grow from the top-center growth point. Cutting the top off will stop new growth and end harvesting. Once the plants bolt (flower) then the leaves become bitter.

How to Grow and Care for Hardy Hibiscus in Alabama

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Hardy Hibiscus, Rose Mallow, Swamp Mallow, Hibiscus moscheutos

If you’re looking for a beautiful, long-blooming flower to add to your Alabama garden, look no further than the hardy hibiscus! These magnificent blooms come in a variety of colors, and can be grown in almost anywhere in Alabama. In this blog post, we will discuss how to grow and care for these flowers. We’ll also provide tips on choosing the right variety for your needs. So read on to learn more about these amazing plants!

What are Hardy Hibiscus?

Hardy Hibiscus, distinguished from their tropical counterparts, are a group of perennial plants known for their ability to withstand colder temperatures and large, showy blossoms. Here’s an in-depth look into these resilient and captivating plants:

Scientific Classification and Varieties:
- The term “Hardy Hibiscus” encompasses a variety of Hibiscus species native to Alabama, with the most common being Hibiscus moscheutos.
- Other species within the Hardy Hibiscus label include H. coccineus (scarlet rose mallow), H. dasycalyx (Neches River rose mallow), H. grandiflorus (swamp rose mallow), H. lasiocarpos (hairy or wooly rose mallow), and H. laevis (halberd-leaf rose mallow).

Physical Characteristics:
- They are known for their large, eye-catching blossoms, often compared to the size of a dinner plate, that they flaunt from midsummer to early fall.
- These plants can grow to a height of 3-6 feet, adding a dramatic visual element to gardens.

Climate Adaptability:
- Hardy Hibiscus can endure cold winter temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C). In regions with harsh winters and snow, they die back to the ground, rejuvenating in the spring.
- They are well-suited for colder climates, and their resilience in chilly weather makes them stand out, especially when compared to tropical hibiscus varieties which thrive in warmer climates.

Cultivation and Care:
- These plants require minimal care and are known to attract hummingbirds and pollinating bees, while generally deterring deer.

Garden Appeal:
- The Hardy Hibiscus is not only a symbol of endurance but also of aesthetic appeal. The vibrant, large blossoms can transform gardens, bringing a tropical ambiance to temperate landscapes. They are often grown for their color, disease tolerance, and cold hardiness, with numerous cultivars bred for these traits.

Hardy Hibiscus offers a blend of robustness and beauty, embodying a perfect choice for those looking to add a touch of the tropics to their gardens while not compromising on hardiness.

Where to Plant Hardy Hibiscus?

Planting Hardy Hibiscus in the right spot and providing them with the conditions they love can ensure healthy growth and a long, beautiful display of blossoms. Here are some guidelines on where to plant Hardy Hibiscus:

Planting Location:
- Hardy Hibiscus plants thrive in full sun locations; they require at least 6 or more hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Consider planting them near a south-facing wall or building as they enjoy heat.
- They can be planted along or in the back of perennial flower beds, in borders, mixed perennial beds, or used as a standalone specimen plant.

Spacing:
- When planting multiple Hardy Hibiscus, ensure to space the plants 2 to 3 feet apart in the garden to avoid overcrowding and to allow for ample growth.

Soil Conditions:
- Hardy Hibiscus plants prefer well-draining soil with a pH range that is slightly acidic to neutral.
- They are quite tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, from drier to even moist or boggy, but best flowering is achieved when there is ample moisture.

Additional Tips:
- For gardeners in North Alabama, ensuring the planting area is well-draining will prevent water logging in the soil which could potentially harm the plants during winter months.

How to Care for Hardy Hibiscus in Alabama?

Caring for Hardy Hibiscus plants is a relatively straightforward process but requires attention to a few key factors to ensure healthy growth and blooming. Here are some steps and tips on how to care for Hardy Hibiscus:

Watering:
- Water enough to keep the soil evenly moist, especially as the plant is getting established for the first six months. Water regularly during dry spells to maintain a healthy plant.

Fertilization:
- While Hardy Hibiscus doesn’t absolutely require fertilizer, applying a general-purpose fertilizer will promote vigorous growth.

Mulching:
- Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil quality.

Pruning:
- Pruning can be done to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. It’s also important to remove dead or damaged branches to promote healthy growth.

Pest and Disease Management:
- Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and whiteflies, and diseases such as rust or powdery mildew. Employ cultural, biological, or chemical controls as necessary to manage these issues.

By following these care guidelines, gardeners can foster a conducive environment for Hardy Hibiscus to flourish, ensuring a vibrant and attractive display in the garden season after season.

What do you do with hardy hibiscus in the winter?

Hardy Hibiscus, unlike tropical hibiscus, are capable of withstanding colder temperatures to a certain extent, which makes winter care for them a bit easier. North Alabama, you may need to provide additional protection, such as wrapping the plant in burlap or placing it in a protected area. Central and South Alabama should need no protection. However, there are some steps you can take to ensure they thrive and return with robust growth in the spring:

Mulching:
- Apply a thick layer of mulch (8 to 12 inches) around the base of the plant to help protect the root ball from cold temperatures. Chopped leaves or pine needles are great choices for mulching material.
- This mulch acts as an insulating sheet that keeps the soil warm and prevents early new growth until the warmer seasons.

Pruning:
- In the fall, before applying mulch, prune dead stems or branches down to about 8 to 12 inches. This helps to tidy up the plant and prepare it for winter.
- Once spring arrives and you are certain that there’s no danger of hard freezes, remove the mulch. If any branches have been damaged over winter, cut these to the ground. As new growth appears, you can trim and shape the plant as desired.

Winter Hardiness:
- Hardy Hibiscus are root hardy to about zone 5 with no protection and they die back to the ground each year. This natural die-back helps the plant conserve energy and withstand colder temperatures.

Patience:
- Hardy Hibiscus are known to be slow starters in the spring, so patience is key. Once the warmer temperatures settle in, you’ll see your Hardy Hibiscus beginning to grow and prepare for a new season of blooming.

Indoor Overwintering (for Potted Plants):
- If your Hardy Hibiscus is potted, it’s easier to bring it indoors to protect it from freezing temperatures. Ensure it is placed in a well-lit area and keep the soil moist, not wet.

These measures will help ensure the survival and vigor of your Hardy Hibiscus through the winter, and set the stage for beautiful blooms in the following growing season.

With a little care, hardy hibiscus can provide you with beautiful blooms for many years to come! So don’t hesitate to add these plants to your garden today.

Peach Trees in Alabama

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When to Plant Peach Trees in Alabama

When selecting a peach tree to grow in your garden, it is important to choose the variety that is best suited for your area and purpose. Peach trees are originally from China and can be temperamental with their blossoms. Some peach trees are more suitable for fresh eating, while others are better for canning and making preserves. There are hundreds of peach varieties, each one adapted to a particular region or purpose. Peach trees are best planted November until March in Alabama.

Choosing the Right Peach Tree

Don’t bother with a tree that does not grow well in our Alabama climate. If possible, buy peach trees that were grown locally instead of mail-ordering peach trees for your garden. If you purchase peach tress through the mail, they are likely to have trouble adjusting to the climate changes upon arrival. They may also not do well in our hot or humid climate.

You’ll want a peach tree that produces flavorful fruit with a pleasing texture and color. You will also need fruits large enough to be worth picking and processing. Peaches should not fall from the tree before you have a chance to pick them either. Sugar content will vary between peach varieties as well as harvesting time.

Select peach trees that have low susceptibility for peach leaf curl. The peach leaf curl pathogen will damage peach leaves and stunt peach tree growth. Peach leaf curl is a disease that is very common in most peach-producing regions of the world . It’s caused by a fungus. Some peach varieties are resistant or less susceptible for peach leaf curl, but all peach trees can become infected eventually if conditions are right.

Avoid peach trees that are susceptible to peach tree borer. The peach tree borer is an insect pest of peach trees that can kill the peach tree if left untreated.

Growing a Peach Tree

Plant peach trees in full sun for maximum peach tree growth. Peach trees require well-draining soil that is neither too acidic or alkaline, but they also do great in any type of soil as long as it drains well. Add decomposed organic peach tree mulch around peach tree roots to maintain moisture levels during dry seasons and to help your peach tree survive the summer heat. Look for water-stressed peach trees by observing drooping leaves or wilting branches.

Pruning peach trees correctly is important in order to get the best harvest from your tree. Pruning also helps maintain the shape of the tree and keeps it healthy. In general, prune peach trees in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and thin out the tree to allow light and air to circulate. Cut back inward-growing branches and remove any suckers (branches that grow from the rootstock). If your peach tree is not producing fruit, you may need to do more drastic pruning, including removing the entire top of the tree.

When planting a peach tree, be sure to use a high-quality, balanced fertilizer. A 10-10-10 fertilizer is a good option and should be applied at planting and then again every six weeks. In addition, you can also apply a layer of compost around the base of the tree each year. This will help to keep the soil healthy and promote strong growth.

When to Plant Okra in Alabama

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When to Plant Okra in Alabama

Okra or Lady’s finger is a popular vegetable that is widely grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions across the world. It has been a staple food for many people in African, Asian and Indian communities for centuries. With regular care and right growing conditions, okra plants can be productive throughout the Alabama growing season, even during summer months.

The key to growing okra successfully in your garden is selecting the right variety that suits the climatic conditions of your area. We’ve selected Clemson Spineless & Okinawa Pink for Alabama. The plant thrives in warm and moist weather and does not tolerate frost. Unlike many other vegetables, it does not need well-drained soil and grows well in heavy clay or sandy soils. However, you should make sure that the soil is not water-logged as this can lead to root rot.

Okra seeds can be direct sown in the garden or started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Sow the seeds 1/2 inch deep in moist, well-drained soil and keep them warm (70-80 degrees F). Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to 12-18 inches apart. Alabama garden centers can have seeds and plants available from Alabama Grown.

The plants will start bearing flowers and fruits 60-90 days after planting. The fruits are best harvested when they are 3-4 inches long and still tender. You can pick them every 2-3 days to encourage more fruiting.

What are the Crystals on Okra Plants?

While okra are self-pollinating with both male and female parts on the same flower. The plant secrets sugary sap that forms crystals to draw ants for pollination.

Why are Ants on Okra Plants?

The ants are there to help pollinate the flowers. The plants secret a sugary sap to draw the ants to the plants.

When to Plant Strawberries in Alabama

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When to Plant Strawberries in Alabama

Before you start planting strawberry plants, it’s important to check their hardiness zone. Strawberries are a perennial plant that can be grown year round in zones 5-9. For zones 4 & 10, strawberries are considered an annual plant which means they must be replanted each year. Alabama is Zone 7 and is an excellent location to grow strawberries.

In this blog post, we’ll look at how to successfully plant and care for strawberries. We will also discuss diseases, pest and why it is important to protect your plants from frost.

What type of soil should I use when planting my strawberries?

It’s best to use a soil that drains well yet retains enough moisture to keep the roots from drying out. Here are a few tips for preparing your soil:

Loamy Soil: Aim for a sandy loam or a loam that has a mix of sand, silt, and clay. This type of soil structure ensures good drainage while also holding sufficient moisture.
pH Level: Strawberries prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.8. You can test your soil’s pH and amend it with lime if it’s too acidic or sulfur if it’s too alkaline.
Organic Matter: Mix in plenty of organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will improve the soil structure, enhance nutrient content, and maintain moisture levels.
Well-Draining: If your soil is heavy and clayey, consider raising your beds or adding sand and organic matter to improve drainage.

Preparing your soil with these characteristics will help your strawberries grow healthy and produce well.

How to Plant Strawberry Plants?

Planting strawberry plants effectively can ensure a bountiful and healthy crop. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plant strawberry plants:

Choose the Right Time
- Plant strawberries in early spring, or in the fall in Alabama.
Select the Right Site
- Choose a location that gets full sun for at least six to eight hours per day.
- Ensure the site has good air circulation and well-drained soil.
Planting Layout
- Space plants about 8-16 inches apart in rows that are 1-2 feet apart. This spacing allows for easy maintenance and harvesting.
- For container planting, ensure there is adequate space for roots to spread.
Planting Technique
- Dig holes deep and wide enough to accommodate the roots without bending or crowding them.
- Set each plant so the crown (where the leaves emerge) is level with the soil surface. Burying the crown can cause the plant to rot.
- Spread the roots downward and outward in the hole, then backfill with soil, gently firming it around the roots.

By following these steps, your strawberry plants should establish well and lead to a successful harvest.

When and how should I water my strawberries?

Water strawberries regularly, especially if they’re planted in spring or summer. During periods of heavy rain, you may need to stop watering every day, but after a few weeks it should be back to normal. Too much water can lessen the berry flavor and cause the berries to burst.

How do I protect my strawberry plants from frost?

Protecting strawberry plants from frost is crucial to maintaining the health and productivity of your crop. Here are effective strategies to safeguard your strawberries during cold snaps:

Mulching
- Apply a thick layer of straw or pine needles over your strawberry plants. This insulation helps maintain a more consistent soil temperature and protects the roots and crowns from freezing temperatures. Remove the mulch in the spring after the last frost.
Floating Row Covers
- Use floating row covers, a lightweight, breathable fabric, to cover your strawberry plants. These covers trap heat and prevent frost from settling directly on the plants. Be sure to secure the edges of the cover with rocks or soil to keep the wind from blowing it away.
Cloches
- For smaller patches or individual plants, cloches can be very effective. You can use commercial cloches or make your own from materials like plastic jugs or glass domes. Place them over the plants in the evening and remove them during the day if temperatures rise to avoid overheating.
Cold Frames
- Construct a cold frame around your strawberry bed. This can be as simple as a wooden frame with a clear old window on top or more complex designs. Cold frames provide a microclimate that can shield plants from harsh conditions.
Remove Covers During the Day
- If you use covers (fabric, plastic, or cloches), remember to remove or vent them during the day to allow heat to escape and prevent overheating your plants.

By implementing these protective measures, you can help ensure that your strawberry plants survive through frosty conditions and continue to thrive.