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.

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.

Growing Calibrachoa Organically

Calibrachoa (Calibrachoa parviflora) is a trailing petunia that is also known as Million Bells and Seaside Petunia. It’s a happy little plant that blooms prolifically all summer and performs its best under the summer sun. Calibrachoa won’t wilt in the heat like many other varieties of petunias, making it a great choice for a sunny, organic garden.

Planting Location

The more sun calibrachoa receivies, the more blooms they will produce. Select a location that is in full sun.

Plants grow equally well when planted in-ground or in containers, but will produce runners that need space to trail downwards or spread out laterally.

Soil Preparation

Since calibrachoa is a heavy blooming plant, it is also a heavy feeder. Create a fertile growing medium by mixing a good quality potting soil mix and compost at a 50/50 ratio. Potting soil should contain perlite and peat to help keep plants fed and hydrated.

Planting

Calibrachoa plants produce very few seeds, so they are typically purchased as plants.

When planting in-ground, dig a eight inch by six inch hole (save removed soil to use elsewhere) and place two-three inches of prepared soil in bottom of hole. Remove calibrachoa plant from container and place in center of prepared hole. Fill in planting hole with more potting soil mix. Firm soil gently around roots and water well.

For container planting, select a container that is 8-10 inches deep and equally as wide. Add two-three inches of prepared soil in container bottom, place plant in the center and finish filling in with soil. Water well.

Add a thin layer of organic mulch on top of soil to help retain moisture.

After Care

Remove spent blooms as needed to keep plant looking nice.

Water plant early in the day and provide plenty of sunshine to keep the thick foliage and the flowers dry to prevent rot root.

This heavy-feeding plant needs a steady supply of food, so keep it well fed with compost tea. Mix a garden trowel of compost (or manure) in a five gallon bucket of rain water and place in a sunny location. Allow ‘tea’ to steep for a couple of days, then use once a week to water calibrachoa.

A side dressing of compost can be added in mid-summer to kept soil fertile and plants growing strong.

The Zinnia Garden: A Colorful Display of Summer Blooms

Step into a world of vibrant colors and endless charm with the Zinnia Garden, a captivating display of summer blooms that will transform your garden into a breathtaking spectacle. Zinnias, with their diverse varieties, effortless propagation, and stunning beauty, is a gardener’s delight. From the delicate petals of the Lilliput zinnias to the towering elegance of the Giant zinnias, this article will guide you through the captivating world of these summer darlings. Discover the secrets of successful cultivation, from seed propagation to nurturing cuttings, and delve into pest and disease management. Prepare to be enchanted by the Zinnia Garden, where nature’s artistry unfolds in a symphony of colors and forms.

Exploring Different Types of Zinnia

With their vibrant hues and diverse forms, Zinnia captivate the hearts of gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike. Four stand out as emblems of their captivating beauty among the numerous zinnia varieties.

Zinnia elegans, the most ubiquitous of the zinnia clan, boasts large, striking flowers that adorn gardens in a kaleidoscope of colors. With their stately presence, these zinnias make a bold statement in any garden setting. Most grow 24″ or taller.

Zinnia angustifolia, in contrast, exhibits a more petite charm. Its narrow leaves and smaller flowers lend an air of delicate grace to any garden. These compact zinnias are ideal for smaller spaces or adding elegance to borders and containers. Short, bushy growth habit.

Zinnia haageana, also known as the cactus zinnia, stands out with its unique, spiky petals resembling cactus. This zinnia variety adds an element of intrigue and texture to the garden, making it a conversation starter among gardening enthusiasts. Most grow 24″ or taller.

Last but not least, Zinnia marylandica brings an effortless charm to the garden with its profusion of single or semi-double flowers. These zinnias, available in various colors, are known for their hardiness and adaptability, making them popular among gardeners of all levels. 12″-18″ tall and 18″-24″ wide growth habit.

Zinnia Propagation: Seeds, Cuttings, or Transplants

When to Plant Zinnia Seeds

Seeds can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost or be sown directly outdoors after the last spring frost. If starting seeds indoors, they should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, sunny location. Seeds will germinate quickly in 7-10 days.

How to Plant Zinnia Seeds

Planting zinnia seeds is easy! Scatter seeds over soil and cover with soil or vermiculite until seeds can not be seen. Water well but not enough to float seeds to the surface.

Growing Zinnias from Cuttings

Cuttings can be taken from healthy zinnia plants in the spring or summer. Cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and taken from the tips of the stems. Remove the bottom leaves from the cuttings and dip them in the rooting hormone. Cuttings can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, sunny location. Cuttings will root in 2-3 weeks.

Once zinnias have been planted, they should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. Zinnias also benefit from being fertilized every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage new blooms.

Zinnia transplants are readily available at many local independent garden centers. It’s an easy way to get a jump start in the garden.

Zinnia Pests and Diseases

Zinnias are susceptible to several pests and diseases, but these can be prevented and treated. One of the most common pests that affect zinnias is aphids. Aphids are small, green insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause leaves to curl and turn yellow, and they can also transmit diseases. To prevent aphids, spray your zinnia plants with a strong stream of water or use an insecticidal soap. If you find aphids on your plants, you can treat them with a neem oil spray or a pyrethrin-based insecticide.

Another common pest that affects zinnias is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny, red, or brown insects that spin webs on the undersides of leaves. They can cause leaves to turn yellow and drop off, and they can also transmit diseases. To prevent spider mites, spray your zinnia plants with a strong stream of water or use an insecticidal soap. If you find spider mites on your plants, you can treat them with a neem oil spray or a miticide.

Powdery mildew and bacterial leaf spot are common diseases that affect zinnias. Powdery mildew is a white, powdery fungus that grows on the leaves of plants. It can cause leaves to turn yellow and drop off and reduce the plant’s ability to photosynthesize. Bacterial leaf spot is a black, water soaked fungus that usually starts near the base of the plant. To prevent, you can water your zinnia plants at the base of the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves. You can also spray your plants with a fungicide. If you find either of these diseases on your plants, you can treat them with a neem oil spray or a copper fungicide.

Following these tips can help prevent and treat pests and diseases on your zinnias and keep your plants healthy and beautiful all summer.

Growing Geraniums Organically

The popular and colorful geranium (Pelargonium) is a sure sign that summer has arrived. Geraniums come in many forms, colors and growing heights with well over 400 species of plants that are in the family of Cranesbills.

Easy-to-grow plant thrives in an organic garden and will provide bloom color all summer. Geraniums are considered to be an annual, but typically behave as a perennials when grown organically.

Growing Location

Select a sunny location that has well-draining soil. Geraniums grow well in containers or when planted in-ground.

Geraniums should be planted on the day of purchase, so it’s best to have your garden soil prepared ahead of time and be ready to plant immediately.

Soil Preparation

Prepare soil by tilling or spading 8-10 inches deep, or use a container 8-10 inches deep.

Mix in six inches of compost, well rotted manure or peat moss to the tilled soil ensure good drainage and plenty of organic food for the plants.

Prepare soil for container by creating an organic growing medium from a 50-50 mixture of good quality potting soil and compost.

How To Plant

For plants, dig holes that are the same depth as the roots so plant roots will just barely be under the surface of the soil.

Place a handful of compost in the bottom of each planting hole. Gently remove plant from container to keep the root ball intact and place in prepared hole.

Gently firm the soil around plant base and leave a 1/2 inch indentation in the soil around the plant to act as a catch basin for water. Water plant well and add two inches of an organic mulch around plant stem to retain water and prevent weeds.

For seeds, plant seeds in prepared soil 8-10 inches apart. Cover with half an inch of compost and water well. Keep soil moist until seeds germinate. When plants reach six inches high, apply a 2 inch layer of organic mulch around the plants.

After Care

Geraniums like moist, but not soggy soil. keep plants well-hydrated and well-fed by creating a batch of organic compost tea.

Mix a garden trowel of compost (or manure) in a five gallon bucket of rain water and place in a sunny location. Allow ‘tea’ to steep for a couple of days, then use to water geraniums.

A side dressing of compost can be added in mid-summer to kept soil fertile and plants growing strong.