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!

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.

🗓️ When to Plant Tomatoes in Alabama

Tomatoes are warm-season crops, so timing is important:

North Alabama (Huntsville, Florence, etc.):

• Start seeds indoors: Late February to early March
• Transplant outdoors: Mid-April to early May (after last frost)

Central Alabama (Birmingham, Montgomery, etc.):

• Start seeds indoors: Early February
• Transplant outdoors: Early to mid-April

South Alabama (Mobile, Dothan, etc.):

• Start seeds indoors: Late January to early February
• Transplant outdoors: Mid to late March

🔁 You can also do a fall planting: start seeds in June and transplant in July for harvest into fall.

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🌱 How to Grow Tomatoes in Alabama

1. Choose the Right Variety

For Alabama’s humidity and heat, choose disease-resistant and heat-tolerant varieties:

• Celebrity (determinate)
• Better Boy (indeterminate)
• Roma (great for sauces)
• Cherokee Purple (heirloom)

2. Start Seeds or Buy Transplants

• Start seeds 6–8 weeks before your planting date.
• Use seed trays with a heat mat for even germination (70–80°F).
• Harden off plants outdoors 7–10 days before transplanting.

3. Site Selection

• Full sun (at least 6–8 hours daily)
• Well-draining soil rich in organic matter
• Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–6.8)

4. Soil Prep & Planting

• Mix in compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
• Add lime if soil is too acidic (do a soil test if unsure).
• Plant deeply — bury 2/3 of the plant, including some of the stem to encourage root growth.
• Space:
  • Determinate types: 18–24″ apart
  • Indeterminate types: 24–36″ apart with cages or stakes

5. Watering & Mulching

• Water 1–1.5 inches per week, deeply and less frequently.
• Use drip irrigation or water at the base to prevent leaf diseases.
• Mulch with pine straw or hay to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

6. Feeding

• Use a balanced fertilizer at planting (e.g., 10-10-10).
• Side-dress with calcium nitrate once fruit sets to prevent blossom-end rot.
• Don’t over-fertilize with nitrogen — it leads to leafy plants and poor fruiting.

7. Support & Maintenance

• Stake, cage, or trellis all indeterminate varieties.
• Prune suckers for better airflow and fruit size (especially on indeterminates).
• Monitor for pests: hornworms, whiteflies, aphids.
• Watch for diseases: blight, wilt, leaf spot — rotate crops yearly and avoid overhead watering.

8. Harvesting

• Pick tomatoes when they turn full color and are slightly soft to the touch.
• Store at room temperature (never in the fridge unless fully ripe and soft).

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.