If you think Florida’s summer heat means your vegetable garden has to go dormant, think again. Many gardeners are surprised to learn what vegetables can you grow in florida in the summer – thriving in the heat is absolutely possible. With the right plant choices and some smart techniques, you can keep your garden productive through the hottest months.
What Vegetables Can You Grow In Florida In The Summer – Thriving In The Heat
The key to summer success is focusing on vegetables that originate from tropical or subtropical regions. These plants are genetically wired to handle high temperatures, humidity, and our intense summer rainfall. Forget about tomatoes and lettuce for now; it’s time to embrace a different set of garden stars.
Top Heat-Loving Vegetables for Your Florida Summer Garden
These vegetables not only survive but often prefer the conditions our summers provide. They grow rapidly with the long, hot days.
- Southern Peas (Cowpeas): This is a summer champion. Varieties like ‘California Blackeye,’ ‘Mississippi Silver,’ and ‘Red Ripper’ are incredibly resilient. They fix nitrogen in the soil, improving it for future crops.
- Okra: A classic Southern staple, okra loves heat. The pods grow fast, so check your plants daily. ‘Clemson Spineless’ and ‘Burgundy’ are excellent choices.
- Sweet Potatoes: Plant slips now for a fantastic fall harvest. They thrive in sandy soil and need little fuss once established. Their vines provide great ground cover.
- Malabar Spinach: Not a true spinach, but a vining plant with a similar taste. It grows as a perennial in Florida and won’t bolt in the heat like regular spinach.
- Long Beans (Yardlong Beans): These are related to southern peas but produce very long, slender pods. They need a sturdy trellis and are prolific producers.
- Eggplant: Choose heat-tolerant varieties like ‘Florida Market,’ ‘Ichiban,’ or ‘Classic.’ They need consistent moisture but will set fruit all summer long.
- Peppers: Both hot and sweet peppers do well. Hot peppers, especially, seem to get more productive as the temperatures rise. Try ‘Jalapeño,’ ‘Cayenne,’ or ‘Sweet Banana.’
Herbs That Flourish in the Summer Heat
Don’t neglect your herb garden. Many common herbs are from Mediterranean climates and are built for sun and heat.
- Basil (especially Thai basil)
- Rosemary
- Oregano
- Mexican Tarragon
- Chives
Essential Tips for Summer Gardening Success
Choosing the right plants is only half the battle. How you care for them makes all the difference.
1. Soil Preparation is Non-Negotiable
Florida’s summer rains can quickly wash away nutrients and compact soil. Before planting, amend your beds generously with compost or well-rotted manure. This improves drainage and adds organic matter that holds moisture and nutrients. A 3-4 inch layer worked into the top 6-8 inches of soil is ideal.
2. Master the Watering Schedule
Watering is critical. The goal is deep, infrequent watering to encourage strong root growth.
- Water early in the morning, ideally before 10 AM. This allows foliage to dry, reducing fungal disease.
- Water deeply at the base of the plants, avoiding the leaves.
- During periods of frequent afternoon rain, you may need to skip a day. Check soil moisture with your finger.
3. Mulch Heavily
A thick layer of mulch is your best friend. It keeps soil cool, retains moisture, and suppresses weeds. Use 3-4 inches of pine straw, leaves, or commercial mulch. Keep it a few inches away from plant stems to prevent rot.
4. Provide Some Afternoon Shade
Even heat-loving plants appreciate a break from the intense late-afternoon sun. Use shade cloth (30-40% density) or strategically plant taller crops (like okra or trellised beans) to the west of more sensitive plants.
5. Stay on Top of Pest and Disease Control
Summer is prime time for insects and fungi. The key is regular monitoring.
- Inspect the undersides of leaves often.
- Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for soft-bodied insects like aphids.
- For fungal issues, improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Copper fungicide can be used as a preventative.
- Hand-pick larger pests like caterpillars and hornworms.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting a Summer Vegetable
Let’s walk through the process of getting a summer crop, like okra, into the ground.
- Clear the planting area of all weeds and debris.
- Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches and mix in your compost.
- Create small mounds or rows. Plant okra seeds 1 inch deep and 12 inches apart.
- Water the seeds in gently but thoroughly.
- Once seedlings are a few inches tall, apply your thick layer of mulch around them.
- Install a stake or marker so you remember what you planted where.
Common Summer Gardening Challenges and Solutions
You will face obstacles. Here’s how to tackle the most common ones.
Blossom Drop on Peppers and Eggplants
High nighttime temperatures (above 75°F) can cause flowers to fall off without setting fruit. Don’t panic. Keep the plants healthy, and they will resume setting fruit when temperatures moderate slightly, often later in the season. Ensure consistent watering.
Leaf Scorch
This appears as brown, dry edges on leaves. It’s often caused by a combination of wind, sun, and inadequate water uptake. Make sure your mulching and watering practices are solid. A little afternoon shade can prevent it.
Nutrient Leaching from Heavy Rain
Summer storms wash fertilizer away. Use a slow-release organic fertilizer at planting time. You can also supplement with light, liquid feedings (like fish emulsion or compost tea) every 3-4 weeks during the growing season to keep plants nourished.
Planning for the Fall Transition
A great summer garden sets you up for an even better fall garden. Legumes like southern peas add nitrogen to the soil. As your summer crops finish, work the spent plants (except for diseased material) back into the soil as green manure. Start planning and purchasing seeds for your fall tomatoes, carrots, and brassicas in late summer so your ready to go.
FAQ: Florida Summer Vegetable Gardening
What vegetables grow best in extreme heat Florida?
Southern peas, okra, sweet potatoes, Malabar spinach, and eggplant are the top performers in extreme Florida heat. They are adapted to tropical conditions.
Can you grow tomatoes in Florida in the summer?
Traditional tomatoes struggle with heat, humidity, and disease pressure. If you want to try, select heat-set varieties like ‘Heatmaster,’ ‘Solar Fire,’ or ‘Florida 91.’ They often perform better in large containers with careful attention.
How often should I water my vegetable garden in Florida summer?
There is no universal schedule. You should check the soil. If the top inch is dry, it’s time to water deeply. This may be every 2-3 days during dry spells, but less during rainy periods. Overwatering is a common mistake.
What can I plant in July in Florida?
July is perfect for planting hot-weather crops. You can still plant okra, southern peas, and sweet potato slips. It’s also a good time to start seeds for your first fall crops (like peppers and eggplants) indoors or in a shaded area.
Why are my vegetable plants flowering but not producing fruit?
This is usually due to poor pollination or extreme heat. Bees are less active in the peak heat of the day. You can try hand-pollinating flowers with a small brush. For peppers and eggplants, high night temps are often the culprit, and patience is required.
With this knowledge, you’re ready to maintain a vibrant, productive garden all summer long. It requires a shift in thinking, but the reward of fresh harvests during a time when many gardens are empty is well worth the effort. Remember, focus on the right plants, protect your soil with mulch, and water wisely. Your Florida summer garden can be a surprising source of abundance.