Fall Gardening: Time To Tackle The Chaos And Prepare For Winter
October 2, 2010
Towards the end of the growing season, many landscapes are overgrown and untidy. Allowing plants to tower over others can mean the demise of the smaller plant. It’s time to tackle the chaos and prepare for winter.
First and foremost, take a good look at your landscape. If a plant has outgrown its allotted space, perhaps it was the wrong plant in the wrong place. Avoid these types of problems by becoming familiar with a plant before you plant it. While you can try to control the size of the plant to fit its space, it will never be a happy, stress-free plant.
Information on the mature size of a plant and their site requirements can be found in several Extension publications. The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) “Guide to Plant Selection and Landscape Design” is intended for homeowners who want to take the next step and design their own Florida-Friendly landscapes. Included in this book is information on landscape design strategies, a landscape planning worksheet, and the FFL plant list containing many of the UF/IFAS recommended Florida-Friendly plants for each region of the state. It’s available online by clicking here.
Even in a well-planned landscape, though, the gardener’s controlling influence is important. The most useful methods for dealing with especially enthusiastic plants are removing, pruning, supporting or creating barriers to prevent unwanted spreading.
Removing and replacing
Autumn is an excellent time to establish shrubs and trees. Consider removing oversized plants and replacing them with carefully chosen ones that will happily fit within your defined boundaries. Plants that are installed late in the year will develop strong roots systems before hot weather arrives next spring.
Pruning
When it comes to pruning, it’s good to remember that it’s better to prune lightly occasionally as needed, than to allow a plant to get way overgrown and then cut it back severely. A few prudent snips here and there will help keep more vigorous plants from overwhelming their less vigorous neighbors.
Emphasis must be placed on the word “light.” It’s important to remember that late summer pruning may stimulate an additional flush of shoot growth on species which flush several times each year. These shoots could be damaged by an early frost.
Supporting
Another technique to improve the look of an overgrown landscape is staking. Staking or otherwise supporting plants keeps them from leaning or falling over onto others. It helps the tall plant look better, and obviously benefits the plants that would otherwise be covered. The stake should be tall enough to do the job but not be too obvious.
Stakes may simply be placed in such a way that the plant is supported by leaning up against it. On the other hand, it may be necessary to tie the plant to the stake. Typically, twine or plastic ties are used for this purpose. Make sure you tie the lower and upper parts of the plant to the stake to provide proper support.
Other techniques for support include tying twine in a loop all the way around a plant, using a wire cage – this is best done early in the growing season to allow the plant to grow into it – tying a plant to a sturdier, nearby plant or using one of the commercially available support systems.
Barriers
Many perennials and tropical plants spread by underground structures called rhizomes. If growth shows up outside the area you’ve allotted for that plant, promptly dig out the unwanted growth and replant it somewhere else.
Barriers extending at least one foot down into the ground around aggressive spreaders can sometimes help keep them under control. Digging, dividing and replanting clumps of aggressive spreaders annually is another good way to make sure they stay put.
Overgrown shrubs can cause a house to lose its curb appeal. Proper, regular control measures should be employed to keep a landscape looking its best.
Theresa Friday is the Residential Horticulture Extension Agent for Santa Rosa County.
Photo Gallery: Ernest Ward Presents Talent Show
October 2, 2010
Ernest Ward Middle School held their annual talent show Friday night at the school.
The following awards were presented:
Critics Choice Awards – First Place, Lori Harrell singing “I Wonder”; Second Place, Annie Bobo, Megan Bryan, Tamara Wise, comedy routine “I’m A Dork”; Third Place (tie) Morgan Wiggins, twirl routine; Koriaun Lewis, singing “You Raise Me Up”.
Peoples Choice Award – Annie Bobo, Megan Bryan, Tamara Wise for their comedy routine “I’m A Dork”.
For a photo gallery from the talent show, click here.
Participants in the Ernest Ward Middle School talent show were:
Katrina Rau; Amy Branch; Deasia Fountain, Felcia Muhammand, Flenequa Mitchell; Morgan Wiggins, Morgan Pope, Aliyah Creamer, Koriaun Lewis, Morgan Packer, Shania Ward, McKenzie Nassar, Lindsey Gindl, Kaelyn Coffey, Haley Coffey, Haley Brown, Annie Bobo, Megan Bryan, Tamara Wise, Gavin Coon, Jason Ogle, Abbie Johnson, Lori Harrell, Justin Moore and Amber Freeman.
Pictured top: Annie Bobo, Megan Bryan, Tamara Wise present their “Peoples Choice Award” comedy routine “I’m A Dork” Friday night during the annual Ernest Ward Middle School talent show. Pictured inset: Lori Harrel won the “Critics Choice Award”. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Photos: Molino Park 5th Graders Present “Cooking It!”
October 1, 2010
Refined sugar isn’t so sweet, but fruit and veggies are good — that’s the message behind a play and puppet show presented today at Molino Park Elementary School.
Molino Park’s fifth graders and professionals from the Pensacola Little Theatre presented “Cooking It!” — an original musical play designed to facilitate healthy eating and address childhood obesity.
For a photo gallery from a Thursday practice, click here.
“If you can’t pronounce it, renounce it,” says character Chef Freda, portrayed by PLT’s Tricia Hartley in the play after the students learn that refined sugar can “hide” behind names like manitol, sorbitol, dextrose and galactose.
But puppet characters Brussels Sprout and Carrot, along with Farmer Mark, spread the word that fruits and vegetables can be a tasty and healthy alternative, especially when sweetened with just a pinch of raw sugar and the flavorful help of the “Spice Girls.”
“Too much sweet stuff in your food is not good for you,” said fifth grader Domonique McNeill. “Sugar hides itself; you have to read the label to learn where the sugar is,” added Kylee Jackson.
The students have practiced all week under the direction of Michelle Hancock, Pensacola Little Theatre’s Beyond Boundaries coordinator.
“We’ve learned how to do a play with real actors,” said Aaron Dees. “It’s been great.”
For a photo gallery from a Thursday practice, click here.
Pictured above and below: Fifth grade students at Molino Park Elementary practice Thursday morning for a Friday performance of “Cooking It!”. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Ernest Ward Photo Gallery: That’s Just Tacky!
September 30, 2010
Wednesday was Tacky Day at Ernest Ward Middle Middle, part of Spirit Week for the Eagles.
Several other special dress days are planned:
- Thursday — Team Day
- Friday — Camo Day
- Monday — Twin Day
- Tuesday — Blue and Gold Day
For more Tacky Day photos, click here.
Pictured above and below: Some the tacky dress Wednesday for Tacky Day at Ernest Ward Middle School. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Northview, Flomaton Meet In Dig Pink Breast Cancer Event; Honor Survivors Including Coach
September 29, 2010
Breast cancer awareness was the real winner Tuesday in Bratt as the Northview Chiefs hosted the Flomaton Hurricanes in Dig Pink high school volleyball.
And for one coach, the night was more than meaningful.
Northview Assistant Coach Barbara Luker is a breast cancer survivor. Diagnosed in 2001, Luker has beaten he disease. In 2010, she was among the organizers of Tuesday’s Dig Pink event.
“It means a lot to see them out here playing for the cause,” Luker said the dozens of girls that took part in Dig Pink. “But it means so much more to know they have learned a lot this week about breast cancer and how to get checked.”
In fact, Luker said, some of the girls learned this week that breast cancer has already stricken some of their classmates.
“It’s a much more common thing than most people realize,” she said. “I’m so glad they have had the opportunity to learn about it.”
For a NorthEscambia.com photo gallery from Dig Pink, click here.
For complete scores and stats, click here.
In the Dig Pink event at the varsity level, Flomaton defeated Northview in three consecutive games, 26-24, 27-25, 25-19.
The Lady Hurricanes were led by Jasmine Stackhouse with seven kills; Tara Gafford with eight blocks and Christina Gohagan with four aces and 22 assists.
Shawna Montgomery paced the Lady Chiefs with seven kills, four aces, three digs and half dozen blocks. Ashley Digmon had four assists and two digs for Northview, while Sarah Killam added one dig and a block.
Northview’s Dig Pink was sponsored by Atmore Florist, Winn Dixie, Hendrix Tractor Company, Jim Johnson Ford, Squeegee Graphix, Pizza Hut and NorthEscambia.com.
For a NorthEscambia.com photo gallery from Dig Pink, click here.
Pictured top: Northview High School Assistant volleyball coach Barbara Luker, a breast cancer survivor, was was on the organizers for Tuesday’s Dig Pink breast cancer awareness matches at Northview. Pictured below: The Northview Lady Chiefs. Pictured inset: Volleyball action from Tuesday. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
North Escambia Students Of The Month Named
September 28, 2010
Escambia County Students of the Month for September have been named by the Escambia Association for Administrators in Education. The awards are presented monthly to two students from participating schools.
The following students were named from North Escambia area schools:
- Bratt: Jakyia N. Newton, kindergarten; Madelyn Plant, fourth grade
- Jim Allen: Allison C. Roach, fifth grade; Kyndal J. Bray, fifth grade
- Molino Park: Ashley Y. Allen, third grade; Jerry K. Calvert, third grade
- Ernest Ward: Kayleigh G. Linam, sixth grade; Liberty D. Peebles, seventh grade; Penny N. Banda, eighth grade.
- Ransom: Mariah L. Constantakos, eighth grade; Matthew D. Hardy, eighth grade
- Northview: Stephanie L. Solari, 12th grade; Nolan C. Taylor, 11th grade
- Tate: Mallory B. Fuqua, 12th grade; Chase W. Carroll, 11th grade
Pictured top: Stephanie Solari and Nolan Taylor, Northview High School’s Students of the Month for September. Submitted photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Photo: Wedding Bales
September 27, 2010
These “wedding bales” greeted drivers along Highway 97 in Walnut Hill over the weekend. The bride and groom hay bales welcomed guests to a wedding reception at Cook’s Barn. NorthEscambia.com photo, click to enlarge.
Molino Homemakers Learn Basket Weaving
September 26, 2010
At a recent meeting, the Molino Homemakers had a demonstration on basket weaving by club member Carolyn Peterson.
Peterson learned how to make baskets 13 years ago and has been making them ever since.
She took round reed, cut it the length she would need, soaked it in a bucket of water, then started an over and under weave around a crisscross section. This method was continued until the bottom was made. The crisscross vines were then positioned in an upward angle. The over and under method was continued to make the sides. A separate weave was demonstrated to make the rim of the basket.
Peterson said the Creek Indians traditionally used honeysuckle vine for this type of basket.
The Molino Homemakers enjoy sharing ideas and skills passed down to them to assure its continuation into the next generation of homemakers. We never forget the knowledge and wisdom that sits amongst us each meeting. Visitors are welcome. The group meets at10 a.m. on the first Wednesday of each month, excluding July, in the fellowship hall of Molino First Assembly of God Church.
Pictured: Molino Homemakers club member Carolyn Peterson demonstrates basket weaving at a recent club meeting. Submitted photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Featured Recipe: Homemade Soft Pretzels That Can’t Be Beat
September 26, 2010
This weekend’s featured recipe from Janet Tharpe is Homemade Soft Pretzels. Perfect for weekend football, easy to make, this weekend’s recipe can’t be beat.
To print today’s “Just a Pinch” recipe column, you can click the image below to load a printable pdf with a recipe card.
Time To Plant Those Fall Vegetables
September 25, 2010
The slightest hint of fall is in the air. But this doesn’t mean that the vegetable gardening season is over. Fall is an excellent time to grow cool-season vegetables.
Florida is unique in that we have multiple growing seasons. There is something that can be grown in the vegetable garden all year round. Knowing which vegetables to grow during which season is the key to having a successful harvest.
In the summer, gardeners are somewhat limited in the different types of warm-season vegetables that can be grown and will survive the heat. Now with cooler days approaching, we have a much wider selection of cool-season vegetables to plant.
In September many vegetables can be planted in the garden including beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, collards, kale, kohlrabi, leek, lettuce, mustard, onions and radish. In October, you can plant Chinese cabbage, spinach and strawberries.
These vegetables are best started from transplants but many can be direct-seeded. If you seed them directly into the soil, keep the ground moist while it’s still warm to give them a good start. Keep them well watered if you transplant, too. The later you start, the smarter it becomes to transplant to cut the time to maturity. Preparing the garden properly is as important as selecting the right plants.
Choose a sunny location. Most vegetables perform poorly in shade. An area that receives at least eight hours of sunlight per day is best. Some vegetables such as broccoli, collards and spinach will tolerate partial shade. Avoid locating your garden near hedges or trees. They not only create too much shade but also compete with the garden for moisture and nutrients.
Locating the garden near the house will make it easier to periodically check the garden for insect pests and disease. And, it is easier to keep an eye on the garden for larger pests such as birds, squirrels and rabbits. Closeness to the house will make it convenient in tending to the garden chores.
Locate the garden near a water supply so it can be watered as needed. You’ll get only moderate results if you try to grow a garden without supplemental irrigation.
Of course, it’s important to prepare beds properly before planting. To do that, clear the site of all weeds or finished vegetable plants. Turn the soil with a shovel, fork or tiller to a depth of at least 8 inches, and spread a 2-inch to 4-inch layer of organic matter (leaves, grass clippings, aged manure or compost) over the tilled soil. This helps to maintain a high level of organic matter in the soil, which encourages a strong, healthy root system, improves drainage, retains moisture, provides nutrients and promotes vigorous plant growth.
Mix the organic matter thoroughly into the soil. Turn the soil by digging with a shovel, garden fork or a tiller until the materials you’ve added are evenly distributed in the soil. When using fresh organic amendments, it’s best to wait a couple of weeks before planting your transplants or seeds.
By this time of year, insects and diseases have had all summer to build up their populations. Insects such as whiteflies, stink bugs, aphids and caterpillars are commonly seen. Since insect and disease pressure often is greater in the late summer/early fall than in the spring, watch plants carefully for problems and use appropriate control measures promptly when needed. Contact your local Extension Office for control recommendations.