Week of November 15, 2020

As the weather in Florida finally moves from summer to autumn, we prepare for a relatively dry season in December through March. This makes November the ideal time for MULCH. I have been devoted to the use of mulch in all our gardens and farms, varying the mulch used (compost, hay, sawdust, tree leaves, etc). In Florida, our main mulch is pine bark, likely available in vast amounts from the huge southern pine plantations that occupy much of northern Florida. I usually purchase 5 cubic yards from a local nursery who comes with a large dump truck to deposit a massive pile on our cement parking pad. I then distribute it with a large wheelbarrow to the needy sites with a 3-5 inch depth. The reasons that mulching is so important in Florida are several. The main soil type here pis sand, which does not retain water without some organic material. As the mulch rots, it really helps to retain water and provide nutrients. Of course, weeds grow exceptionally well in Florida, and mulch keeps them at bay without herbicides. Also, the pine bark provides an acidic influence on the soil, and is a mainstay for southern blueberry farmers. The medium pine bark also provides a reddish hue and is an attractive border for plantings. This year’s priorities for mulch were new plantings of bat-faced heathers next to the Lanai, a new row of trees to replace a dead pomegranate bush with a finger lime and a new kumquat, and a refreshment of the blueberry patch. It is a two day job but leaves the Florida Garden ready for the cold, dry weather to come.