Houston in August: When Your Garden Needs More Gumption Than You Do
Ah, Houston in August. The sun beats down like a ticked-off hammer of Thor, the humidity clings to you like a lovesick barnacle, and your poor garden is about as enthusiastic as a sloth on a Sunday. But fear not, fellow Houstonians! August doesn't have to be a horticultural wasteland. With a little know-how (and maybe a strategically placed kiddie pool), you can coax some fantastic edibles and ornamentals out of the summer slumber.
So You Say You Want a Fall Garden?
That's the spirit! August is actually prime time to plant for your fall harvest. While your heat-loving tomatoes and peppers might be sulking, there's a whole crew of cool-season crops just itching to get in the ground. We're talking about vegetables with enough sass to handle the remaining summer heat and thrive as things cool down.
Here's your A-Team:
- The Leafy Squad: Kale, spinach, collards, and lettuce will form a green army of deliciousness in your garden. Just be sure to give them some afternoon shade, because even these tough cookies don't like their salad wilted.
- The Brassica Bunch: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage will take center stage later in the fall, but get them planted now for a head start. Just remember, these guys are like teenagers - they need plenty of space to grow into themselves.
- The Root Cause of Yum: Beets, carrots, and turnips will happily grow underground, escaping the worst of the sun's wrath. They'll be ready to be yanked out just as you're craving a hearty fall stew.
Spice Up Your Life (Without Actually Wilting It)
Let's not forget the herbs! While some delicate darlings might melt in the August inferno, there are some fiery fellows who can handle the heat.
- Basil: This king of the herb kingdom will keep on pumpin' out those fragrant leaves as long as you keep it well-watered. Just pinch off any flowers that appear to encourage more foliage growth.
- Thyme: A low-maintenance Mediterranean maven, thyme will add a touch of class (and flavor!) to your dishes.
- Rosemary: This spiky superstar thrives in hot, dry weather. Just remember, it prefers well-draining soil, so don't drown it with love.
Don't Forget the Flowers!
Even though it feels like summer will never end, fall is coming, and a splash of color is always welcome.
- Zinnias: These cheerful, daisy-like blooms come in a rainbow of colors and are real troopers in the heat.
- Marigolds: These aren't your grandma's marigolds! There are tons of new varieties with stunning colors and forms. Plus, they're said to deter pests, which is a bonus in any Houston garden.
- Celosia: These feathery beauties come in shades of red, yellow, and orange, adding a touch of whimsy to your flower bed.
Remember: With August plantings, be sure to water regularly, especially during the hottest part of the day. Adding a layer of mulch around your plants will help retain moisture and keep the weeds at bay.
So there you have it, Houston! With a little planning and some heat-tolerant heroes, you can have a garden that's bursting with life, even in the face of August's fiery wrath. Now get out there and get planting! And remember, if all else fails, there's always the solace of a cold beer and a good book in the air conditioning.
