Houston in June: Hotter Than Your Ex's Breath, But Your Garden Can Be Even Hotter (Literally)
You know it's June in Houston when you can fry an egg on the sidewalk (don't try this, it's gross), and your air conditioner sounds like a pterodactyl on its death throes. But fear not, fellow Houstonians! Just because the heat is enough to melt your mascara doesn't mean your garden has to suffer the same fate. In fact, June is prime time to plant some seriously sizzling (get it?) veggies, herbs, and even some unexpected delights.
Embrace the Heat: Plants That Thrive in Houston's Sauna
Forget your delicate spring flowers, June is all about bold, heat-loving plants. Here's what you should be throwing in the ground this month:
- Fiery Fiesta: This wouldn't be a Houston June without mentioning peppers! Jalapenos, habaneros, serranos, you name it, these guys will thrive in the inferno that is your backyard. Just be warned, watering regularly is key to keeping them happy (and stopping them from turning into wrinkled disappointments). Pro tip: Stock up on milk, just in case your salsa-making gets a little overzealous.
- Eggplant Extravaganza: Picture this: Creamy eggplant parmesan, glistening with melted cheese. June is your chance to make this dream a reality. Eggplants are another superstar in the Houston summer, so get planting and get ready to impress your foodie friends.
- Okra, Oh Yeah!: This Southern staple might be a little slimy for some folks, but there's no denying its deliciousness fried up or gumbo-fied. Okra loves the heat and humidity, so it'll feel right at home in your Houston haven.
Don't Forget the Herbs, Y'all
While some veggies might wilt under the pressure, herbs are here to party! Here are some fragrant friends to add to your June garden:
- Basil Bonanza: Fresh basil is the key to elevate any summer dish from "meh" to "magnificent." Genovese basil is a classic choice, but feel free to get adventurous with Thai basil or lemon basil for a unique twist.
- Cilantro Craze: If you're a fan of guacamole, tacos, or just about anything delicious, cilantro is a must-have. It grows quickly and thrives in the heat, so you can keep your salsa game strong all summer long.
Beyond the Expected: Planting for the Adventurous Houstonian
Feeling a little bored with the usual suspects? June is also a great time to plant some unexpected things in Houston:
- Southern Sweet Potato Surprise: Sweet potatoes might seem like a fall crop, but they can actually do quite well when planted in June in Houston. Just be sure to choose a variety with a shorter growing season.
- Luscious Luffa Loofah: Ever heard of a loofah? It's that fancy bath sponge that's actually a gourd! You can grow your own loofahs in Houston, and what's more satisfying than scrubbing yourself clean with something you nurtured from seed?
Remember: Even the most heat-loving plants need some TLC in Houston's brutal summers. Make sure to water regularly, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Also, keep an eye out for pests – they love a good summer party too!
So there you have it, folks! With a little planning and some elbow grease, you can have a garden that's hotter than a Texas two-step in no time. Now get out there, get your hands dirty, and enjoy the (slightly less scorching) satisfaction of homegrown goodness!
