FREE GARDEN WATER
Here's How:
Rain barrels turn Florida’s frequent summer storms into a free water source. They can reduce erosion, and support healthier plants especially in sandy soils common around Ruskin. Our climate also brings unique challenges such as intense heat, mosquitoes, roof debris, and algae growth. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks for gardeners in South Hillsborough County.
Ruskin, FL has historically averaged 50–55 inches of rain per year. This means that a single inch of rain on a 1,000 sq ft roof can capture over 600 gallons of water. That indicates that rain barrels can be extremely effective during Florida’s wet season. Rainwater is naturally soft, oxygenrich with nitrogen and an ideal PH for watering our gardens. If that’s not enough,
this water is also clear of chlorines and salts making this a premium garden water source.
Heavy rains are a common occurrence in Florida. Believe it or not using rain barrels can ease pressure on the municipal stormwater systems. They assist in erosion control near foundations of homes and businesses. Did you know that water is no longer considered a renewable resource here in our region of Florida? This means capturing rainwater is more important than ever. It will help you maintain your home gardens during water restrictions since you will be maintaining your own water source.
Beware though, Florida’s heat + standing water = mosquito heaven. Barrels must have: Tight-fitting lids and fine mesh screens with Optional mosquito dunks (safe for plants, not for mosquitos)! In addition, the intense sun can heat barrels to 90–100°F, encouraging algae. Opaque barrels or shaded placement help slow this growth significantly. Look for a shaded north or east side of the house to place your rain barrel. By elevating the barrel on cinder blocks gravity will be able to assist with the flow of water. Side Note: a diverter should be used to prevent overflow during summer storms.
What kind of maintenance should you be ready for? It will be important to clean your screens monthly, flush your barrels every 2 to 3 months and check for any leaks after heavy rain falls.
Rain barrels are a smart, affordable upgrade for gardeners looking to save water, support healthier plants, and manage stormwater. With a little maintenance, they offer big benefits all year long especially during Florida’s rainy season.
introducing
PROVISTA
Provista is the first ever glyphosate tolerant turfgrass, requires half the mowing of traditional St. Augustine and it works in sun or partial shade. Come check it out in person in our demo area if you aren’t familiar. You can purchase it by piece or by the pallet(s).
Check out these five sod facts that will help you keep your sod happy and growing!
- Freshness Matters – Sod can heat up and deteriorate quickly while stacked on a pallet. When you buy directly from the farm, we cut and deliver it the same day.
- Sod still roots quickly – Central Florida’s warm October soil keeps St. Augustine, Bermuda, and Zoysia still actively growing.
- Rain doesn’t always replace watering – Florida showers can soak one neighborhood and miss the next. Check newly installed sod daily to ensure it is kept moist.
- You can install sod year round here – October offers active growth without quite as much heat as early in the summer.
- October is prime recovery time – Warm temperatures give your lawn time to establish and fill in before growth slows during the cooler months.
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BEHIND THE SCENES
NOTES FROM BECKY & JESS
October is gearing up to be the beginning of a very busy fall and winter season for us here at Council Growers. We have quite a few events planned and intend to add in some additional classes as time allows.
Thursday October 1 we are playing PLANT BINGO at 6pm.
Saturday October 10 we have invited local vendors to the farm, we will have honey, fresh eggs, meat, fish, microgreens, vegetables, food truck, live music and so much more! There will be a 50/50 raffle and the proceeds will go to the Robert L. Howard Foundation.
The Weekend of November 14th and 15th we will see you at the Seafood Festival! Look for the tractor and step inside our interactive booth to see our sod and fall flowers!
Saturday December 5 we will open the gates after hours for cookies with Mrs. Claus. We will light up the garden center to kick off the Holiday Season, have some cookies with Mrs. Claus. More details to come on this event!
Keep an eye on our social media newsletters for the latest events.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Farm here at Council Growers!
DON'T MISS THESE
NOTES FROM BECKY & JESS
