By Amanda Rose Newton
Summer in Florida is synonymous with high temperatures and abundant sunshine. While the intense heat can pose challenges, many edible plants thrive in these conditions.
Cool Off with Ice Cream + plants at Rockledge Gardens”
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, here are some of the best fruit trees, vegetables, shrubs, and vines to grow in Florida’s summer heat and full sun.
Fruit Trees
Mango (Mangifera indica)
Varieties: ‘Haden’, ‘Tommy Atkins’, ‘Kent’, All the varieties!
Growing Tips: Mango trees thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant once established and produce delicious, tropical fruits.
Papaya (Carica papaya)
Varieties: ‘Red Lady’, ‘Solo’
Growing Tips: Papayas prefer full sun and can grow rapidly in Florida’s heat. Ensure good drainage and protect from frost during cooler months.
Guava (Psidium guajava)
Varieties: ‘Tropical White’, ‘Ruby Supreme’
Growing Tips: Guava trees are heat-tolerant and enjoy full sun. They are relatively low-maintenance and can produce fruit within 1-2 years of planting.
Starfruit (Averrhoa carambola)
Varieties: ‘Fwang Tung’, ‘Sri Kembangan’
Growing Tips: Starfruit trees prefer full sun and regular watering. They can tolerate a range of soil types but need protection from strong winds.
Vegetables
Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)
Varieties: ‘Clemson Spineless’, ‘Burgundy’
Growing Tips: Okra is exceptionally heat-tolerant and thrives in full sun. Plant in well-drained soil and keep consistently watered.
Sweet Potatoes (Ipomoea batatas)
Varieties: ‘Beauregard’, ‘Centennial’
Growing Tips: Sweet potatoes love the heat and perform well in full sun. Plant slips in loose, well-drained soil and allow plenty of space for vines to spread.
Peppers (Capsicum spp.)
Varieties: Bell Peppers, Jalapeños, Habaneros
Growing Tips: Peppers are sun-loving plants that thrive in the heat. Ensure they receive consistent moisture and well-drained soil to produce abundant fruit.
Eggplant (Solanum melongena)
Varieties: ‘Black Beauty’, ‘Ichiban’
Growing Tips: Eggplants flourish in full sun and high temperatures. They need rich, well-drained soil and regular watering to prevent bitterness.
Shrubs + Vines
Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis)
Varieties: ‘Purple Possum’, ‘Yellow’ (Passiflora ligularis)
Growing Tips: Passion fruit vines thrive in full sun and can quickly cover trellises or fences. They require regular watering and well-drained soil.
Grapes (Vitis spp.)
Varieties: ‘Muscadine’, ‘Scuppernong’
Growing Tips: Grapevines need full sun and good air circulation. Train them on trellises and provide well-drained soil for best results. Muscadine grapes are native to the Southeastern USA and will tolerate our hot weather.
Malabar Spinach (Basella alba)
Varieties: ‘Green’, ‘Red Stem’
Growing Tips: Malabar spinach is a heat-loving vine that thrives in full sun. It can be grown on trellises and needs regular watering.
Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa)
Growing Tips: Roselle, also known as Florida cranberry, loves full sun and high temperatures. It produces edible leaves and calyces, ideal for making teas and jams.
Florida Native Edible Plants
Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)
Growing Tips: Beautyberry bushes produce clusters of purple berries that are edible and can be used in jellies. They prefer full sun to partial shade and are drought-tolerant.
Sea Grape (Coccoloba uvifera)
Growing Tips: Sea grape trees produce clusters of grape-like fruits that can be eaten fresh or made into jams. They thrive in sandy soils and full sun.
Gardening Tips for Success in Florida’s Summer Heat
Mulching: Use mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce soil temperature.
Watering: Water deeply and regularly, preferably in the early morning or late afternoon to minimize evaporation.
Shade Protection: Use shade cloth for young plants to prevent sunburn.
Soil Preparation: Ensure well-drained soil enriched with organic matter to support healthy plant growth.
Pest Management: Monitor for pests and diseases regularly and use organic methods for control.
With the right plant selection and care, your Florida garden can flourish even in the summer heat.
