Now is the time to add bulbs to your landscape.
Amaryllis bulbs (Hippeastrum spp.) could be called the Florida tulip. They make a striking bloom show in the spring when planted in groups of 10 or more in landscape beds. Remember, when planting amaryllis bulbs, the collar and the top of the bulb should be above the soil line. Keep the mulch away from the top of the bulb.
The fall and winter months are good for growing herbs in our area. Many herbs that succumb to our summers will thrive in the winter. If you don't have a lot of space, herbs grow well in containers. More information on growing herbs in Florida is available on the Internet: Herbs in the Florida Garden at edis.ifas.ufl.edu/VH020.
Because October is like spring in other parts of the country, we can plant some of the same spring annual flowers now. Impatiens, geraniums, petunias, pansies and snapdragons can be planted as soon as the plants are available. Seeds of calendula and nasturtium can also be planted directly in the ground. Prepare the bed by spading in compost or other organic matter along with some slow-release fertilizer just before planting. Mulch the bed well after planting to conserve moisture and keep down weeds. Keep the mulch 2 to 3 inches away from the base of each plant.
Sources: Carol Suggs and Theresa Badurek, Pinellas County Extension Service. Learn more at askextension.org or pinellascountyextension.org.