Good News for Gardeners

Newcomers to Madison County are in for some good gardening news: The growing season lasts from about April through October, which gives gardeners about half the year – sometimes a little more – to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

But there are a few challenges.

“One thing we usually get calls about when people move here from the Pacific Northwest or up North is the difference in soil,” says Ken Creel, regional extension agent and director of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System’ s master gardener program. “Our heavy clay soil can be a challenge.”

Gardeners just need to add organic material, and the soil will eventually become conditioned and easier to work with.

Warm-season grasses grow best here, including Bermuda, zoysia, centipede grass and St. Augustine. Most plants that grow up north can make it in the Huntsville area, Creel says, but it’s best to check plant guides to make sure. Choosing plants that are less susceptible to insect attacks and diseases is also a good idea.

Folks can expect some hot, dry summers around here, and that means a little more work. Average highs and lows in July are 89 degrees and 69 degrees Fahrenheit; average January highs and lows are 48 degrees and 29 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.

The gardening picture is a positive one overall, and people with green thumbs – or those who want to learn – have plenty to look forward to.

“There’s a long growing season, and usually you can expect good production if you get the soil prepared properly,” Creel says. “That just takes time.”