August Garden Guide: Iris Planting, Watering Wisdom, and Subtropical Transplants

August is prime time for strategic garden moves—especially for irises, subtropical plants, and fall-prep tasks that pay off next season.

Plant Irises Now for Best Results

Don't settle for old-fashioned divisions from friends. Modern hybrids offer vibrant blues, reds, pure whites, golden yellows, and striking bicolors. Plant now for strong establishment before winter.

Watering: Timing and Depth Matter

• Best times: Early morning or late afternoon
• Mildew-prone plants: water early morning only (avoid wet foliage overnight)
• Deep soak: Wet soil 6–8 inches down—sprinkling encourages shallow roots
• Use a soil soaker for efficiency

Transplant Subtropicals in Summer Heat

Jacaranda, gardenia, hibiscus, and palm actually transplant better in summer than winter—if done right:

• Dig with a large, firm root ball
• Prune tops to compensate for root loss
• Keep thoroughly wet until established, then resume normal irrigation

Propagate Tender Plants for Next Spring

• Take cuttings of heliotrope, lantana, fuchsia—overwinter in greenhouse
• Geranium, coleus, browallia cuttings root well in sunny windows

Humidity for Tuberous Begonias and Air Plants

Daily light overhead sprinkling + wetting nearby paths/grass maintains needed air moisture during warm weather.

Prevent Camellia Bud Drop

Keep camellias moist in August–September. Mulch with peat moss to conserve moisture and cool soil—this prevents winter bud drop.