Lower South
August, 2011
Regional Report
Favorite or New Plant
'Surdiva' Scaevola
When it comes to heat tolerance, few annuals can match scaevola. The plants have a trailing habit, making them a great choice for hanging baskets or spilling over the sides of a mixed container planting. The 'Surdiva' series is an improvement on many previous cultivars because it flowers more profusely throughout the plant. The series comes in blue, light blue, and white flowering types. Provide scaevola full sun and well-drained soil. While very heat tolerant, it will not do well in soggy soil conditions.
Clever Gardening Technique
Protect Yourself from Summer Heat
The summer sun and heat can be very dangerous. Heat stroke often sneaks up on us while we are unaware of its impending danger. Drink plenty of water and limit your outdoor work to the early and late hours of the day when possible. Wear a wide brimmed hat and long sleeved cotton shirt. Use a sunscreen with an SPF number of 15 (or better yet 30), and reapply it every two hours. The effects of sun on the skin are cumulative over time, so be smart and protect yourself every time you go outside to work.
