Hey from Central Florida

I stood staring at weeds this morning. I thought surely something could help and I found this website.  I know ABSOLUTELY nothing. I am ordering the book to start. Oh, I know one thing, I have very sandy soil.  So anything you can suggest to this misfit I'd appreciate it.

 from Northern California. I have one word for you and your sandy soil, from one who has gardened in St. Pete. COMPOST! I'm sure the experts will be along soon to set you on the right path.

Westie,  Welcome to the Forum from California!   It's great that you have ordered the book.  It is easy reading and will only take 1-3 days to read, depending on what is going on in your life.  A photo of your growing area would be a big help for folks offering suggestions.  One thing about sandy soil in Florida, some areas have nematodes so you may want to check that out.  Local Ag Commissioner or Master Garden would probably know.

Are you wanting to have a veggie garden?  If you get a lot of rain, consider cinder blocks for the beds instead of traditional wood like most of us use.  Any trees or bushes in the area?  If so, the off-the-ground version (table tops) may be better for keeping roots from invading the beds.

Composts (not Kellogg's or soil amendments) are the key for natural gardening.  Can't wait until you have read at least the first 6 chapters - you will have lots of questions and can actually start your garden.  

https://squarefoot.forumotion.com/t7452-mels-mix-how-strong-is-your-backbone

Hi Westieridgeback. Welcome from Atlanta, GA!

Have to agree w/ CN on the compost... But you'll also find that the book is invaluable! It'll help you get on your way.

You might check out DStack's posts. He lives in FL as well and has a very successful garden.

Welcome from Stuart Fla.
 Definitely start with compost, Black Kow is a good starter. After you have digested everything in the Squarefoot Gardening book check out the UF vegetable gardening guide.
Florida Vegetable Growing Guide 
The guide has a calendar on what to plant and when for your area. It is a wealth of information for even a seasoned gardener. Our growing seasons are very different than many areas. As northern gardeners are just posting on their bountiful harvest we are just getting ready to start ours. Now is a great time to get the garden started.
 Check back here often and post your questions. You will find lots of help.
Craig

TCgardening wrote:Welcome from Stuart Fla.
 Definitely start with compost, Black Kow is a good starter. After you have digested everything in the Squarefoot Gardening book check out the UF vegetable gardening guide.
Florida Vegetable Growing Guide 
The guide has a calendar on what to plant and when for your area. It is a wealth of information for even a seasoned gardener. Our growing seasons are very different than many areas. As northern gardeners are just posting on their bountiful harvest we are just getting ready to start ours. Now is a great time to get the garden started.
 Check back here often and post your questions. You will find lots of help.
Craig

Craig - I forgot you were down there! My apologies...

No problems. I learn from DStacks posts my self.