Trimming Crape Myrtles in a Warming Florida Climate
Although the crape myrtle is originally from eastern Asia, its presence in the U.S. South is dominant. First introduced to South Carolina in the late 1700s, the crape myrtle come in a variety of colors from white to red to a deep purple. Obviously the tree is dormant in the winter months but by late…
Garden Design To Attract Butterflies in Florida, Combat Species Decline
Globally, there’s a butterfly crisis. In particular, the number of Monarchs in the Western United States has declined from 10 million in the 1980s to fewer than 2,000 in 2021, according to the Washington Post. That’s a 99.9 percent decline. Much of the problem has to do with climate change. In Florida, changes in rainfall…
6 Visually Striking Florida Native Plants To Use in Landscaping This Fall
Cooler temperatures and lower humidity mean an opportunity to see Florida native plants in their full, colorful glory in the fall. What’s great about native plants is that they don’t require much water and no fertilization. They also provide food and shelter for native species. So what are some visually striking plants to grow during…
Venomous Puss Caterpillars Found in Florida in Fall, Spring
Gardening in the sunshine state is a relatively benign affair. However, it’s important to watch out for critters that can do some damage. They may not affect plants, but the venom of the “puss caterpillar” (Southern flannel moth) is harmful to humans. Rarely are these caterpillars deadly, although it’s good practice to keep your distance.…
Growing Herbs in the Sunshine State
For the new gardener, starting with herbs may be a great way to ease into establishing a vegetable garden. Herbs are hardy and fairly easy to grow in the sunshine state. And planting them can give a newbie gardener added confidence. Florida Horticulturalist Portia Chavonelle recommends growing seven classic herbs. To start, consider planting herbs…
Growing Vanilla in the Florida Keys
Several of the same crops that make their homes in South Florida also thrive in the Florida Keys: mango, papaya, key lime, jabuticaba, longan, canistel, sugar apple, avocado, carambola, pineapple, banana, sapote, breadfruit and jackfruit, to name a few. You can add vanilla to that list. It grows exceptionally well in the climates of both…
Planting Vegetables in September in Florida
Fall is a great time to start your garden! So you’ve survived the endless heat and rain of summer in Florida and want to finally establish that vegetable garden. September is the ideal period to do just that. Part of the reason is that you can grow both cool and warm season crops. Does location…
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