Despite the many negative statements about the 2023 hurricane season, at least it provided ample rain. Even this late in the year the moisture supports growth, but in late autumn the development usually takes place unseen below ground. That is not the case with native fungi species. The local mushrooms and toadstools appear overnight in…Read more
The consistent rains this summer have produced many positive results. The lawn grass is greener and growing fast enough to require weekly mowing, temperatures notwithstanding. Vegetables in the summer garden and fruit trees in the home orchard are flourishing under the ample precipitation. Shrubs and trees in residential landscapes have little to no need for…Read more
Walking through a forest in Maine is similar to walking through a Florida forest, but there are many differences too. Both have trees, underbrush and ground cover. The trees, underbrush and ground cover in Maine are mostly of a different species than those in Florida, even though some are in the same genus. In the…Read more
Symptoms are usually the first clue that something is wrong. It can be a fever, a cough, fatigue or a number of other indicators in people, pets or livestock. The severity of the problem sometimes can be gauged by the symptom itself. Early recognition and the appropriate treatment are critical to a successful outcome. This…Read more
The winter of 22/23 has been variable from a weather standpoint. Mostly dry until recently with some very cold days and seasonally humid nights in panhandle Florida. This is far better than the residents of the Midwest and New England who are enduring bomb cyclones and polar vortexes. This regional pattern portends a variety of…Read more
After tropical storms and hurricanes, there are always discussions about the trees which have fallen during the storm. Many times the trees in question have landed on a home or some other structure which resulted in multiple thousands of dollars damage. Commonly, water and laurel oaks are the culprits. These large trees are frequently found…Read more
Watering the lawn has not been on anyone’s list lately. The ample, if not excessive, rain has placed a temporary hold on this necessary task to maintain most home lawns and landscapes. It is true the spring weeds are enjoying the liquid bounty supplied from above. Flowerbeds and gardens have new residents peeking through the…Read more
