Gardening is one of the most popular hobbies in the United States. It is enjoyed by people of all ages, from children to seniors. The benefits of gardening as a hobby go a long way both physically and mentally. Horticulture can involve hands-on activities as well as mental stimulation. As a therapy tool, horticultural activities…Read more
Summer is here. The thermometer knows it and the plants are responding with unrestrained growth and production. The ample moisture adds to the lush growth of both ornamental horticulture specimens and of fruit and vegetable production. As such there is plenty to do in the gardens and landscapes of panhandle Florida. One of the first…Read more
Despite soil being the foundation of our yards and gardens, most people know little-to-nothing about it. Soil is a dynamic, living system that enables plants to function properly. Soil does not necessarily equate to ‘dirt’ which usually implies a state or quality of uncleanliness. Soil performs at least four functions in relation to plants. The…Read more
Residents of panhandle Florida are heading to the outdoors to engage in the wide array of available activities. Sunshine, fresh air and there are relatively few insects to encounter, so far. Vegetable gardening, landscape maintenance and managing a home fruit orchard are all productive pursuits. Some residents, especially those new to the region, may consider…Read more
Air Layering is an asexual plant propagation technique often used for plants larger or more difficult to propagate by regular cuttings. Plant propagation by this technique has several advantages. Like most asexual plant propagation techniques, air layering results in a new plant that is genetically identical to the parent plant. Many plants are difficult to…Read more
It may sound like an unnecessary question, but it’s not. When one stops to think about it, a rather long list of things to consider when planning a landscape could be made. In nature, many plants have defense mechanisms to ensure survival. These mechanisms may include ways to physically deter a predator, like thorns or…Read more
Florida has a great wealth of native plant material ranging from tropical to temperate species, but many gardens tend to be comprised largely of exotic, non-native species. It might pay to learn more about native plant options for the success and ease of maintenance they will impart in the landscape. Native plants have become adapted…Read more
There are a wide variety of bulbous plants which will thrive and produce beautiful flowers year after year with proper care. The time to plant many bulbs in the home landscape is getting late in May. Some, like caladiums crinum lilies, can be planted all year round, but run the risk of damage if they…Read more
Nature has a way of making life as easy as possible, but it will not happen fast, so planning is critical to success. One means is by putting some plants (trap crops) which attract beneficial and/or destructive insects. Insects are one of the main challenges in growing a vegetable garden. Warm weather and high humidity…Read more
The recent showers have been a welcome relief after a few weeks without the critical liquid from above. Irrigation and sprinklers can produce a bountiful vegetable garden, healthy shrubs and a lovely green lawn, but generous rains do it so much better and at a lower cost. April is an ideal time to plant many…Read more
