When a storm barrels through Central Florida, it often leaves behind more than flooded streets and toppled fences. It leaves a mess.Branches. Leaves. Twigs. Weeds. Fallen fruit. Torn vines. It can feel overwhelming—but here’s the good news: Much of that storm debris can become compost. Instead of tossing it all to the curb, you can … Read more
From Backyard Garden to Gumbo Pot—Season After Season I first planted okra a few years ago from a seed packet I grabbed on impulse. I wasn’t sure how it would do in my Central Florida garden, but I figured I’d give it a try. It did beautifully. By the end of summer, the plants towered … Read more
When it comes to growing sweet potatoes in Central Florida, the internet is full of advice—some of it helpful, some of it… not so much. Whether you’re dreaming of a lush patch of leafy vines or wondering if it’s too hot (or too late!) to start planting, let’s clear up a few common sweet potato … Read more
Welcome to the Heat & Heart of Summer Gardening June in Central Florida arrives with a wave of warmth and lush possibility. Temperatures hover between 73°F in the early mornings and climb into the high 80s by afternoon. With average rainfall around 7 to 8 inches, the summer wet season begins to unfold—bringing both hydration and … Read more
(All can be grown or foraged in Central Florida) Before modern filters and purification tablets, communities across the world relied on local plants to improve the flavor and safety of their water. While we now know to boil or filter all wild water first, the practice of steeping herbs after purification remains both a wise … Read more
Tucked into woodland edges and sun-dappled clearings across the southeastern United States, the American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) stands out with its vivid clusters of purple berries. More than just eye-catching, this native shrub carries a legacy of folklore, healing, and resilience—rooted in centuries of use by Native American tribes and early settlers. A Native Treasure … Read more
If you’ve ever stood in the middle of a garden center feeling overwhelmed—or worse, spent weeks planting a garden that never really took off—you’re not alone. That’s exactly where a garden coach comes in. Most people are familiar with the idea of a personal trainer or a life coach, but a garden coach? That’s still … Read more
If you’ve ever tried to grow a garden in Florida and felt like your plants were drying out, wilting, or simply refusing to thrive—despite your best efforts—you’re not alone. Florida’s sandy soil drains quickly, holds little organic matter, and doesn’t do your plants many favors. But here’s the good news: with a little strategy and … Read more
When most people think of bees, they picture honeybees buzzing from bloom to bloom, but the truth is far more fascinating—and local. Florida is home to over 300 species of native bees, most of which are solitary and stingless. These unsung heroes are essential to the health of our ecosystems, gardens, and even our dinner … Read more
World Bee Day is the perfect time to go beyond planting and think about providing safe spaces for pollinators to nest. While many gardeners are familiar with feeding bees through native plants, fewer know that over 90% of bee species in Florida are solitary—they don’t live in hives. These bees, like mason bees and leafcutter … Read more