Living in Florida means preparing for hurricanes—not just for our homes but for our gardens, too. High winds, heavy rain, and storm surges can devastate even the most carefully cultivated landscapes. But with the right planning, you can create a garden that stands strong against the elements and recovers quickly after a storm. Choose Wind-Resistant … Read more
Spring Awakening: Preparing Your Garden for a Flourishing Season Welcome to March—the month of renewal, warmer days, and fresh garden beginnings! As we move into spring, it’s the perfect time to prepare your garden for a season of abundant growth. This month, we’ll focus on soil preparation, pruning, fertilizing, and planting, as well as the … Read more
Terra cotta pots are instantly recognizable with their warm, earthy tones and timeless charm. For thousands of years, gardeners across the world—from ancient Egypt to modern-day homes—have relied on this natural clay material to nurture plants. But what makes terra cotta so special? Why do so many gardeners, especially in Florida, swear by it? One … Read more
When people think of garden pollinators and pest controllers, bees and butterflies usually come to mind. But what about bats? In Florida, these often-misunderstood creatures play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. They feast on mosquitoes, pollinate night-blooming flowers, and help with seed dispersal. With habitat loss threatening bat populations, creating a bat-friendly … Read more
Florida’s landscapes are filled with plants that many gardeners dismiss as weeds. But what if some of these so-called nuisances were actually beneficial—either to us, to wildlife, or to the health of the garden itself? Many native “weeds” are not only edible but serve vital roles in the ecosystem, supporting pollinators, improving soil health, and … Read more
Florida’s landscapes are filled with plants that whisper stories of the past—plants that have nourished, healed, and even haunted the people who walked this land before us. From the moss-draped oaks that carry ghostly legends to the humble coontie, once a life-sustaining food for the Seminole people, Florida’s flora is as steeped in mystery as … Read more
Florida’s gardening history is as rich and diverse as its landscapes. Before modern agriculture took over with high-maintenance lawns and imported crops, native peoples, early settlers, and Florida homesteaders relied on a unique set of plants—crops that thrived in the heat, humidity, sandy soil, and hurricane-prone climate of the Sunshine State. Many of these crops … Read more
For children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related sensory processing challenges, the world can often feel overwhelming. Loud noises, unpredictable environments, and overstimulation can trigger distress and lead to behavioral meltdowns. However, research and firsthand experience have shown that sensory gardens—carefully designed spaces that engage all five senses in a structured, soothing way—can provide … Read more
For centuries, kitchen gardens provided households with a steady supply of fresh herbs, vegetables, and edible flowers right outside their doors. But in recent years, as urbanization has increased and garden spaces have shrunk, the kitchen garden has experienced a revival—thanks to modern techniques that maximize productivity in small spaces. The Power of Intensive Planting … Read more
There’s something magical about sipping a cup of tea brewed from fresh, homegrown herbs. Not only is it rewarding to cultivate your own tea garden, but it also provides an abundance of fragrant and flavorful herbs for blending personalized tea infusions. Whether you want to create a space for relaxation, boost your energy, or share … Read more