Early Morning Routines to Beat the Florida Heat

Gardening in Central Florida during late spring and summer can feel more like a workout than a relaxing hobby. With temps climbing before noon and humidity thick in the air, even the most enthusiastic gardeners can start dreading the heat. But here’s the good news: with a smart morning routine and a few clever strategies, … Read more

Why Northern Gardeners Struggle in Central Florida

Moving from the cool, temperate North to humid, subtropical Central Florida can be a shock—especially for gardeners. Many new Floridians excitedly plant their favorite northern crops, only to watch them wither under the relentless sun or succumb to pests they never had to battle before. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Let’s explore … Read more

The Best Crops to Grow for Happy, Healthy Hens

Backyard chickens are making headlines! With the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture encouraging Americans to raise chickens, many gardeners are considering adding a small flock to their homestead. But did you know that your garden can help support your chickens—while they support your garden in return? Chickens love to forage, scratch, and snack on fresh greens, … Read more

The Art of Saving Seeds

Saving seeds is one of the most rewarding practices a gardener can adopt. Not only does it allow you to grow your favorite plants year after year, but it also promotes biodiversity, saves money, and ensures that your plants are well adapted to your local climate. Whether you’re harvesting from heirloom vegetables, herbs, or flowers, … Read more

Create a Hurricane-Proof Garden

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

Timeless Terra Cotta

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

How to Create a Bat-Friendly Garden in Florida

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

Beneficial Native Plants Growing in Your Yard

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 Mythical & Medicinal Plants

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