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
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
Love is in the air this Valentine’s season, and your garden can be the perfect place to cultivate romance—not just for you, but for nature’s best matchmakers: pollinators! Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds play a crucial role in helping flowers reproduce, much like Cupid bringing soulmates together. This Valentine’s Day, why not create that welcomes these … Read more
When you’re planning a garden, it’s easy to get caught up in the big stuff—raised beds, soil, what to plant. But let me tell you something: don’t forget to plan a spot for a chair. Seriously, just one chair (or a cozy little seating area if you’re feeling fancy) can completely change how you experience … Read more
Ah, Central Florida soil—it’s… complicated. Beneath the tropical sunshine and lush greenery, your garden’s foundation is a mix of surprises, each one bringing its own challenges (and a few raised eyebrows). Here’s the lowdown on the types of soils around here, the signs they’re healthy (or not), and how to make them work for you. … Read more
So, you’ve decided to start a garden in Central Florida. Bold choice! Gardening here is a little different from the rest of the country—think less “relaxing hobby” and more “tropical boot camp.” But don’t worry; with the right tips and a bit of patience (okay, maybe a lot), you’ll be outsmarting the climate in no … Read more