Bountiful Blooms as Winter Looms
While Florida may have a reputation for “endless summers”, there are distinct seasonal changes in our landscapes. Many native wildflowers such as Tickseed, Black Eyed Susans, and Rosinflower go dormant in the winter. But don’t let that discourage you! A prepared planter can have a vibrant, blooming garden all year long. With Florida’s short and […]
Cocoplum Jam
Several years ago, I became fascinated with this landscape plant that I bought on a whim, red-tipped cocoplum (Chrysobalanus icaco). I didn’t really know much about it other than that it was a Florida native shrub with pretty leaves that produced fruit I could eat. After a while, it produced so much fruit, that I began researching recipes for cocoplum jam.
Growing Edible Flowers
What is more lovely than the scent of a flower? Eating a flower! Edible flowers add beauty and flavor to dishes and drinks. They’re sure to be a conversation piece at a party. When growing edible flowers, follow these simple tips.
Oh No – Not Spanish Needle!
I want to share a little about my favorite weed. Not THAT weed! Spanish needle, bidens alba. It goes by many names – beggar tick, shepard’s needle, and others.
Many people consider this plant to be the worst of all weeds and I do not disagree that those poky little seeds get stuck everywhere and are a pain to remove. BUT, considering all of the wonderful and beneficial aspects to this wildflower – yes I called it a wildflower – I’ll put up with the little sticky seeds.
Butterfly in the Sky… Please Visit My Yard
Convincing butterflies to visit your yard and stay a while can be a challenge. You might see them flitting through the trees, soaring up and down, occasionally stopping for a bit of nectar before cruising on to…? Where are they going? They have to hang out somewhere, right?
To understand how to make a haven for butterflies in your yard, you first have to understand what they are looking for.
5 Native Florida Shrubs for the Birds… and You
Birds don’t naturally eat from metal and glass tubes hanging from ornamental hooks. They really prefer to forage for insects, nuts, seeds and fruit. In fact, bird feeders can contribute to the spread of disease if not washed and dried regularly.
There is an alternative. You could attract birds to your yard with commonly available Florida native landscaping plants.
