The Easter Lily, scientifically known as Lilium longiflorum, holds a special place as a traditional flower for Easter celebrations, gracing churches and homes with its beauty. Originating from the Ryukyu Islands in southern Japan, this trumpet-shaped flower has a rich history deeply intertwined with the Easter season. History and Significance: The Journey of the Easter … Read more
This week, we’re going to begin to explore the world of Florida’s native wildflowers, with a spotlight on the Scorpion Tail. But first, what exactly does “native plant” mean? What’s a Native Plant? The US Forest Service defines native plants as “the indigenous terrestrial and aquatic species that have evolved and occur naturally in a particular … Read more
This week’s garden blog will explore the advantages and disadvantages of container gardening. Living in the 10A gardening zone, especially in Pinellas County, often means dealing with small yards, like mine. My backyard is really tiny and lacks privacy. I’ve been working hard to improve it since I moved in, planting podocarpus along the back … Read more
In gardening zone 10A, winter is behind us. El Niño made this an unusual winter with lots of gray skies and rain. Checking AccuWeather for my area, in January there were 10 mornings in the 40s, and February had 8. The coldest day was on January 21, when the morning dropped to a brisk 36°F. … Read more
The Walking Iris, scientifically named Neomarica spp., is a delightful presence in any garden, and is one of my favorite plants in my garden. Common Names The plant is known by several names: However, its most widespread name perfectly describes its distinctive growth pattern – the walking iris. Let’s learn more about this interesting plant. … Read more
Do you ever wonder why your cat nibbles on grass when they venture outdoors? It turns out, this behavior is quite common among our feline friends. To satisfy their natural instincts and provide a safe alternative, many pet owners turn to “cat grass.” In this article, we’ll delve into why cats eat grass, what cat … Read more
February, a transitional month for many gardens, offers a unique window of opportunity to prepare for the upcoming spring. With fluctuating temperatures and the promise of warmer days, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and engage in some essential garden tasks. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various activities that can make your … Read more
This week we will continue our discussion on the top 10 poisonous houseplants in Florida. Common Name: English Ivy ~ Botanical Name: Hedera helix ~ Family: Araliaceae English Ivy is a fast-growing woody perennial vine known for its climbing ability. It features palm-shaped leaves when young, turning lobeless and oval-shaped with narrow ends when mature. … Read more
Meet Chester, the charming feline who strolled into our lives nearly a year ago and quickly became an irreplaceable part of our family. This playful and affectionate kitty has a penchant for mischief, particularly when it comes to our beloved plants. I’ve shared my home with cats and houseplants for years without encountering any issues. … Read more
In Florida’s zone 10A, where the climate is a delightful subtropical haven, cultivating the enchanting Rose of Winter, Camellia japonica, becomes a rewarding experience. Native to Japan, Taiwan, China, and South Korea, this flowering shrub graces gardens with its single or double blossoms, reminiscent of roses, that can span up to 5 inches across. With … Read more