tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31607173113760744002012-01-23T17:34:05.632-05:00A Central Florida Garden BlogMeemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.comBlogger5531100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-17715419396105670222012-01-22T04:30:00.008-05:002012-01-22T04:30:02.130-05:00

This winter reminds me of Florida winters of long ago. Winter has been kind to us. No significant damage in the garden from freeze or frost. In keeping with Winter's mild temperament and ample sunshine the garden calls for attention during this season.I love the constant quest for placing the right plant in the right place always keeping in mind the specific microclimates within the microclimate

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-27205453740758693492012-01-19T16:20:00.001-05:002012-01-19T16:21:37.298-05:00

This is the first winter in three we've gone this long without freeze or frost damage. I know some of my Florida friends took some hard hits in the beginning of the month with temperatures in the twenties.Again, the canopy of oak trees in my garden protected my shrubs, tropicals, and perennials. I lost some coleus, impatiens, colocasia, and sweet potato vines that were exposed out in the open. No

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-59557006869355933212012-01-03T22:43:00.008-05:002012-01-03T23:07:23.600-05:00

Do you happen to remember the little issue this summer in the tropical pathway. Nothing serious. The impatiens decided to seed themselves all around the seating area and then they grew up and kinda-sorta took over the seating area.I didn't have the heart to clear them away even when they began to block the passageway. They were just so easy and I figured who was I to get in the way of volunteers

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-53230523839991283592012-01-01T21:10:00.002-05:002012-01-01T21:11:54.272-05:00

Few places can boast of the superb weather December brought to Central Florida. It has been delightful to spend as much time outdoors as possible in between the hustle and bustle of holiday activities. Truly. Where else can you still watch the butterflies fluttering about while grilling your dinner and then eating on the back lanai in shorts and flip-flops? It's a wonderful place to be in the

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-41486888015612081202011-12-22T04:30:00.004-05:002011-12-22T04:30:01.450-05:00

With only days left before Christmas bits and pieces of to-do lists are still being crossed off each day... a few stocking stuffers to pick up, menus to finalize and groceries to buy, presents to wrap, goodies to bake, friends and family gatherings to attend, kids to watch (so parents can get their stuff finished), and so it goes... add THAT to all the normal stuff that doesn't stop just because

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-91317235952142264332011-12-18T17:15:00.002-05:002011-12-18T19:18:23.407-05:00

Creating a whimsical gift bag (for any occasion really) is another fun way to spend time with your best boys and girls. My grandkids and I have been painting our own wrapping paper and making our own gift bags as one of our Christmas traditions for many years now.It's as easy as one, two, three. The end result is a personalized, hand-made, one-of-a-kind gift bag to pass along or treasure as a

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-69186866136707461602011-12-11T15:53:00.010-05:002011-12-11T16:20:20.753-05:00

Pulling out stored Christmas decorations is like taking a walk down memory lane. Ornaments and accessories that stir thoughts of the people who passed them along or the stories behind each one.Time-stamped with recollections of holidays come and gone and thoughts held dear of the blessings and cheer of past seasons spent with loved ones. With each container opened inspiration begins to motivate

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-72954140960855188262011-12-08T04:30:00.003-05:002011-12-11T16:20:39.409-05:00

Christmas cheer is spreading quickly around Hoe and Shovel while decking the halls with so much inspiration I can hardly contain my excitement. I admit some years I have to work up to pulling out all those container tubs with more sparkly bobbles than I care to think about waiting to be unwrapped and displayed. But this year was not like that. I was SO READY to get started.I thought I'd share

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-26046389528304415872011-12-01T04:30:00.001-05:002011-12-01T04:30:00.707-05:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We enjoyed our traditional gathering here around a spread of yummy food and treasured family time.Sharing our hearts of thankfulness as we sat outside in an after-dinner pow-wow of sorts we played board games into the night. We have so many blessings to count.It is difficult to comprehend another year is ending and it is already December. Where does

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-2558914803637198752011-11-30T05:30:00.007-05:002011-12-07T22:51:31.327-05:00

It is so very thrilling to be able to host this giveaway!Thank you to each one who left a comment on the contest blog. Every commenter was entered in a random drawing with a chance to win this remarkably fine lawn mower from Troy-Bilt. What a great gift! Courtesy of Troy-Bilt. They are good people! And ... they make great products.Congratulations to the winner ...Ladygrow who left the following

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-77994921211252908892011-11-28T16:29:00.007-05:002011-11-28T17:00:51.851-05:00

Whether it is potato vine trailing withsoever-it-will or sprawling coleus from a mixed combination in a container chartruese is a color to be sure to use in your garden. Shades of it in foxtail fern, macho fern, Florida-Friedly Gold Sedum, and leaves of 'Crystal Palace Gem' geranium will make your heart skip a beat as you swoon over its loveliness.Distribute it throughtout the garden in large and

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-40333631495275200882011-11-15T04:30:00.013-05:002011-11-15T17:17:34.917-05:00

Trying to dodge a looming rainstorm the Saturday6 team hurriedly chugged up the steep hill to The Lodge. We had spent most of the afternoon inside the MTD headquarter's building learning from the gracious employee team and engineers about their products and their standard of business practices.What stood out to me the most that May day in Cleveland, Ohio was hearing the history of MTD products

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-41033789863275631172011-11-07T09:30:00.000-05:002011-11-07T13:24:54.484-05:00

Those of you who have followed this blog are familiar with my habit of reducing the amount of lawn wherever it isn't completely necessary to maintain it. Currently I'm working on another section on the south side of the back yard.Today I'm sharing with you my first "how-to" video created for Troy-Bilt and will be posted in their newsletter "The Dirt" in the coming months. But you are viewing it

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-87796742794284832052011-11-04T04:30:00.002-04:002011-11-04T04:30:00.388-04:00

Florida has delivered some stellar autumn days to us so far. It is a much favored season here. Our endless hot summer has taken a much needed break.The sun's rays coming to us now with a more gentle angle and turning the earth into a soft glow.Beneficial flying critters of all sorts and sizes are increasingly alive with activity. As they hover and flit about the garden; the tiniest of wings

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-58618086491986532572011-10-29T04:30:00.000-04:002011-10-29T04:30:00.118-04:00

Lush foliage of caladiums has been filling the nooks and crannies of the garden since spring. That's when the soil warms and bulbs left in the ground from last year begin to sprout. I know you know this ... but it is October. Late October.Are you as surprised (and excited) as I am that the caladiums in the front garden are still this perky? 'White Wonder' was first planted in the ground in May.

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-81801032522920066072011-10-16T12:49:00.001-04:002011-10-16T12:49:10.494-04:00

Certain places in the garden, more than others, have a stronger pull to my soul. This particular place holds its very own ambiance and gives that feeling of a garden within a garden. Being there I can hear the whispers of quiet urgings to be still, to listen, to pause. It's like a sanctuary in the midst of the wide open world.It's been two years (although it surely seems like yesterday) since I

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-63625038275679884012011-10-07T04:30:00.002-04:002011-10-07T04:30:01.435-04:00

All summer long on my wish-I-could-get-around-to-it list was to re-vamp the container arrangements on my back lanai. It was an idea I never got around to tackling. Until this week. The photos on the left portray how extremely root bound the existing plants were. Do you think a plant might be too old if the roots perfectly mold to the shape of the container? The photos on the right are the newly

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-45954524025315221032011-09-25T17:51:00.001-04:002011-09-25T22:50:58.709-04:00

It's the time of year when it seems Florida either has loads of rain or none at all. Our plants already have to adapt to sandy soil, sweltering temperatures, and unbearably high humidity. By this time, they've recovered fully from winter's random freezes, waited patiently (with help from irrigation) through our dry season (which is oddly during spring), and summer rains have kept them nourished

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-49789470348514105592011-09-20T04:30:00.001-04:002011-09-20T04:30:00.565-04:00

In my continuing aim to profile each variety of caladium growing in my garden it is probably necessary to distinguish two of the types that strongly resemble each other at first glance.Recently the attributes of 'White Queen' were enthusiastically hailed as an all-time favorite for use in my garden. As of this moment that fact remains true. However, it is only fair to give equal claim to 'Florida

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-72137645227328519752011-09-16T04:30:00.006-04:002011-09-16T08:12:53.018-04:00

Over the years I've concentrated on removing more and more lawn in my yard. The idea has been to create a more garden-like atmosphere as compared to a typical suburban yard. Pathways and plants have taken the place of most of the turf grass during the last 5 years. There is still a peaceful green carpet of grass in the back yard where the grandkiddos play ~~ although many stray balls land in the

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-81861190347913257442011-09-11T09:08:00.002-04:002011-09-11T09:09:56.829-04:00

Caladiums have had a long-standing presence in my garden. It is their cheery, heart-shaped faces that signify summer when they sprout among the structural and foundational plants.Just for fun and for the sake of trying different hybrids I've given various types a place among the mixed planting beds. After all caladiums have been bred to showcase an array of colors. Selection based on height and

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-49026627358172273672011-09-09T14:52:00.002-04:002011-09-09T15:00:33.262-04:00

Fond childhood memories come to mind whenever I see shrubs of Plumbago (auriculata). Inevitably as children, in the course of outdoor play times, we would track around with remnants of leaves and blue petals stuck to our clothing. The fuzzy hairs on the buds of the flowers are sticky. Just enough to help them disperse their seeds but lightly enough that the petals and leaves stuck to clothing can

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-51234754105163631362011-09-06T10:30:00.005-04:002011-09-06T10:43:53.766-04:00

If August is wonderful for Florida gardeners, and it is, September is even better. Why? Because the garden is bursting at the seams from a long hot, rainy summer.Although my garden is well-suited for sauna-like conditions and actually thrives in it, the gardener is very appreciative of the promise September holds for autumnal changes.Subtle and incidental differences like night-time temps

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-34498514488806691992011-09-03T04:30:00.002-04:002011-09-03T04:30:01.992-04:00

Florida characteristically endures a very dry spring and our rainy season coincides with the onset of summer. This season started out kind of slow in June and July with irregular, hit and miss afternoon thunderstorms. Agastache 'black adder' has been blooming since early spring in the front garden. Since it prefers the soil dry and the sun shining the blooms are not quite as perky in late summer

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-32896820509473015972011-08-31T07:37:00.003-04:002011-09-06T10:29:30.085-04:00

If you don't know her already it is my pleasure to introduce to 'Miss Muffett'. She sort of brings out the, gushing, proud-as-a-Mimi, 'giddy' me.She's a bright chartreuse green, medium tall caladium variety that has been and remains my number one choice for summer foliage from this beautiful genus of ornamental plants.Planted from bulbs in amended organic soil, that is moist from summer rains but

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-77271865961285793752011-08-28T11:57:00.000-04:002011-08-28T11:58:43.667-04:00

When I look today at what's come to be known as the 'Circle Garden' it's a good thing I have some old photos to remember just where it began. It was first created in January of 2010 as a focal point in the back gardens. After (and during) some freezing temperatures that resulted in a very 'brown' garden oodles more lawn was removed and replaced with ground covers and planted beds. Aren't before

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-56176976824590834242011-08-26T04:30:00.002-04:002011-08-26T06:24:28.753-04:00

Hoe and Shovel garden has started a Facebook page. We've got some new friends there but not nearly as many as our readership indicates. This is my invitation to all regular commenters and readers to join us for informal discussions on Hoe and Shovel's page. It's a place where we'll offer tidbits from everyday life from around the garden ... nitty-gritty stuff and insignificant goings on. We'd

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-29337963228414214702011-08-22T04:30:00.003-04:002011-08-22T04:30:00.428-04:00

A quick glance at a mature planting bed and the identity of the numerous layers of plant materials might be overlooked at first sight. In our hurry-up culture we have a tendency to instantly take note of the overall view with our mind's eye; summing it up with our judgment of approval ... or not. Then we move on. Just for a moment what if we linger right here? I'm struck by the complexity that

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-90998598759214853672011-08-19T06:30:00.000-04:002011-08-19T06:57:37.216-04:00

My sincerest and heartfelt gratitude to each one who comforted me with your kind and thoughtful words in my previous post. Losing a loved one this close to me is fortunately not an experience I've had to face in life until now. The grieving process is taking me a bit by surprise as I'm not typically tripped up by my emotions. As a logical and no-nonsense sort of girl, reason and pragmatism guide

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-41802681843121205002011-08-14T06:26:00.001-04:002011-08-14T06:26:32.410-04:00

Maybe it's because humanity, as we know it, began its journey in a garden that we tend to find peace and comfort surrounded by the beauty of nature. For as long as I can remember being outdoors, taking in the sight of a magnificent sunset, breathing in the salty air along the Gulf Coast, gazing at the full moon, hiking up a mountain side, listening to the sound of a waterfall, or simply taking

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-66059618811602648042011-08-06T04:30:00.003-04:002011-08-06T04:30:02.119-04:00

When planting caladium bulbs, especially into a container, there is a procedure called de-eyeing(which you can learn more about here) that can help or "force" each bulb to produce more leaves. The finished habit turns out a slight bit shorter and remarkably more full. I experimented with de-eyeing for the first time when planting some varieties of caladium bulbs this spring.Feeling inexperienced

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-41719327276483258462011-08-03T06:30:00.001-04:002011-08-03T07:19:17.816-04:00

She's a rather outstanding figure in the partially shady native garden. Freida Hemple Caladium's brilliantly clad red face and central veins are surrounded by an equally rich value of green margin. Simplicity makes her a popular favorite among gardeners. With her height of 18 -24" she works well placed behind the border edging of variegated aztec grass and society garlic. Across the swath of

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-84204303341738884422011-08-01T04:30:00.004-04:002011-08-02T08:04:40.323-04:00

There's nothing that speaks tropical quite as boldly as enormous paddle-shaped leaves of banana trees.Non-fruit-bearing Red 'Ensete Maurelii' bananas are just so lovely amidst the shade garden. It is here where moisture is naturally retained better than any other parts of the garden.Mixing in elements of any large-leaved specimen adds a particularly appealing dimension to the garden. Feelings of

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-57393888582489118922011-07-29T04:30:00.010-04:002011-08-03T07:19:38.964-04:00

Other than the edible garden the front southern-most half of the front lawn qualifies as the sunniest location in my garden. West-facing it receives a good portion of mid-afternoon sun although my neighbor's large oak trees do filter the light in the latest part of the day.Caladiums are commonly known to perform best in shade and partial sun situations.Good news for sunny gardens. Recent breeding

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-73721121502889916402011-07-26T07:30:00.000-04:002011-07-26T07:55:00.662-04:00

In my ornamental garden it is the placement of trees and foundational plants that we call the 'bones' of the garden. They are those elements that remain. No matter the season or the hardships encountered it is the 'bones' of the garden that give it structure and form. If chosen correctly these fundamental players of the garden are what we work around to create places of interest with forms,

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-38183369067716632392011-07-23T04:30:00.005-04:002011-08-03T07:20:05.657-04:00

There are a few new faces in my garden this summer.As caladium varieties show up, newly emerged from planted bulbs in June, I'm getting to know them a little better.Meet Cinderella. She is a fancy leaf variety that does well in the shade. She is tucked into the shady tropical pathway as part of the edging in between flax lily and spathiphylum with irises and ground orchids behind her.And oh, has

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-48840862363023068892011-07-21T04:30:00.002-04:002011-07-21T04:30:02.638-04:00

Strangely enough Florida has had better temperatures than most of the mid and northwest this week. Summertime in Florida is normally hot and humid like a sauna.It has actually been unseasonably less humid for any day in July! So unusual that it has been bearable to enjoy morning coffee in the circle garden. From this seating area in the central hub of the back gardens looking to the right is the

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-40196246223863465752011-07-18T08:20:00.004-04:002011-07-19T08:29:28.578-04:00

Impatiens are a hardy and colorful plant for shady to partial-shady areas of the garden. Considered an annual yet they are very prolific in returning after being frosted back in winter. None have been purposely planted in this garden in many years.They readily seed themselves into container gardens, in between perennials, they pop up in convenenient locations and some not-so-convenient places.

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-36645854945359112112011-07-16T06:30:00.003-04:002011-08-03T07:20:37.242-04:00

Nothing in the summer garden excites me more than when the Caladiums begin to emerge from the ground. Slowly at first and then day by day clumps of them appear fuller and fuller.Maybe you'd like to join me for a look at some along the tropical pathway. We'll start in the circle garden and round this corner between the potted containers overflowing with coleus, rojo congos, and macho

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-175848483907206282011-07-14T06:30:00.000-04:002011-07-14T06:38:30.523-04:00

Last year I saw a pretty succulent garden planted in a birdbath while on a tour of a local garden. Ever since then I've wanted one of them for my garden. Only it was one of those projects that kept getting bumped to the bottom of the "want" list. That's simply because there were SO many plant projects ahead of it this past spring.When Lowe's Creative Ideas handed out the challenge to create

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-92216987631635123282011-07-11T08:06:00.001-04:002011-07-11T08:06:36.482-04:00

It's a good thing there are some summer bloomers that don't mind humid, hot conditions.The July garden offers just that. Day in and day out. We start out warm and we end up warm. Crape myrtles come alive at the onset of summer and thrive in our humid conditions.Florida's rainy season begins in summer following our long, dry spring.We are grateful for the six plus inches of rain that started the

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-34284797042045647612011-07-07T04:30:00.000-04:002011-07-07T04:30:00.806-04:00

There are a few perennials in the garden that cause me to wonder how my garden lived so long without them.Belamcanda chinensis is one of those just-plain-fun plants that was passed along to me by a neighbor initially. Soon after, two other gardening friends increased my supply of these plants with divisions from their gardens. And I am forever grateful to all three friends!Leopard lily is one of

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-35918198672175969502011-07-03T13:12:00.000-04:002011-07-03T16:17:02.610-04:00

Texas hot is way different than Florida hot. In Florida, this time of year, the minute you step outside the humidity wraps around you and feels like a clammy wet blanket that you wish to rid of its weight. But escaping the muggy, sticky feeling while outdoors is near impossible.In North Texas this week while visiting son#2 and his wife the temperatures have been in the 100's every day. That's hot

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-4660658400669430262011-06-29T16:30:00.000-04:002011-06-29T17:26:29.590-04:00

Yanking out green leafy ferns from the roots to get rid of them is not a task a gardener relishes. So why would we do it? There are good ferns and bad ferns. In Florida there is ONE BAD variety in particular that is readily seen in so many gardens and even sold in garden centers.But let's have a look at the GOOD ferns growing at Hoe and Shovel first. Some are native and others are just fabulous

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-4208149787995948002011-06-25T04:30:00.002-04:002011-06-25T04:30:01.514-04:00

Every year I find ways to add more and more Agapanthus orientalis to my garden. Either by dividing the plants already growing or by purchasing additional ones.Did you know they are part of the Amaryllis family? The most common name for them is African Lily or Lily of the Nile. Some folks say they are blue. But to me they appear more lavender or periwinkle. Especially when compared to a true blue

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-56070791590166000292011-06-21T08:05:00.002-04:002011-07-14T06:54:45.600-04:00

Thankfully there's an increased awareness of late as to the sheer beauty and practicality of native plants. There are as many Florida natives to choose from as there are colors in a paint store.Gardener beware :: Just because it is a 'native' doesn't mean it can be plopped anywhere.Making the correct selection for each garden's habitat is essential for native plants to successfully thrive just

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-77226194928073712142011-06-18T04:30:00.001-04:002011-06-18T04:30:00.085-04:00

It is entirely fitting that the Florida native Butterfly Orchids bloom each year right around Father's Day.The Butterfly Orchid (Encyclia tampensis;also Epidendrum tampense)is an epiphyte. For all the other weeks of the year they simply hang on the old oak trees acting and looking quite non-descript.My own father gave me these unique Florida plants a few years ago. When he separated his I was the

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-74621203325383242352011-06-14T12:00:00.004-04:002011-06-14T13:52:41.748-04:00

My article, From the Ground Up, has been published this week in Troy-Bilt's June newsletter, The Dirt. If you haven't already signed up to receive their monthly e-news you can sign up for The Dirt here.The Dirt is always full of tips and great information on all sorts of gardening endeavors as well as special offers. Not only that but you'll learn about the ways and advantages to using good

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-1775881286675385732011-06-13T04:30:00.002-04:002011-06-13T04:30:00.775-04:00

One of the most peaceful settings in my garden is in the back yard. Turn a corner from the circle garden and meander down the pathway through the area we call the tropical garden. It is deeply shaded in the centermost sections except for streams of morning light illuminating selected parts. In the late afternoon the angled sunrays from the west reach beneath the oak canopy to again brighten spots

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-91789932731755152522011-06-10T04:30:00.003-04:002011-06-29T14:39:08.978-04:00

The term naturalistic is being thrown around a great deal these days with regards to a specific style of gardening. My interpretation may be a little different than a gardener with lots of acreage or one with open meadows. A genuine naturalistic garden carved out of a woodland or lakeside would be a dream come true. At the same time I think a naturalistic style garden can be achieved even in the

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-50696238988544462122011-06-06T04:45:00.003-04:002011-06-06T04:45:00.809-04:00

Front garden... agapanthus bloomingCircle garden entrance to central pathway in perennial garden.Circle garden arborCircle garden view to tropical pathwayCircle gardenPathway from circle garden to wildflower gardenMiss Muffett caladiumsNorthside bermBlue plumbagoFrom tropical garden leading into circle gardenQueen Emma/Tropical pathwayTropical garden container plantsTropical pathway/Red

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-66126713468462361512011-06-05T18:04:00.005-04:002011-06-05T18:12:39.619-04:00

Florida has been experiencing a rain deficit for several weeks. It isn't unusual for May. Still we wish for those occasional showers to lessen the burden on our plants.Recently I posted a view of Helen's (my neighbor) amazing display of rain lilies that burst open in all their glory following the last brief rain we had. Nothing really compares to seeing them en masse as she grows them.This week

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-85336469046445765372011-06-04T19:56:00.001-04:002011-08-03T07:21:32.601-04:00

Every year it is sort-of challenging (fun, but challenging) to choose between all the many varieties of caladium bulbs available.Then there's those all-important design decisions about where to plant them to best complement plants already established in the garden. These days there are myriads of choices of caladium cultivars. There are over 2000 named varieties. So many heights, colors, patterns

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-111762530956757612011-06-01T13:57:00.003-04:002011-06-02T07:58:35.434-04:00

Crimson pentas rank high on the 'favorite year-round perennials' list here.For so many reasons.They are bright and cheery and endure all kinds of ill-weather. Mine all came back from being frosted to the ground this winter. They bloom consistently all year long. Other than benefiting from deadheading occasionally (not required) pentas of all colors ask for very little from the gardener. Grown in

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-76084523557482326362011-05-30T09:30:00.001-04:002011-09-06T10:04:13.821-04:00

Native plants have been incorporated into the landscape to blend with the natural habitat of mature live oaks and saw palmettos in the way-back gardens. All are wildlife attractors.Isn't it interesting that every year the *American* Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) blooms coincide with the arrival of Memorial Day. A day first observed in 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-80709693988133121742011-05-28T04:30:00.013-04:002011-05-28T04:30:00.455-04:00

Every garden possesses its own unique beauty, characteristics, and charm. As gardeners no matter how much we appreciate the overall culture we've created it seems we develop preferences. There is definitely favorite scenery, nooks, and niches that draw our attention more than others within the garden. These particular spots often change with the seasons. They aren't necessarily perfect in every

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-80183594484514112012011-05-26T04:30:00.003-04:002011-05-26T04:30:00.331-04:00

Blushing pink Rain Lilies (Zephyranthes) appear quite regularly following ... you guessed it ... a good rain shower in late spring.Short in height with fairly insignificant grass-like foliage from tiny bulbs that multiply on their own they are repeat bloomers throughout the season. Even into mid-summer flowers will flush out although not as abundant as this time of year.I wish I could say this

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-54489403892815107132011-05-25T07:30:00.000-04:002011-05-25T12:18:31.112-04:00

Close up views of the garden and individual flowers are unmatched for showcasing exquisite detail. Even so, many of the readers here have expressed their appreciation for seeing WIDE views of the garden as a way of displaying the layout. Recently I was up on the roof cleaning off the leaves that quickly collect there from the oak trees.So for what it's worth here is a view from the roof looking

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-67424093116570681072011-05-22T11:02:00.000-04:002011-05-22T10:28:49.925-04:00

Flax Lily (Dianella tasmanica 'Variegata') has been utilized to the fullest at Hoe and Shovel and several posts have been previously written about my admiration for it. By some standards it is probably over-used. When I first fell in love with it I implemented it mostly as an edging plant for curvaceous borders. Once established I began dividing it and placing it in container plants as vertical

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-5542868118712977072011-05-20T13:25:00.003-04:002011-05-20T19:35:16.351-04:00

Troy-Bilt has teamed up with six bloggers from across the country calling us the Saturday6. And guess what? I'm one of the Saturday6! Isn't that exciting!! Click above to meet the entire team!THIS SATURDAY I'll be on hand to answer your gardening questions at the New Tampa Lowe's.Here's ALL the scoopWhere:Outside the garden center under the tentNew Tampa Lowe's Store (#1003)6201 Commerce Palms

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-72331491265599072212011-05-18T06:30:00.000-04:002011-05-18T06:36:08.104-04:00

It is the month of May that urges the return of Agapathus blooms. And so many others.Lily of the Nile (A. africanus) as it is often referred to is an anticipated bloomer each year.It is loved for its sturdy foliage in every other season.Springtime, though, is when it sends up its large pom-pom of individual trumpet-shaped flowers on tall scapes for amazing appeal in the May garden.And while I'm

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-51229954438104364302011-05-15T15:58:00.000-04:002011-05-15T15:09:08.531-04:00

There are very few (if any) adequate places for profusely flowering perennials that require a good dose of ample sunshine in my garden. The maximum amount on any one location is FIVE hours and that doesn't exclude the edible garden.Last year we removed the remarkably broad drake elm located almost dead center in the back yard. The disappearance of its lengthy shade limbs created a drastically

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-56714294456258632742011-05-11T08:30:00.000-04:002011-05-11T07:28:27.417-04:00

In every garden there are those specific, faithful plants in which the gardener anticipates the arrival of an annual bloom time. We know it is inevitable. It's like waiting for the seasons to change. You know the expected time it will transition you just don't know the exact day the change will appear.Often these are the very plants that faithfully supply hardy foliage and steadfast

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-64751009074460095562011-05-05T10:30:00.001-04:002011-05-05T10:49:34.682-04:00

A glimpse of my latest undertaking was shared in a recent post with a teaser that more was to come. In today's entry I'll attempt to take you through the process of creating it from beginning to end in a helpful and informative manner. Maybe you'll be inspired to plunge into one of those projects you've had swirling around in your imagination for a while. Often it is one of my fellow-bloggers who

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-31055308230857924492011-05-02T04:30:00.001-04:002011-05-02T04:30:01.850-04:00

Every spring is the only spring - a perpetual astonishment. ~Ellis PetersIt is decidedly only May! What better place to be than in the garden. It is growing like wild in this heat.And all the critters think it is June, too.Spiders are busy already spinning their beautiful artistry.More butterflies this year than ever!If you've never been thrilled to the very edges of your soul by a flower in

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-68780844821557272882011-04-26T09:30:00.000-04:002011-04-26T09:17:09.150-04:00

Being in the garden this week with Easter activities was especially nice. Taking a look back at last year's photos from April there is no question the garden is much further along THIS April. Probably due to our 'early' freezes in December and then a steady warm-up in February recovery was quicker and earlier. Choosing the best plants for our own specific climate (or micro-climate)becomes even

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-37032047791662454882011-04-19T04:30:00.001-04:002011-04-19T04:30:02.110-04:00

For my next Lowe's blog entry the assignment is to create a "short" video illustrating the content of the written entry. 'Short' is a key word in the assignment. My first attempt at a video was way too long. So the thought occurred to post the one that is too long here. The length is about 3:50 minutes as I take you from the circle garden down the tropical pathway. (And I tried to hurry~yikes)

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-55756295941044668122011-04-17T14:46:00.000-04:002011-04-17T16:02:57.906-04:00

Typically I'm a 'less is more' gal. But not when it comes to plants! The lemony-fresh fragrance of Trachelospermum jasminoides Confederate jasmine is steadily wafting through the air commanding notice from all passersby. Those tiny white flowers emit some powerful sweetness. There are things I did in the garden long before I had any good sense about gardening at all. Some of them worked out by

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-50009416943144078882011-04-13T04:33:00.011-04:002011-04-13T04:33:00.861-04:00

Vantage points when photographing the garden make all the difference in perspective. We walk around our gardens upright looking out across the way or down at a particular plant or vignette. But to photograph the scenery from that stance does not always turn out to be the most appealing view. It isn't all that atypical actually to be found in our gardens squatting down in various contorted

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-10753746290638534252011-04-11T14:50:00.001-04:002011-08-28T10:56:08.859-04:00

Favorite extra-large adirondack chairs with loads of character (read::deteriorating) have been the seating focus in the circle garden since its creation barely over a year ago. Prior to that their comfortable bottoms rested on the pool deck for many years. A gift from my mom originally they have given us their best years and even now except for just a bit of rot on a couple of slats they remain

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-90526498679206737302011-04-08T04:30:00.005-04:002011-04-08T04:30:01.649-04:00

Tradescontia ohiensis spiderwort, Native to Florida A gardener never knows what unexpected beauties await as we take a stroll around our beloved plots of earth. Every time of day offers its own unique ambience and surprises. It would seem the delicate spider webs are bracing the spiderwort. First streams of light radiate here and there through the tree limbs to disclose fresh scenery only

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-73062845177109203652011-04-05T08:30:00.000-04:002011-04-05T08:12:07.616-04:00

The edible garden finally got some much needed attention this weekend. Every spring I'm reminded of how much time is required to do things right in this part of the garden. It can only be neglected for a short time and lack of attention will be evident. The start of April looks more like May. I'm guessing proliferation is due to our very warm February. Checking back to last year's records (

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-87047480534828702752011-04-01T11:45:00.001-04:002011-04-01T16:17:22.945-04:00

Louisiana Iris 'Sinfonietta' was one of my first attempts at bare root planting. Six of them were ordered via Internet in winter 2008. Three were placed in the back and three were placed in the perimeter of the edible garden. It was not known how well they would do in my garden. The bright green foliage is every bit of 3 feet tall and sails through our winters adding structure and vertical

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-83003639500211220062011-03-28T14:20:00.009-04:002011-03-29T07:31:45.977-04:00

Spring is that much-anticipated season when life in the garden comes alive with supreme vigor and vitality. I can vividly remember as a young adult, before I had my own garden, excitement would fill my soul just taking a drive down the freeway on any March day in Florida. The sight of bright green leaves flushing out en masse on the limbs of roadside tree clusters signaled a certain assurance ~

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-32751216147996922712011-03-22T04:30:00.012-04:002011-03-22T04:30:01.004-04:00

It's a magnificent name to appoint to a plant. One that surely requires characteristics to match it.When the first streaks of dawn's brightness beam through the oak tree branches towering over her she appears to be on a stage all her own. Her pale pink flowers illuminated in full glory and calling for the center of attention.Evening sunshine results in her blending with the companions she resides

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-81052994095669829722011-03-18T16:45:00.000-04:002011-03-19T07:24:15.465-04:00

Don't you just love to walk out in the garden early morning to see the sunlight streaming through from above! Somehow the sight of it evokes thankfulness and so much appreciation for God's stunning handiwork.The light and the reflections and the sense of peace do not go unnoticed. It is beneficial to take a moment's pause, calm the task-driven brain, breathe these moments in ... reflect on

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-44928657497415163942011-03-15T07:30:00.002-04:002011-10-28T12:08:59.753-04:00

Placing an order online requesting specific varieties, sizes, and the number of caladium bulbs desired is so simple, affordable, and easy. They'll be delivered to our doorstep in a matter of days ready to go in the ground and produce so many months of lush, tropical foliage to brighten any summer garden.This process has been common practice here for many years. Anyone who has read this blog for

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-65971827010704438152011-03-12T06:30:00.002-05:002011-04-17T17:33:11.485-04:00

There is so much happening in the garden right now. This March reminds me of the Florida I remember well. Spring weather is here and the garden is awakening at a remarkable rate of speed. Everyday there is something else to notice. Yes, here I go again... Singing the praises of the native coral honeysuckle Lonicera Sempervirens. Those tubes are perfectly formed for butterfly proboscis and

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-45833011397456248872011-03-08T04:30:00.007-05:002011-03-08T23:50:07.178-05:00

If you've ever thought about planting some edibles there is no better time than now.Learning to grow an edible garden has been one of the most enriching aspects of gardening for me.For an endeavor that was so intimidating initially it's difficult to express how much joy it has brought over the past 3 years. Trepidation at times. But joy is always the overarching feeling that comes to mind when I

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-68573677797271461132011-03-06T08:35:00.000-05:002011-03-06T13:26:24.908-05:00

Those of us with our roots planted deeply in southern soil and the southern way of living might take these beautiful rhododendrons for granted.After all for most of the year the shrubs are not much in the way of lovely.Until they bloom that is.When the blooms start popping out in bright magentas and pinks and corals and even brilliant white it's as if the whole world is gleeful.Redemption.From

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-42762593529945810012011-03-02T06:30:00.002-05:002011-03-02T08:39:04.317-05:00

The first Giant Swallowtails Heraclides cresphontes of the season have joined the sulphurs, red admirals, and black swallowtails dancing around the back gardens the last few days. What a delightful late-winter gift.Today when my (5 year old) grandson announced the sighting of one with that 'thrill of discovery' in his voice I could no longer resist grabbing my camera and following it

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-78349701429566976432011-02-27T04:30:00.003-05:002011-02-27T04:30:01.696-05:00

It's hard to believe but this is the best time of year to plan for your summer caladium plantings. After all, spring is the season dreams are made of. While we are in the mode with spring designs dancing in our heads you will want to be sure to leave room in your thinking (and budget) for adding those fabulous, low-maintenance foliage plants we've come to love in this region.Compared to the

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-73280617327869026102011-02-24T04:30:00.012-05:002011-02-24T04:30:00.624-05:00

An abundance of warm sunshine has rested over our beloved state these past few weeks. If I didn't have a calendar to tell me differently I'd think spring had arrived.Nothing says transition from late winter into spring like the azaleas beginning to bloom. All my azalea shrubs are bulging with buds that puff up just a tiny bit more each day. Many of my neighbor's plants are already in full bloom.

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-41298431094558086302011-02-21T04:30:00.002-05:002011-04-25T22:53:55.761-04:00

Flower heaven. What gardener wouldn't find themselves bug-eyed at this lavish sight! Salivating is more like it.Or maybe you prefer pink. Acres and acres of 1 gallon plants just waiting for eager gardeners to claim them and give them a good home this spring.If you like orange and many gardeners must because an overwhelming number of purchasers make this Crossandra infundibuliformis 'Orange

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-20251915062411265392011-02-19T04:30:00.006-05:002011-02-19T04:30:00.204-05:00

A basketful of freshness is as close as a few steps into the garden.Spring-like weather in Central Florida is signaling the edible garden to come alive in all its glory.Cool season vegetables like Blue Curled Scotch Kale (Baker Creek Heirloom seeds) planted in November are all of a sudden putting on growth quickly.Wando Garden Peas (Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds) are responding to plenty of warmth

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-73520346058052429512011-02-17T04:30:00.001-05:002011-02-17T04:30:00.706-05:00

You betcha!When I purchased my Bogs this fall while on a road trip (in another state) I thought it was kind of a frivolous buy. For wearing later in Florida? I honestly didn't think I'd get much use from them. At the time I didn't care because it had gotten colder than we had expected and we were heading to a football game in the pouring down (did I mention cold?) rain.Surprisingly, since then,

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-54162267213650178492011-02-14T04:30:00.001-05:002011-02-14T04:30:01.133-05:00

Bright, cheery blooms, blue skies, crisp cool air with oodles of sunshine is what February is supposed to be in Florida. And it has not disappointed. The weather was stellar this weekend. I wish I could share it with my northern friends.Take a peek with me around a few of the weekend scenes in the garden. There is promise of new life everywhere I turn. Buds on azaleas, fiddleheads forming, and

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-13370389881336911732011-02-10T22:38:00.001-05:002011-04-17T17:19:38.446-04:00

Sunshine on a cool winter day urges gardeners and critters alike to bask in the wondrous beauty of nature. A stellar gardening day sandwiched between some cloudy, rainy days yesterday drew me outdoors for more winter clean up. The edible garden is the place where the sun brightly illuminates unhindered for about 6 hours. Less hours during winter but when it shines the entire place is a

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-35006031128492081652011-02-09T04:30:00.002-05:002011-02-09T04:30:02.354-05:00

Louis Philippe is a densely petaled rose. Its color is intensely deep variations of magenta hues often with lighter streaks gracing the petals. Sweetly scented is each flower that matures to 1-3 inches in diameter.I first met Louis at Florida Native Plants Nursery a couple of years ago. At the time I had long given up on growing roses in my Florida garden. But when I witnessed, in the middle of

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-40024661670436069712011-02-07T04:30:00.004-05:002011-02-07T10:01:31.507-05:00

Last spring a concentrated effort was made to increase the middle story volume in the garden. The level between low-lying shrubs and the very tall canopy of oak trees. By adding several specimen trees with a mature growth habit of 10- 20 feet in height the middle story will eventually fill out and complete a much needed design element.Two young 7' Raphiolepis indica Indian Hawthorn 'Majestic

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-46708848070790473972011-02-03T23:31:00.000-05:002011-02-04T10:24:18.379-05:00

Just a few short years ago framed beds were constructed and edibles were added to my garden for the first time. I'm not sure what took me so long to get serious about this aspect of gardening. But I can say now it was an experience that greatly escalated my well-established and already intense romance with gardening.Right from the beginning it felt natural designing even more additional spaces to

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-55560898963031511662011-01-31T23:20:00.000-05:002011-01-31T22:55:32.474-05:00

2010 was a bleak winter. Right in the middle of it our well was compromised and we had no choice but to replace it. You can read the low down on that project here if you don't remember it.A brief recap: The garden was looking pretty desolate after so many days in a row of frosty/freezing temperatures. I took advantage of the very cold weather by having some sod removed (also had to have a tree

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-14663826612409696302011-01-30T09:40:00.001-05:002011-04-17T16:36:21.949-04:00

As we continue to feature the sturdy and foundational plants of winter's garden let's have a look at Leptospermum scoparium New Zealand Tea Tree (or Rose). She's beginning to add some splashes of rosy hues among the evergreens. In order to qualify for the cold hardy files around Hoe and Shovel a specimen must also have the vital classification of being 'drought resistant'. Possessing those two

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-41511966971044492332011-01-26T04:30:00.005-05:002011-01-26T04:30:00.690-05:00

Ornamental cabbage planted in circle garden container.GREEN. I'm a fan. Of just about every shade. [Save the kelly green jackets worn by Masters Tournament winners. Just saying.]I like green in fashion, I like it in interior design, and I especially like it in the garden. (If my painting teacher reads this I know she will be laughing ~~at me ~~she knows how much I make use of green at every

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-20584470646150085252011-01-24T06:30:00.000-05:002011-01-24T07:34:00.791-05:00

Lonicera sempervirens Coral Honeysuckle  During the summer months it is the coral honeysuckle that the hummers visit often. So many times I was only a few feet away from them as their long beaks plunged to the interior of the open, trumpet-like red flowers. It usually happened when I had a garden hose in my hand and not my camera. This is one of my favorite Florida natives given that it is

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-73709186746808801862011-01-21T08:08:00.010-05:002011-01-21T08:14:56.179-05:00

It seems everywhere I turn lately there are chickens. Like plants, they come in so many colors and varieties.How perfect would life be to gather up hen-laid, organic eggs for breakfast each morning! My neighbors wouldn't appreciate my latest longing for chickens. Maybe someday when I move to my craftsman style dream home? In the country. On a few acres. *Dreaming is okay!*In the meantime, what a

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-72651294531964006712011-01-17T22:07:00.000-05:002011-01-19T07:33:01.268-05:00

"If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.” Anne Bradstreet, 1612-1672Winter is the season when the elements of structure are revealed in the garden. I used to think this was true of only northern gardens. After all this IS central Florida and our average winter temperature is a fabulous 72-74 degrees

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Part 3 of Plants that Thrive in the Winter Garden (Part 1) and Preparing the Garden for All Seasons (Part 2)In keeping with my recent trend of thinking there has to be a better way for my winter garden to thrive~~ minus the stress provoked by unpredictable weather patterns ~~ I'm taking good notes of hardy winter performers.Louisiana Irises 'Sinfonietta' are always a standout in winter. Not

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-52439195345092860312011-01-10T09:23:00.006-05:002011-01-23T23:41:56.667-05:00

Part 2 of Plants that Thrive in the Winter Garden North side property line in back garden ~~~ Gama grass, Tripsacum dactyloides (45 border the top backside of the berm), Ligustrum sinensis 'Variegata' (middle of photo~ 7 plants), Feijoa sellowiana, Pineapple Guava (3 behind Gama) and Trachelospermum jasminoides, confederate jasmine covering the entire fence in the background. Each one cold and

Meemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16341998120938921741noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3160717311376074400.post-87794744069338804072011-01-05T04:30:00.003-05:002011-01-23T23:39:05.900-05:00

There are some extremely cold hardy plants in my Florida garden right now that are grabbing my attention with greater interest than ever before. Never a favorite color, or shrub in general for that matter, the Duc de Rohan azaleas have been blooming since early December. In this year's bleak winter-garden fondness is growing for these sturdy rhododendrons that cluster around the entry walk to

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