By Amanda Rose Newton Welcome to our new monthly series, "Garden Habitat Heroes", where we highlight ways to make your garden a haven for wildlife! Each month, we’ll dive into strategies for attracting and supporting different creatures that … [Read more...] about Garden Habitat Heroes: Gardening for Wildlife – Birds
Pet-Friendly Gardening: Create a Safe Space for Your Furry Friends
By Amanda Rose Newton Understanding what makes a plant "pet-friendly" and recognizing the natural defense mechanisms plants use is essential for designing a safe and beautiful garden. While we might admire a plant’s vibrant flowers or glossy … [Read more...] about Pet-Friendly Gardening: Create a Safe Space for Your Furry Friends
New Year, New Lawn? Understanding Alternative Lawns in Florida
By Amanda Rose Newton As the New Year begins, many homeowners are considering fresh starts, not just for themselves but also for their outdoor spaces. A growing trend in sustainable landscaping is the move away from traditional turfgrass lawns … [Read more...] about New Year, New Lawn? Understanding Alternative Lawns in Florida
Fruitcake: A History and Guide to Growing Ingredients For This Holiday Classic
By Amanda Rose Newton Ah, fruitcake! The much-debated holiday dessert that sparks equal parts nostalgia and curiosity. Whether you love it or leave it, fruitcake is a confection with a rich history and a global reputation. Let’s dive into … [Read more...] about Fruitcake: A History and Guide to Growing Ingredients For This Holiday Classic
Mistletoe and Holly: The Festive Duo of the Holidays
By Amanda Rose Newton The holiday season brings with it iconic decorations, from twinkling lights to evergreen wreaths. Among these, mistletoe and holly hold a special place in the festive tradition. Let’s explore where mistletoe comes from, … [Read more...] about Mistletoe and Holly: The Festive Duo of the Holidays
December Birth Flowers: Holly and Paperwhite Narcissus with Florida-Friendly Alternatives
By Amanda Rose Newton As the year comes to a close, the December birth flowers—Holly and Paperwhite Narcissus—offer a festive touch to the season. Known for their symbolism and beauty, these blooms bring a sense of cheer and celebration. However, … [Read more...] about December Birth Flowers: Holly and Paperwhite Narcissus with Florida-Friendly Alternatives
‘Winter’ is Coming: Adjusting Your Winter Garden
By Amanda Rose Newton As we bid farewell to the long, humid days of summer and fall, Central Florida gardeners enter the cooler, drier months. While it may not look like winter elsewhere, the season brings unique changes that require gardeners to … [Read more...] about ‘Winter’ is Coming: Adjusting Your Winter Garden
Growing a Thanksgiving Feast in Florida: Fresh from Your Garden to Your Table
By Amanda Rose Newton Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, a delicious feast! Imagine preparing a meal with ingredients harvested straight from your Florida Thanksgiving Garden. While Florida's unique climate … [Read more...] about Growing a Thanksgiving Feast in Florida: Fresh from Your Garden to Your Table
November Birth Flowers: Mums & Peonies – History, Care, and Florida-Friendly Alternatives
By Amanda Rose Newton November is a month of changing seasons, where cooler temperatures and the glow of autumn are fully underway. For those born in this transformative month, the traditional birth flowers—Chrysanthemums (commonly known as mums) … [Read more...] about November Birth Flowers: Mums & Peonies – History, Care, and Florida-Friendly Alternatives
Autumn in Florida: A Unique Take on Fall Colors and Cooler Blooms
By Amanda Rose Newton When people think of autumn, images of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows might come to mind, painting a landscape of falling leaves and crisp air. But in Florida, the changing season tells a different story—subtle yet … [Read more...] about Autumn in Florida: A Unique Take on Fall Colors and Cooler Blooms
