By Amanda Rose Newton If you’ve been gardening in Central Florida for a while, you’ve probably seen the word “mycorrhizae” on bags of potting mix, soil conditioners, and fertilizers like Espoma’s Bio-Tone Starter Plus. But what exactly are … [Read more...] about Mycorrhizae Explained: Helping Roots Thrive in the Summer Heat
Gardening
Rain Barrels in Central Florida: Why Collecting Rainwater is a Garden Game-Changer
By Amanda Rose Newton Florida’s summer rains can feel relentless—but what if you could turn that runoff into a resource? For Central Florida gardeners, a rain barrel is one of the most affordable, sustainable, and garden-friendly investments you … [Read more...] about Rain Barrels in Central Florida: Why Collecting Rainwater is a Garden Game-Changer
Fertilizer Ban Starts June 1 in Central Florida: Why Granular Fertilizer Fails in Rainy Season and Liquid Fertilizer Is Better
By Amanda Rose Newton As Central Florida enters its rainy season, it's crucial for homeowners and gardeners to understand the implications of the fertilizer ban that begins on June 1 and lasts through September 30. This seasonal restriction aims … [Read more...] about Fertilizer Ban Starts June 1 in Central Florida: Why Granular Fertilizer Fails in Rainy Season and Liquid Fertilizer Is Better
Teacher Appreciation Plants: Classroom-Friendly Green Gifts That Grow
By Amanda Rose Newton As the school year winds down, many parents and students look for meaningful ways to say "thank you" to the teachers who’ve made a difference. While mugs and gift cards are always appreciated, a living plant or a seed kit … [Read more...] about Teacher Appreciation Plants: Classroom-Friendly Green Gifts That Grow
Garden Habitat Heroes: Creating a Frog and Toad Sanctuary in Central Florida
By Amanda Rose Newton Suppose you want to reduce pests naturally, support native wildlife, and create a peaceful backyard retreat. In that case, it's time to roll out the green carpet for some of Florida’s most underappreciated garden heroes—frogs … [Read more...] about Garden Habitat Heroes: Creating a Frog and Toad Sanctuary in Central Florida
Mother’s Day Cut Flower Bouquets: The Best Seeds to Start a Florida-Friendly Garden
By Amanda Rose Newton There’s something undeniably special about giving a bouquet you’ve grown with your own two hands — especially for Mother’s Day. A homegrown bouquet isn't just beautiful; it’s personal, sustainable, and filled with love. If … [Read more...] about Mother’s Day Cut Flower Bouquets: The Best Seeds to Start a Florida-Friendly Garden
Garden Habitat Heroes: Creating a Space for Solitary Bees in Central Florida
By Amanda Rose Newton As spring arrives in Central Florida, our gardens come alive with buzzing pollinators. While honeybees often steal the spotlight, solitary bees are the unsung heroes of the garden. These hardworking native … [Read more...] about Garden Habitat Heroes: Creating a Space for Solitary Bees in Central Florida
Carnivorous Wonders – These fascinating plants lure, catch and digest insects
by Amanda Rose Newton Looking for a unique gift? There is perhaps nothing quite as fascinating or unusual as the often-misunderstood carnivorous plant. Found nearly everywhere on Earth (except Antarctica), these plants have managed to … [Read more...] about Carnivorous Wonders – These fascinating plants lure, catch and digest insects
