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
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Seed Starting in the Summer: What to Grow in Central Florida’s Heat
By Amanda Rose Newton Think seed starting is just for spring? Not in Florida! Central Florida’s long growing season means you can grow productive crops from seed, even in the heart of summer. With a bit of planning and heat-smart choices, summer … [Read more...] about Seed Starting in the Summer: What to Grow in Central Florida’s Heat
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
It’s Corn! How to Grow Edible, Successful Corn in Central Florida Landscapes
By Amanda Rose NewtonIf you’re a Central Florida gardener and you’ve ever dreamed of plucking fresh, sweet corn from your own backyard, you’re in luck!Corn can absolutely thrive here — with the right timing, cultivars, and a little hands-on help at … [Read more...] about It’s Corn! How to Grow Edible, Successful Corn in Central Florida Landscapes
Compost Like a Pro: What Kitchen Scraps Help (and Hurt) Your Garden
By Amanda Rose Newton Turning your kitchen scraps into rich, usable compost is one of the most rewarding ways to support your garden and the environment. However, knowing what to discard — and what to keep — is key to getting it right. Today, … [Read more...] about Compost Like a Pro: What Kitchen Scraps Help (and Hurt) Your Garden
Habitat Heroes: Butterfly Gardens – Plants for Every Stage of Life to Support Pollinators Year-Round in Your Central Florida Garden
By Amanda Rose Newton Butterflies aren't just beautiful—they're essential pollinators and indicators of a healthy ecosystem. This edition of Habitat Heroes is about creating a butterfly garden that supports every stage of a butterfly’s life—from … [Read more...] about Habitat Heroes: Butterfly Gardens – Plants for Every Stage of Life to Support Pollinators Year-Round in Your Central Florida Garden
Milkweed 101 for Central Florida: Pink, White, Swamp, Native – What’s the Difference?
By Amanda Rose Newton If you're trying to attract butterflies — especially monarchs — to your Florida garden, milkweed is a must. But with so many varieties available at garden centers, it’s easy to get confused. Pink? White? Swamp? Tropical? … [Read more...] about Milkweed 101 for Central Florida: Pink, White, Swamp, Native – What’s the Difference?
