By Amanda Rose Newton In Central Florida, our gardens can do more than look beautiful—they can serve as safe havens for the tiny heroes that keep our ecosystems in balance. Beneficial insects such as pollinators, predators, and parasitoids help … [Read more...] about Garden Habitat Heroes: Supporting Beneficial Insects in Central Florida
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Garden Controls in Central Florida: What to Use and When
By Amanda Rose Newton Central Florida's lush, subtropical climate is a dream for gardeners and a haven for fruit trees, flowering ornamentals, and tropical foliage. But with the abundant growth comes an inevitable challenge: managing pests and … [Read more...] about Garden Controls in Central Florida: What to Use and When
Lizards in the Landscape: Friend, Foe, or Just Sunbathing?
By Amanda Rose Newton Summer in Central Florida brings a lot of things: sizzling temps, afternoon storms, and, if you've glanced at your patio lately, a whole lot of lizards. If you’ve ever wondered whether these quick little critters are … [Read more...] about Lizards in the Landscape: Friend, Foe, or Just Sunbathing?
Water-Gardening in the Summer: A Cool Way to Garden in Central Florida
By Amanda Rose Newton Looking for a relaxing, low-maintenance way to garden this summer? Consider water-gardening — an often-overlooked option that thrives in our hot Central Florida climate. Whether you have space for a small patio container or … [Read more...] about Water-Gardening in the Summer: A Cool Way to Garden in Central Florida
Garden Habitat Heroes: Shade-Loving Plants for Cool Wildlife Havens in Florida’s Heat
By Amanda Rose Newton Florida summers are no joke—not just for us, but for the wildlife too! As temperatures climb, shady spots in the garden become vital oases for birds, butterflies, lizards, frogs, and beneficial insects. If you’ve got a … [Read more...] about Garden Habitat Heroes: Shade-Loving Plants for Cool Wildlife Havens in Florida’s Heat
Rocks or Mulch? How to Choose What’s Best for Your Florida Landscape
By Amanda Rose Newton In Central Florida, where summers are long and scorching, choosing the right ground cover for your garden isn’t just about looks—it’s about plant health, moisture retention, and maintenance. Whether you’re a fan of sleek … [Read more...] about Rocks or Mulch? How to Choose What’s Best for Your Florida Landscape
Garden Habitat Heroes: Nectar-Rich Flowers for Hummingbirds
By Amanda Rose Newton If you’ve ever spotted a flash of iridescent green zipping through your backyard, you know the thrill of seeing a hummingbird up close. These tiny, energetic pollinators are a delight to watch—and even better, you can invite … [Read more...] about Garden Habitat Heroes: Nectar-Rich Flowers for Hummingbirds
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
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
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
