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With summer just around the corner, now is a wonderful time to start preparing your home for Florida’s rainy season. We have had a drier winter and spring over the past few years, making it even more important to limit water runoff and harvest this natural resource for your lawn and plants. There are quite a few effortless ways to improve the water retention for your plants that are easy to implement and will not only help reduce stormwater runoff but also enhance the quality of your landscape. Gutters and rain chains are a fantastic way to collect and direct water from the roof of your home to a source that can absorb or store the water. If you already have gutters in place, make sure to clean them out prior to the rainy season, inspect them to make sure they are draining property and into an area away from the foundation of your home. If you are unable to extend your gutter, a rain barrel may be a terrific way to harvest water to utilize for plants in that area. Rain barrels come in a variety of design options and can make a wonderful corner accent to your outdoor spaces. If your gutters experience an overflow, a low-cost solution could be installing splash guards that extend upward and help prevent water breaches in vulnerable areas. Gutter guards are a way for homeowners to keep out leaves and other debris from clogging the gutter system. Installing a French Drain to your buried downspout or an area prone to water retention is an option to redirect water from saturated areas. A French drain consists of a perforated pipe under a bed of gravel that will direct water away from oversaturated areas into an area that will allow the water to percolate into the ground. This is a low-cost way to direct water to an area where it will be better utilized and will not contribute to storm water runoff or erosion. Rain & rock garden additions in low-lying areas are another solution to prevent runoff from entering the stormwater system. Rain gardens are best placed in a depressed area of the landscape that consists of flowers or plants that help water soak into the ground and filter out pollutants. If your area is challenging for plants, a rock garden is another low-maintenance idea that will look aesthetically pleasing that can allow heavy water flow to slowly absorb into the groundwater supply. Mulch helps retain water and soil moisture which is another inexpensive method to reduce water runoff. Adding mulch to your plants and trees will help them retain water during heavy pours and allow water to sink into the soil slowly. As the mulch decomposes, beneficial nutrients will be released into the ground soil and will increase surrounding plant health. Runoff can also be reduced by installing plants or groundcover and installing porous surfaces for walkways or driveways. When possible, using flagstone, space bricks or gravel can be used alone or together with groundcover plants or mulch that will allow water to seep through the surface and into the ground, slowing soil erosion and reducing runoff. Creating berms and bioswales can assist in slowing water movement and guiding it to an area to percolate into our groundwater supply. This can be a helpful tip to flood prone properties to create channels for water retention and protect your homesite from water inundation during periods of heavy rain. Wide and gentle sloping ditches can guide water to rain or rock gardens that will allow the water to drain into our underground reservoir rather than our storm drains. There are various cost-effective methods to redirect water from buildings into areas where it can be utilized or gradually filtered back into underground aquifers. When you reduce water runoff into the storm water system it helps limit algae blooms and severe red tide outbreaks while also helping replenish our natural freshwater for our future generations. If you are experiencing an issue with too much water in areas and are unsure how to correct the problem, reach out to schedule a free consultation on the best options available for your situation. 
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There are several options for turfgrass in our area of Florida. Below I will discuss the differences between the turfgrass options to help you choose the best grass for your location, lifestyle, and preference. Each type of turfgrass will require various levels of maintenance, so it is important to consider how much time and money you can invest in your lawn before installing a new turfgrass. Every location will vary in the best selection, if you have poor irrigation you may want to install a drought-tolerant variety or if you have a lot of shade, it will be important to select a grass that grows well in low-light conditions. You will want to consider the amount of traffic in the location of turf grass installation, along with drainage at the site, soil PH levels, climate, and fertilization requirements for your selection. The most-commonly selected turfgrasses in our area is St. Augustine grass, Bahia grass, Centipede grass and Zoysia grass. St. Augustine grass does well in humid, warm regions and is the most widely used turfgrass in Florida. This grass type produces a blue-green dense turf that does well in most soils and climate zones in Florida. This quickly established turfgrass grows easily and may be planted as plugs, sprigs or sod. Some different cultivars include Bitterblue, Classic, Floratam, Palmetto, Raleigh, Provista, CitraBlue, and Seville. The most recent cultivar, CitraBlue, was developed in 2018 by USF, offering a unique blue-green color, has a more horizontal denser growing habit than other cultivars, allowing it to block out weeds better, it is also more drought-tolerant and has a lower mowing height that other options. Bahia grass persists better than other grasses by forming a deep, extensive root system. This allows it to perform better in sandy, infertile soils as it does not require a lot of water or fertilizer. This makes it an excellent choice for large acreage or areas that do not have irrigation. This grass type will turn brown during extended drought periods but will return once conditions become favorable for growing. This grass type prefers acidic soil and does not form excessive thatch with limited pest and disease problems. Some of the different varieties include Common, Argentine, and Pensacola. Argentine is the most often used variety of Bahia grass for lawns. Argentine creates a dense, dark sod, tolerates cold temperatures well and has high pest and disease resistance. Centipede grass is a low-maintenance, slow growing grass that is the most common grass in the Florida Panhandle. This grass performs well in acidic and infertile soils, is tolerant of some shade, and can survive drought conditions by going dormant. This grass produces a heavy layer of thatch and is very susceptible to damage from pests such as nematodes and ground pearls. This grass type has low freeze, water, and salt tolerance, making it a poor option for salt-waterfront homes. The most common cultivars of this grass type are Common, Covington, Hammock, Santee, and TifBlair. If you are considering this type of turfgrass, investigate the different cultivars to choose the best option for your location. Zoysia grass can be grown throughout Florida, it is a dark green color with a shorter blade and finer texture compared to St. Augustine. Zoysia grass has a good tolerance to traffic, salt, and shade, adapting to a variety of soils, this grass produces a dense, attractive turf. While this grass will require about the same amount of water as other grasses, it may require less fertilization. Disadvantages of this grass include a higher maintenance frequency and a tendency to produce thatch. Common cultivars that are available in Florida include Cashmere, Diamond, Taccoa Green, Trinity, CitraZoy, and Icon. Each cultivar offers different advantages and disadvantages, examining your location will help you choose the best option available in your area. If you are considering a new turfgrass this season, a little research on the best type and variety for your location will help ensure success in producing a vibrant, healthy lawn that you will enjoy year-round. If you have any questions about the best turfgrass for your location, give us a call and we’d be happy to recommend a turfgrass that will thrive in your exact location. Selecting the right turfgrass for your location helps reduce watering and fertilization requirements, reducing red tide and pollution. Save money, maintenance, and time by choosing the right type of turfgrass for your home.  We are now nearing the end of our winter season and heading toward spring when plants will benefit from warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours. Many plants and turf grasses are dormant during the winter, experiencing little-to-no growth and can even appear less vibrant during this time. Throughout the dormant phase of the year, the plants do not absorb as many nutrients and rely on what the plant was able to store during spring, summer, and fall. There are several ways to assist your plants in getting the right nutrients to benefit them during the growing season and help them look their best all year long. Be sure to check with your county’s guidelines and restrictions on fertilizing to make sure you are following local ordinances. Investigate the fertilizer you plan to utilize by reading reviews, researching the ingredients, and understanding the nutrients the fertilizer will be providing your plants. Selecting the Right Nutritional Mix Choosing the right nutrient mix for your plants can seem a bit overwhelming with all the options available on the market and how to select the one that is best for your plants and soil. All fertilizers should have the N-P-K ratio displayed on the label that will tell you the ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These are the three main nutrients all plants need to grow. Florida soil can naturally be higher in phosphorus which can cause stunted growth and nutrient deficiencies in plants when given too much. If you are unsure about your soil, you may want to start with low-to-no phosphorus fertilizers to best help your plants. Nitrogen is the primary nutrient for plant growth and gives the plant its vibrant green color. Phosphorus is important for root growth, producing seeds, flowers, and fruit. Potassium is necessary for the plant to uptake water, tolerate stress / droughts, and protect from disease. Other macronutrients that are important for plant growth are calcium (Ca), sulfur (S), magnesium (Mg), carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O). Micronutrients also play a vital role in plant health and include boron (B), chloride (CI), copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), and Zinc (Zn). When choosing a new fertilizer always read the directions and experiment with a small area first if you have never used the product. Choosing the Right Fertilizer There are several different options available for fertilizing your plants. You can utilize liquid, powder, or granular fertilizers to help promote plant growth. Liquid fertilizers can provide immediate nutrients for your plant, especially when diluted with water and applied during the normal watering schedule. You can make your own liquid fertilizer, also known as “compost tea,” by adding molasses, banana peels, coffee grounds and other organic material to water, let it sit a few days and then strain the liquid into a bottle to dilute with water and apply during the next scheduled watering. Powdered fertilizers such as bone meal, ground compost, and rock phosphate can be mixed directly into soil when planting, offering immediate nutrients to the plants and creating a rich soil. Granular fertilizers are typically a more slow-release source of nutrients for plants and are a great choice for long-term solutions for plant growth. You can also choose between slow & fast release fertilizers depending on the situation and needs of the plants. For more established plants a slow-release fertilizer is the better option. Nutritious Soil and Compost Additions One of my favorite ways to assist my plants is adding nutritious compost, cow manure, and other organic soil amendments. We are lucky to have space for a compost bin, but if you are not able to create compost yourself, there are several organic options available for purchase that your plants will love. Adding a nourishing supplement to your plants can give them the beneficial nutrients they need without risking over fertilizing them and causing damage. You can even add in a slow-release fertilizer when mixing a soil amendment for your plants. Researching the best fertilizers for your plants is important, palms for instance will need a much different fertilizer than your turf grass or ornamental plants. Once you have selected the appropriate fertilizers for your plants and turf grass, read the instructions carefully to make sure you do not over fertilize the soil and cause damage. It is important to water most fertilizers into the soil but be careful not to apply too much water that it pools up and creates runoff. Do not fertilize before heavy rainfall. Prepare the area by raking and removing any excess plant material and then add the recommended amount of fertilizer. After you fertilize, it is the perfect time to add mulch or other ground cover around your plants. This will help keep the new fertilizer in place, benefiting the plants the most. If you have questions about bringing back the vibrancy in your plants, give us a call or send a text to schedule an on-site consultation to discuss the best strategies to improve your plants’ health.  In Pinellas County, we have been experiencing drought conditions for quite some time. We have had some rainfall, but it has not been frequent or consistent, which is causing problems for some people that do not have irrigation systems. While we are no longer in a modified stage 1 water shortage, there are still restrictions in place limiting most customers to only water 2-3 times per week. Most established plants and turf grass will not need additional watering, but if you are installing new plants, transplanting, or installing new sod, then you will need more irrigation during the first 30 days after planting. If your plants are losing their vibrancy, or you notice yellow leaves, you may want to check the moisture level in the soil by feeling a few inches below the surface to see if the soil feels dry or moist. If the soil falls through your fingers, it may need some additional hand watering to help the plant during times of little rainfall. If your yard contains turf grass that is starting to turn brown, it may be part of the natural cycle of the grass as it will enter its dormant stage during late fall & winter. If you are watering 2-3 times per week and have inspected your irrigation system to make sure it is operating correctly then your grass may be brown due to the normal cycle of the grass type. Newly planted grass may need to be watered more often, but once it is established, overwatering could poorly affect the grass. Cut back on mowing your grass until the grass blade is the correct length for the grass type and do not apply fertilizer during this time. The blades of the grass support the root system, cutting the grass too short will create shallow roots, adjust your mower to the highest setting for the grass type and make sure your blades are sharp for the best results. Water your yard and plants deeply by applying ½ to ¾ an inch of water to the landscape. This will allow the water to seep down to the roots 8-12 inches below the surface and promote strong, deep root growth. When plants develop a deep root system, they are better able to withstand periods of low rainfall. When the roots are deep, they are less susceptible to leaning or falling over in fierce winds. Watering for a longer period, less days per week, is an effective way to strengthen the plants’ roots and provide the correct amount of water for the plants. Plants will typically enter a dormant period during winter and do not like to be overwatered. Signs of overwatering can be similar to underwatering, make sure to feel the soil if you are not sure your plants have enough irrigation. If the soil falls through your fingers, then you may need to water more. Mulch is a wonderful way to keep moisture in the soil and prevent runoff. The mulch will help keep the soil warmer in the winter and cooler during the summer. We recommend using organic mulches such as pine bark, cypress, or eucalyptus. When these mulches break down, they will provide nutrients for the plants, just make sure to keep the mulch away from the base of plants. Remove weeds before applying new mulch, this will help remove unwanted plants that could be taking up water and the new mulch will help reduce future weed growth. Herbicides are not recommended as they can be detrimental to your plants, and they don’t work as well when the weeds are in their dormant stage. These are some basic steps you can take to help protect your plants and ensure you will have a vibrant, thriving landscape in Spring. You can also consider replacing dying plants with drought-tolerant or native options that will do better during periods of low rainfall. Properly pruning your plants during the optimal times of year can also help reduce the water requirements during the dormant season and times of drought. Inspect your irrigation system often and make sure it is adjusted based on the rainfall in the area and the moisture level in the soil. Overwatering your plants can also cause browning and disease, so it is important to feel the soil before deciding to adjust your irrigation. If you have any questions about your landscape, give us a call or send a text to schedule an onsite consultation to discuss the best strategy to help your landscape look amazing.  For anyone who has recently moved to Florida from up North, it probably seems odd to have winter landscaping tips, welcome to the best winters! Winter is an excellent time to add another layer of mulch to flower beds, around trees & hedges. By adding an extra layer of mulch, you will help keep the root systems warm by keeping heat in the ground. The additional mulch is also helpful for retaining water during the dry months. Additionally, mulch prohibits weed growth, acts as a natural insect repellent and as it breaks down, important nutrients are released into the soil. If you have 2-3 inches of mulch then you don’t need to add more, that should be plenty to keep the roots cool. Vulnerable or dead branches should be removed from trees, hedges, and bushes. By selectively pruning during winter, the plants will be less likely to become diseased or stressed, resulting in more vibrant, healthy-looking plants in the spring. Plants tend to grow slower during the winter months, this is a great time to remove weeds, pests, and invasive plants. Clearing pathways and shaping your vegetation is another great winter project that you are sure to appreciate once spring is here. Seasonal flowers are a great way to add a colorful display to your landscape. Marigolds, begonias, pentas, dianthus, geraniums, alyssum, and poinsettias will offer color through winter, adding vibrancy to your outdoor spaces. Decorate your landscape for the holidays with new flowers that complement your existing plants. Newly planted flowers and plants should be watered on a regular basis. The winter is a drier period in Florida, plants that have not yet been established and have shallow roots will need to be watered on a more frequent basis. Consider drought tolerant plants for areas that are difficult to water frequently. Inspecting your irrigation to ensure it is working properly will help verify that your landscape will have sufficient water during the hotter spring and summer months. Many plants enter a dormant phase during winter and may require less water depending on the plant and location. Cold and frost is a rare occurrence in this area of Florida but if it’s expected, cover your plants with frost blankets, you can use sheets or old blankets if no other option is available. Avoid using plastic to cover your plants as it can create condensation causing harm to your plants. We hope these tips help keep your plants happy and healthy through winter, creating a thriving, gorgeous spring landscape for you to enjoy through the rest of the year.  Our area of Florida has experienced major to minor impacts from the two previous hurricanes that passed through Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. Some of our customers experienced record storm surges for their area with Helene, then Milton followed by producing extreme winds with a substantial amount of rainfall in a short period of time. The ground became saturated during Milton which led to many large trees succumbing to the strong winds and becoming uprooted. Many plants are now leaning and may need to be staked and repositioned upright. There are many ways to prepare prior to the arrival of a major storm, but even with the most preparation, your landscape may need some attention after the storm passes. Below are some tips to protect and help your plants when we experience impactful weather events. Adjust Irrigation Before & after a major storm, you should adjust your irrigation based on the amount of rainfall your area received. If you see a storm coming, most likely it will have a large amount of rainfall with it. Adjust your irrigation to off the day before and after the storm, depending on the amount of rain your location receives. If your plants are inundated by saltwater, you will want to run your irrigation daily for about a week, delivering about an inch of irrigation each time to thoroughly rinse the roots of your turf grass or plants. Make sure you remove any storm debris from the saltwater surge prior to watering, this will prevent saltwater runoff from the debris into your plants. You can also add Gypsum to the soil in areas with a high concentration of sodium to help displace and rinse down through the roots. If you receive fresh water flooding, you will want to limit your irrigation to allow the soil to dry out. Remove any mulch that may be touching the base of your plants and make sure the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry prior to watering. Shrub Maintenance Some medium sized plants may be leaning due to the strong winds or large amounts of rainfall. Gently, lean the plant back into its original position and replace soil around the root ball to sturdy the plant back up. If the top layer of roots is now exposed, you may want to add a little more soil to the top but most likely will need soil packed into the sides of the root ball from the wind blowing the plant around. If the plant still feels unstable, you can add a stake to help secure it. You will want to choose the right stake, many that are sold in stores may be too small, we typically use a strong metal or wood material that is pounded deep into the ground. If your plant was staked prior to the storms, they may need to be adjusted and restaked in a new position, based on the wind direction from the previous storm. Now is a great time to prune your shrub and remove any damaged vegetation, this will also help stabilize your plant. Pruning your shrubs, prior to a hurricane approaching, is a great way to help your plants be more resistant to strong winds and heavy rains. Large Tree Trimming If you have large trees in your area then you may want to inspect them before and after hurricane season to keep them healthy and safe. Look for dead or rotting areas on the tree and have it inspected by an arborist if you are worried it could cause damage to your property. Some trees are more susceptible to falling over in strong winds due to shallow root systems or damage to their root system. Trim your tree correctly to reduce broken branches, especially if the tree is near your home or power lines. If you are considering adding a large tree to your landscape, investigate the Florida native trees that can withstand strong winds and have it maintained yearly to reduce the chances of it falling in the future. Make sure the tree is planted in a space where it has enough room for the roots to spread and not become damaged from construction or impervious surfaces. Preparing before and after hurricane season can help your plants throughout our storm season. It is important to pay attention to the amount of water your plants receive during significant storms and make necessary irrigation adjustments to prevent over or under watering. Check the drainage in the area and make necessary adjustments to gutters or pooling areas of water with French drains, drywells, or other solutions. Inspecting and providing the right maintenance to your plants quarterly will help you grow strong healthy plants, reduce wind resistance, and help them establish a deep root system. Prior to installing large trees, consider wind-resistant trees with deep root systems for a long-lasting tree that can withstand our strong Florida storms. If you have questions about trees that may work best in your space, give us a call or send a text to 727-222-4477 and schedule a free, onsite consultation.  You may be wondering what qualifies a Florida-Friendly Landscape and why they are important to everyone living in Florida. In 2009, the Florida Legislature passed 373.185 Local Landscaping Ordinance, instructing every water management district to implement and design an incentive program for all local governments and homeowners’ associations within their districts, to adopt the Florida-Friendly Landscape principles to conserve and protect Florida’s water supply. The residential Florida-Friendly Landscape program is Florida Yards & Neighborhoods and offers certification when you design with the nine Florida-Friendly Landscaping Principles in mind. Everyone can do their part protecting Florida’s natural resources and beauty by adopting some or all of these principles. 1. Right Plant, Right Place: This principle is the cornerstone of every landscape design and is important for the success of your plants. There are many items to consider when selecting locations for your plants. Soil, sunlight, proximity to structures, irrigation, surrounding plants and fertilization requirements are all important to investigate when creating your landscape design. Testing your soil can help you choose plants that will be successful. Choosing low-maintenance plants will help reduce fertilization, pesticides, and irrigation requirements. Encourage pollinators and wildlife by planting flowers and fruits. If you decide to select some high-maintenance plants, group them together for easier care and increased appeal. It is important to select healthy plants for the best success, inspect roots for disease or if the plant looks rootbound (dense mass of roots formed into a ball). The size of the plant will also be a primary factor during location selection. Oftentimes you will purchase a smaller plant that will grow into its location, make sure it has the proper space to flourish. Florida-friendly plants do not have to be native; they just cannot be listed as an invasive species in Florida. We typically recommend a mixture of native and non-native, low-maintenance plants. 2. Water Efficiently: There are many benefits to utilizing this principle by reducing water bills, maintenance requirements, and pest problems. Florida’s freshwater supply is a limited resource that everyone can help to conserve. Poor watering practices can lead to leaching and runoff that are detrimental to your landscape and the environment. Leaching occurs when water moves downward through sandy soils quickly, taking nutrients or pesticides to our water supply. Runoff can occur from poorly placed sprinklers that pool water on sidewalks or driveways and would later lead to our storm water drains. By using updated water-saving technologies, regularly inspecting your irrigation system and selecting plants that are drought resistant, you can make a huge impact on your water bills and help protect our natural resources. 3. Fertilize Appropriately: Before fertilizing, you should investigate if it is required. Some plants are known for certain mineral deficiencies. You can test your soil to know the best fertilizer to purchase. When purchasing fertilizer, check the three numbers on the front of the bag. The first number is the percentage of nitrogen, the second number is the percentage of phosphorus and the third is the percentage of potassium. These numbers are important in determining the best fertilizer for your plants. Slow release fertilizers are great for providing nutrients for an extended time period and causing less nutrient runoff into our waterways. 4. Mulch: A great way to prevent weeds and runoff is adding a layer of mulch around your plants and flowers. Mulch helps keep the soil moist, reducing water requirements and will add nutrients to the soil as it breaks down. It makes a great ground cover in areas where turf isn’t successful. Mulch will help prevent soil erosion and offer protection to plants from disease and pests. 5. Attract Wildlife: By selecting plants with flowers, fruits and seeds, pollinators and birds will frequent your outdoor space. Our state has seen rapid development over the years along our coastal areas that is reducing the habitat for our wildlife. By creating an outdoor space that attracts, feeds and protects our wildlife, we can help protect the diverse and unique ecosystems in Florida. 6. Manage your Yard Pests Responsibly: Scientists are now recommending Integrated Pest Management (IPM) over the use of chemicals due to health concerns and safety of the environment. This strategy helps use the least amount of chemicals to prevent and manage pest problems. Keeping your plants healthy and happy is the best way to prevent disease and impact from pests. Check out plant care tips and organic compounds available when deciding on a pest control tactic for your yard. 7. Recycle: Did you know that all your yard waste can be recycled and used to deliver nutrients back to your plants? Creating a compost bin or a selected space in your yard for plant waste is a great way to reuse old plant material to deliver nutrients or create mulch for plant beds. The compost will make a great addition to soil when planting and over the top of soil of existing plants for nutrients. Pine bark, pine needles, leaves can be used as mulch to help keep the soil moist and reduce weed growth. 8. Reduce Stormwater Runoff: Everywhere in Florida seems to have a body of water nearby whether it be a lake, pond, stream, river or ocean. Because Florida’s groundwater is close to the surface, it’s important to keep our waterways healthy, to prevent polluting our aquifers. Pollutants can enter our waterways through runoff from homes, streets, sidewalks and yards. By reducing impervious surface areas, we can help reduce runoff and keep the water in our yards. Adding a rain garden, gutters or a rain barrel can help collect, store and direct the water to needed areas, allowing the water to soak into the ground vs. running into the storm drainage system. This is a great way to reduce watering requirements and store water for seasons with less frequent rain. 9. Protect the Waterfront: The riparian zone is located along the edge of freshwater. Some areas in Florida will require a buffer zone along this area, if it’s not required, it should be implemented to protect the freshwater. Adding aquatic plants and removing invasive species can help promote a healthy buffer zone that attracts wildlife. This area should be a fertilizer free zone and have a 10 foot maintenance free zone. No pesticides or chemicals should be applied in this zone. A living shoreline can help prevent erosion in our saltwater areas. Grass clippings, fallen tree leaves and other yard debris should be collected to prevent fertilizers or pesticides from entering waterways. This helps prevent algae blooms and will protect our waterways for future generations to enjoy. Following the Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles is the best way to preserve our natural resources and beauty. As a certified Florida-Friendly Landscaping Professional, we can help you create a Florida-Friendly design and receive certification for silver or gold level Florida-Friendly practices. This helps create awareness and encourages others to participate to protect our valuable resources. If you would like more information on the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Principles, email or call for a copy of The Handbook for Home Landscapes, provided by the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program. Together we can improve the quality of our drinking water and keep our waterways stunning.  Enhance your outdoor spaces by creating unique pathways and seating areas with low-cost options that will look stunning all year long. There are several budget-friendly products available to construct elegant walkways and entertainment areas that can look modern, natural or traditional depending on the style of your home and personal preference. Increase your home’s exterior appeal with easy-to-travel paths in high-traffic locations where grass may be difficult to maintain. If you need more outdoor space for entertaining guests or enjoying nature, there are several ways to utilize inexpensive materials to build a custom seating area. Flagstone This sedimentary or metamorphic sandstone rock is flat and cut into irregular shapes and sizes. There are several textures and shades to consider when selecting the right stone for your space. Choose the right thickness for your project, thinner stones may break easier but thicker stones will cost more and may not be necessary for the location or use. Using mulch, sand, shell, gravel or turf as filler between the flagstones can help reduce the project costs and create a more natural look. You can also build a solid surface area with the flagstone by placing them closer together and utilizing concrete as a filler. This permeable stone is extremely durable and a great option to design a versatile space. Paver Stones or Bricks Choose from a variety of colors, shapes and textures to create geometric patterns in your pathways and entertaining spaces. Paver stones can be concrete, brick, clay or stone and can complement the architectural look of your property. If you are on a budget, you can even make your own paver stones with several inexpensive options available. Old bricks can be great for building a charming walkway or quaint seating area. These long-lasting materials can be a great budget-friendly option that will look stunning. Gravel / Rock / Shell Depending on the location, consider using gravel, rock or shell as a ground cover for your paths. You will want to install a weed barrier prior to installation so the product does not become lost in the dirt and edging can help keep your product in your pathway or entertainment area. These products come in several sizes, colors, and textures. The installation is simple, but preparing the area correctly is important for a longer-lasting ground cover. Organic Mulch A great, inexpensive option for the ground cover on a pathway or gathering spot is organic mulch made from tree bark or wood chips. If you are looking for a light brown color, eucalyptus or cypress mulch are great options. They don’t tend to float away and lock into place better than bark mulches. If you want a dark brown color, pine bark mulch is a great choice, just make sure this area doesn’t receive a lot of water, or it could wash away over time. This product may need to be refreshed yearly but it is easy to install, puts nutrients into the ground for surrounding plants, and is simple to redesign in the future if you need to make any changes. If you are thinking about adding a custom path or seating area in your landscape, these easy-to-install options can be the perfect budget-friendly solution for your location. Incorporating a walkway in high traffic areas where grass has not been successful or locations that are too shady might be the perfect place for a small bench or seating area. If you need help with creating a design and installing the products, give us a call or send us a text to schedule a free, onsite consultation to discuss the best options for your location, home, and personal preferences. We can create designs based on your budget that you can enjoy for many years.  We have a wide variety of butterflies and birds throughout our area of Florida that are attracted to specific plants for food and shelter. Florida is home to roughly 200 species of butterflies with some migrating but most staying with us year-round. Florida has some rare butterflies that are not found in any other state and boasts the most butterflies east of the Mississippi. We are also home to over 500 species of birds that are attracted to our gorgeous wildflowers and native vegetation. Our warm temperatures throughout the year make Florida a perfect place to create an inviting landscape for butterflies and birds. Check out some of the plants below for inspiration on attracting more birds and butterflies to your outdoor spaces. Native Milkweed There are over 20 species of milkweed that are native to Florida. This plant is specifically favored by the Monarch butterfly which feeds on the plant as a caterpillar and the flower nectar later as an adult. Some of the native milkweed choices you may find available at a nursery are Pink Swamp Milkweed, White Swamp Milkweed and Butterfly weed. By utilizing these plants, you will see an increase in Monarch traffic through your garden. Lantana This drought-tolerant plant is sure to attract the pollinators with its bright bouquets of flower clusters. This heat tolerant plant is low-maintenance and enjoyed by hummingbirds, bees, and several species of butterflies. This plant can manage a full sun location and is sure to bring a wide range of pollinators to your landscape. Coral Honeysuckle Butterflies and hummingbirds are both attracted to the colorful, tubular flowers while cardinals and other birds will enjoy the bright red berries that appear during fall. This plant can grow up to 15 ft tall and does best when it can climb a structure or trellis, however, can also be used as a ground cover in areas that do not have foot traffic. Zinnia One of my personal favorites to attract butterflies is Zinnia, which comes in all kinds of vivid colors and sizes. Choosing a taller flower species will help attract more pollinators. These low-maintenance flowers will also encourage more visits from hummingbirds. These flowers are best planted in spring, can handle a full sun location and will bloom longer if you remove the dead blooms. Tropical Sage Attract warblers, nut-hatchers, and hummingbirds with these gorgeous plumes of red or pink flowers. This plant can grow 2-6 ft tall with 1-2 ft spread and is popular among the butterflies as well as other pollinators. This plant can bloom all year long and can be placed in a full sun to partial shade location. Purple Coneflower Brighten your landscape with this daisy-like flower that blooms throughout the spring and fall. This whimsical plant, also known as echinacea, comes in a variety of colors, but the light purple is the Florida native option. This adaptive plant will grow 3-4 ft tall with a 2-3 ft spread and does well in a full sun location. A great option for attracting an array of butterflies and pollinators. If you are looking for ways to increase the butterfly and bird sightings in your yard, research the best plants for your exact location. Many of the plants have a selection of specimens that may be better suited to a full sun location versus a shady spot. Find specimens that are not considered invasive and try to utilize native plants when available, as they will last longer, are better for the natural ecosystem, and attract more local wildlife. Give us a call or text if you would like to schedule a free, onsite consultation to discuss the best plants available for your exact location and preferences. We can help you design an inviting space for butterflies, birds and other pollinators that will be easy-to-maintain and look fantastic throughout the year.  As summer approaches, it is hard not to notice the energy bill increasing and wondering about ways to reduce utility costs. By strategically planting shade trees, you can not only help reduce your energy bills but also can help produce shade throughout the day for other plants to get relief from the late afternoon sun. There are many drought-tolerant shade trees that may even help reduce your monthly water bill. Choose from a variety of shade tree options that will thrive in our area of Florida, some offering an abundance of flowers with color and others interesting bark and limbs. Check out the options below if you are considering adding a shade tree to your landscape. Gumbo Limbo The impressive Gumbo Limbo tree is a fantastic option for a drought-tolerant, Southern Florida native tree that can grow 25-50 ft high with a similar spread. Plant this tree in a location with room to grow, it will prefer a well-draining soil in an area with little irrigation once established. Known for its gorgeous, reddish-brown, smooth bark, this tree produces tiny white flowers in the spring and small fruits in late spring to early summer. The leaves will last most of the year, slowly falling in early spring and replaced rapidly by new growth. This low-maintenance tree can manage high winds, does great in our native soil, and does not require supplemental nutrients. Mahoe Tree Variegated If you are looking for a more unique shade tree, the deciduous variegated Mahoe tree is a great option. Enjoy large, heart-shaped leaves that drape down creating a thick canopy of vibrant greens and white patterns with a hint of red from the new growth. The flowers will bloom yellow in the morning and turn red by sunset throughout the summer. This tree can work well in a medium space but if pruned often can work in smaller areas. Also known as sea hibiscus, this tree is salt-tolerant and is related to the hibiscus plant. Royal Poinciana The flamboyant royal poinciana is a semi-evergreen tree that produces an abundance of crimson-red blooms from late spring through early summer. This fast-growing tree can reach 40-50 ft high with a 40-60 ft spread. This tree does best in full-sun locations and will need to be watered regularly when first planted, but once established it will only need water during extended droughts. Purple Jacaranda The magnificent purple jacaranda will produce gorgeous purple flower clusters with a light fragrance in early spring before its new leaves sprout. This tree grows quickly and can reach heights of 25-40 ft with a spread of 45-60 ft within a ten-year period. This deciduous tree has a high drought-tolerance and will do best in a full sun location with sandy, loamy soil. Tabebuia Tree With several colorful options, the ornamental tabebuia tree will produce an abundance of color with lavender, yellow, or pink flowers. This medium-sized deciduous tree will grow 20-30 ft high. This tree is a great specimen for adding more color to medium-to-large spaces. Plant in a full sun location that has regular irrigation. Let the soil dry out between watering and once established this tree will be semi-drought tolerant. Once you have selected the shade tree of your choice, you will be ready to select a spot to plant. Choose a position on the east or west side of your property to maximize the shade your home receives. Make sure you research the mature height of your selected tree to choose the best location, away from buildings, structures, driveways, or sidewalks that could be damaged as the tree grows. You will want to consider the irrigation needs of the tree and make sure you are prepared to provide enough water during the establishment period and during extended droughts. Research the fertilization requirements of your selected tree and provide the right supplements to promote growth and flowering. Planting a shade tree will help provide spaces for wildlife, reduce your energy bill, and can help protect other plants from the late afternoon summer sun. If you would like additional options or more information on planting a shade tree at your location, give us a call or send us a text at 727.222.4477 and we would be happy to schedule a free, onsite consultation.  |
AuthorPlant and Flower enthusiast who enjoys creating Florida-Friendly landscape designs. Archives
April 2025
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