by Jared Eckwielen | Jan 30, 2026 | Uncategorized
Don’t Reach for the Pruners! Caring for Your Landscape After Cold Temperatures
As I am writing this, here in Pinellas County Florida, we are gearing up for some of the coldest weather we have seen in over 15 years. The last time we saw temperatures dip below 36 degrees and wind chills in the 20’s, was 2010. This is a scary time for those of us in the nursery industry, each of us working to protect hundreds of thousands of dollars of precious inventory before the cold and windy weather sets in. It’s quite similar to hurricane preparation in the amount of work it takes to secure and protect our merchandise. Equally so, homeowners and property managers are worried about their landscapes too. The major investment that goes into the creation and implementation of a unique and beautiful landscape flashes before your eyes as the forecasts begin to look unfavorable.
Luckily, for most landscapes things will be just fine. Plants in the ground fare much better than nursery stock in black pots above ground. The roots are exposed and subject to the frigid temperatures with nothing but a millimeters thick piece of plastic between them and the cold air. So what should homeowners do after the cold weather has come and gone?
The golden rule here is usually, NOTHING. Especially those landscapes with geographically native plant material that are evolved for this sort of weather cycle. Where we can find a little more trouble is for our tropical non native species and also our south Florida native species that may not typically be found this far north.
The “Do’s”: Immediate post-cold action
1. Remove all frost protecting covers. The heat and moisture from the ground below and sun above will heat things up a bit too much for the plants and can cause additional damage.
2. Hydrate Early: Dry, windy air (after any cold front rain) will dry up plants much faster than usual. It’s important to check soil moisture and decide if watering is needed. We prefer deep soaks here.
3. Assess the Damage: Walk the landscape checking out the plant material. Some cold damage is noticeable very quickly for softer tissue plants, others may take a couple days to show. Differentiate between wind burnt leaves (crispy/brown leaves) and mushy/drooping leaves (true freeze damage).
4. Move containers back into their permanent location. It’s important for plants to get back into the sun as quickly as possible.
The “Don’ts”: Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. STOP, Do Not Prune: This is the most critical mistake to avoid. This is because dead foliage acts as an insulation to the living wood below it. Also, pruning stimulates the plant to respond with new growth. This is something we want to avoid in the middle of winter where another damaging cold front could move through causing greater harm to the more susceptible new growth.
2. Skip Fertilizing: Just like how pruning stimulates new growth, fertilizer does the same. And we want to avoid pushing plant material into new growth until Spring season is upon us.
3. No Panic Pulling: Just because the plant looks dead, does not mean it necessarily is. That is why we go through efforts to keep the roots warmer than the air with watering and covering before the cold. Wait until Spring when plants will emerge with signs of life.
What to Expect
Unfortunately, you will expect to see visible damage. Much of it will be considered aesthetically unappealing. And we aren’t used to that in this part of Florida where winter doesn’t always cause noticeable changes to our landscape.
You will see wilted plants, dry and crispy leaves, and even leaf drop. This is normal and will be unsightly at first because it is out of the norm. But in nature, it is completely normal.
Also expect that come spring, some plants may not emerge from the damage and need replacement. Upon replacing, check with your local garden center on some hardier options if you desire.
Landscapes in open, sunny locations will likely experience more damaging effects. Those sheltered by large trees typically see less damage in these locations. Another testament to the life saving power of shade trees.
Plants to Expect Leaf Burn and Drop
| Coffees (all species) | Cocoplum (all species) | Crotons (all species) | Ti Plants | Simpsons Stopper |
|---|
| Sea Grape | Pigeon Plum | Beach Creeper | Christmas palms (adonidia) | Alexander Palms |
|---|
| Coconut Palms | Thatch Palms | Lilies (many species) | Firebush | Wildflowers (Many species) |
|---|
| Cassias | Sages | Buttonwoods | Dune Sunflower | Beach Verbena |
|---|
| Fiddlewood | Gumbo Limbo | Necklace Pod | Geiger Tree | Grayleaf Teabush |
Planning for the Future
I am a big advocate of the need for more trees in the urban landscapes. Not only do trees serve as windbreaks both for cold fronts and hurricanes, but they also protect and insulate from damaging cold temperatures. Check your landscape and see where a nice shade tree may be good to incorporate. Remember: in most cases you are planting shade trees for the next generation.
You can also work to create wind breaks using mixed hedges or saw palmettos. I remember a time in Jekyll Island walking down a nice quiet trail to the beach. I was among dense and large saw palmettos, sand live oak trees, and cedar trees. It wasn’t until the trail took a straight shot to the beach with nothing between me and the waves that I felt the tremendous amount of wind pushing from the Atlantic. The saw palmettos had virtually stopped this wind to the point I had no idea there was so much as a light breeze.
Go into winter with fresh mulch. Two to three inches of mulch makes a very big difference when matched with these cold temperatures. It also brightens up your property on these cool and sometimes gloomy days.
Conclusion
Patience is a virtue in the landscape, especially when rebounding from seriously cold and infrequent weather. Spring in Florida is just around the corner and the landscape is ready and waiting.
Stop by your local garden center to chat with the experts to find some cold hardy plant choices or replacements for any that did not make it. You can also stop by a local extension office to ask some more science based questions or to help identify any issues with your plants.
by Jared Eckwielen | Dec 30, 2025 | Uncategorized
How to Protect Your Palms from Bud Rot During Florida Cold Fronts
In Florida, we are lucky to enjoy a tropical landscape year-round, but when winter rolls around, our “real Florida” landscapes face a specific challenge: cold snaps.
One of the most frequent questions we get at Wilcox Nursery is how to prepare for a cold front. While many plants only need covering when temperatures hit the freezing mark (32°F), many of our prized palm trees are much more sensitive. In fact, for certain species, temperatures below 55°F can be the start of a serious problem.
Here is what you need to know about using copper fungicide to prevent Bud Rot and keep your palms healthy through the winter.
The Science: Why Cold Weather Kills Palms
It isn’t always the cold itself that kills a palm tree; often, the cold is simply the “invitation” for a deadly fungus. In plant pathology, we look at the Disease Triangle, which requires three things to cause a problem:
- A Susceptible Host: A palm tree stressed or damaged by temperatures below 50–55°F.
- A Pathogen: Fungus or bacteria that exist naturally in the environment.
- The Right Environment: The damp, cool conditions that follow a Florida cold front.
While we can’t control the weather, we can control the presence of the pathogen. By applying a copper fungicide, we eliminate the fungus before it can take advantage of the cold-stressed tree.
Which Palms Are at Risk?
While native Cabbage Palms or Saw Palmettos are quite hardy, many popular varieties used in Central and South Florida are highly susceptible to cold-induced bud rot, including:
- Coconut Palms
- Adonidia (Christmas Palms)
- Florida Thatch Palms
- Alexander Palms
The Solution: Liquid Copper Fungicide
To protect your palms, we recommend a Liquid Copper Fungicide. This is available at our nursery in Largo or through our online store.
Application Equipment
- Small Palms: A standard 24oz or 25oz spray bottle is perfect for a few small trees.
- Medium Palms: A one-gallon pump sprayer is more efficient if you have several trees to treat.
- Large/Tall Palms: If you have mature Coconut palms that are too tall to reach, it is best to consult a licensed pest control company for systemic root treatments or trunk injections.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
1. Safety First (PPE)
Copper fungicide is a chemical and carries a “caution” label. Because you will be spraying upward, airborne particles can land on your skin or in your eyes. Always wear:
- Gloves
- N95 Mask
- Safety Goggles
2. Target the “Heart”
We aren’t worried about the woody trunk. The goal is to prevent Bud Rot, which happens at the very top of the palm (the “heart”).
- Aim your spray at the center of the canopy where the newest fronds are emerging.
- Drench the green area thoroughly so the liquid seeps down into the crevices of the budding fronds.
- Work your way 360 degrees around the tree to ensure total coverage.
Note: Copper fungicide often has a blue tint and a slight citrus-like scent—this is completely normal!
3. Timing the Treatment
For the best results, use a “double-dose” strategy:
- The First Treatment: Apply right before the cold front arrives.
- The Second Treatment: Apply again right after the cold front passes (once night temperatures begin to warm up again).
This ensures that any pathogens left over from the first round are eliminated, giving your palm the best chance of survival.
Visit Us for Expert Advice
Your palm trees are a prized investment in your landscape. A little diligence before a cold front provides peace of mind and keeps your garden thriving.
If you have questions about which fungicide is right for you or need more tips on winterizing your Florida landscape, stop by Wilcox Nursery and speak with our staff. We’re here to help you stay one step closer to being a garden pro!
by Jared Eckwielen | Sep 29, 2025 | Uncategorized
Florida’s climate is unique compared to most parts of the country. While northern states often see spring as the big planting season, our subtropical environment in Florida creates different opportunities for success, of which planting year round is one of them! But there are optimal times with slight advantages. The best times to plant in Florida are usually winter and summer, with fall and spring still being good options with careful attention to watering needs.
❄️ Winter: One of the Best Times to Plant
During Florida’s cooler months, many plants enter a dormant or semi-dormant growth state. This has several benefits for establishment:
- 🌱 Lower water needs – Dormant plants require less moisture while their root systems adjust.
- 🌱 Less stress on plants – Cooler temperatures mean reduced risk of heat stress and drying out between waterings.
- 🌱 Ideal for trees and shrubs – Woody plants get time to establish roots before the Spring growing season.
Examples of winter-friendly plants:
👉 At Wilcox Nursery & Landscape, we offer a wide selection of trees, shrubs, and hardy perennials perfect for winter planting. Visit our garden center in Largo this season to get started or our online store with local delivery.
🌧️ Summer: Harnessing Florida’s Rains
Florida’s hot summers may seem less than ideal for planting, but they bring one of the biggest benefits: consistent summer rains…usually.
- 🌧️ Natural irrigation – Frequent rainfall reduces dependence on irrigation systems or handwatering during establishment.
- 🌧️ Rapid growth – Warm temperatures and moisture encourage fast root establishment.
- 🌧️ Best for natives – Plants adapted to Florida thrive in this season.
Examples of summer-friendly plants:
👉 Summer is one of the best times to add natives and tropicals to your landscape. Stop by Wilcox Nursery & Landscape to explore our Florida-friendly selections—all chosen to thrive in our climate.
🍂🌸 Fall & Spring: Good Options with Extra Care
Fall and spring are not bad planting seasons—but they are generally Florida’s driest times of year. With actively growing plants and without steady rainfall, establishing new plants requires extra attention to irrigation, you don’t want to miss a day of watering during these seasons.
- 💧 Consistent watering is crucial – New installations must be carefully monitored to prevent drought stress.
- 💧 Good for seasonal color – Cooler fall and spring temperatures are ideal for planting the fun, colorful stuff. But don’t be intimidated to take on larger plantings too!
- 💧 Mild weather for gardeners – Easier times of year for outdoor projects, take advantage of the cool mornings.
Examples of fall/spring-friendly plants:
👉 If you’re planning a fall or spring garden refresh, our team at Wilcox Nursery & Landscape can help you select the right plants and guide you on proper irrigation techniques.
✅ Key Takeaway
- Winter and summer = most reliable planting seasons (dormancy & rainfall).
- Fall and spring = still good options but require extra irrigation.
🌱 Why Choose Wilcox Nursery & Landscape?
For more than 70 years, Wilcox Nursery & Landscape has helped homeowners and businesses across Pinellas County create sustainable, Florida-friendly landscapes.
When you shop with Wilcox, you’re not just buying plants—you’re gaining:
- Expert guidance on plant selection and care.
- Professional design and installation services.
- A more resilient, Florida-native landscape that supports local wildlife.
👉 Let us help you “Plant Real Florida.” Visit our garden center today or contact our team to start planning your next project.
by Jared Eckwielen | Jun 27, 2025 | Uncategorized
Simple Pruning Tips for Healthier Shrubs and Small Trees
Pruning is one of the most important garden maintenance tasks for Florida homeowners. Whether you’re tending native shrubs, ornamental trees, or hedges, knowing how to properly prune dead, dying, diseased, and disorderly (the “4 Ds”) branches keeps your landscape healthy, safe, and beautiful.
Why Prune Woody Plants in Florida?
Removing problem branches:
- Encourages healthy new growth
- Prevents the spread of pests and disease
- Reduces the risk of storm damage
- Keeps your landscape tidy and balanced
Use the “4 Ds” rule to decide what needs to go:
- Dead: Brittle, gray branches with no leaves or buds
- Dying: Weak, sparse limbs with shriveled or discolored foliage
- Diseased: Branches with black spots, oozing sap, or fungal growth
- Disorderly: Crossed, rubbing, or awkwardly angled limbs that affect the plant’s structure or airflow
How to Make Proper Pruning Cuts
A clean cut is a healthy cut. Follow these simple techniques:
- Use sharp, sanitized pruning tools to make smooth cuts and prevent the spread of disease. Shop tools here
- Cut just outside the branch collar—the slightly swollen area where a branch meets the trunk or main stem. Avoid cutting flush against the trunk or leaving a stub.
- When cutting small branches, make a 45-degree angled cut just above a healthy outward-facing bud. This encourages growth in the desired direction.
- If you’re removing diseased wood, sanitize your tools between cuts using rubbing alcohol or a diluted bleach solution to avoid spreading the infection.
When Is the Best Time to Prune in Florida?
Florida’s mild climate allows for selective pruning year-round, but timing still matters:
- Late winter to early spring is ideal for more significant pruning, just before new growth begins.
- Avoid pruning during extreme summer heat or right before a cold snap.
- After storms, remove damaged or broken limbs promptly to prevent decay or pest infestations.
Final Tip for Florida Gardeners
When it comes to pruning, less is often more. Start with the most obvious dead or problem branches, then step back and reassess. Over-pruning can shock a plant or lead to weak regrowth, so take it slow and give your landscape time to respond.
by Jared Eckwielen | May 29, 2025 | Florida landscaping, weed control
Summer in Florida means vibrant landscapes, blooming flowers, and unfortunately—an explosion of weeds. The combination of intense heat, humidity, and frequent rain creates the perfect storm for weed growth. If you’re not vigilant, weeds can quickly overrun even the most well-maintained landscape. Newly installed landscapes are particularly vulnerable to the proliferation of weeds. Here’s how to stay on top of weeding during Florida’s long, hot summer.
1. Know Your Enemy
In Florida, common summer weeds include:
- Sedges – fast-growing, low-lying, and spreads aggressively.
- Torpedo Grass – thrives in hot, sunny spots and in almost every landscape.
- Mexican Clover – loves dry, sterile soils. Stays low and spreads quickly.
- Chamberbitter – small but invasive, often found in mulch beds.
Learning to identify weeds early makes it easier to remove them before they seed.
2. Mulch is Your Best Friend
A 2–3 inch layer of mulch not only conserves moisture but also acts as a natural barrier, smothering weed seeds and blocking sunlight. Organic mulches like pine bark, eucalyptus, or melaleuca also enrich the soil as they break down.
3. Weed After Rain or Irrigation
Pulling weeds is much easier when the soil is moist. Roots come out more cleanly, reducing the chance of regrowth. Just be sure not to compact wet soil by walking all over your beds.
4. Spot-Treat with Herbicides (When Needed)
For stubborn weeds, selective herbicides can help, but be cautious—high temperatures can make plants more sensitive to chemical applications. Always follow label instructions and avoid spraying during the hottest part of the day.
5. Stay Consistent
Weeding isn’t a once-a-month job in Florida summers. A quick walk-through of your landscape every few days allows you to catch new growth early. Ten minutes of weeding regularly is better than a weekend of battle once weeds have taken hold.
6. Water Smart
Overwatering not only wastes water but also encourages weed growth, especially in lawns and around ornamentals. Make sure your irrigation system is functioning properly, and water deeply but infrequently to promote healthy roots and discourage weeds.
7. Consider Groundcovers
Groundcovers like Sunshine Mimosa, perennial peanut, or matchweed can crowd out weeds while adding beauty and erosion control.
Final Thoughts
Summer weeding in Florida may feel like an uphill battle, but with the right approach and regular maintenance, you can keep your landscape looking clean, healthy, and weed-free. A little effort now will save you a lot of work later—and your plants will thank you for it!
