“We live in a 55 plus HOA in central Florida. I completely re-landscaped our yard with Florida native plants, and I also added a water feature. All of the changes I made to our yard were to attract and support wildlife, giving them food, shelter and water, all while staying within the standards of our HOA. Almost every evening I sit on our lanai and wait for our guests, i.e. my photo subjects, to appear and where I took the photo of the Ground Dove.
A favorite Florida bird would be a tough pick, as it would depend where I was at. If I am at the beach, I am always seeking Oystercatchers. If I am in my backyard, listening to and watching the Common Nighthawks fly over is always rewarding. During the winter months I enjoy the migrating ducks, especially the Hooded Mergansers.
…Even though we live in Leesburg, and soon to be in Ocala, we have many plants in our yard from Wilcox.
Going into fall, we are seeing some migratory birds start to trickle through Florida. You may have seen large numbers of Swallow-tailed Kites as they made their way through Florida on their way to South America. I have started to see an increase in the number of bald eagles in the county as well. They will be spending the winter with us. Songbirds, such as warblers, vireos, and flycatchers, will start to trickle through as we move into September. Below are some of my regular birding haunts in the Tampa Bay area.
-Nikki
Nikki’s favorite places to bird:
Sawgrass Lake Park is a great place to observe songbirds, woodpeckers, and wading birds. You may spot Short-tailed Hawks that reside near the park.
Lettuce Lake Park has extensive boardwalks through the swamp. You can see songbirds, wading birds, and sometimes owls.
Fort Desoto Park
North Beach/Outback Key is the best place to observe shorebirds. In fall, they are more challenging to identify. Soon there will be American White Pelicans coming in for their winter stay.
Arrowhead Picnic/Trail area often has warblers, thrushes, and tanagers. You may get lucky and spot a Yellow-billed Cuckoo in this area. Bring mosquito repellent!
East Beach trails and shoreline is another great place for songbirds, especially buntings and flycatchers. There are usually rowdy Nanday Parakeets in this area as well.
Brooker Creek is located in the north part of Pinellas County. There are many habitat types which may lead to seeing a larger variety of birds. It is also one of the best places in the county to look at plant life. Be prepared for wet trails.
Key Vista Nature Park, located in Holiday, FL, is a hidden gem with trails through flatwoods down to the gulf. There is an observation tower that is great for spotting wading birds, ospreys, and eagles. Take some time to look around at the sand pines, bluejack oaks, plantain, and lupine that are growing here!
Florida Native Plants vs. Florida Friendly Plants: A Comparison
Florida’s unique climate and ecosystem provide a rich tapestry of flora that is both beautiful and ecologically significant. When it comes to landscaping in the Sunshine State, homeowners and gardeners often face a choice between using Florida native plants and Florida Friendly plants. Understanding the differences between these two categories can help you make informed decisions that benefit both your garden and the environment.
What Are Florida Native Plants?
Florida native plants are species that have naturally occurred in the region for hundreds or thousands of years. These plants have evolved to thrive in Florida’s specific climate, soil, and ecosystem, making them well-suited to the local environment. The Florida Native Plant Society has put together an excellent educational site for learning more about our amazing Florida native plants.Examples of Florida native plants include:
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens): A hardy palm with fan-shaped leaves, commonly found in Florida’s forests and scrublands.
Coontie (Zamia integrifolia): A low-growing, evergreen cycad that provides habitat for the rare Atala butterfly.
Firebush (Hamelia patens): A vibrant, flowering shrub that attracts hummingbirds and butterflies with its red-orange blooms.
Benefits of Florida Native Plants
Ecological Compatibility: Native plants are perfectly adapted to local conditions, requiring less water, fertilizers, and pesticides compared to non-native species.
Wildlife Support: These plants provide essential food and habitat for local wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and pollinators.
Low Maintenance: Once established, native plants generally require less maintenance, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice for gardeners.
What Are Florida Friendly Plants?
Florida Friendly plants, on the other hand, include both native and non-native species that are well-suited to Florida’s environment but are not necessarily native. The Florida Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) program, developed by the University of Florida, promotes plants that require minimal water, fertilizers, and pesticides, and are non-invasive. Examples of Florida Friendly plants include:
Hibiscus (Hibiscus spp.): A moderately drought tolerant shrub with large, attractive flowers.
Society Garlic (Tulbaghia violacea): A fragrant, perennial herb with purple flowers that repel pests.
Pentas (Pentas lanceolata): A vibrant, flowering plant that blooms year-round and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
Benefits of Florida Friendly Plants
Adaptability: These plants are selected for their ability to thrive in Florida’s climate, even if they are not native to the region.
Sustainability: Florida Friendly plants contribute to sustainable gardening practices by reducing the need for water, fertilizers, and pesticides.
Diversity: Including both native and non-native species, Florida Friendly plants offer a broader range of choices for gardeners looking to create attractive and environmentally responsible landscapes.
Key Differences
Origin: The primary difference is that Florida native plants are indigenous to the region, while Florida Friendly plants can include non-native species.
Ecological Impact: Native plants play a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity, while Florida Friendly plants are chosen for their low environmental impact and non-invasive nature.
Maintenance: Both types of plants are generally low maintenance, but native plants might be slightly easier to care for due to their long-term adaptation to local conditions.
Choosing the Right Plants for Your Garden
When deciding between Florida native and Florida Friendly plants, consider your specific gardening goals and the conditions of your landscape. For those looking to create a natural, wildlife-friendly garden with minimal maintenance, native plants are an excellent choice. If you seek a broader selection of aesthetically pleasing plants that still adhere to sustainable practices, incorporating some Florida Friendly plants can provide greater flexibility and variety. At Wilcox we opt for an 80% native and 20% Florida Friendly landscape with a goal to always reduce the amount of turf in the landscape (turf is NOT friendly).
Conclusion
Both Florida native and Florida Friendly plants offer unique advantages for gardeners in the state. By understanding the characteristics and benefits of each, you can create a beautiful, sustainable garden that enhances Florida’s natural beauty and supports its ecological health. Happy gardening!
In the vibrant canvas of Florida’s landscapes, mulch emerges as a versatile and indispensable tool. Beyond its visual appeal, mulch holds the key to preserving moisture and managing heat in this unique subtropical environment. Let’s embark on a journey through the realm of mulch, exploring its vital role in nurturing Florida’s lush greenery and thriving ecosystems.
UnderstandingMulch
Mulch, in the context of Florida’s landscape, encompasses a diverse array of materials applied to the soil surface. From shredded pine bark to pine straw and florimulch (shredded invasive melaleuca tree), each variant serves a distinct purpose, offering benefits tailored to Florida’s climate and soil conditions. Organic mulches, such as pine straw and composted leaves, decompose gradually, enriching Florida’s sandy soils with essential nutrients.
WaterRetention
In Florida’s subtropical climate, where periods of drought are often followed by intense rainfall, water conservation is paramount. Mulch acts as a guardian of moisture, forming a protective barrier that reduces evaporation and minimizes water runoff. This is particularly crucial in sandy soils prevalent across much of Florida, where water retention can be challenging. By trapping moisture within the soil profile, mulch ensures a steady supply of water to thirsty plants, promoting healthy root development and resilience in the face of dry spells.
HeatManagement
Florida’s sweltering summers and mild winters present unique challenges for plant growth and survival. Mulch steps in as a savior, providing insulation against extreme temperatures year-round. During the scorching heat of summer, mulch shields the soil from excessive warming, preventing moisture loss and protecting plant roots from heat stress. In the cooler months, it acts as a thermal blanket, preserving soil warmth and extending the growing season for cold-sensitive plants. By moderating temperature fluctuations, mulch creates a stable microclimate that fosters robust plant growth in Florida’s challenging environment.
ChoosingtheRightMulch
Selecting the optimal mulch for Florida’s landscape involves considering factors such as local climate, soil composition, and aesthetic preferences. Organic mulches like pine bark nuggets, pine straw, or melaleuca mulch are popular choices for their ability to improve soil fertility and moisture retention. They also complement Florida’s natural surroundings, blending seamlessly with native vegetation. In areas prone to erosion, mulches with larger particle sizes, such as pine straw or shell, offer effective erosion control while maintaining soil integrity. Ultimately, the key is to choose a mulch that aligns with Florida’s unique environmental conditions and landscaping goals. We would highly recommend against cypress mulch as it decomposes slowly and is a direct link to deforestation of pond cypress. We would also divert use away from rocks around plant material as they can increase soil surface temperature damaging vital feeder roots and therefore increasing risk of plant failure or just a sick looking plant for the long term.
In the mosaic of Florida’s landscapes, mulch emerges as a vital ally, weaving together beauty and functionality in perfect harmony. Its role in water retention and heat management is indispensable, sustaining the lush greenery that defines Florida’s natural splendor. By harnessing the magic of mulch, we can cultivate resilient landscapes that thrive in the face of Florida’s dynamic climate. So, whether you’re strolling through a tropical garden or lounging in a sun-dappled backyard, take a moment to appreciate the silent hero that is mulch, quietly nurturing life beneath our feet.
As spring blooms in Florida, gardeners eagerly anticipate the vibrant colors and lush foliage that characterize this season. However, along with the warmer temperatures and increased humidity comes the threat of powdery mildew, a common fungal disease that can wreak havoc on plants. In this blog post, we’ll explore what powdery mildew is, how to identify it, and most importantly, how to prevent and manage its spread to ensure a healthy and thriving garden during the spring months.
Understanding Powdery Mildew:
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects a wide range of plants, including ornamentals, vegetables, and fruits. It thrives in warm, humid environments, making Florida’s spring climate particularly conducive to its growth. This disease is characterized by the appearance of white or gray powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and sometimes even flowers of infected plants. While powdery mildew is primarily a cosmetic issue, severe infestations can weaken plants, stunt growth, and even lead to premature leaf drop.
Identification and Early Detection:
Early detection is key to effectively managing powdery mildew. Gardeners should regularly inspect their plants for signs of the disease, paying close attention to the undersides of leaves and areas where air circulation may be limited. Symptoms of powdery mildew include:
White or gray powdery spots on leaves, stems, and flowers.
Distorted or stunted growth.
Yellowing or browning of affected foliage.
Premature leaf drop.
Prevention Strategies:
While powdery mildew can be difficult to eradicate once established, there are several proactive steps gardeners can take to prevent its spread:
Right plant, right place: When selecting plants for your garden, make sure the space, environment, lighting conditions, and soil are all adequate for the plants needs and growth habits. These plants will be less prone to environmental stressors. Remember just because it may be native, doesn’t mean it will thrive anywhere in our area.
Provide Adequate Air Circulation: Proper spacing between plants and pruning to improve air circulation can help reduce humidity levels and minimize the risk of powdery mildew.
Water Wisely: Avoid overhead watering, which can create a moist environment ideal for fungal growth. Instead, water plants at the base in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Maintain Garden Hygiene: Remove and dispose of infected plant debris promptly to prevent the spread of spores. Clean and sterilize gardening tools regularly, especially if they come into contact with infected plants.
Management Techniques:
If powdery mildew does appear in your garden, there are several management techniques you can employ to mitigate its impact:
Prune Infected Foliage: Remove and dispose of affected leaves and stems to prevent the spread of the disease to healthy plants.
Apply Fungicides: In severe cases, fungicidal sprays containing copper, neem oil, or sulfur can be effective in controlling powdery mildew. Follow label instructions carefully and avoid spraying during hot, sunny conditions to prevent leaf burn.
Use Natural Remedies: Some gardeners opt for homemade remedies such as milk sprays or baking soda solutions to combat powdery mildew. While these may offer some degree of control, their efficacy can vary, and they may need to be applied frequently.
Conclusion:
Powdery mildew is a common challenge for gardeners in Florida during the spring months, but with vigilance and proactive management, it can be effectively controlled. By implementing preventative measures, practicing good garden hygiene, and promptly addressing any signs of infection, you can enjoy a healthy and vibrant garden throughout the season. Happy gardening!
Wilcox Nursery has spent 2023 focusing on the role of caterpillars in our ecosystem. Much of our focus has been on why and how you can attract butterflies and moths to your garden using native plants. One of the most visible ecological impacts of caterpillars is as a food source for birds. Caterpillars provide proteins, fats, and carotenoids that are essential for developing baby birds. Research from Doug Tallamey shows that as many as 96% of terrestrial birds in North America rely on insects to feed their nestlings. Each nest of Carolina Chickadees can eat 6,000 to 9,000 caterpillars during its time in the nest, hundreds per nest per day.
Birds touch our lives in many ways. They help control pests, such as mosquitoes, roaches, and rodents. Carrion-eating birds provide natural cleanup and disease prevention. Birds are pollinators, fertilizers, and seed dispersers. As one of the most visible types of wildlife, birds are also widely enjoyed by people. Birding boomed in popularity during the pandemic as we found ourselves stuck at home, finding more time to observe the wildlife right outside our windows.
The role of native plants in supporting the life cycles of Lepidoptera and birds cannot be understated. One study showed that non-native hedgerows had 98% less caterpillar biomass than a native hedgerow. Another study compared pairs of properties in which one was planted with mostly exotic and the other mostly native. The native yards had a higher number of caterpillars, more species of caterpillars, and a corresponding increase in bird numbers and diversity.
The most effective way to increase the biodiversity in your own landscape is to plant natives. Oak trees host over 500 species of moths and butterflies. There are smaller species of oaks that work better in urban and suburban areas than the classic Southern Live Oak. Underplanting with additional host plants that also provide cover offers a 2-for-1 for birds with food and shelter. Providing suitable nesting areas throughout the developed parts of Florida, we can start connecting the fragmented habitats.
Plants to Support Birds:
Sand Live Oak
Host for: Oak hairstreak, Horace’s duskywing, Red-banded hairstreak, White-M hairstreak, and leafroller moths
A medium to large tree growing from 25-75 feet high. This is an upland species and is the better choice over Southern Live Oak for properties that are very dry. These trees are well adapted to salt air tolerance in coastal settings as well as inland settings. It has a picturesque form and provides habitat for wildlife.
A small-medium shrubby oak that ranges from 10- 15 feet, rarely up to 30 feet. Requires part to full sun and dry to extremely dry soil. The acorns are valuable to birds and mammals. This plant is ideal if you want to add an oak for the wildlife value but have limited space. The oldest known individuals are over 1,000 years old!
Host for: Martial Scrub Hairstreak and Tantalus Sphinx Moth
A large, broadleaf, evergreen shrub or medium-sized tree naturally occurring in coastal settings. Highly wind and salt tolerant. This species can be low and spreading with twisted limbs or trained into an upright multiple trunk or single trunk tree up to 40 feet in height. It can also be used as a screening or enclosure shrub. Small creamy white flowers precede dry seeds that are clustered to give it the appearance of coat buttons.Tolerant of inundation with salt water.
A fast growing, tropical native shrub or small tree. It has large, glossy, deep green leaves. The sprays of white, beautifully fragrant flowers are produced throughout the warm months, and are very graceful dripping from the branch tips. They attract butterflies and other pollinators. Birds readily use the fruit of this beautiful plant. Fiddlewood can grow from 8 feet to 18 feet and is quite broad in shape.
Host for: Yucca Giant Skipper and Cofaqui Giant Skipper
A long-lived shrub that blooms typical, showy yucca flowers in spring. It makes a showy specimen but beware of the sharp edges. Natural found in very dry, sandy soils. It prefers full sun but can tolerate shade. They slowly grow to 10 to 15 high and 3 to 6 feet wide.
A deciduous wetland wildflower growing 3 to 6 feet tall. Prefers full to part sun and requires a consistently moist soil to thrive. They bloom with wonderful yellow flowers in late Spring and early Summer. Provides habitat for dragonflies and other insects. Plant them near the edges of a pond or other moist areas of the landscape for a beautiful show of flowers.
A perennial ground cover that can spread 3-4 feet or more on wiry stems. Useful ground cover that is very adaptable, but prefers moist soil and will grow in sun or shade.The bright green foliage is great for brightening shadowy or dark areas of a landscape. It can be trimmed to provide a neater appearance. Consider as an alternative to asiatic jasmine.
