Author Archives: AskthePlantMaster

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About AskthePlantMaster

I have 50 years of horticultural experience, am currently a Master Gardener in Central Florida. In addition, I'm a Horticulture Instructor and retired Parks Manager and Arborist. I love plants and would love to help you with yours!

Many upcoming posts to come now….

Dear Friends of the Garden, I’m sorry for the long absence in getting back to all you faithful followers.  This has been a hectic spring for me, especially with Master Gardener work, including numerous talk to local garden clubs, civic … Continue reading

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Attracting Butterflies to your Garden

Introduction – Planting a butterfly garden is something anyone can do and helps out the environment.  Not only will it draw butterflies, (in addition to humming birds and beneficial insects), but also add beauty to your landscape by the flowering … Continue reading

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Growing Tomatoes in Florida

Tomatoes are a very important commercial crop in Florida, and a popular crop in our gardens.  They’re easy to grow, but it’s important that you get the correct varieties for our area.  Many that you find in local box stores … Continue reading

Posted in Aphids, Caterpillars, Fertilizing Lawn and Garden, Insects, Nematodes, Plant Diseases, Plant Knowledge, Plant Pests, Spider Mites, Tomatoes | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make with their Landscapes

Although we all strive to have the perfect landscape, that is one with lots of year-round color and interest, yet requires little care on our part, most Floridians fail to achieve that goal. Why? Listed below are some of the … Continue reading

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Knowing Your Plants

Plants make up the basic framework of our landscape, and in order to have a successful landscape, it is essential that we use the right plant in the right place.  Your landscape can be both beautiful and practically carefree if … Continue reading

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Sod Laying

This past week I received three inquiries asking if it’s still OK to lay sod.  My response was yes.  As long as sod is being harvested, it can be put down.  I’d also like to remind those who are considering … Continue reading

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Cold Weather Protection in Central Florida

Last week I posted about winter protection for your container/indoor plants.  Now I am posting thoughts and suggestions regarding protecting your outdoor plants from the cold. Here in Central Florida, we average usually less than 200 hours (less than 9 … Continue reading

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Laurel Wilt Disease

This blog is to alert you to be on the lookout for the dreaded Laurel Wilt Disease that’s been attacking our native Red Bay trees.  Also susceptible to this pest is the Swamp Bay, Sassafras, and Camphor; and may also … Continue reading

Posted in Ambrosia Beetle, Insects, Laurel Wilt Disease, Plant Diseases, Plant Pests | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Prepare for Winter

As you know, cooler weather will soon be upon us. Many of you may have plants outdoors in containers that you would like to bring in.  Before you do so, let me suggest you do the following: Carefully inspect each … Continue reading

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Upcoming Events in Nov 2011

On Saturday, Nov 5, 2011, there will be a bromeliad show and sale at the Plaza Resort and Spa, located at 600 N. Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach, FL.  Admission to the plant sale is free.  For additional information, go to: … Continue reading

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