Tag: garden

April Gardenias in Lakeland, Florida

Carol 16 Comments

Gardenia is a genus of flowering plants in the coffee family, Rubiaceae, native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, Madagascar, Pacific Islands, and Australia. The genus was named by Carl Linnaeus and John Ellis after Alexander Garden (1730–1791), a Scottish naturalist. Gardenia species typically grow as shrubs or small trees from 2 to 15 feet, however some species are more like ground cover. Gardenias thrive in bright, indirect sunlight In warm climates like Southern California or Florida. They need protection from hot afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch. They cannot survive deep freezes.

The weather here in central Florida has been beautiful, warm days with highs in the upper 80’s or low 90’s F. We’ve had no significant rain in the last week. Summer temperatures are here but the humidity hasn’t risen like summer.

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Azaleas in Bloom in Lakeland, Florida

Carol 12 Comments

Azaleas are native to Asia, Europe, and North America and are flowering shrubs within the Rhododendron genus. They are known for their vibrant blooms in spring and some varieties reblooming in fall. They come in both evergreen and deciduous forms.  They generally thrive in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. Some varieties are even cold-hardy enough to survive in zone 4. However, the ideal growing conditions include well-draining soil, partial shade, and a slightly acidic pH. 

The weather here in central Florida can change overnight. We had beautiful, warm days at the beginning of the month with highs in the 90’s for several days. Then a front moved in from the north with cooler temperatures and rain.

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Last of My Forced Amaryllis for 2025

Carol 18 Comments

Native to tropical regions, amaryllis thrive outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 8-10 (and potentially 7b with protection) and can be grown indoors in colder climates.

My forced amaryllis by my condo door have been steady bloomers for over a month starting mid-February. They are blooming early as they are forced, and I expect next year to see them bloom later in probably April. Let’s start with the last white amaryllis flower.

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