Date: 2 May 2019
Breathtaking Queen's Wreath
By Onika Amell, tropical flower specialist
Q: I've just moved from Virginia to Sarasota, Florida. I'm looking for a vine similar to Wisteria to grow in my new garden. I've so enjoyed my Wisteria vine and I'm hoping to find something equally spectacular for my FL garden. Truth is, I'm getting older and won't be able to keep up with the hard-core maintenance Wisteria needs to keep it in under control. Is there a similar vine you can recommend that is just as showstopping as Wisteria?
A: The vine that immediately comes to mind is Petrea Volubilis or Queens wreath. It looks similar to Wisteria, and though a fast and strong climber, it's not invasive or
destructive at all. An occasional pruning is all it will need to maintain it.
Much like Wisteria it gives a glorious show of flowers when spring arrives.
Masses of long, mauve flowers will continue to appear on and off in summer with
another burst of flowers in the fall. Flowers are up to a foot in length!
Hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies will all be impressed with you for
growing this charmer.
Snip off the gorgeous flowers, put them in shallow bowls of water
around your home and be the envy of all your friends and house guests!
This vine prefers the warmth of Zone 10 to thrive, but it will survive
in areas of Zone 9B when it borders zone 10A, especially if it's placed in a
protected area. It grows best in full sun but will tolerate part shade. It's
great for coastal gardens and once established, it has good drought
tolerance, medium salt tolerance, and good wind tolerance. It has no major pest
problems, which is always a bonus.
Grow and shape it as you like: a large bush, a small tree or a
breathtaking espalier. Some people plant Petrea vine by a tree to create that much
sought-after ethereal wisteria effect. This is no doubt a very charming vine
and a must-have for those who are in love with Wisteria but scared of its
vigorous growth and ongoing maintenance.
For Wisteria lovers we also recommend its spectacular tropical relative
Millettia reticulata - Evergreen Wisteria.
Date: 24 Apr 2024
Cat of the Day - George
George is a completely black cat - this kind brings good luck. He is wishing you a lucky day tomorrow and a good rest tonight. 🌜
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TopTropicals.com
Date: 27 Apr 2024
Cat of the Day - Philemon
As we already know, Philemon loves Avocado. He also thinks that all veggies and fruit are good for you. Eat healthy and stay young! Good night. 🌜
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TopTropicals.com
Date: 28 Apr 2024
How to learn the Truth about fertilizers
Spring is here and so is the time to give your plants more food for active growth!
❓ How to decide which fertilizer to chose with so many of them on the market? The basic idea is -
❗️ All fertilizers and good for plants, because it's food!
But like with every food in must be in right time, right kind, and right amount.
Basic types of fertilizers:
❇️ Controlled-release fertilizer is coated and release nutrients slowly and constantly within labeled amount of time (3-6-12 months). Good for stepping-up and transplanting.
❇️ Slow release granulated fertilizer breaks down quickly, especially in the heat, and should be used as a top-dress only occasionally (for example, to green up a plant quickly).
❇️ Liquid fertilizers are the most efficient in a long run. They make plants strong, resistant, healthy and productive, slowly but surely building up energy in their system. This is why all professional food farms, from veggies to hemp, stick to liquid plant food.
🛒Get your plants some food
#Edible_Forest #Fertilizers #How_to
TopTropicals.com
Date: 6 May 2024
Cat of the Day - Ricki
Find yourself a comfortable spot like Ricki did - he likes hanging out on a grill. Cool or hot, it's all good. Good night.🌜
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PeopleCats.Garden
🏵 TopTropicals