Garden Blog - Top Tropicals

Date: 21 Mar 2026

Today: Spring Equinox Plant Festival 🌿

Smokey the tuxedo cat holding Sunshine's coffee while Sunshine carries a large stack of donut boxes in a tropical nursery with lush plants and an equinox sale poster
Sunshine:Smokey, hold my coffee. Donuts are coming. Big day today.

Smokey: Under control. Try not to drop half of them.

Both: Friends, come over today.

Everything is ready for today at our Spring Equinox Plant Festival. The garden is full and we would love to see you. Come over today and enjoy it with us.

SEE FULL EVENT DETAILS

Date: 7 Mar 2026

Sapodilla caramel toast: quick-n-fun exotic recipes

Sapodilla caramel toast

Sapodilla caramel toast

Sapodilla (Achras zapota) fruit

Sapodilla (Achras zapota) fruit

🍴 Sapodilla caramel toast: quick-n-fun exotic recipes

Sapodilla Caramel Toast

Ingredients

  • 1 ripe sapodilla
  • 2 slices toasted bread
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Mash the ripe sapodilla flesh in a small pan.
  2. Warm gently until it becomes thick and caramel-like.
  3. Spread the warm sapodilla mixture over toasted bread.
  4. Finish with a small pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.


🌿 About the plant:


Sapodilla is a tropical evergreen producing brown fruit with sweet, brown-sugar flavored flesh.

🏡 In the garden:


Likes heat and humidity. Grafted or air layered trees fruit earlier. Drought tolerant once established but best with regular watering.

🛒 Add Sapodilla - Brown Sugar Fruit tree to your Food Forest

📚 Learn more:

Sapodilla Plant Facts

Botanical name: Manilkara zapota, Manilkara achras, Achras sapota
Also known as: Sapodilla, Ciku, Naseberry, Nispero, Sapote, Brown Sugar Fruit
USDA Zone: 9 - 11
Highligths Large tree taller than 20 ftSemi-shadeFull sunWatering: Regular. Let topsoil dry slightlyEdible plantSubtropical plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short timeSeaside, salt tolerant plant
Get personalized tips for your region

Sapodilla (Achras zapota) in Plant Encyclopedia
How to make Sapodilla fruit profusely?
A sugar that’s good for your health
When does Sapodilla start fruiting and what is the best variety
New variety of Sapodilla: Thai Brownie

#Food_Forest #Recipes

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Date: 2 Mar 2026

Eugenia Cherries 🍒

By Tatiana Anderson, Horticulture Expert at Top Tropicals with Smokey & Sunshine help

Eugenia brasiliensis - Grumichama fruit on the branch

Growing Eugenia Cherries (Cherry of the Rio Grande & Grumichama)

Cherry of the Rio Grande and Grumichama are compact, adaptable tropical fruit trees well suited to Southern landscapes. While forgiving, they perform best when planted correctly from the beginning.

Site and Planting

  • Drainage is essential. Avoid low areas where water collects. Plant on a slight mound if soil is heavy or clay-like.
  • Choose full sun for best flowering and fruit production. Partial shade is tolerated.
  • A south or southeast exposure near a wall improves cold resilience and reduces wind stress.
  • Dig a hole twice as wide as the container, but no deeper than the root ball.
  • Set the tree level with surrounding soil. Do not bury the trunk.

Water and Feeding

  • Water regularly during the first few months while roots establish.
  • Once established, trees tolerate short dry periods but fruit best with moderate, consistent moisture.
  • Feed lightly and consistenly. SUNSHINE Boosters Robusta liquid fertilizer is safe to use with with every watering. During hot season you may add controlled release Green Magic every 6 months. It is essential to apply micro elements: Sunshine Superfood micro nutrients complex

Cold Tolerance

  • Protect young trees during hard freezes.
  • Established Cherry of the Rio Grande can tolerate brief drops into the low 20s.
  • Established Grumichama tolerates temperatures into the upper 20s.

Harvest and Production

  • Cherry of the Rio Grande fruits from late spring into summer. Pick when fully dark and slightly soft.
  • Grumichama ripens quickly, often within four weeks after flowering. Pick when glossy and deep purple-black.
  • Both trees often begin fruiting within 2–3 years and increase production steadily with maturity.

Growing in Containers

  • Use at least a 10–20 gallon pot for long-term growth.
  • Ensure multiple drainage holes.
  • Use a high-quality, well-draining container mix. Avoid heavy garden soil. Top Tropicals Abundance soil-less mix is specially formulated for pot growing
  • Place in full sun for best fruiting.
  • Water deeply, then allow the top layer to dry slightly before watering again.
  • Move containers to a protected area during hard freezes.
  • Prune lightly to maintain shape and airflow.

Common Mistakes

  • Planting in poorly drained soil.
  • Overwatering and keeping soil constantly saturated.
  • Over-fertilizing with excessive nitrogen.
  • Planting too deep and burying the trunk.
  • Expecting heavy crops immediately instead of allowing time for maturity.
  • Skipping cold protection for young plants.

Learn more: Tropical Cherries – Eugenias

EGrumichama flowers (Eugenia brasiliensis) in close-up showing white petals and long stamens

Eugenia brasiliensis - Grumichama flowers

❓Frequently Asked Questions: Eugenia cherries (FAQ)

  • Which one tastes better – Cherry of the Rio Grande or Grumichama?
    Cherry of the Rio Grande has a deeper, classic “sweet cherry” flavor with slight richness. Grumichama is softer, juicier, and often described as cherry with hints of grape and plum. Both are excellent fresh; Grumichama is especially popular for jam.
  • Which tree produces more fruit?
    Grumichama typically produces heavier crops once mature and can carry hundreds of fruits in a season. Cherry of the Rio Grande produces consistently but in slightly smaller volumes.
  • Do birds take all the fruit?
    Birds are attracted to both trees, especially Grumichama. Netting during peak ripening or harvesting promptly usually solves the issue.
  • Are these true "tropical" trees or subtropical?
    They are best described as subtropical tropicals. Unlike ultra-tender tropical fruits, Eugenia cherries tolerate occasional frost once established, making them more reliable in Southern landscapes.
  • Do they drop fruit messily?
    Fruit will fall if overripe, but the trees are compact and manageable. Regular harvesting prevents ground drop and keeps the area clean.
  • Can they be used for hedging or screening?
    Yes. Their dense evergreen foliage and upright growth make them suitable for edible hedges or privacy screens while still producing fruit.

Choosing between them is not about survival — both have proven resilient. It is about flavor preference, crop volume, and how you want to use the fruit in your kitchen and landscape.

Eugenia brasiliensis - Grumichama fruit close up

Eugenia aggregata (cv. Calycina), Cherry of the Rio Grande

🛒 Add Eugenia cherries to your garden

✍️ Top Ten Fruit Tree Winners of Florida 2026 Record Freeze

Date: 1 Mar 2026

Skip the lemon - 5 better fruits for a cough

Best fruits for a cough

Best fruits for a cough

Skip the lemon - 5 better fruits for a cough 😰

5 fruits to eat when you have a cough or cold - backed by research

When you are fighting a cough or cold, your immune system works overtime. While no fruit can cure a viral infection, certain fruits contain nutrients and bioactive compounds that may help reduce inflammation, support immune defenses, and ease respiratory discomfort.
Here are five fruits supported by nutrition research that may help during cold season.

1. Pomegranate 🍅

Pomegranate is rich in polyphenols, especially punicalagin, known for antiviral activity.

Pomegranate Plant Facts

Botanical name: Punica granatum
Also known as: Pomegranate, Granada, Grenade, Pomegranate, Granada, Anar, Granaatappel, Pomo Granato, Romeira, Melo Grano
USDA Zone: 8 - 11
Highligths Large shrub 5-10 ft tallSmall tree 10-20 ftFull sunWatering: Moderate. Water when top soil feels dryRed, crimson, vinous flowersThorny or spinyEdible plantDeciduous plantEthnomedical plant. Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles. Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.Subtropical plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short timeSeaside, salt tolerant plant
Get personalized tips for your region

According to a study published in PubMed, pomegranate polyphenol extract suppressed replication of influenza A virus in cultured cells and showed direct virucidal effects. Researchers identified punicalagin as a key compound involved in blocking viral RNA replication. These findings suggest pomegranate extracts may help reduce viral load during respiratory infections.

2. Kiwi

Kiwi is exceptionally high in vitamin C, a nutrient closely linked to immune function and respiratory health.
A study published in Antioxidants (MDPI) found that consuming two SunGold kiwifruit daily for six weeks restored adequate plasma vitamin C levels in adults with a history of severe respiratory infections. Researchers concluded that kiwi consumption can directly support antioxidant defenses during respiratory illness.

3. Tropical cherries 🍒

Instead of traditional lemon, consider tropical cherries such as Malpighia (acerola cherry) and Eugenia (Surinam cherry).
Acerola (Malpighia glabra - Barbados Cherry) is one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C. Clinical research shows that adequate vitamin C intake is associated with reduced duration and severity of common cold symptoms. Vitamin C supports immune cell function and helps maintain the respiratory tract's protective barrier.

Barbados Cherry Plant Facts

Botanical name: Malpighia glabra
Also known as: Barbados Cherry, Acerola, Malphigia, Cerejeira
USDA Zone: 9 - 11
Highligths Plant used for bonsaiLarge shrub 5-10 ft tallSmall tree 10-20 ftFull sunWatering: Moderate. Water when top soil feels dryPink flowersEdible plantSubtropical plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time
Get personalized tips for your region

Eugenia species (Tropical Cherries) contain anthocyanins and phenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress during illness.

4. Pineapple🍍

Pineapple contains bromelain, a group of proteolytic enzymes known for anti-inflammatory effects.
According to a study published in PubMed, bromelain significantly reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in the lungs in a mouse model of airway inflammation. These findings suggest bromelain may help ease airway inflammation and congestion.

5. Berries and including mulberries

Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and mulberries are rich in flavonoids and vitamin C.
Although direct clinical trials on berries for colds are limited, nutrition reviews highlight their immunomodulatory potential. Flavonoids such as quercetin, anthocyanins, and catechins have demonstrated antioxidant effects and possible antiviral activity in laboratory studies.
Mulberries provide additional anthocyanins and resveratrol-like compounds, offering strong antioxidant support during illness.

Practical tips when you are unwell ❤️‍�

🔻Choose room-temperature or lightly warmed fruit to avoid throat irritation.
🔻Prefer whole fruit over juice to retain fiber and stabilize blood sugar.
🔻Pair fruit with warm herbal tea or honey if appropriate.
🔻Rotate fruits to benefit from diverse phytonutrients.
🔻If symptoms persist, worsen, or include high fever or breathing difficulty, seek medical care.

🛒 Grow your own vitamin-rich fruit

📚 Learn more:


One bite, your whole day of vitamin C: Barbados Cherry that outdoes oranges!
What fruit can help with health issues and VITAMIN deficiencies
Top 10 fruit you'll ever need for your health benefits: Lolita (Surinam) Cherry

#Food_Forest #Remedies #Discover

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Date: 20 Feb 2026

Florida freeze damage - what to replant after a record cold winter

Magnolia champaka new shoots

Magnolia champaka new shoots

Scratch test on a bark

Scratch test on a bark

❄️ Florida freeze damage - what to replant after a record cold winter



🌱 A record freeze changed Florida gardens



After the recent record cold across Florida, many gardeners are now seeing the real damage - browned leaves, split stems, collapsed shrubs, and fruit trees that may not recover.
Some plants surprised us with new growth. Others are clearly gone.
The practical question is simple: what should you replant so it does not happen again next winter?
The good news - you can build a more frost-resilient garden without giving up beauty or fruit.

🌱 First - do not rush to rip everything out



Before replacing anything, check carefully:
Scratch the bark lightly - green underneath means the branch is alive.
Wait for consistent warm weather - some plants re-sprout weeks or even months later.
Look for growth higher on the stem, not just at the base.
After freezes, many tropicals look worse than they are. Patience often saves money.

🌱 Why some plants survived and others did not


Freeze survival depends on several factors:
Duration of cold - 2 hours vs 8 hours makes a major difference
Microclimate - south-facing walls, wind protection, canopy cover
Plant maturity - established roots handle stress better
Pre-freeze health - overfertilized, soft growth freezes faster
This explains why two identical plants in the same yard can perform very differently.

🌱 What to replant for a frost-resilient garden



Instead of replacing losses with the same tender species, consider:
Cold-hardy fruit trees
Proven freeze survivors from this winter
Shrubs that tolerate brief dips below freezing
Layered planting for wind protection

When redesigning:
Plant tender species closer to structures.
Use hardy trees as windbreaks.
Avoid low frost pockets.
Improve drainage - wet roots freeze faster.
You do not have to remove tropical character. You just have to plant smarter.

✍️ Check the list of freeze survivors:


What tropical plants survived Florida's historic freeze without protection

🌱 Rebuild with strategy, not emotion


After freeze damage, many gardeners replant quickly - only to repeat the same losses.
A better approach:
Identify what truly died.
Learn which species survived locally.
Choose varieties proven in your climate zone.
Design with cold in mind.
One freeze can become a turning point. Many Florida gardens become stronger after a hard winter because the plant list gets refined.

🌱 Spring Equinox - a natural reset


The Spring equinox marks equal day and night and the astronomical start of spring. From this point forward, daylight increases and active growth accelerates.
For Florida gardeners, it is a natural reset.
New growth begins. Roots wake up. Replacement planting becomes safer.
This is the right time to rebuild.

🛒 Explore cold tolerant tropical plants and cold hardy Avocados

🎥 What tropical plants survived Florida's historic freeze without protection
🎥 These Avocados survived 3 nights of 25F hard freeze, Florida Record Freeze

📚 Learn more:


· Top Ten Fruit Tree Winners of Florida 2026 Record Freeze
· Top Ten Flowering Tree Winners of Florida 2026 Record Freeze
· To trim or not to trim? When and how to trim damaged plants after winter
· Cold-hardy avocado varieties - what freezing they really survive

Avocado Plant Facts

Botanical name: Persea americana, Persea gratissima
Also known as: Avocado, Alligator Pear, Aguacate, Abacate
USDA Zone: 9 - 11
Highligths Large tree taller than 20 ftSmall tree 10-20 ftFull sunWatering: Regular. Let topsoil dry slightlyEdible plantSubtropical plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time
Get personalized tips for your region

· Cold-hardy avocado survival groups - what the numbers really mean

#Discover #How_to

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