Garden Blog - Top Tropicals

Date: 27 Sep 2024

Hurricane Helene update:

We are safe and shipping on schedule!

Cat  with  umbrella

We want to thank everyone who reached out with their concerns and well wishes. We're happy to let you know that we are safe and doing well! As with any hurricane in Florida, predicting the exact path and impact is always uncertain until the last moment. Fortunately, we were spared from the worst of Hurricane Helene's effects. While we had a few trees come down and some broken branches, our team is already hard at work cleaning up.

All of our plants are in great condition, looking beautiful, and ready to ship to their new homes. Rest assured:

All orders are being shipped on schedule!

Date: 23 Sep 2024

Ten top fruiting plants you'll ever need
for your health benefits

Top  Tropicals  Fruit

Q: I planted Mango and Avocado trees, and I still have room for more trees but want to use the space wisely. What other trees should I plant to get the most benefits out of the fruit?

A: Everyone loves planting Mango or Avocado trees for their well-known benefits. But did you know that adding a variety of other fruit trees to your garden can expand those benefits even more? If you plant just one of each of these 10 trees, you'll have a complete spectrum of nutrients and health-boosting ingredients you ever need. With a diverse range of healthy fruits, you'll boost your diet, improve your health, and elevate your lifestyle. Let's check out the TOP TEN most rewarding and useful fruit...

1. Guava

Guava  fruit

Guava is rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and helps protect against colds and infections.
Guava helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it a good option for people with diabetes.
Its potassium content helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
Guava's antioxidants, like lycopene and vitamin C, contribute to glowing skin and may reduce the risk of cancer.
Guava is eaten fresh, made into juices, jams, and jellies, or added to desserts and smoothies.

2. Coffee

Coffee  fruit

Coffee is widely enjoyed as a beverage and is used in various desserts and drinks.
It is rich in antioxidants, which may reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
It improves focus and mental alertness due to its caffeine content.
Coffee boosts metabolism and aid in fat burning, supporting weight management.

3. Noni

Noni  fruit

Noni is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce joint pain and arthritis symptoms.
Fresh noni fruit and juice are popular in traditional herbal medicine and drinks.
It boosts the immune system due to its rich vitamin C content.
Noni juice is used traditionally to improve digestion and fight infections.

4. Papaya

Papaya  fruit

Papaya is a popular ingredient in salads, smoothies, and tropical desserts.
It contains enzymes like papain that aid digestion and reduce bloating.
It is high in vitamin C and vitamin A, the antioxidants in papaya may protect against heart disease and reduce cancer risk.

5. Banana

Persimmon  fruit

Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health.
They provide a quick source of energy and are great for post-workout recovery.
The fiber in bananas aids digestion and promotes gut health.
East them fresh, add to smoothies, bake into breads and desserts, or use in various savory dishes.

6. Dragon fruit

Dragon  fruit

Dragon fruit is often used in smoothies, fruit salads, and refreshing drinks.
It is high in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health. Low in calories and packed with nutrients, it's great for weight management.

7. Tamarind

Tamarind  fruit

Tamarind is a common ingredient in sauces, chutneys, and beverages.
Rich in antioxidants, it protects the liver and reduces inflammation.
It contains natural compounds that help lower cholesterol and improve heart health. Tamarind has a mild laxative effect, aiding digestion and relieving constipation.

8. Loilita (Surinam) Cherry

Surinam  cherry  fruit

Surinam cherry is rich in vitamin C, boosting the immune system and skin health.
Its antioxidants reduce inflammation and protect against free radical damage. It contains fiber, which supports healthy digestion.
Surinam cherries are used in jams, sauces, and desserts or eaten fresh.

9. Nescafe

Nescafe

Nescafe - Mucuna pruriens - is used in herbal supplements or ground into powder for teas and health drinks.
It is known for its potential to boost dopamine levels, improving mood and reducing stress.
It supports cognitive function, muscle growth and increases energy levels.

10. Loquat

Loquat  fruit

Loquat are very popular and are eaten fresh or used in making jams, jellies, pies, and fruit salads.
Loquat is rich in vitamin A, supporting eye health. It contains antioxidants that help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The fiber in loquats aids digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

By planting these 10 diverse fruit trees, you'll not only enjoy a delicious and abundant harvest but also ensure your garden provides all the nutrients needed for a healthier, more vibrant life.

Date: 19 Sep 2024

Enjoy FREE SHIPPING for Mangos and Avocados!

Free  shipping

Two taste better than one!

Limited time offer: FREE SHIPPING for Mangos and Avocados!
Buy any 2 (or more) 3-gallon mangos and/or avocados, in any combination, and those plants will ship to you for FREE!

We've managed to slash your shipping costs by working with our shipping partners. Now we are passing the saving to you!

This promotion applies to ground shipping up to 4 days for eligible Florida*, Texas and California zip codes. Check the outbound UPS ground map below (from 33905) for qualifying locations. You can also see qualifying zip codes in your shopping cart.

Promotion applies to 3 gal size pots only. Any other plants in your order are subject to our normal shipping rates and policies.
Expiration: October 31st or while supplies last.
Must be UPS serviceable address, no PO Boxes.
*Free shipping of all Mango and Avocado trees to Florida has no expiration date.

Free  shipping

Avocado  trees

Cat  in  a  box

Date: 14 Sep 2024

Why do we love Ground Orchids?

Ground  orchids  collage

Q: I need your expert advice on a low growing perennial with pretty flowers that I can plant in semi-shade close to my house. What is your favorite perennial?

A: Our most favorite bright flowering perennials are ground orchids!

Ground orchids are the easiest and most rewarding flowers for a tropical garden. They thrive in regular garden soil or potting mix, tolerate both sun and shade, and bloom nearly year-round.

Their adaptability makes them a perfect choice for any spot in the garden, whether you need to fill a sunny patch or a shaded area under trees. And look at these colors! From vibrant purples to soft pinks and yellows, ground orchids bring a splash of tropical beauty with minimal effort. Their consistent blooming makes them a must-have for gardeners seeking color all year.

Kittens  with  Ground 
 orchids

Ground  orchids  video

Date: 10 Sep 2024

We remember 9/11, and we always will

Two  kittens,  black  and  white,  with  American  Flag

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." - Martin Luther King Jr.

As this day approaches, the weight of its memories fills our hearts - honoring the lives lost, the bravery of the heroes, and the resilience that carried us through such a difficult time.

In our journey of healing, let us stand united, supporting one another with love, kindness, and understanding. In times like these, tolerance and mutual respect, regardless of our differences, become gifts we share with the world.

Take a moment to appreciate what we have today, the people who surround us, and the ones who love us. Cherish them while they are here - today. Give a hug to those you love while you have the chance.

Nature offers us healing power in its quiet way. Fragrant flowers calm the mind, young fruiting trees represent renewal, every plant reminds us of life's resilience. As we reflect, may the beauty and growth around us help us find peace, and remind us of the strength that comes from standing together.

Dichrostachys  cinerea  -  Princess  Earrings,  Sickle  bush

In the photo above: Dichrostachys cinerea - Princess Earrings, Sickle bush from West Africa is one of the most unusual and unforgettable flowers of cheerful color combination... Let them bring hope, joy and sunshine into your day.