Garden Blog - Top Tropicals

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.

Date: 10 Sep 2024

Thank You for Joining Us!

Happy Moments of Our Fall Plant Market

Top  Tropicals  Fall  Plant  Market

A big thank you to everyone who came to our Fall Plant Market! last Saturday! We had a fantastic time, and we hope you did too. It was a day filled with fun, plants, and smiles all around.

Fall  Plant  Market

Check out these happy moments captured during the event! If you spot your friends in the photos, feel free to share the joy and forward the pics to them.

We can't wait to see you again at our December Holiday Market. Stay tuned for more details!

Top  Tropicals  Gift  Bags

The first 25 customers received the most beautiful handcrafted gift bags, made with love by Kristi and Onika, which added an extra special touch to the day!

Date: 10 Sep 2024

Discover Coral Trees - Erythrinas
the brightest flowers of the Tropics

Coral  Tree  -  Erythrina

Q: What tropical tree do you recommend that has a small size and bright showy flowers, specifically red? I love red flowers, they are the most beautiful!

A: Erythrinas are small trees with a legendary beauty and are often considered a symbol of exotic allure. They bring a touch of the extraordinary to a Southern landscape.

Vivid red blooms: striking, coral-red flowers that create a breathtaking visual display.

Eye-catching: makes a stunning focal point with its bold and vibrant floral clusters.

Fast-growing: quickly develops into a magnificent tree.

Unique branch structure: an interesting, sculptural form that adds architectural interest even when not in bloom.

Pollinator magnet: attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, supporting local wildlife.

Drought tolerant: withstands dry conditions once established.

Adaptable: thrives in a range of soils, demonstrating versatility and hardiness.

Low maintenance: requires minimal care.

The Erythrina tree is a must-have for any tropical garden, with its stunning coral-red blooms and unique branch structure that add beauty year-round. Fast-growing, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance, this eye-catching tree supports pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies while thriving in a variety of conditions. It's the perfect addition for those seeking a vibrant, exotic touch to their landscape.

Coral  Tree  -  Erythrina  flowers

Date: 5 Sep 2024

Join us this Saturday for Fall Plant Market

September 7, 9 am - 4 pm

September  7,  2024  -  SATURDAY  -  Fall  Plant  Market

Join us this Saturday, September 7, for our exciting Fall Plant Market!

This Event will be featuring the largest selection of flowering and fruiting plants! Get unbeatable deals with plants starting at just $2, $5, and $10. Plus, enjoy a free plant with every purchase, and if you're one of the first 25 guests to spend $50, you'll receive a special gift bag!

Our plants have grown big and beautiful over the summer, so don't miss this chance to fill your yard at fantastic prices. Bring friends and family, and let our friendly PeopleCats guide you around the garden. We look forward to seeing you there!

Highlights of the event:

30% OFF online prices, one day only! (excluding 15 gallon material and rare plants)
Gift bags - for first 25 customers with $50 order
$2, $5 and $10 plants
Raffle
Free plant with any purchase as a token of our appreciation

Event discounts valid at both locations:

Ft Myers Garden Center: 13890 Orange River, Ft Myers, FL
Sebring B-Farm: 9100 McRoy Rd, Sebring, FL

Fall  Plant  Market  Cat

Date: 5 Sep 2024

10 common mistakes to avoid
with mail order plants

Cat  sleepng  on  houseplant

Q: How to get happy and healthy plants from mail order? Will they survive the trip and grow well after transportation? What mistakes should I avoid?

A: At Top Tropicals, we have over 20 years of experience shipping plants. We know how to pack them properly and ensure the safest journey possible. We ship the biggest and healthiest plants, and our customers are often amazed at how great they look after a few days in a dark box. But receiving a healthy plant is only half the adventure. Now that the plant is in your hands, it's up to you to keep it thriving. The first couple of weeks after shipping are critical. With the right care, your new plant can reward you with beautiful flowers and fruit for years to come. Here are 10 common mistakes to avoid when buying plants by mail order.

1. Not unpacking plants immediately
Leaving plants in the box too long can cause stress or damage. Unpack them as soon as they arrive to let them breathe and adjust.

2. Ignoring acclimation
Plants need time to adjust to their new environment. Don't place them in full sun or extreme conditions (heat, wind) right away.

3. Overwatering right after arrival
Many people water their new plants too much. Plants often need time to recover from transit, and too much water can cause root rot.

4. Stepping up too soon
Repotting immediately in a large pot can cause root rot. Plant in a pot just the size of a root ball, step up only after the plant is showing new growth.

5. Ignoring the plant's needs
Research the specific needs of your plant before it arrives. Light, water, and soil requirements vary greatly, and misunderstanding them can lead to issues.

6. Placing the plant in the wrong environment
It's important to give your plant the right temperature, light, and humidity based on its natural habitat. We grow tropical plants. They won't survive in areas with freezing temperatures.

7. Not trimming damaged branches.
Transit can cause minor damage to leaves or branches. Trimming these parts can help the plant recover faster.

8. Expecting immediate growth
Plants need time to adjust after the trip. Give them a chance to settle for a few weeks before expecting new growth or blooms.

9. Fertilizing too soon
Do not fertilize your plant right after arrival. Let it get established first - usually a few weeks - before adding fertilizer to avoid stressing the plant.

10. Not checking for pests
Always inspect new plants for pests. Shipping stress can lead to infestations, so a close check is vital.

By avoiding these mistakes and following the planting instructions included with your order, you'll be on the right path to creating your tropical paradise. Take care of your new plant, and it will thrive, rewarding you with vibrant growth for years to come.

Adenium  field