Garden Blog - Top Tropicals

Date: 24 Feb 2017

TopTropicals news, sales and updates

Extended sale 15% off on all fruit trees! Take advantage of our "Spring is coming!" fruit tree sale extension 15% off on all fruit trees and spices, including mango new exclusive varieties. No minimum order required. Hurry up, sale extension ends on Saturday, Feb 25.

Radio Top Tropicals Live Webcast upcoming event: Saturday February 25, at 11 am EST.
Topic: GROW YOUR OWN! DUDE!
1) Herbs, both annual and perennial.
2) Fruit trees.
3) Foods once thought to be only ornamental.
Our Host Robert Riefer - Internationally Certified Crop Adviser - answering all your questions.

Listen to Radio Top Tropicals, every Saturday, at 11 am EST! You may use our website radio player DURING AIR TIME and see the pictures of plants we are talking about. To ask questions using live chat, you need to log in at Mixlr.com or simply call our office 239-887-3323 during air time!
If you missed a live webcast, you may listen to recording by following Showreel item link.

Check out our upcoming radio shows and get your gardening questions ready!

Pisces Zodiac lucky plants

Pisces- 2/19 - 3/20. As a WATER sign ruled by both Jupiter and Moon (and Neptune, that was not discovered until 1846, after the plant correspondences were established; Neptune is considered a "higher octave" of the Moon), Pisces plants are often large but hard to find, and may grow near the ocean. The most healing plants for Pisces are those that strengthen the immune system or have an antibacterial effect. Pisces plants may also catalyze expanded states of awareness and be helpful in dream work.
Herbs connected to Pisces are ruled by its former ruler, the Moon (Neptune, the current ruler, was not discovered until 1846, after the plant correspondences were established; Neptune is considered a “higher octave” of the Moon). Diseases of Pisces have traditionally included psychotic disorders, various forms of substance addiction, lung diseases such as tuberculosis, and ailments of the foot; contemporary herbalists also add immune system diseases. Pisces is strengthened by rosemary's ability to promote an aura of centered grounding. This protective herb helps strengthen boundaries and cultivate a closer connection to the physical realm.

Pisces Zodiac lucky plants: Water lily, Lotus, Clematis, Wisteria, Lisianthus, Brunfelsia, Echinacea, English Lavender, Rosemary, Coconut palm, Cranberry, Clove, Coccoloba, Sea Oats, Mangroves, Ochrosia, Aquatic plants, Colocasia, Alocasia, Aralia, Ficus trees, Banyan, Peepal, Banana, Mango, Mimosa, Olive, Anise, Vilca and Yopo, Kava-kava, Nutmeg, Anthuriums, Eucalyptus, Bauhinia, Clusia, Caesalpinia, Callistemon, Bucida, Cassia fistula, Cordia, Calabash, Lipstick palm , Delonix, Elaeocarpus, Erythrina, Fatsia, Guaiacum, Mahoe, Koelreuteria, Kopsia, Macaranga, Pandanus, Peltophorum, Psychotria,Banesteriopsis, Tabebuia.



For links to these plants and other signs information, see full Plant Horoscope.

Date: 13 Apr 2026

🌸 Secrets of Blooming Plumerias

Plumeria Orange KLS stands out with a rare mix of five colors - peach, yellow, orange, white, and crimson - all blending into one vivid bloom. Fragrant and eye-catching, it’s a truly unique plumeria.

Plumeria Orange KLS stands out with a rare mix of five colors - peach, yellow, orange, white, and crimson - all blending into one vivid bloom. Fragrant and eye-catching, it’s a truly unique plumeria.

Plumeria Plant Facts

Botanical name: Plumeria sp.
Also known as: Plumeria, Frangipani
USDA Zone: 9 - 11
Highligths Large shrub 5-10 ft tallSmall tree 10-20 ftFull sunWatering: Moderate. Water when top soil feels dryYellow, orange flowersRed, crimson, vinous flowersWhite, off-white flowersPink flowersPlant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsDeciduous plantFragrant plantSeaside, salt tolerant plant
Get personalized tips for your region

Practical Growing Tips (Keep It Simple)

  • Sun: Full sun is key. 6+ hours daily for best blooms.
  • Soil: Fast-draining mix. In pots, use cactus mix or add perlite and sand. The best soil for Plumerias is a 50:50 mix of Abundance potting soil with coarse sand.
  • Watering: Water well, then let soil dry out before watering again.
  • Containers: Excellent for pots. Easier control and mobility.
  • Feeding: Light feeding during active growth helps more blooms. Use liquid Sunshine Boosters Megaflor for profuse blooming and controlled release Green Magic fertilizer every 6 months.
  • Airflow: Good airflow keeps plants healthy and clean.
  • Spacing: Give each plant room - better shape and more flowers.

Blooming plumeria plants in multiple pots with colorful flowers, arranged outdoors in a nursery setting after rain.

Blooming plumeria plants in pots after rain.

Winter Care (Very Important)

  • Temperature: Protect from freeze. Below 40F they need protection.
  • Dormancy: Leaves drop in winter. This is normal.
  • Watering: Almost dry during dormancy.
  • Indoors: Move containers inside if frost is expected.
  • Light: Bright spot is enough. No need for full sun in dormancy.
  • No feeding: Do not fertilize during winter rest.
  • Restart: Resume watering when new growth appears in spring.

potted plumeria plant pink orange flowers with water droplets on leaves and petals

Potted plumeria in bloom.

About Plumeria Rust (Florida Reality)

If you are growing plumerias in Florida, you will likely see plumeria rust at some point. It shows up as orange powdery spots on the underside of leaves and can cause leaves to yellow and drop early. It is driven by high humidity and is most common in the fall, right before the plant naturally starts dropping its leaves.

It looks alarming, but it is mostly a cosmetic issue and does not harm the plant long term. Good airflow, full sun, and avoiding overhead watering help reduce it. If needed, you can remove affected leaves or use a simple fungicide (in our experience, the most effective one for Plumeria rust is Southern Ag Garden Friendly Fungicide), but in most cases the plant grows right through it and comes back clean with fresh growth.

white plumeria tree full bloom in yard with green leaves and fallen flowers on grass

White and Yellow Plumerias are the most fragrant.

Plumeria Fragrance - Bring It Anywhere

That scent does not have to stay in the garden. Fresh plumeria flowers can be brought inside and placed in a small bowl of water they will float and gently perfume the room. You can make a simple lei, keep a few blooms on a table, or even place a flower in your car on a hot day - the warmth releases the fragrance.

Terracotta bowl filled with floating plumeria flowers in white, yellow, pink, and red, set outdoors on wet ground in a garden setting.

Bowl with Plumeria flowers creates a scented space anywhere

🎥 Watch Plumeria videos

📚 Learn about Plumerias from our Blog

red plumeria tree full bloom pink red flowers in residential yard tropical flowering tree

Red Plumeria is not just fragrant, it is one of the most spectacular trees when in full bloom

Build Your Plumeria Paradise - Save 10%

Get 10% off with coupon code PLUMERIA2026 on plumeria trees.
Offer valid through 04/15/2026.
Discount applies to plumeria plants only. Not valid on previous purchases and cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts. Offer subject to change without notice.

Date: 7 Jun 2026

Which jaboticaba to grow: a quick guide to the most popular varieties

Myrciaria cauliflora Jaboticaba tree

Myrciaria cauliflora Jaboticaba tree

Myrciaria cauliflora Jaboticaba fruit

Myrciaria cauliflora Jaboticaba fruit

Myrciaria cauliflora Jaboticaba fruit

🍇Which jaboticaba to grow: a quick guide to the most popular varieties

Jaboticabas are among the most unusual fruit trees in the world. Native to Brazil, they produce grape-like fruit directly on the trunk and branches. Most varieties have sweet pulp, can fruit multiple times per year, and grow well in containers.

Despite their tropical appearance, jaboticabas are surprisingly cold hardy. During our historic Florida freeze, established trees handled 25F for two nights and nearly two weeks of unusual cold without protection. Many varieties can tolerate temperatures into the 20s, making them one of the more cold-hardy tropical fruit trees for Florida.

From fast-fruiting dwarfs to giant-fruited collectors' varieties, each jaboticaba offers something a little different. Here's a practical guide to some of the most popular selections.

For beginners: Precoce Dwarf (Red Scarlet)



One of the fastest-fruiting jaboticabas, often producing in 3-5 years. Compact, container-friendly, ideal for gardeners who want fruit sooner.

•  Fruits young
•  Naturally compact
•  Excellent container plant
•  Good for cooler climates where winter protection is needed

The classic choice: Sabara



The classic Brazilian jaboticaba and still the most widely grown variety. Small, exceptionally sweet fruit with thin skin and juicy pulp. Can produce several crops per year.

•  Traditional jaboticaba flavor
•  Thin-skinned fruit
•  Sweet and juicy
•  Excellent for bonsai and containers
•  One of Brazil's most popular wine varieties

For large fruit: Grimal



Often called Giant Jaboticaba, with much larger fruit than most varieties. Thick juicy pulp, small seeds, heavy production.

•  Larger fruit
•  Thick pulp
•  Heavy producer
•  Excellent fresh eating quality

For exceptional flavor: ESALQ



Known for large, exceptionally sweet fruit and relatively early production.

•  Outstanding sweetness
•  Large fruit
•  Fruits in about 4-5 years
•  Collector favorite

For beauty and productivity: Branca Vinho



One of the most ornamental jaboticabas, with attractive foliage, upright growth, and excellent white-fleshed fruit. Fruits young and often several times per year.

•  Beautiful foliage and trunk
•  White-fleshed fruit
•  Excellent flavor
•  Multiple crops per year
•  Good cold tolerance

For collectors: Blue Jaboticaba



A close jaboticaba relative (Myrciaria vexator) producing blue-purple fruit with a sweet grape-like flavor. Often grown as much for its beauty as its fruit.

•  Unique blue fruit
•  Sweet grape-like flavor
•  Ornamental tree
•  Rare and unusual

For faster growth: Volcano Red (La Vinotinto)



More vigorous and faster growing than traditional jaboticabas. Famous in Hawaii for Volcano Red wine.

•  Faster growth
•  More vigorous tree
•  Good adaptability
•  Tolerates occasional waterlogging
•  Source of Hawaiian Volcano Red wine

Which one is right for you?



•  Fastest fruit: Precoce Dwarf
•  Classic flavor: Sabara
•  Largest fruit: Grimal
•  Sweetest fruit: ESALQ
•  Best ornamental: Branca Vinho or Blue Jaboticaba
•  Fastest growth: Volcano Red

👉 All jaboticabas share the same magical trait - flowers and fruit appearing directly on the trunk. The differences are in fruit size, growth rate, and how quickly you'll enjoy your first harvest. Jaboticabas are notoriously slow growing, and large fruiting-size trees can take many years to develop. Established specimens are hard to find and can save years of waiting. If you've been thinking about adding one to your garden, remember: the best time to plant a jaboticaba was years ago - the second-best time is today.

🛒 Select from Jaboticaba varieties

📚 Learn more:

Jaboticaba Plant Facts

Botanical name: Myrciaria cauliflora, Plinia cauliflora, Eugenia cauliflora
Also known as: Jaboticaba, Duhat
USDA Zone: 9 - 11
Highligths Plant used for bonsaiSmall tree 10-20 ftFull sunKeep soil moistEdible plantSubtropical plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short timeFlood tolerant plant
Get personalized tips for your region

Jaboticaba (Myrciaria cauliflora) in Plant Encyclopedia
Before you open a bottle of wine, meet the Secret Wine Tree from Brazil
What does Blue Jaboticaba taste like?
How Blue Jaboticaba is different from regular Jaboticaba?
What is Jaboticaba? I like the sound of this word!

#Food_Forest #Discover #How_to

🟢 Join 👉 TopTropicals

Date: 12 Feb 2020

Meet PeopleCats of TopTropicals. Cat of the Day: Mister Booster

Everybody knows our Sunshine-colored Mister B, because... he is the Boss?... Not only that, but he is also very intelligent Purrrson. After over a decade of running TopTropicals marketing team, energetic Mr B decided to lead a new project: Sunshine Boosters.

What's in his store for us? He will guide you through his new website and show you around, where you can find all kinds of good stuff for your plants. For many years, TopTropicals customers have been enjoying the benefits of many effective plant supplements, and today Mr B with Sunshine Boosters brings new formulas of scientifically developed, natural, environmentally safe plant food for all your growing needs!
- For home gardeners and professionals.
- For small plant collections and large commercial growing facilities.
- For flowers and fruit trees.
- For medicinal plants and vegetables.
- For all to be happy.

Please check out Mr Booster's website , he worked really hard for the past year on making this project happen, and helping the Earth to be a better, nicer, and safer place!

And for those of you who are growing your own business, Mr B would like to help! He is offering FREE samples for small business starters! He knows it's not easy to find a perfect nutrition system and make your growing a success. He is here to help!

On February 13-14, as a Valentines Day Special, Mr B is exhibiting his new business Sunshine Boosters in Phoenix, AZ - in the Largest Arizona Expo! Don't miss our presentation seminar Feb 13th, Seminar Room #2, 1:45 PM: Precision growing with Sunshine Boosters. For those who can not attend the show in purrrrson, the presentation will be available for downloading from our website.

Happy Growing!

Check out Video: and more Cat of the Day stories.

Date: 19 Aug 2019

Colorful Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow

Q: I have a large oak in front of the house and nothing grows under it, even grass. Can you recommend me a compact, colorful flowering shrub that will tolerate shade location and still will bloom for me? I love fragrant flowers, that would be nice... Also, I am a snowbird staying in Florida mostly from Fall to Spring so I miss the flowering season! Any winter bloomers? Or am I asking for too much?

A: There is a plant for every location and every need! Here is a perfect plant for you, Brunfelsia grandiflora - Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow. It is a winter bloomer and it enjoys filtered light. In fact, in full sun Brunfellsia leaves sometimes turn yellowish, so a shade location will be perfect for it, leaves will be healthy and dark green.
It is a beautiful specimen plant. The unusual popular name of this medium-sized shrub becomes clear to anyone who observes it over the course of two or three days. Its tubular fragrant flowers change from purple to lavender and then to white over a three day period (First they open as rich lavender-blue; then they change to pale lavender and finally to almost white before they fall). Then all three colors can be seen on the same plant. It grows to about 3-6 ft and does best in filtered sunlight. Blooms fall to winter.

Check out all Brunfelsias from our store - they all are shade lover and free-flowering!

And here is a list of all winter flowering plants for you... and a Winter-Flowering Guide for Snow Birds (PDF file) that includes many late-season trees, shrubs and fruiting plants.

◂ Previous pageNext page ▸Most recent entry ▴Blog table of contents