Garden Blog - Top Tropicals

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Why you should grow your own Pomegranate Tree:
The "Fruit of Miracles" in your backyard

Pomegranate tree with fruit

Pomegranates aren't just pretty to look at - they're packed with nutrients that make them a true "fruit of miracles". Adding a pomegranate tree to your garden can offer you a bountiful supply of this health-boosting superfruit and bring a bit of Mediterranean charm to your backyard.

Health Boosters in Every Bite

Pomegranates are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, amino acids, and minerals. These nutrients work wonders for your health, from boosting hemoglobin levels to strengthening your immune system. Here's why this gem of a fruit deserves a spot in your diet (and your garden):

Antioxidant Power: Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants that fight off free radicals - those pesky molecules that can damage cells and lead to various diseases.

Heart Health Hero: They can reduce cholesterol and improve blood flow, lowering your risk of cardiovascular issues. Plus, they're known for increasing hemoglobin!

Blood Sugar Support: Pomegranate helps regulate blood sugar and offers a whole range of benefits, from diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects to even a little pain relief!

Beauty Booster: This fruit has benefits for your teeth, can help prevent hair loss, and even promotes youthful-looking skin.

Seeds of Goodness

Ever thought about tossing those pomegranate seeds? Think again! Eating the seeds can help keep your gut and hormones in check. These tiny bits are packed with oils that do wonders for your skin, blood vessels, and heart.

How often to indulge?

To enjoy the maximum benefits, you can eat one pomegranate daily or drink 300 ml of juice. Try to do this 30-40 minutes before a meal to prepare your stomach for digestion.

So, why not give this "miracle fruit" a home in your garden? You'll have a natural health booster right at your fingertips, ready to add a pop of flavor and color to your meals!

Pomegranate tree with fruit

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Top Tropicals is now in Telegram!

Top Tropicals is now in Telegram!

Top Tropicals is now in Telegram!
🌴 Top Tropicals is now in Telegram!

TopTropicals.com - the World's leading authority on tropical plants - is now in Telegram. If you grow a tropical garden or indoor collection of rare plants, this is your channel!

Join to get exclusive updates on tropical gardening:

Fun Facts and Nature Wonders
🌺 How to make your plants flower and stay happy
How to get the biggest fruit crop
🏆 Sweepstakes and Contests
Butterfly and Container Garden
Food Forest
⚜️ Perfume Plants
🍲 Exotic Recipes and Remedies
...and of course, your favorite -
🐾 PeopleCats in the Garden!

JOIN and share with friends! 👇

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We Grow Happiness

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This can't be real! But it is. A Top Tropicals Garden Blog post.

This cant be real! But it is

Strongylodon macrobotrys - Jade vine

👀 This can't be real! But it is.

🎥 Strongylodon macrobotrys - Jade vine, the flower you need to see to appreciate! Its beautiful seagreen/turquoise color is beyond description and is the rarest in the world of flowers.
Discover more breathtaking flowers, unusual plants and rare fruit - in TopTropicals channel.

🔴 Subscribe to see all the nature's wonders!

🛒 Shop Jade Vines

#Nature_Wonders

🏵 TopTropicals

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Top Tropicals is now in Telegram!

Cat texting telegram

Welcome to our new Telegram Channel!
We finally did it, and excited to connect with all of you on this amazing platform. After using Telegram for a few years for both business and personal communications, we realized it is a winner of the modern Social Media!

In Top Tropicals Telegram Channel you will find much more than on our website or Newsletter: Fun Plant Facts, Nature Wonders, Amazing Plant Videos, Gardening How-to Tips, Exotic Recipes, Contests, Sweepstakes, Give-aways and so much more. Plus, of course, your favorite PeopleCats!

Telegram is a messaging app with a focus on speed and security, it's super-fast, simple and free. You can use Telegram on all your devices at the same time - your messages sync seamlessly across any number of your phones, tablets or computers. It's perfect for sharing your comments, photos, videos, even making calls.

You can watch news, browse your interest, message to friends and colleagues, save your files, create groups, make phone calls, and the most amazing thing - Telegram works where nothing else works, no WiFi or cell service! It proved to be more reliable than any other apps and (surprise!) even works in airplane without wifi connection - proved!

The platform has its own cloud and offers limitless storage. And the last and not least - it's ad-free! Telegram is free and will stay free - no ads, no subscription fees, forever. It's a clean, clear and easy to use for all ages and applications. Try it yourself and discover how easy and pain-free it is!

Telegram is for everyone who wants fast and reliable messaging and calls.
See you in Telegram!

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Heavenly Angel's Trumpet

TopTropicals.com

By Onika Amell, tropical flower specialist

Q: Can you please tell me which zones are the best for growing Angel Trumpets? When do they bloom and is there a specific fertilizer to use on them? Do you sell any variegated varieties?

A: If you are lucky enough to live in an area that doesn't freeze or only has light frosts, you can grow Brugmansia (common name Angel Trumpet) outside all year long. They are only entirely hardy in USDA zones 9-12, but they remain very popular throughout the United States. They do really well in coastal settings in the Southwest. They are simply glorious in the coastal areas of South California. In the southwestern states, as well as in the tropics, they bloom spectacularly throughout the spring, summer, and autumn.

Angel Trumpets are very heavy feeders and they need huge amounts of nitrogen. You can use a standard balanced slow-release fertilizer on Brugmansia, but then you must apply it very generously. We've created a specialized fertilizer just for them. Angel Trumpet Delight is a perfect Brugmansia food for frequent monthly feed. It's a 30-day Smart-Release formula that works wonders for Angel Trumpets. A a well-balanced combination of macro- and micro- nutrients with a slow release action, it provides continuous feed, maintains vigor and disease resistance. It also contains coated nitrogen, early release nutrients and extra iron (water soluble and chelated) for quick green-up.

Angel Trumpets come in a dazzling array of colors: orange, yellow, green, white, pink, red, emerald and even purple (closely related Datura). One of our favorites is the beautiful Variegated Orange Angel Trumpet, a new hybrid with variegated leaves and a large single bloom that starts white and turns orange. Another amazing variety is "Sun Explosion" - with a variegated orange flower.

Most folks are usually in awe of the enormous trumpet flowers when they see it for the very first time. They most definitely need to be planted where they can be admired… near a deck, terrace, lanai or, entryway. The blossoms are short-lived, but numerous, continuous, and truly show-stopping! And they smell so good! This is a must have in any tropical garden. They can be grown either as a bush or a small tree. They are easy peasy to grow and root extremely easily, making them great as pass-along gifts for friends. They are sun-loving and super fast-growing plants. Plenty of water and fertilizers keep them happy and at their best. Did I mention they smell good too? ;)

TopTropicals.com

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Top Tropicals TikTok Reels:
Starfish Flower - Stapelia gigantea

Starfish Flower - Stapelia gigantea, Top Tropicals TikTok

Calling all Exotic Gardeners!

Discover a botanical amusement on our TikTok channel! Unearth rare plants, bizarre and strange flowers, and hidden treasures from around the globe. Join our passionate community and let's explore the extraordinary together. Follow us at tiktok.com/@toptropicals and unlock a world of captivating green wonders!

Our first reel is introducing Stapelia gigantea - Starfish Flower, Giant Toad Flower, Carrion Flower... This is one of the largest flowers in the plant world!...

Starfish Flower - Stapelia gigantea, inside the flower

Subscribe to our TikTok Channel:

Stay updated with TopTropicals Videos by subscribing to our channel at tiktok.com/@toptropicals and get our latest video news of what is fruiting and blooming!

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NEW VIDEO:
Medinilla Gregori Hambali
an Exquisite Natural Wonder

Welcome to the world of the Medinilla var. Gregori Hambali originated in Papua New Guinea! Prepare to be enchanted by this botanical marvel that showcases vibrant pink flowers gracefully cascading down its stems. The lush foliage, with its deep green color and bright mauve undersides, adds an extra layer of visual appeal, making it a true standout.

What makes this plant truly remarkable is its resilience and versatility. It thrives in moderate light conditions and can adapt well to varying levels of humidity, making it an ideal choice for both indoor and outdoor settings. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting your plant journey, the Medinilla var. Gregori Hambali is sure to flourish under your care.

Caring for this exquisite beauty is a delight in itself. Regular watering and occasional misting are all it needs to flourish, rewarding you with lush foliage and an abundance of blooms. Watching this plant thrive and transform your space into a botanical paradise is an incredibly rewarding experience.

Elevate your surroundings with the captivating Medinilla Gregori Hambali. Its mesmerizing beauty and enchanting presence will captivate your senses and bring joy to your heart. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the wonders of this botanical masterpiece. Treat yourself to this magnificent beauty and be prepared to be amazed. This plant won't disappoint!

Medinilla Gregori Hambali flowers

Medinilla Gregori Hambali

Subscribe to our Channel:

Stay updated with TopTropicals Videos by subscribing to our channel at YouTube.com/TopTropicals and get our latest video news of what is fruiting and blooming!

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Calathea Zebrina: Nature's Zebra Striped Star

Calathea Zebrina - Zebra Plant

Q: Can you recommend a showy houseplant for a living room that doesn't need much care?

A: Meet the Calathea Zebrina - Zebra Plant, the zebra-striped sensation straight from the Brazilian rainforests. This charismatic plant is like a piece of living art for your home! The Calathea Zebrina isn't just a houseplant; it's a conversation starter and a slice of jungle magic right in your living room. Get ready to embrace the zebra-stripes and let your home's wild side shine!

Calathea Zebrina - Zebra Plant

Zebra Stripes with a Twist:
With its bold dark green stripes on a velvety light green canvas, the Zebra Plant adds a touch of nature's whimsy to any room. It's like having a zebra with a green thumb as your housemate. The underside of the leaves are purple and not always visible because leaves grow horizontally (although some will curve or grow more upright).

Low-Light Lover:
Not only is it easy on the eyes, but it's also easy to care for. The Zebra Plant thrives in low light conditions, so you don't need to rearrange your whole house just to keep it happy. It even tolerates a little over-watering which all of us tend to do with house plants.

Green with Envy:
This plant may make your other houseplants a bit envious with its captivating appearance. Its zebra stripes aren't just a fashion statement; they're a botanical masterpiece. Keep it even greener with Sunshine Robusta plant food - safe to use year around!

A Slice of Serenity:
In a world that's always in a hurry, the Zebra Plant is a gentle reminder to slow down, appreciate nature's beauty, and bring a touch of tranquility to your space.

Calathea Zebrina - Zebra Plant

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How to grow a Guava Tree: Practical Guide to Growing Guava. A Top Tropicals Garden Blog post.

How to grow a Guava Tree: Practical Guide to Growing Guava

Guava (Psidium sp.)

🍉 How to grow a Guava Tree: Practical Guide to Growing Guava
  • 🍑 Guava Trees (Psidium sp.) are beloved for their flavorful fruit and easy-growing nature. These fast-growing trees are reliable producers and can thrive in a variety of climates, making them a favorite among home gardeners. Guavas are compact and can be grown in containers, making them suitable for small spaces and urban gardens.
  • 🍑 Light and Soil

  • Guava trees thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce the best fruit. They prefer well-draining soils rich in organic matter but are adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy or loamy soils. Slightly acidic to neutral soil is ideal. While guavas tolerate poor soils, enriching the soil with compost or manure will improve growth and yield.
  • 🍑 Pruning tips

  • Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape, size, and productivity of guava trees.

· Frequency: Prune guavas annually, ideally after the fruiting season, to encourage new growth and improve airflow.
  • · Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches to maintain tree health.
  • · Shape the tree to allow sunlight to penetrate the canopy, which enhances fruit production.
  • · For container-grown guavas, keep the tree compact by trimming back vigorous shoots regularly.

  • 🍑 Guava in containers

  • Guavas are well-suited to container growing. Compact varieties like the "Nana" guava are ideal for pots. Use a large container (at least 15-20 gallons) with good drainage. Fill it with a high-quality potting mix enriched with organic matter. Place the container in a sunny location and water consistently. Regular pruning helps maintain a manageable size and promotes fruiting in container-grown guavas.
  • 🍑 Watering

· Guava trees require consistent watering, especially during dry periods and the fruiting season. While they can tolerate short periods of flooding, ensure the soil is not waterlogged. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on your climate.
  • · Fertilize guavas 3-4 times a year during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer rich in potassium and phosphorus to promote flowering and fruiting. Adding organic matter like compost or manure annually boosts soil fertility and improves yields.

  • 🍑 Harvesting

· Guava trees are quick to fruit, often producing their first harvest within a year of planting. For container-grown trees, fruiting can start in even smaller pots, such as 1-gallon containers.
  • · Signs of ripe guava fruit include:

  • - A change in color from green to yellow (depending on the variety).
    - A sweet, fruity aroma.
    - Slight softness when gently pressed.
  • · Harvest ripe guavas by hand or with pruning shears. Consume fresh or use them to make juices, jams, or desserts.

  • 🍑 Health Benefits of Guava

· Guava is a nutrient powerhouse, offering numerous health benefits:
  • · Vitamin C: Boosts the immune system and helps protect against colds and infections.
  • · Potassium: Supports healthy blood pressure levels.
  • · Antioxidants: Contribute to glowing skin and may reduce the risk of cancer.
  • · Fiber: Aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

  • 🍑 Popular Varieties of Guava

· Tropical Guava (Psidium guajava): Sweet and aromatic, suitable for warmer climates.
  • · Cattley Guava (Psidium littorale): Cold-hardy with a slightly tart flavor.
  • · Cas Guava (Psidium friedrichsthalianum): Known for its sour taste, perfect for juices like Costa Rica’s traditional "Agua de Cas." Cold hardy, disease resistant and vigorous, productive variety.
  • · Pineapple Guava (Feijoa sellowiana): Fruity and floral, thriving in cooler climates.


🍑 Additional Tips
  • · Guava trees are relatively pest-resistant but may require monitoring in humid climates for mealybugs. Use neem oil if needed.
  • · Planting multiple guava varieties ensures a continuous supply of fruit.
  • · With their fast growth, compact size, and delicious fruit, guava trees are a fantastic addition to tropical garden, greenhouse or patio.


📚 More from previous posts about #Guava

🛒 Shop Guava Trees

#Food_Forest #Guava

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🌳 Why Large Grafted Trees Are Better

Comparison of Mango trees growing in container and in ground at Top 
Tropicals nursery - potted tree with large green fruit and in-ground tree 
with ripe purple fruit ready for 
harvest

These are not seedlings — they’re grafted trees, which means you get the true variety with known flavor, quality, and performance. Large grafted trees give you a real head start:

  • Already mature with a strong root system.
  • Handle transplanting and weather shifts with ease.
  • Can bloom and fruit in the first or second season.

No guessing, no waiting years — you’ll get the exact fruit you want, sooner.

  • 👉 Learn more: How long does it take for a mango tree to bear fruit?

    For Indoor and Patio Growers

    No space for a full orchard? You can still grow your own tropical paradise! Our large grafted Condo Mango trees adapt beautifully to big containers on patios, balconies, and sunrooms. They stay compact, flower sooner, and can fruit even in pots when given good light and warmth.

  • 👉 Learn more: What are the Condo Mangos?

    Bring the tropics indoors — move your tree outside for summer sun, then back inside before frost. It’s the perfect way to enjoy homegrown fruit wherever you live.

    Give your garden a smart start this season. Large grafted Mango trees are ready — but only for a short time before winter.

    👉 Plant now, harvest sooner, and enjoy the true variety!

    Mango tree growing by a lake in a Florida backyard, healthy green 
foliage and young fruit developing on 
branches

    Plant Care Tips by Top Tropicals Plant Expert Tatiana Anderson

    Large grafted Mango trees are easy to establish.

    • Soil: Well-drained, rich mix — avoid heavy clay.
    • Water: Deeply once or twice a week after the tree is established; keep soil evenly moist during the first few weeks after planting.
    • Light: Full sun or bright patio spot.
    • Feeding: Use balanced fertilizer Sunshine Boosters Mango Tango with every watering and Green Magic controlled release fertilizer every 6 months for steady growth.
    • Protection: Cover on cold nights for the first winter.
    • 👉 Learn more: How to take care of a mango tree in winter.

    Plant once, care lightly, and your tree will reward you with fast growth and early fruit.

    🌳 Big Trees, Local Pickup Only

    For our local gardeners, we have something special. Extra-large 15- and 25-gallon Mango trees. These are full, mature specimens that simply can’t be shipped, but they’re perfect for local pickup or delivery.

    Instant Impact and Faster Fruit

    These trees already have strong trunks, big root systems, and start blooming next Spring. Plant one in your yard and it instantly looks like it’s been there for years.

    Delivery and Installation

    We offer local delivery and professional installation for large trees in the nearby area. Our team can bring the tree to your garden, position it correctly, and help with planting and setup.

    👉 Contact us to arrange delivery and installation for your 15- or 25-gallon tree.

    Limited Availability: Quantities are small, and these big trees go fast — once sold, they won’t be available again until next growing season.

    "Large grafted trees give you a head start — they’re stronger, settle in faster, and can reward you with fruit the very next season," says Tatiana Anderson

    🎥 Watch Short Videos:

    🛒 Shop Mango trees