Garden Blog - Top Tropicals

Date: 14 Apr 2022

Our Ukrainian team update:
Happy Birthday Dasha!
Born amid the war...

Anatoly and Dasha

A happy update from our Sunshine Boosters team member in Ukraine, Anatoly Bychko: a baby girl is born!
"...We expected our baby when the war started... So my wife and I left the basement and drove hundreds of miles trying to get away from deadly missiles and find a working hospital... We left everything we had, lost our home, only took our Cat Belyash ("dumpling"). Now we started our new life in a new city... with a newborn little person - our Angel. Her name is Dasha!.."

CONTINUE READING...

Dasha

Belyash Cat

Buy SUNSHINE BOOSTERS to help Ukrainian family!

All profits from Sunshine Boosters sales are used to help families of our Ukrainian Team

Miltonia spectabilis

Photo above: Easter present for Top Tropicals, Miltonia spectabilis var. moreliana, hand-crafted cross-stitch embroidery by our Editor Marina Rybka, the original photo by Oksana Rybka (Ukraine) taken in Prague Botanical Garden.

Date: 9 Mar 2022

The brightest lives of Sunflowers

Ukrainian Sunflowers

"...Despite knowing they won't be here for long, they still choose to live their brightest lives - sunflowers..."
- Rupi Kaur -

Photo above: Ukrainian Sunflowers. This photo was sent to us today from Ukraine by Alex & Lena, and Oksana (daughter of our Catalog Editor Marina Rybka). Our thoughts and prayers are with them and their country.

Date: 21 Nov 2025

How to keep your house plants beautiful all year by feeding them right

Indoor garden

Indoor garden

🍀 How to keep your house plants beautiful all year by feeding them right
  • 🌱 Healthy house plants are not just about light and water. They need food, just like we do. A good fertilizer routine keeps them green, strong, and blooming through every season. Here is a simple guide to feeding indoor plants the right way.
  • 🌱 General rules for fertilizing house plants

  • ▪️Feed lightly but regularly. Indoor plants grow in limited soil, so nutrients run out faster. Small, frequent feedings work better than one heavy dose.
  • ▪️Never fertilize dry soil. Water first, then feed.
  • ▪️Reduce feeding in winter when growth slows.
  • ▪️Watch your leaves. Pale, yellow, or slow-growing plants are asking for nutrients.
  • ▪️Use a complete formula. House plants need both macro-elements (N-P-K) and micro-elements, not just nitrogen.

  • 🌱 What fertilizer to use


    • Sunshine Boosters - the everyday diet.
    Sunshine Boosters are simple, balanced liquid fertilizers you mix with water. They give your plants everything they need for steady, healthy growth. They contain the right blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace minerals. They do not contain harsh chemicals, so they are safe for homes with pets and kids. Regular use keeps plants growing faster, stronger, and more resilient to stress.

    Sunshine Superfood - the vitamin supplement.
    If a plant turns yellow or looks weak, it often needs micronutrients. These are the plant version of vitamins, including iron, zinc, copper, and manganese. Sunshine Superfood delivers these quickly and in the right proportions. Mix it with water and apply when you notice yellowing or slow growth. It corrects deficiencies fast and keeps leaves lush and green.

    Green Magic - the long-term slow feeder.
    Green Magic is a controlled-release fertilizer that works for six months. It uses poly-on coating technology to release nutrients slowly, without burning roots. It is perfect for repotting or for plant owners who want a set-it-and-forget-it option. Mix one teaspoon per gallon of soil during repotting or every six months. Excellent for container fruit trees and ornamentals that need steady feeding.
  • 🌱 The simple routine

  • ▪️For regular watering: use Sunshine Boosters.
  • ▪️Once a month: add Sunshine Superfood to prevent yellowing.
  • ▪️Every six months: mix Green Magic into the soil for long-term support.


With the right diet, your house plants stay green, strong, and beautiful year-round. Feed them well, and they reward you every day.

📸 In the photo: Indoor garden of Marina Rybka, Israel, the Editor of TopTropicals.

🛒 Get your plants some food

📚 Learn more:
📱 What are Sunshine Boosters

#Fertilizers #How_to
🟢 Join 👉 TopTropicals

Date: 23 May 2024

The Magic of 3 top tropical trees
from the legends of Caribbean

Yellow Poinciana, Jacaranda, and Royal Poinciana:
Three happy colors of the Tropics

paintings of 3 top tropical trees - Royal Poinciana, Yellow Poinciana, and Jacaranda

While traveling through the vibrant and diverse Caribbean, we acquired three exquisite local paintings. Two of these are masterfully rendered on jacaranda wood plates, and the third is beautifully crafted on a calabash. These stunning pieces of art celebrate the three most spectacular and revered flowering trees of the Tropics: Yellow Poinciana, Jacaranda, and Royal Poinciana.

These trees are not only visually stunning but also deeply embedded in Caribbean culture, legends, and folk remedies.

The Yellow Poinciana, with its bright golden blossoms, is often associated with joy and sunlight, symbolizing the warmth of the Caribbean spirit.
The Jacaranda, known for its striking lavender-blue flowers, is a symbol of wisdom and rebirth, often blooming in a breathtaking display that signals the change of seasons.
The Royal Poinciana, with its fiery red and orange flowers, is a symbol of passion and energy, often referred to as the "Flamboyant" tree due to its bold and dramatic appearance.

These trees hold a special place in the hearts of the Caribbean people. They are featured in numerous local stories and songs, and their flowers and leaves are used in traditional remedies and rituals. Owning these paintings feels like possessing a piece of the Caribbean's soul and its natural beauty.

Now, we are fortunate to have not only the paintings but also the actual trees. Watching them grow and bloom in our garden brings a piece of the Caribbean to our home, a constant reminder of our travels and the vibrant culture we experienced. These trees and their representations in art are a testament to the region's rich heritage and its enduring connection to nature.

Get them now while we have them. No need to go too far into Caribbean!

Peltophorum africanum - Golden Flamboyant, Yellow Poinciana

Peltophorum africanum - Golden Flamboyant, Yellow Poinciana. An excellent garden shade tree, beautiful in flower. This variety starts flowering at young age, in 3 gal pot.

Jacaranda mimosifolia (acutifolia)

Jacaranda mimosifolia - Hypnotizing bluish-purple, trumpet-like flowers create the magical image of the tree. Incredible, long-lasting purple blooms. When the trumpet-shaped blooms finally fall, they form a lilac carpet beneath the awe-inspiring Jacaranda for luxuriant curb appeal...

Royal poinciana, Flamboyant tree, Delonix regia

Royal poinciana, Flamboyant tree, Delonix regia - "One of the most spectacular flowering trees in the USA, and probably among the top 10 on this planet. In full bloom, it is like a regal elephant caparisoned in red and yellow brilliance." (Larry M. Schokman, The Kampong, National Tropical Botanic Garden)

Shop Flowering Trees

Date: 2 Jul 2024

What is the most useful tree in the world?

Moringa oleifera - Bridal veil, Horseradish tree, Drumstick Tree, Ben Oil Tree

Moringa oleifera - Bridal veil, Horseradish tree, Drumstick Tree, Ben Oil Tree

Moringa oleifera - Bridal veil, Horseradish tree, Drumstick Tree, Ben Oil Tree

Moringa oleifera - Bridal veil, Horseradish tree, Drumstick Tree, Ben Oil Tree

Moringa oleifera - Bridal veil, Horseradish tree, Drumstick Tree, Ben Oil Tree

Moringa oleifera - Bridal veil, Horseradish tree, Drumstick Tree, Ben Oil Tree

🌐 What is the most useful tree in the world?
  • 💚 One of the most versatile and valuable trees known to humanity is Moringa oleifera, also called: Horseradish tree, Bridal veil, Horseradish tree, Drumstick Tree, Ben Oil Tree. It is indeed considered one of the most useful trees in the world. This reputation stems from its wide range of nutritional, medicinal, and practical applications.
  • 💚 Moringa is a beautiful flowering tree with fragrant white flowers. It produces long green pods (looking like drumsticks!) and the seeds have been compared to a cross between peanuts and asparagus.
  • 💚 Moringa leaves are rich in vitamins (A, B, C, E), minerals (calcium, potassium, iron), and amino acids, and have strong antioxidant properties. they are used in traditional medicine to treat inflammation. Moringa can help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
  • 💚 Almost every part of the tree is edible, including the leaves, pods, seeds, and flowers. Each part has its unique nutritional profile and culinary uses. Used in teas and cooking.
  • 💚 The roots are used as a substitute for horseradish and the edible leaves make a highly nutritious vegetable. The roots have also been used in many folk remedies.
  • 💚 Many Moringa products produced commercially: leaves, powder, oil. Moringa oil, extracted from the seeds, is used in cosmetics, skincare products. Seeds can be used to purify water, making it safer to drink.
  • 💚 The plant can be used as a natural fertilizer and pesticide. Leaves are used as a nutritious feed for livestock.


📚 Learn more: How to grow a happy Moringa Tree

🛒 Plant your own Moringa Tree and save the Planet

#Food_Forest #Remedies

🏵 TopTropicals

Date: 17 Nov 2024

What is the most delicious Annona fruit?

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

Annona muricata - Soursop, Guanabana, Graviola

❓ What is the most delicious Annona fruit? Guanabana!
  • 🍐 Annona muricata - commonly known as Soursop, Guanabana, or Graviola, is widely regarded as the best-tasting annona fruit.
  • 🍐 This tropical tree, native to Tropical America, produces large, unusual-looking fruits with a unique blend of sweet and slightly sour flavors. The custard-like pulp is fragrant, smooth and creamy, making Soursop perfect for milkshakes, desserts, or simply enjoyed fresh.
  • 🍐 Soursop is evergreen in warm climates, though it's highly sensitive to cold and requires temperatures above 50°F to thrive. However, it can also be grown indoors in containers, making it possible to enjoy its delicious fruit even in cooler regions. The tree itself is medium-sized, fast-growing, and relatively easy to manage in a pot, offering a wonderful option for indoor fruit growing.
  • 🍐 Soursop is one of the largest of the Annonas, and its quirky, bumpy fruit shapes make it a fun conversation starter. We even have an interesting article on how to grow, hand-pollinate and fruit Soursop in an apartment - ideal for plant lovers looking to bring a taste of the tropics into their homes!
  • 🍐 Soursop leaves are superheroes in the world of natural remedies. Known for their potential to fight cancer, these leaves are packed with compounds that may help keep rogue cells in check. Whether brewed into tea or turned into extracts, they've become a popular go-to in holistic health circles.


📚 Tropical Treasures Magazine:
Growing and fruiting Soursop in apartment (PDF download)
Spoiler in the next post ⬇️⬇️⬇️

More about Anonnas in previous posts:
Top 10 fast-fruiting trees: #1. Annona
Why everyone wants the Sugar Apple?
The best tropical fruit tree for container growing, and the fastest to fruit: Annona
Spiny Hedgehog fruit: what does it taste like?

🛒 Plant your own Guanabana

#Food_Forest #Remedies

🔴 Join 👉 TopTropicals

Date: 25 Jun 2025

What are Health Benefits of Alpinia galanga (Galangal)

Alpinia galanga (Galangal)

Alpinia galanga (Galangal)

What are Health Benefits of Alpinia galanga (Galangal)

🌿 Galangal, also known as Thai ginger, is more than just a fast growing ornamental ginger and flavorful root - it's also a powerful healing plant with centuries of use in both kitchens and traditional medicine. Here are some of its top health benefits:
  • Digestive aid - Galangal stimulates digestion, reduces bloating, and relieves nausea. It's especially helpful after heavy or oily meals.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties - Contains compounds like galangin that help reduce inflammation, making it useful for joint pain and inflammatory conditions.
  • Antioxidant rich - Packed with flavonoids and polyphenols that fight oxidative stress and may help slow aging and support overall wellness.
  • Immune support - Traditionally used to fight colds and infections thanks to its antimicrobial and antiviral properties.
  • Respiratory health - Used in Thai herbal remedies for clearing the lungs, soothing sore throats, and reducing coughs.
  • Brain function - Some studies suggest galangal may help protect brain cells and improve cognitive performance due to its antioxidant profile.
  • Circulatory support - Acts as a natural stimulant and may help improve blood flow and circulation.


🛒 Grow your own Thai ginger – fresh, healing, and flavorful!

#Food_Forest #Discover #Remedies

🟢 Join 👉 TopTropicals

Date: 21 Jul 2025

Health benefits of a simple plant: Coral bean

Health benefits of a simple plant: Coral bean
🍒 Health benefits of a simple plant: Coral bean

  • Don't let the tough, thorny branches fool you - this native plant has a long history of traditional use. While the seeds are poisonous, the young leaves and flowers have been safely cooked and eaten in small amounts by various cultures.

  • Traditionally, Erythrina herbacea - Coral Bean has been used in folk remedies for calming the nerves, easing muscle pain, and even promoting better sleep.

  • Modern science hasn’t fully explored these uses yet, but the plant contains alkaloids that may have sedative and muscle-relaxing properties. It's a reminder that even rugged native plants can carry powerful natural potential.

  • As a bonus, Erythrina herbacea is also beautiful and beneficial in the garden, drawing in hummingbirds and butterflies with its vibrant pink flowers - hummingbirds can't resist this wild bloomer! It grows well in poor soil and dry conditions - low effort, high reward!


🛒 Plant once, enjoy for years

#Food_Forest #Remedies #Butterfly_plants #Discover

🟢 Join 👉 TopTropicals

Date: 11 Nov 2025

Fruits with the most vitamin E, according to dietitians

Fruits with the most vitamin E

Fruits with the most vitamin E

Fruits with the most vitamin E, according to dietitians
  • 🔛 Vitamin E works as an antioxidant that helps fight inflammation throughout the body. While nuts and seeds top the charts, some fruits quietly add their share to your daily needs - especially when eaten with a bit of healthy fat. According to New York City Nutrition, vitamin E anti-inflammatory action supports heart, brain, and skin health.
  • 🔛 Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant, meaning it fights inflammation in the body. Because of this anti-inflammatory role, vitamin E is beneficial for immune health, heart health, eye health, brain health, and skin health.
  • 🔛 Adults need about 15 milligrams a day, according to the National Institutes of Health. Deficiency is rare, but it’s smart to get vitamin E from a variety of foods. Fruits alone don’t provide large amounts, but they can complement vitamin-E-rich foods like almonds or sunflower seeds.
  • 🔛 Since vitamin E needs fat for absorption, pair fruit with something creamy or crunchy - like yogurt, olive oil, nuts, or seeds - for best results.
  • 🔛 Here are some fruits that naturally offer vitamin E:

  • 🍊 Sapote 1 cup = 3.7 mg vitamin E. A tropical favorite with rich orange flesh and a flavor somewhere between pumpkin pie and sweet potato, with hints of honey and almond, Sapote is great fresh, blended in shakes, or scooped over ice cream. It also packs calcium, iron, potassium, and vitamins A and C.
  • Blackberries 1 cup = 1.7 mg vitamin E. Deep color, bold flavor, and plenty of antioxidants, Blackberries are high in fiber and low in calories. Dietitian Keri Glassman calls them her top fruit for fighting inflammation.
  • Mango 1 cup = 1.5 mg vitamin E. The “king of fruits” brings more than tropical sweetness, Mango supports digestion, helps you feel full longer, and delivers both vitamin A and E in one juicy package.
  • 🍉 Guava 1 cup = 1.2 mg vitamin E. This fragrant fruit has a flavor that lands between strawberry and pear, Guava is also one of the highest-fiber fruits and surprisingly rich in protein for a fruit.
  • 🍑 Persimmon 1 fruit = 1.2 mg vitamin E. An autumn favorite that looks like an orange tomato but tastes sweet and mellow, Persimmons are rich in vitamins A and C and make a colorful, fiber-filled snack or dessert.
  • Avocado 1 fruit = 0.9 mg vitamin E. Creamy, mild, and versatile, Avocado’s healthy fats help your body absorb vitamin E while protecting heart health. Try it on toast, in salads, or as a smooth butter substitute in baking.

🛒 Plant more remedies in your food forest

📚 Learn more:

#Food_Forest #Remedies #Discover

🟢 Join 👉 TopTropicals

Date: 19 Nov 2025

5 fruits that help manage gout (high uric acid)

5 fruits that help manage gout

5 fruits that help manage gout

🍒 5 fruits that help manage gout (high uric acid)

💥 High uric acid, hyperuricemia, also called gout, causes painful swelling in joints and can affect kidney health over time. Medicine helps, but so does what you grow and eat. Some fruits can naturally flush out excess uric acid and reduce inflammation. Here are five easy fruit trees and plants that can help:

🍋 Citrus
Citrus trees are great to grow in pots or sunny yards. Lemons and oranges are rich in vitamin C, which helps kidneys remove uric acid and keeps the body’s pH balanced. A glass of lemon water in the morning or a fresh orange during the day can help. Studies in Science Direct show lemon juice lowers uric acid levels in the blood.

Berries (mulberries, blackberries, blueberries, strawberries)
Berries are packed with antioxidants that fight inflammation and support kidney health. Mulberry trees are perennial trees and bushes that produce berries year after year. They grow well in both temperate and warm areas, and are an easy choice for all backyard gardeners. Mulberry high water content helps flush out toxins. Research from the National Institute of Health shows berries rich in polyphenols can lower uric acid naturally.

🍒 Cherries
Cherries are one of the best fruits for gout. They’re rich in anthocyanins, compounds that reduce inflammation and uric acid levels. National Institute of Health studies have found regular cherry intake helps lower gout attacks. Dwarf cherry trees can grow in large pots if space is limited.

🍌 Bananas
Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps the kidneys remove uric acid more efficiently, according to PubMed central. They’re also low in purines, the compounds that form uric acid. Dwarf banana varieties grow well in containers and add a tropical look while supporting healthy digestion and uric acid balance.

🍍Pineapple
Pineapple contains bromelain, a natural enzyme that eases swelling and pain caused by gout. It’s also refreshing and supports kidney function. Studies by global health science group show pineapple juice can help reduce inflammation and uric acid. It’s easy to grow in a pot or sunny garden bed.

These fruits won’t replace medicine, but they can support your body’s natural detox system. Grow them, eat them fresh, and enjoy both their flavor and health benefits.

🛒 Explore Fruit trees and grow your own natural remedies

📚 Learn more:

#Food_Forest #Mango #Remedies #Discover

🟢 Join 👉 TopTropicals
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