Recap of March 2024 First Friday with Florida First Detector
Fruit crops are very important for Florida’s agriculture industry. The state is a top producer for many tree fruits, berries, and melons. Despite challenges associated with citrus greening in Florida, citrus still remains one of Florida’s most important crops. In this month’s First Friday, we…
With the turn of the calendar into a new year comes the pressure to create and stick to a resolution. The topics of conservation and environmental impact are top of mind for many this time of year. Here are 5 easy environmentally friendly modifications you can implement in your landscape. These changes require less than 5 minutes…
If you’ve ever spent a summer in Florida, you’re likely familiar with the loud, eerie buzz of the cicada. That buzz is actually the males’ mating call, and by their standards, the louder it is, the better. This sound is produced by their tymbals, a pair of drum-like structures on either side of the abdomen. …
Large Red Kapok near Sarasota’s Ringling MuseumAround Valentine’s Day in tropical regions around the world, nature offers a breathtaking spectacle in the form of the Red Kapok tree (scientifically known as Bombax ceiba) exploding into vibrant springtime blooms. This majestic tree, nonnative but Florida-Friendly, has a towering presence and is cultural significance. One of the largest…
People do many things to newly planted trees, such as improper pruning and fertilization, that interfere with tree growth and defenses.
Trees strive to maintain a balance between the above ground portion (crown) and the below ground portion (roots). The crown (leaves, buds and supporting branches) produce energy. The roots take in essential elements and water.…
You’ve probably seen crape myrtle trees pruned to look like a coat rack. Hopefully, you’re not guilty of doing this. The term “crape murder” was coined to describe this drastic topping of crape myrtles.
Properly selected and correctly placed crape myrtles need little pruning.
A crape myrtle that requires routine pruning to force it to fit in…
In addition to our native Southern magnolia, Magnolia grandiflora, there are a number of other magnolia species to consider for use in our North Florida landscapes. In addition to the evergreen types, there are deciduous types, as well. While the Southern magnolia is evergreen and blooms in mid-spring, a number of the deciduous magnolias bloom during…
Florida is known for having a large variety of plants, here anything can thrive. That being said, there are a number of plants that can impact one’s health upon interaction. In this article, we are going to talk about 3 poisonous leaves and their reactions. These plants contain a chemical called Urushiol, which is an…
A Beautiful Yellow-Flowering SpathoglottisYou have probably seen this orchid as you stroll down garden center aisles. It is not as fancy as the other striking orchids – Cattleya or Phalaenopsis. Rather petite in nature, this orchid is eye-catching in its own way with small, gem-like flowers. The palm-like foliage is deep green, pleated, and up…
Broward County Tree Trimmer License
The Broward County tree trimmer licensing program dates back to October 2000 when the Broward County Board of County Commissioners passed an ordinance regulating the county’s tree trimming industry. This action was taken to improve the quality of trimming in the county and protect the health, safety and welfare of…
If a tree falls in the forest, and there is no one there to hear it, does it make a sound? Of course it does, and I’m sure it’s quite loud. That philosophical question has never held my interest. Now, if you start talking about what happens to the tree after it falls, you will…
Pink Trumpet Tree litters the grounds with flowers as it peaks.As Valentine’s Day approaches, Southern Florida prepares for a breathtaking spectacle of pink: the blooming of Handroanthus impetiginosus, commonly known as the Pink Trumpet Tree or a Pink Tabebuia. Despite being nonnative, this stunning tree has integrated itself into being a staple of our urban landscape,…
