Seeds, Fertilizer, Varieties, Spring, Fall
Bold folds of petals and deep symbolism make the poppy a favourite for summer floral bouquets and wreaths. With a range of warm yellow and sunny orange shades, it’s no wonder this flower has gained popularity globally!
By Kathy Esfahani
Keeping your yard beautiful does not have to require hours of work! Low maintenance landscaping is attainable and enjoyable with just a bit of planning. Although every flower and/or plant needs some level of maintenance, it is possible to find colorful plants, evergreens and shrubs that only need attention from time to time.
Keep these tips in mind when planning a low maintenance landscape:
- Plants that tolerate heat are more viable in our area. Look for Florida-friendly plants when selecting options for your yard. Consider the sturdiness of a plant for resisting high heat/humidity, wind and changing weather.
- Although there are flowers that require less attention than others, look for plants with colorful and interesting foliage. Flowers generally require more time, deadheading and replacement. Foliage offers not only color, but also textures, shapes and patterns. Look for plants with variegated leaves featuring stripes or color splashes.
- Consider the form of a plant that you choose — do you prefer a tight, clean look or a more loose, natural appearance? Look for plants that fit the form you prefer to avoid extra trimming.
- Choose larger plants with a broad reach side-to-side or cascading branches. These choices might include palms, shrubs or groundcovers. By selecting bigger options, you will gain a lush, full look with fewer total plants and, therefore, have less to maintain.
- Slow growing evergreen plants and trees are nice alternatives for a low maintenance landscape since they do not drop their leaves. Be cautious of adding evergreens that grow more quickly, however, as they do require more pruning.
As you design your low maintenance landscape, consider the following plants to add color, fullness and interest to your yard: African iris, agapanthus, arboricola, Aztec grass, black-eyed Susan, blue daze, cast iron plant, croton, dune sunflower, foxtail fern, gaillardia, lantana, liriope, muhly grass, penta, rosemary, vinca and any ginger or succulent.
Happy planting!
Flower of the Week: Dune Sunflower
Please email Kathy at kcg.pvr@gmail.com for any questions or gardening tips you would like to see in the future. For more information and ideas, visit Kathy’s Creative Gardens & Nursery, 196 N. Roscoe Blvd. The phone number is 904-655-7373.
Source: pontevedrarecorder.com
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