For My Black Thumb Friends

Don't get me wrong...I'm certainly not a horticulturist or expert in any manner of gardening.  I am simply a girl who likes flowers and pretty plants.  I move them around until I find the right place for them both aesthetically and geographically.  However, my "black thumb" friends seem to think I'm an expert so I'd like to give a few pointers so even the "black thumbs" out there might find some success.

The first rule is to begin with easy plants.  That doesn't mean a cactus that requires little water (alas, I've killed a cactus).  I'm talking about finding plants that thrive with little to no effort in your region.  You can find this information easily by asking at your local nursery, or researching for an hour or so for native plants online, at the library, or your local book store. 

When choosing a plant, take note of the light and water requirements.  Arrange the plants that have similar requirements together so not to over or under water, and to provide the correct amount of sun or shade.  Also try to choose plants that are pest resistant or have minimal pest sensitivities.  Most of your native plants are accustomed to native pests. 

Once you've chosen and placed your plants, get to know them.  This may seem strange at first but it's really not that hard, or unlike anything else.  Know what they look like when they're happy and what they look like when they're sad.  Yellowing, veiny leaves may be a sign of too much water, while dry leaves obviously need a drink.  These same signs could point to too much or too little light...be sure to check your light conditions.

Think in terms of yourself...your skin, hair and nails are often the best indicators of health or lack of.  Plants are the same way.  And ask questions.  If you have a neighbor or friend who enjoys gardening, ask for assistance.  Or take a sample or photo of your issue to your local extension office or nursery for advise.  Gardeners are really nice people and enjoy other gardeners.  Don't be afraid!!!

Some examples:

This Ti plant is obviously unhappy.  Native to Hawaii, it thrives in Florida's climate, but is sensitive to the cold.  This Ti appears that it did not make it through our recent freeze.

However, new growth is shooting up at the base of the same stalk.  Cut off the top and let the young growth thrive!

When flowers begin to die or look spent, snip them off to promote new growth.  This is called "dead heading".

This bottle palm has mostly dry brown fronds from the recent freeze.  But the new green leaf shows that it's healthy and will be fine.  I need to cut off the really dead leaves at the bottom.  You wouldn't leave a broken nail hanging on your freshly manicured nails, would you?

These yellowing palm fronds could use a trim...just like a fresh hair cut.

Same goes for this moss rose that looks a bit strung out...cut off the wild, unproductive ends to allow for new, healthy growth.

This is an example of what NOT to trim off...the branch is flexible (not brittle), shows some green coloration, and is showing signs of new growth.  This Croton will be fine.  If in doubt, leave it alone.  You might be surprised by the results.  Plants are resilient, especially in their native environment.

This eugenia topiary is showing signs of stress on it's lower limbs.  It could be the recent cold spell. 

With a closer inspection, the problem reveals itself...scale!!!!  Scale is a nasty pest that can take over quickly if not taken care of.  I'll need to spray a soap/water solution to rid the beast!

Here's another pest that just won't go away (beside the fire ants!)...rust.  Use a copper spray to curtail this one!

Finally, late winter / early spring is the perfect time to inspect the lawn for weeds.  Weeds are easily noticable in my frost bitten, brown lawn...they are bright green and healthy!!  Figures!!!

My best advise is to just give it a go!!  That's what I did in my early 20's and I've been addicted ever since!!!  No one is perfect, and just when you think you've got it, the rules might change and a plant might die.  It's a little like parenting, but plants don't talk back, they're always where you expect them to be, and they love you back without question!!  They are well worth the investment!  Besides, your friends and family will Woooooo and Awwwww over your results!!!