by Gabrielle Pitchford | Jun 27, 2025 | Uncategorized
Simple Pruning Tips for Healthier Shrubs and Small Trees
Pruning is one of the most important garden maintenance tasks for Florida homeowners. Whether you’re tending native shrubs, ornamental trees, or hedges, knowing how to properly prune dead, dying, diseased, and disorderly (the “4 Ds”) branches keeps your landscape healthy, safe, and beautiful.
Why Prune Woody Plants in Florida?
Removing problem branches:
- Encourages healthy new growth
- Prevents the spread of pests and disease
- Reduces the risk of storm damage
- Keeps your landscape tidy and balanced
Use the “4 Ds” rule to decide what needs to go:
- Dead: Brittle, gray branches with no leaves or buds
- Dying: Weak, sparse limbs with shriveled or discolored foliage
- Diseased: Branches with black spots, oozing sap, or fungal growth
- Disorderly: Crossed, rubbing, or awkwardly angled limbs that affect the plant’s structure or airflow
How to Make Proper Pruning Cuts
A clean cut is a healthy cut. Follow these simple techniques:
- Use sharp, sanitized pruning tools to make smooth cuts and prevent the spread of disease.
- Cut just outside the branch collar—the slightly swollen area where a branch meets the trunk or main stem. Avoid cutting flush against the trunk or leaving a stub.
- When cutting small branches, make a 45-degree angled cut just above a healthy outward-facing bud. This encourages growth in the desired direction.
- If you’re removing diseased wood, sanitize your tools between cuts using rubbing alcohol or a diluted bleach solution to avoid spreading the infection.
When Is the Best Time to Prune in Florida?
Florida’s mild climate allows for selective pruning year-round, but timing still matters:
- Late winter to early spring is ideal for more significant pruning, just before new growth begins.
- Avoid pruning during extreme summer heat or right before a cold snap.
- After storms, remove damaged or broken limbs promptly to prevent decay or pest infestations.
Final Tip for Florida Gardeners
When it comes to pruning, less is often more. Start with the most obvious dead or problem branches, then step back and reassess. Over-pruning can shock a plant or lead to weak regrowth, so take it slow and give your landscape time to respond.
by Gabrielle Pitchford | May 29, 2025 | Florida landscaping, weed control
Summer in Florida means vibrant landscapes, blooming flowers, and unfortunately—an explosion of weeds. The combination of intense heat, humidity, and frequent rain creates the perfect storm for weed growth. If you’re not vigilant, weeds can quickly overrun even the most well-maintained landscape. Newly installed landscapes are particularly vulnerable to the proliferation of weeds. Here’s how to stay on top of weeding during Florida’s long, hot summer.
1. Know Your Enemy
In Florida, common summer weeds include:
- Sedges – fast-growing, low-lying, and spreads aggressively.
- Torpedo Grass – thrives in hot, sunny spots and in almost every landscape.
- Mexican Clover – loves dry, sterile soils. Stays low and spreads quickly.
- Chamberbitter – small but invasive, often found in mulch beds.
Learning to identify weeds early makes it easier to remove them before they seed.
2. Mulch is Your Best Friend
A 2–3 inch layer of mulch not only conserves moisture but also acts as a natural barrier, smothering weed seeds and blocking sunlight. Organic mulches like pine bark, eucalyptus, or melaleuca also enrich the soil as they break down.
3. Weed After Rain or Irrigation
Pulling weeds is much easier when the soil is moist. Roots come out more cleanly, reducing the chance of regrowth. Just be sure not to compact wet soil by walking all over your beds.
4. Spot-Treat with Herbicides (When Needed)
For stubborn weeds, selective herbicides can help, but be cautious—high temperatures can make plants more sensitive to chemical applications. Always follow label instructions and avoid spraying during the hottest part of the day.
5. Stay Consistent
Weeding isn’t a once-a-month job in Florida summers. A quick walk-through of your landscape every few days allows you to catch new growth early. Ten minutes of weeding regularly is better than a weekend of battle once weeds have taken hold.
6. Water Smart
Overwatering not only wastes water but also encourages weed growth, especially in lawns and around ornamentals. Make sure your irrigation system is functioning properly, and water deeply but infrequently to promote healthy roots and discourage weeds.
7. Consider Groundcovers
Groundcovers like Sunshine Mimosa, perennial peanut, or matchweed can crowd out weeds while adding beauty and erosion control.
Final Thoughts
Summer weeding in Florida may feel like an uphill battle, but with the right approach and regular maintenance, you can keep your landscape looking clean, healthy, and weed-free. A little effort now will save you a lot of work later—and your plants will thank you for it!
by Gabrielle Pitchford | Apr 3, 2025 | Uncategorized
Spring Pruning Young Trees – Oaks, Holly’s, Magnolias and Deciduous Trees
Young trees are frequently overlooked for the first few years of their life, and many people wait until the trees are large enough to cause problems before they think to prune them. However, pruning is just as important for young or small trees as it is for large, mature shade trees. This establishes a strong structure that prevents future problems associated with poor or neglected maintenance. Additionally, it can expedite tree growth by focusing energy on what remains after pruning.
To ensure the successful growth of young trees, we aim to achieve three key objectives:
- Maintain a single, central leading branch
- Establish a cone-shaped canopy
- Remove or significantly reduce the size of any branches that exceed ⅓ of the main trunk’s diameter
Follow these steps to prune your trees correctly:
- Choose the Right Time
- Best Time: Later winter before new growth begins. Additionally, for evergreens you can prune again in mid summer.
- Avoid: Mid spring and fall pruning as it can attract pests.
- Gather Your Tools
- Hand pruners for small branches
- Loppers for medium-sized branches
- Pruning saw if you are working with a more established and older tree
- Step stool or ladder to reach the top
- Trash bin or burlap bag to discard trimmings
- Make a Plan
- Study the tree and identify the central leader. This is usually the tip of the tree, but occasionally has competing leaders. Choose just ONE!
- Find the half way point of the tree. Anything below this point will be reduced by 50%, and above this point will be shaped into a cone.
- Identify any branches that are more than ⅓ the diameter of the main trunk
- How to Make Proper Cuts
- Make sure all cutting tools are sharp
- For whole branch removal locate the branch collar (the slightly swollen area where the branch meets the trunk) and make a clean cut just outside the collar.
- Cut at a 45 degree angle when possible
- Trying cutting back to a node, leaf or bud of new growth
- What to Prune
- Dead, diseased, or damaged branches: Remove these first to better see the true existing structure of the tree.
- Crossing or rubbing branches: Remove these next to improve structure before shaping begins.
- Cut back branches larger than ⅓ the diameter by at least 50%. Severe cases may see as much as 75% removal.
- Eliminate competing leaders: Eliminate any competing leaders, so that only one main leader remains.
- Shape the canopy into a cone: Next, we will use tip pruning to shape the canopy into a cone that widens gradually from the top to the halfway point.
- Reduce lower canopy branches by half: To maintain photosynthesis while slowing branch growth, reduce the lower canopy branches by half. Over the years these branches will be eliminated but until then, provide much needed photosynthetic power to the trunk and root system.
- Additional Tips
- Prune conservatively, never remove more than ⅓ of the trees foliage
- Encourage branching that meets the main trunk at a 90 degree union
- “V” shaped unions should be eliminated or reduced
- Have fun and maintain branches that may create aesthetic appeal in the future.
Thats it! And you should not have to do much more until the next year.
by Gabrielle Pitchford | Feb 28, 2025 | Uncategorized
Florida’s warm, humid climate creates the perfect environment for lush landscapes, but it also provides ideal conditions for weeds to thrive. Without proper weed control, these invasive plants can quickly take over, harming the health and appearance of your landscape.
New landscapes are especially prone to a high rate of weed growth. During the installation process, soil is disturbed which may expose many dormant seeds to air and light. Pair this with the extra water in the landscape that is helping to establish your new plantings and you have the perfect environment for seed banks to germinate.
Here’s why managing weeds is crucial for Florida landscapes.
- Protects Native Plants and Ecosystems Weeds compete with native and ornamental plants for essential nutrients, sunlight, and water. Many invasive weed species, such as dayflower (Commelina benghalensis) and torpedograss (Panicum repens), can rapidly spread and outcompete native vegetation, disrupting the natural balance of Florida’s ecosystems. Effective weed management helps preserve biodiversity and the health of your garden or lawn.
- Enhances Aesthetic Appeal A well-maintained landscape boosts curb appeal and property value. Weeds can quickly make a yard look unkempt and overgrown, diminishing the visual appeal of gardens, lawns, and flower beds. Regular weeding ensures a tidy, attractive outdoor space.
- Prevents the Spread of Harmful Pests and Diseases Weeds often serve as hosts for pests and plant diseases that can affect desirable plants. Uncontrolled weed growth can attract insects like aphids and whiteflies, which spread diseases to nearby vegetation. Proper weed control minimizes these risks, promoting healthier plant life.
- Improves Soil and Water Quality Some weeds, particularly deep-rooted species, can deplete soil nutrients, making it harder for desirable plants to thrive. Others, like water hyacinth, can clog waterways and disrupt aquatic ecosystems. By managing weeds, property owners contribute to better soil health and water conservation efforts.
- Promotes Efficient Lawn and Garden Maintenance A landscape overrun with weeds requires more maintenance, including frequent mowing, trimming, and mulching. Implementing proactive weed control strategies—such as mulching, proper irrigation, and the use of herbicides—reduces long-term maintenance efforts and costs.
Best Practices for Weed Control in Florida
- Mulching: Helps suppress weed growth and retain soil moisture.
- Hand Pulling: Effective for small-scale weed removal before they spread.
- Herbicides: Selective herbicides can target weeds without harming desired plants.
- Proper Lawn Care: Mowing at the correct height and watering adequately promotes a thick, healthy lawn that naturally resists weeds.
- Responsible Watering: Micro irrigation and a reduced watering schedule can retain a healthy landscape while reducing seed germination of noxious weeds.
New landscapes may require weeding every 2-3 weeks for the first year or two. But as the landscape matures and the seed bank diminishes, weeding will become easier, sometimes reducing to once a quarter.
By taking proactive steps to control weeds, homeowners and landscapers in Florida can protect their plants, maintain property aesthetics, and support a healthier environment. Regular maintenance and the right weed control techniques ensure that landscapes remain vibrant and thriving year-round.
by Gabrielle Pitchford | Jan 29, 2025 | Florida friendly landscaping, Florida landscaping, Florida Native Landscaping
Florida’s climate is unlike most regions in the United States, presenting homeowners with both unique opportunities and challenges when it comes to maintaining beautiful landscapes. From its tropical and subtropical zones to its seasonal weather extremes, the Sunshine State demands thoughtful landscape design and diligent maintenance. Here’s how Florida’s climate affects home landscapes:
1. Tropical and Subtropical Climate Zones
Florida is divided into two primary climate zones: tropical in the southern regions and subtropical in the northern and central parts. This means:
- Warm Temperatures Year-Round: Plants thrive in Florida’s consistent warmth, but this also accelerates growth and requires frequent upkeep like pruning, mowing, and weeding.
- Humidity: High humidity levels can encourage rapid plant growth but also create a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and pests.
2. Seasonal Rainfall and Dry Periods
- Rainy Season: Florida experiences a wet season from late spring to early fall, characterized by heavy, sudden downpours. While this reduces the need for irrigation, overwatering and flooding can damage root systems.
- Dry Season: In winter and early spring, homeowners often face water restrictions and must rely on drought-tolerant plants or efficient irrigation systems to keep landscapes healthy.
3. Frequent Hurricanes and Tropical Storms
The hurricane season (June to November) presents a significant challenge:
- Wind Damage: Storms can topple trees and scatter debris, making storm preparation and tree trimming essential.
- Flooding: Excess water can erode soil, drown plants, and create long-term drainage issues. Proper landscaping, including raised beds, rain gardens, and salt tolerant native species, helps mitigate this risk.
4. Sandy and Poorly Draining Soils
Florida’s soils range from sandy in coastal areas to clay-like in inland regions, often lacking nutrients and organic matter. There is also the issue of over developed land with non-native soil brought in which removes the incredibly important top soil horizon. Homeowners likely need to:
- Amend soil with compost, topsoil and mulch at time of planting
- Use native plants that thrive in local soil conditions
- Implement mulching to retain moisture and improve soil health
5. Invasive Plants, Pests, and Wildlife
Florida’s warm, wet environment is perfect for invasive species, pests, and even wildlife, which can wreak havoc on home landscapes:
- Common pests like chinch bugs, whiteflies, and aphids thrive in the climate.
- Invasive plants, such as Brazilian pepper trees, can outcompete native flora and disrupt ecosystems.
- Wildlife, from raccoons to deer, may target gardens and damage plants.
6. Vibrant Possibilities for Native and Tropical Plants
While challenging, Florida’s climate also offers the opportunity to grow lush, tropical landscapes featuring:
- Native plants like coontie, muhly grass, sabal palms, and firebush, which require less maintenance
- Shade trees to help regulate temperatures and reduce localized winds
- Wildflowers adapted to our changing seasons
Adapting Home Landscapes to Florida’s Climate
To create a thriving, low-maintenance landscape in Florida:
- Choose climate-adapted or native plants to reduce water, pest, and soil management needs.
- Incorporate sustainable practices like xeriscaping and rain gardens to handle seasonal rainfall patterns.
- Maintain a regular landscape care schedule to address fast-growing plants, pest issues, and storm preparedness.
By understanding Florida’s unique climate, homeowners can enjoy vibrant, resilient landscapes that enhance their property while withstanding the state’s environmental challenges.
