Expert advice for growing healthy plants in Florida's unique climate, developed by Green Compass Farms and Clearview Geographic's environmental scientists.
6-8 hours direct sunlight
4-6 hours direct sunlight
2-4 hours direct sunlight
Check soil moisture first
Light: Full sun (6-8 hours)
Water: Once per week, drought tolerant once established
Soil: Well-draining, sandy soil preferred
Pruning: Light pruning in late winter
Benefits: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Twice per week, reduce in winter
Soil: Adaptable, prefers slightly acidic
Pruning: Shape as needed after flowering
Benefits: Fragrant flowers, bird habitat
Light: Full sun
Water: Biweekly, very drought tolerant
Soil: Sandy, well-draining essential
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers
Benefits: Continuous blooming, low maintenance
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Minimal once established
Soil: Sandy, poor soils acceptable
Pruning: Remove dead fronds only
Benefits: Extremely low maintenance, wildlife habitat
Choose location based on plant's light requirements. Consider mature size and proximity to structures, utilities, and other plants.
Dig hole 2-3 times wider than root ball, same depth. Amend heavy clay soils with compost for better drainage.
Remove container and gently tease roots. Plant at same depth as in container. Backfill with native soil mixed with compost.
Water thoroughly after planting. Apply 2-3 inch layer of mulch around base, keeping mulch away from trunk.
Water daily for first 2 weeks, then gradually reduce. Most plants establish in 3-6 months with proper care.
Causes: Overwatering, poor drainage, nutrient deficiency
Solutions: Reduce watering, improve soil drainage, apply balanced fertilizer
Causes: Underwatering, root damage, transplant shock
Solutions: Check soil moisture, water deeply, provide shade during establishment
Causes: Insufficient light, poor soil, root bound
Solutions: Relocate to sunnier spot, amend soil, consider larger container
Causes: Stressed plants, environmental factors
Solutions: Improve plant health, use integrated pest management, contact our experts
"Water deeply but less frequently. Most plant problems in Florida come from overwatering, not underwatering. Check soil moisture 2 inches down before watering."
"Success starts with choosing plants suited to your specific location. Consider sun, soil, and space. Our GIS analysis through CVG partnership helps optimize plant placement."
"Native Florida plants are naturally adapted to our climate, require less water and fertilizer, and provide the best habitat for local wildlife. They're the smart choice for sustainability."
"Composting kitchen scraps, collecting rainwater, and choosing organic fertilizers create a healthy ecosystem in your garden. Small changes make a big impact."
Deep, infrequent watering. Stake young trees in windy areas. Prune for structure in first 3 years. Allow 10-20 feet spacing based on mature size.
Regular watering during establishment. Prune for shape after flowering. Group plants with similar water needs together.
Never top palms. Remove only brown fronds. Apply palm-specific fertilizer. Protect from cold in winter.
Cut back annually in late winter. Divide every 3-4 years. Most ornamental grasses are drought tolerant once established.
Excellent drainage essential. Water only when soil is dry. Protect from frost. Perfect for containers and xeriscaping.
Consistent moisture during growing season. Citrus-specific fertilizer. Protect from cold. Prune lightly for air circulation.
Specialized recommendations for gardening in Volusia County's unique coastal-to-inland transition zone.
Salt tolerance important for plants within 5 miles of coast. Moderate temperatures year-round with ocean breeze protection.
More temperature variation with occasional frost. Better for diverse plant selection including cold-hardy varieties.
Well-draining but nutrient-poor. Perfect for native plants, requires organic amendments for vegetables.
Best for: Blue Daze, Beautyberry, native grasses
Rich, dark soils in low-lying areas. Excellent for moisture-loving plants.
Best for: Crinum lilies, wetland natives, rain gardens
Better water retention, may need drainage improvements for some plants.
Best for: Trees, shrubs, vegetable gardens with amendment
Plant: Warm-season annuals, tropical plants, citrus trees
Avoid: Cool-season crops (too hot by May)
Local Tip: Last frost typically mid-February
Plant: Heat-tolerant natives, palms, tropical flowers
Focus: Watering and pest management
Local Tip: Hurricane season - secure loose plants
Plant: Cool-season vegetables, trees, shrubs
Best time: Tree and shrub planting season
Local Tip: Peak planting season in Volusia County
Plant: Cool-season annuals, dormant trees
Protect: Tropical plants during cold snaps
Local Tip: Frost possible inland, rare on coast
Our plant experts are here to help with specific questions about your garden: