During the winter months as we enjoy the respite from heat and humidity, so do our plants. It is during this time that trees, shrubs and perennials slow their growth to conserve energy and prepare for the warmer months ahead when they will again become lush and vibrant. In South Florida, because temperatures remain warm in the winter, plants do not go into a full dormant stage. They will continue to grow and flower but at a much slower rate.
What plants are brightening our landscape this time of year? Except if damaged from cold temperatures, colorfu foliage plants such as Croton, Copperleaf and Dracaena will continue to add color to the landscape. They will remain and appear much as they did before the onset of cooler temperatures. Examples of flowering trees and shrub that are considered year-round bloomers are Ixora, Lumbago, Jatropha, Powderpuff, Hibiscus, Bottlebrush and Hong Kong orchid. Perennials include Blue Daze, Pentas, and Vinca.
Two flowering shrubs that are at their best in the winter are Bougainvillea and Panama Rose. Both plants bloom heavily during the winter months. It is the colorful bracts surrounding the small white flower that provides the color on the Bougainvillea. The pink flower on the Panama Rose looks very much like the flower of the Penta.
Winter in Verandah is a great time to grow annuals. Except for a few, annuals cannot tolerate the high heat and humidity of the summer months. Now is the time to enjoy Begonias, Impatiens, Marigolds, Petunias and others.
During the dormant period, plants require less water, fertilization and pruning. Plants start to come out of dormancy at the end of February and begin growing at a much faster rate. At this point, watering can increase, plants can be pruned back and fertilized if necessary.
HAPPY GARDENING!
