Monthly Archives: February 2019

Assorted House Plants

Bromeliads

House plants are a wonderful addition to anyone’s house looking to spruce up their interior space. We have many options from classics like African violets and fiddle leaf figs to unique sansevieria varieties and hanging baskets of many kinds of ferns. Bright but indirect sunlight is best for most house plants, but certain plants may be acclimated to different conditions.

Angel Wing Begonia

There are quite a few house plants that still flower even without all of the heavy sunlight that most of the big landscape trees and shrubs require. Bromeliads are a good example; bromeliads are common down here not only because they grow very easily, but because of the combinations of colors and patterns as well. Bromeliads in general can grow in just about any situation, besides being submerged in water. They have a very shallow root system and take in most of their water through the cups in the leaves that collect rainfall naturally. Because of this, they are commonly found growing in trees as air plants.

Houseplants come in many different forms to fit a wide range of looks. Many alocasia feature wide, tropical foliage and different shades of green, purple and white to bring new light to an otherwise bland area. Cascading ice plants, hoyas, pothos and many others drape over the edge of pots or hanging baskets. There are many different ways to fit beautiful color and eye-catching foliage anywhere at home.

Watering plants thoroughly and then allowing time to dry out before the next watering is essential to many plants in southwest Florida, so it is best to use a well-draining soil when planting. Using the appropriate fertilizer is important for plants to thrive, so it is good practice to do it on a regular schedule to ensure good plant health. We recommend fertilizing quarterly with organic or granular extended-release fertilizer for best results.

 

 

Carnivorous Sundew

Below is a short list of popular plants in this field:

*Selection may vary by location / time of year – list does not directly reflect current inventory*

  • Foliage-focus
    • Ivy, Ferns, Pothos, Calathea, Aglaonema, Alocasia, Stromanthe, Sansevieria, Philodendron, Ficus, Carnivorous Plants. Dracaena, Croton, Dieffenbachia, Ginger, Bromeliad, Air Plants, Aralia, Zig-Zag, Farfugium, Wandering Jew.

Assorted Housplants

 

  • Palms / Trees
    • Chamadorea Palm, Neanthebella Palm, Majesty Palm, Cat Palm, Raphis Palm, Old Man Palm, Ficus Tree, Yucca, Japanese Fern Tree, Assorted Bonsai Trees.

 

  • Flower-focus
    • Begonia, Anthurium, African Violet, Dwarfed Hibiscus, Cyclamen, Hydrangea, Bromeliad, Air Plants, Ginger, Japanese Peace Lily, White Bird of Paradise, Stephanotis, Hoya, Medinella.

 

Have other questions? Give us a call, or stop in at either of our locations and talk with one of our trained experts to give you the upper hand!

Cactus / Succulents

Cacti and succulents have become increasingly popular in recent years. From specialty growers and collectors to stores, websites and collectibles, it is no wonder they have become such a trendy houseplant. This popularity is no doubt due to the fact that all these plants are inherently easier to take care of compared to most other houseplants simply because they do not need much water or attention to survive.

There are vast numbers of different cactus and succulents that thrive in south Florida, as they are both grown around the world with relative ease. In fact, the word succulent is a general term to describe a plant with fleshy leaves. Since the term is so general, there are thousands of different kinds, from a wide variety of different plant families, that are considered succulents. In fact, a cactus is just a succulent with thorns! With such a vast assortment of different types from all over the world, it is no wonder these plants come in a variety of sizes, colors and growth habits. From ground-covers to trees, these plants have a plethora of different uses as both houseplants and landscape specimens.

Many may not think of south Florida as an ideal location to grow or purchase cacti and succulents due to our heavy summer rains. Although they are known for living on the dry side, many can be kept happy as a houseplant or out in the landscape as long as they are planted in well-draining soil. For this reason, we at Driftwood keep our succulent selections inside our covered shade-house in order to have full control over the watering. If kept as a houseplant, these plants need as much bright light as possible, so by a sunny window is best. However, most varieties can be transitioned to take full sun if acclimated slowly.

The key to watering these plants is to give them a deep, thorough  watering and then letting them dry out completely before watering again. Depending on conditions, this could mean watering them once a week to only once a month. For this reason, it is best to use well-draining soil and plant them in pots that have drainage holes so that the water can run right through. Regular fertilization with an organic or granular slow-release fertilizer is recommended to maintain overall health.

 

 

Below is a short list of popular plants in this field:

*Selection may vary by location / time of year – list does not directly reflect current inventory*

  • Cacti
    • Mammillaria, Euphorbia, Parodia, Opuntia, Cereus, Espostoa, Notocactus.

 

  • Succulents
    • Echeveria, Aloe, Kalanchoe, Sempervivum, Sedums.

 

Have other questions? Give us a call, or stop in at either of our locations and talk with one of our trained experts to give you the upper hand!

Orchids

Oncidium

Orchids are often thought of as an exotic plant that many gardeners are intimidated by. However, most orchids are easy to care for, and can quickly become an addictive hobby. The orchid family is one of the largest flowering plant families on Earth, with an absurd  number of varieties encompassing its name. Technology is allowing specialty growers to create hybrid orchids, creating an almost endless possibility of flowers, colors, leaves and fragrance.

Thankfully, most orchids are easy to take care of. Phalaenopsis is one of the most common species, and are often available in a wide array of sizes, blooms and colors. This particular orchid is known for its long-lasting blooms and ease of care.

Various Phalaenopsis

Different types of orchids will require different types of care, but some can be treated similarly. Many will flower at different times of the year, and some blooms will last longer than others. To best take care of any specific orchid, it is best to ask our experts.

It is important to use an orchid specific mix when potting up orchids for best results. This allows good drainage and avoids over-watering, which can cause problems. Typically, orchids are fertilized with an orchid-labeled liquid feed for them to look their best.

 

 

Below is a short list of popular plants in this field:

*Selection may vary by location / time of year – list does not directly reflect current inventory*

  • Orchids
    • Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium, Vanda, Oncidium, Cattleya, Epidendrum, Paphiopedilum

Have other questions? Give us a call, or stop in at either of our locations and talk with one of our trained experts to give you the upper hand!

Herbs & Vegetables

Lavender

Growing your own herbs and vegetables is an empowering and rewarding hobby. Growing something in your own backyard is a healthy way to learn what goes into our food. The effort that is put into making the plants grow and produce our own food teaches people young and old that investing time and energy is the best way to make things grow.

Tomato

Our herbs and vegetables commonly come in 4” and 6” containers making it easy to fit them into a small bed or container. During the vegetable growing season, we will often carry many unique varieties of vegetables including tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and even lettuce! Not only will you find classics like better boy tomatoes and bell peppers, but we often get in more uncommon heirloom varieties.

We carry many different varieties of more common herbs as well as some unique variations on old classics. Peppermint and spearmint are staples in any herb garden, but have you ever tried chocolate or pineapple mint? We often try and stock many less-than-common herbs as well like nasturtiums and lemongrass. Be sure to check back often to see what we have in stock!

Herbs and vegetables require regular care and watering. Many want a thorough soaking before drying out again. We recommend planting these assorted herbs and vegetables in a well-draining potting mix that has lots of organic matter. When planting in the ground or a raised bed, it is important to enrich the existing soil with compost or other organic matter. We recommend fertilizing quarterly with an organic fertilizer to keep your plants looking their best.

 

 

Parsley & Friends

Below is a short list of popular plants in this field:

*Selection may vary by location / time of year – list does not directly reflect current inventory*

  • Herbs
    • Mint, Rosemary, Basil, Lavender, Thyme, Oregano, Parsley, Dill, Chives, Lemongrass, Nasturtium

 

  • Vegetables
    • Tomatoes, Peppers, Cucumber, Lettuce, Eggplant

“Amazel” Basil

Have other questions? Give us a call, or stop in at either of our locations and talk with one of our trained experts to give you the upper hand!

Bedding Foliage

Caladuim

Bedding plants are traditionally thought of as small flowering plants, but this is not always the case. Many great bedding plants have bright, colorful foliage that can add a pop of color to any landscape. Many stay relatively small, and are easy to maintain. In general, these plants prefer full to part sun, but many can also do well in the shade.

Various Ground-cover

A lot of these plants are versatile and can be used in several different ways. The spike plant, a type of dracaena, grows upright with a bare stalk and has foliage on top. It is common to find them as a centerpiece in planters to add both color and height with little maintenance. On the other hand, low growing plants like sedum or lysimachia can be found spreading across flat areas for low-growing coverage or grown as cascading plants over the sides of pots for a more overgrown and natural look that many gardeners try to accomplish. Other plants like coleus and caladiums, come in a wide variety of colors, patterns and sizes, perfect for adding a splash of color to any landscape.

Watering plants thoroughly and then allowing time to dry out before the next watering is essential to many plants in southwest Florida, so it is best to use a well-draining soil when planting. Using the appropriate fertilizer is important for plants to thrive, so it is good practice to do it on a regular schedule to ensure good plant health. We recommend fertilizing quarterly with organic or granular extended-release fertilizer for best results.

 

 

Dusty Miller

Below is a short list of popular plants in this field:

*Selection may vary by location / time of year – list does not directly reflect current inventory*

  • Foliage
    • Coleus, Caladium, Sedum, Sweet Potato Vine, Persian Shield, Dusty Miller, Spike Plant, Dichondra, Licorice Plant, Waffle Plant, Asparagus Fern, Oyster Plant, Lysimachia, Ivy, Grass, Alternanthera, Glechoma, Iresine, Ajuga.

 

Have other questions? Give us a call, or stop in at either of our locations and talk with one of our trained experts to give you the upper hand!

Fruit

Kumquat

Blueberry

We carry a wide variety of fruit trees and shrubs that will keep you more in touch with your garden. It may seem that fruit trees take more care and attention than more common landscape plants, but the end result is having something fresh and delicious to enjoy. Growing fruit and citrus can quickly turn into a rewarding hobby and will having you wanting more. We often carry varieties that can be grown in a container, making it easy to grow fruit right on your patio! Whether it is a common fruit like lemon or lime, or a more exotic fruit like star-fruit or a lychee, we have what you are looking for.

Certain fruit trees and shrubs require more specific and regular maintenance. For example, citrus trees in general do better if they are in well-draining soil and in the full sun. They like to get a deep though soak when watered and then allowed to dry in between. Staying too wet or over-watering can lead to problems and a steady decline in health. However, not all fruit trees should be treated the same. Bananas for example like a little bit more water, but do not want to sit wet, and are not well suited to growing in containers. Most if not all fruit trees prefer slightly different conditions, so asking questions and doing research is best when planning a landscape.

All fruit and citrus trees benefit from regular monitoring for pests and diseases along with quarterly fertilization with an organic or extended-release granular fertilizer.

 

 

Mangos

Below is a short list of popular plants in this field:

*Selection may vary by location / time of year – list does not directly reflect current inventory*

  • Citrus
    • Lemon (Meyer/Eureka/Bearss), Lime (Persian/Key), Orange (Blood/Red Navel/Mandarin/Valencia), Tangerine, Tangelo, Grapefruit, Kumquat, Cocktail Tree, Finger Lime.

 

  • Tropical Fruits
    • Banana, Cherry, Papaya, Avocado, Mango, Carambola, Lychee, Mulberry, Grape, Passion Fruit, Miracle Fruit, Dragon Fruit, Loquat, Jackfruit, Sapote, Apple, Pineapple, Black Peppercorn, Pomegranate, Coffee, Raspberry, Guava, Soursop, Persimmon.

 

  • Spices/Useful Foliage
    • Bay Leaf, Bay Rum, Sugar Cane, Allspice, Moringa.

 

Have other questions? Give us a call, or stop in at either of our locations and talk with one of our trained experts to give you the upper hand!

Banana

Trees

Hong Kong Orchid Tree

We carry a vast number of different trees at Driftwood. Trees in the landscape add scale and depth that many regular shrubs simply can’t do. There are a wide variety of trees available to us in southwest Florida but not all are the same. In fact, many “trees” are actually shrubs that are trained to develop a stalk when they are young, and encouraged through trimming and shaping to appear as if they are actually trees. This does not take away from some of the stunning topiaries and standardized (trained upwards as trees) shrubs that growers and gardeners are able to create.

Sesbania

Many trees are stunning for most of the year, but some don’t always look their best. Although we don’t normally get a very extreme winter, the plants in southwest Florida will still respond to the change in daylight and temperature. Crepe myrtles, for example, are deciduous and can drop their foliage in the winter, so don’t be upset when they start to decline as the days start to get shorter. Alternatively, Hong Kong orchid trees are one of the most beautiful winter bloomers with wide butterfly-shaped leaves and large fragrant purple blooms that last all season. Unfortunately, they do not always look as vibrant in the summer.

Having the right plant in the right place is the key when planning a landscape. Some trees are great for creating a shady area underneath the canopy, like a black olive or shady lady, whereas others are more of a specimen and can act as a large centerpiece, like a silver Bismark palm. There a number of different circumstances where certain trees will be better off and more beneficial to the design based on the situation, so it’s a good idea to ask questions when planning.

Watering plants thoroughly and then allowing time to dry out before the next watering is essential to many plants in southwest Florida, so it is best to use a well-draining soil when planting. Using the appropriate fertilizer is important for plants to thrive, so it is good practice to do it on a regular schedule to ensure good plant health. We recommend fertilizing quarterly with organic or granular extended-release fertilizer for best results.

 

 

Tecoma Stans

Below is a short list of popular plants in this field:

*Selection may vary by location / time of year – list does not directly reflect current inventory*

  • Flowering
    • Standards (trained to be trees)
      • Ixora, Tibouchina, Hibiscus, Shrimp Plant, Rose, Duranta, Jatropha, Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow, Gardenia, Bougainvillea, Clerodendrum, Powderpuff, Dombeya, Oleander, Lantana, Tecoma Stans.
    • Weeping Hibiscus, Crepe Myrtle, Royal Poinciana, Dwarf Poinciana, Jacaranda, Hong Kong Orchid Tree, Royal Robe, Weeping Bottlebrush, Magnolia, Chinese Perfume Tree, Cassia, Verawood, Holly, Geiger Tree, Tabebuia, Sesbania.

Foxtail Palm

 

  • Foliage
    • Standards (trained to be trees)
      • Croton, Clusia, Ficus, Podocarpus, Eugenia, Buttonwood / Silver Buttonwood.
    • Ylang Ylang Tree, Eucalyptus, Bamboo, Japanese Fern Tree, Japanese Blueberry, Slash Pine, Italian Cypress, Bald Cypress, Red Maple, Mahoe.

 

  • Palms / Cycads
    • Pygmy Date Palm, Areca Palm, Chinese Fan Palm, European Fan Palm, Christmas Palm, King Sago Palm, Foxtail Palm, Traveler Palm, Ponytail Palm, Coconut Palm, Alexander Palm, Silver Bismark Palm, Thatch Palm, Windmill Palm, Fishtail Palm, Spindle Palm, Bottle Palm, Buccaneer Palm, Giant Dioon Cycad.

 

Have other questions? Give us a call, or stop in at either of our locations and talk with one of our trained experts to give you the upper hand!

Bedding Flowers

Periwinkle

Flowers are the first thing that comes to mind for many when they visualize a landscape. All of the different color variations found on the many bedding plants available to use here in south Florida are awe-inspiring, but can sometimes be overwhelming when planning a flower bed or a planter. We at Driftwood are here to help you find the right plant for your unique conditions, taste and needs.

Milkweed

Many flowering bedding plants are used to spruce up a landscape design with color. Periwinkles and impatiens are quite popular due to their ease of care and wide array of colors. Many flowers attract wildlife and many gardeners plant specific flowers, like lantana and pentas to attract butterflies and bees. Some plants, like milkweed, are included in these butterfly gardens because they serve as a host plant for the endangered monarch butterfly. Attracting this specific butterfly and raising their caterpillars quickly becomes a favorite hobby for many.

A large number of our bedding plants are found in 4” to 6” containers, which makes them a perfect addition to any landscape in need of just a little more color. The majority of flowering bedding plants will want full to part sun depending on the time of year, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

Watering plants thoroughly and then allowing time to dry out before the next watering is essential to many plants in southwest Florida, so it is best to use a well-draining soil when planting. Using the appropriate fertilizer is important for plants to thrive, so it is good practice to do it on a regular schedule to ensure good plant health. We recommend fertilizing quarterly with organic or granular extended-release fertilizer for best results.

 

 

Petunia

Below is a short list of popular plants in this field:

*Selection may vary by location / time of year – list does not directly reflect current inventory*

  • Flowers
    • Milkweed, Periwinkle, Impatiens, Penta, Begonia, Purslane/Portulaca, Geranium, Alyssum, Lantana, Petunia, Bacopa, Marigold, Lobelia, Angelonia, Salvia, Torenia, Mona Lavender, Blue Daze, Zinnia, Ice Plant, Color Bowls/Confetti Garden Bowls, Pansy, Gazania, Celosia, Heather, Crossandra, Lily, Cosmos, Viola, Snapdragon.

Alyssum

 

  • Vines
    • Confederate Jasmine, Black Eyed Susan, Mandevilla, Dipladenia, Alamanda, Sky Vine, Bleeding Heart Vine, Passion Vine, Florida Flame Vine, Mexican Flame Vine, Coral Honeysuckle, Queens Wreath, Dutchman’s Pipe, Morning Glory,  Poison Arrow.

 

Have other questions? Give us a call, or stop in at either of our locations and talk with one of our trained experts to give you the upper hand!

Shrubs

Rose

Shrubs are plentiful here at Driftwood, with a large selection of different bushes that flower along with many others that boast decorative foliage. Most of the flowering shrubs prefer full sun to look their best, but many can be acclimated to different conditions. A little research and planning will ensure whatever shrub you choose will thrive.

Crotons

Crotons for example are known for their hardiness when it comes to watering (they prefer being on the dry-side) but also known for their ability to grow in a vast number of situations. Many can be seen out in full sun, but it is not uncommon to see them growing nicely in a mostly shady environment.

The majority of our shrubs can make excellent hedges for the landscape. Many can also be kept trimmed and separate, depending on the spacing and ability to trim-back the plant regularly. Some plants, like aboricola and eugenia, are much more commonly kept as a hedge due to their naturally dense look. On the other hand, asian snow is more difficult to keep as a true hedge since it typically stays smaller and more compact. That is why asking questions and doing research are key to planning a great landscape.

Watering plants thoroughly and then allowing time to dry out before the next watering is essential to many plants in southwest Florida, so it is best to use a well-draining soil when planting. Using the appropriate fertilizer is important for plants to thrive, so it is good practice to do it on a regular schedule to ensure good plant health. We recommend fertilizing quarterly with organic or granular extended-release fertilizer for best results.

 

 

Sweet Almond Bush with a friend

Below is a short list of popular plants in this field:

*Selection may vary by location / time of year – list does not directly reflect current inventory*

  • Flowering
    • Asian Snow, Ixora, Plumbago, Tibouchina, Hibiscus, Mussaenda, Shrimp Plant, Firecracker, Rose, Duranta, Firebush, Thyrallis, Jasmine, Jatropha, Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow, Alamanda, Sweet Almond, Texas Sage, Gardenia, Bougainvillea, Heliconia, Clerodendrum, Powderpuff, Bottlebrush, Dombeya, Bird of Paradise, Oleander, Panama Rose, Shooting Star, Indian Hawthorne, Viburnum, Angel Trumpet, Devil Trumpet, Holly, Beautyberry, Plumeria/Frangipani.

 

  • Foliage
    • Croton, Arboricola, Clusia, Cocoplum, Ficus, Copperleaf, Podocarpus, Coontie Palm, Cardboard Palm, Snowbush, Juniper, Carissa, Philodendron, Alocasia, Ligustrum, Cordyline-Ti, Dracaena, Pittosporum, Eugenia, Buttonwood / Silver Buttonwood, Seagrape, Agave.

 

Bottlebrush

Have other questions? Give us a call, or stop in at either of our locations and talk with one of our trained experts to give you the upper hand!