PHOTO PROVIDED Desert rose

The desert rose generally only grows to a maximum height of about 4 feet and will take many years to reach full maturity Due to its slow-growing nature, trimming is considered optional A light spring pruning or pinching of stem tips can help create more branches and a possibly a fuller blooming effect On the other hand and great news for the less experienced gardener many of the plants have a wonderful shape without any help from their owners if planted in the right conditions

Interesting fact: Due to the toxins contained in its sap, the desert rose is deer and rabbit resistant

In The Garden is a joint effort by all at the local g a r d e n c e n t e r , a t 3 8 8 9 S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a R o a d , Sanibel For more information, contact 239-3955859 or visit www facebook com/rswalshinthegarden

To view the Q&A pertaining to the natural environment and landscaping, visit https://files constantcont a c t c o m / 9 a 6 9 8 4 4 f 6 0 1 / 1

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SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

T o w a t c h a r e c o r d i n g o f t h e e v e n t , v i s i t https://www facebook com/watch/live/?ref=watch

The Shack collecting used backpacks

The Shack of Sanibel is hosting a backpack drive to help unsheltered friends on the streets in the Fort Myers area It will collect used backpacks from now through June 11, which will go to a location that works with people on a daily and weekly basis It reported that backpacks are a much needed item, as well as shoes, toiletries and clothes Located at 1219 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, The Shack of Sanibel is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a m to 8 p m

Sea oats provide variety of benefits

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Sea oats (Uniola paniculata), the ubiquitous and charismatic dune species, is beginning to show off its summer glory The gentle swaying “oats,” which are the plant's seedheads, typically form spikes or panicles, in botanical terminology in the early summer Despite Hurricane Ian's storm surge and strong winds, the areas where sea oats remain are recovering quite well and are thriving despite last fall's difficult conditions Sea oats are perfectly suited for shifting winds; with roots that can grow until they hit the water table, they can often extend in our area downwards of 10 feet or more. In addition, clumps will spread horizontally by underground stems, the seeds provide food for birds and small mammals, and the grass blades trap windborn sand to create and build new sand dunes

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Sea oats

County accepts state grant funds to reduce homelessness

The funds are a one-year allocation expected to serve 638 individuals The grants are part of a three-year contract totaling more than $1 2 million