The Early Bloomer :: September 2018

The

s • en

b cele

c

kc

rs ea

• ro

Early Bloomer

ting 50 y ra

i t y g a rd

SEPTEMBER 2018

Bold Bromeliads seven acres of inspiration

GARDENING

Bold Bromeliads If ever there was a plant that exemplifies the exotic tropics, it is the bold and beautiful bromeliad. Its vibrant color and strappy green foliage tend to lead one to think it is a complicated plant to nurture and care for, but quite the opposite is true.

Whether grown indoors or outdoors, bromeliads are simple to maintain if you understand the nature of their basic existence.

Bromeliads need just enough water to keep them moist. They love humid environments, making them ideal for our subtropical climate. . When they flower, the bloom can last for up to several months. But once the flower is spent, the mother plant won’t re-bloom but she will instinctively produce baby bromeliads known as “pups” that will grow and thrive. To learn more about cultivating the pup, read this issue’s Ask Doc Rock.

Commonly known as an air plant, bromeliad can literally grow on tree branches or any other soil-less media. There are more than 3,000 known species of bromeliads. Pineapples and Spanish moss are some of the most recognizable species. Rock City Gardens has a plethora of exotic bromeliads in a range of varieties for just about any application.

2

GARDENING

CRYPTANTHUS Well known for their star-like shaped forms and bright colors.

They work great as bright pops of color in succulent gardens.

3

GARDENING

GUZMANIA Most notable for their spineless foliage and wide range of bright-colored blooms that last for weeks.

4

GARDENING

Care & Characteristics LIGHT

Depending on the variety, light requirements range from full sun to full shade WATER

Water when the soil is dry, taking care not to overwater. If planted outdoors, rainwater often suffices.

COLORS

Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, White or Yellow SPECIAL FEATURES

• Colorful foliage and/or blooms • Purifies indoor air • Extremely easy to grow!

• Makes a dramatic statement wherever planted or displayed

NEOREGELIA The largest of any bromeliad genus and perhaps the most colorful of them all.

5

GARDENING

ALCANTAREAS One of the largest growing varieties in the bromeliad family, it can reach as much as four feet in diameter!

6

GARDENING

FA C T:

Bromeliads improve indoor air quality by helping clear air of indoor pollutants.

AECHMEA The most diversified bromeliad in regard to growth, appearance and inflorescence, the bloom will last for several months.

7

Hey, Gardener!

Wha•da•ya•know?

Test your gardening knowledge with these fun trivia questions. The more you know, the more you grow!

1. What is an epiphyte

Brad´s Musings Come see us at Rock City The kids are back in school Get the garden looking perfect

and where does it grow?

2. What do you call a baby bromeliad?

3. What is a monocote?

Answers: 1. An epiphyte is an organism that grows on the surface of a plant and derives its moisture and nutrients from the air, rain, water or from debris accumulating around it. 2. A pup 3. Monocots are plants that have only one seed leaf inside its seed coat.

Then jump in the neighbors’ pool!

They are still on vacation; they will never know Now get back in the garden because it’s time to grow, grow, grow!

A garden enfolds us into the seasons, reminding us always that we are in the cycle ourselves.

– Frances Mayes, about the poet

Brad is a long-time Rock City Gardens’ associate.

AUTHOR

G AR D E N BOU TIQU E

ÂĄViva MĂŠxico!

Colorfully painted and fantastically fun, alebrije are new to the Garden Boutique. Pronounced ale brixes these spirit animals are made out of paper mache or carved wood. Artist Pedro Linares created the first mythical creature in 1930 through inspiration of his own peculiar dreams. Though their origins started long ago in Mexico, the Disney movie Coco made these vibrant creatures tremendously popular.

Today, Alebrije are made by artisans throughout Mexico.

Which spirit animal is your alebrije?

HARDSCAPES

INSIDE OUR GARDEN GATES It’s where gardening knowledge has been shared for decades. Where exquisite home and garden décor, stunning flowers and outdoor living spaces have generated rave reviews. And where peaceful garden strolls soothe the soul.

Open seven days a week. Visit soon.

ASK DOC ROCK Q: H ow can I grow

bromeliad pups to maturity?

A: The first step to growing a bromeliad clone, or pup, to full maturity is to allow it to remain on the parent plant until it’s about 1/3 the size of the mother. It’s a natural process and necessary for the pups to get enough energy from mom before you propagate them. Achmae and Neoregelia are the easiest varieties to divide. If your bromeliad has already flowered, you may have to tolerate a dying plant whose leaves are turning yellow and brown. Next, use a sharp knife and remove the pup from the parent, taking a bit of the parent plant with it. Plant the pup in a small amount of potting media.

Pups require the same care as parent plants. Be patient and wait for another spectacular showing!

Click here to watch a how-to video on propogating pups!

Custom hardscape features at Rock City Gardens

How Does Your Garden Grow?

If you’re like most Florida gardeners, you’re counting the days until the hot summer months are behind us and the mild winter season greets us in the garden. Spending time outdoors is a luxury we enjoy far more than our northern neighbors. Our clients trust Rock City Gardens to create beautiful outdoor rooms and garden features that can be enjoyed nearly year-round. From outdoor kitchens and fireplaces to pool decks and custom water features, our hardscape team is well known for their creativity and expertise. Visit soon to see their handiwork inside our garden gates.

seven acres of inspiration

9080 U.S. Hwy 1 Wabasso, Florida 32970 772.589.5835 RockCityGardens.com

Monday through Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm Saturday and Sunday 9:00am – 5:00pm © 2013-2018 Rock City Gardens

Stay connected with us on Facebook and Houzz, anytime, anywhere.