Time To Plant Those Trees Of Color

    The Florida Federation of Garden Clubs celebrates its 100th year in 2024 with a special emphasis on planting native trees. The big festivities will surround Florida Arbor Day, January 19. Duke Energy Foundation has partnered with the garden clubs to provide $20,000 in grants to plant native tree species to promote shade and habitat.
   With the huge housing construction boom in Florida right now and the deforestation of former woodland areas, this is a well-timed initiative. The right time to plant trees in Florida is right now while they are dormant. The super-heated days of summer will be upon us in no time. Planting trees now while they are dormant is the right time to achieve success.
   When thinking about what to plant consider adding some of the hurricane-resistant trees that will also add pretty color to your fall and winter landscape like hickory, sweet gum, red maple, crepe myrtle, and sand pear (Pyrus pyrifolia).
   They help support biodiversity and provide habitat. The red maples provide small blooms that feed bees in winter, pears flower and the bees enjoy that in spring, the pears feed many species in fall and can be used for cooking and canning. Hickories provide bright yellow fall foliage color and nuts for animals.
   Send us pictures of yourself with whatever trees you choose to plant this Arbor Day! Help keep Florida cool and well-forested. Text to 352-272-8257 with a caption. Send pictures via email: hollynewby1@aol.com or share to www.thenorthlake outpost.com/contactus.