[jimbo2012]

Looking at some different types of shrubs, palms and plants they specify what type of soil conditions they require.

Sandy, loam, clay etc also salt content.

What are you favorite winter flowering planting?

[2newyorkers]

Ornamental cabbages, petunias and pansies.

[KathieI]

Not many survive the harsh winter weather here (remember, I come from Los Angeles, LOL), but I've learned that bouganvilla (sp?) may die off but do come back in the spring. They require very little care but be careful when trimming them because of the very thick thorns on the stems.

You can't beat the knock out roses that survive the winters and just grow in abundance.. Although I do miss my regular rose bushes.

I have found that verbena does die in the winter but comes back in the spring.

Be sure to plant perennials (sp?) not annuals. First thing I did when I moved here was buy a book at B&N about Central FL landscaping. It was very helpful.

Hope this helps.

[jnieman]

Having tried many flowers different times of the year here in the Villages with not much success, we have started planting the same flowers the Villages plant. All of the flowers that line the streets here are great examples of what will grow and last in your own landscape. Our favorites for flowers are Vincas and geraniums. They seem to bloom continuously and the vincas even reseed themselves. We also have had some luck with pansies and marigolds.

[NJblue]

My favorite winter annuals are pansies and snap dragons. Both laugh at the cold weather and bloom constantly from Oct/Nov through April/May. Even though it's almost June, my snap dragons still are blooming a bit.


This past winter was very mild, so a lot of shrubs which quit blooming in previous winters continued to bloom - but I wouldn't count on it.


By far, most of the soil in our area around 466A is sand, but I have a few spots that are clay, which, when dry, is like concrete. When moistened it can be worked.

[NotGolfer]

Even though sandy...most things will grow as long as they get plenty of water. You may have to haul some of that when the restrictions are on. Though we have a neighbor who seems to ignore the "rules" and has their sprinkles going all the time. Back to the question...if you want good soil you may have to pay to have some hauled in.

[jimbo2012]

anyone check the soil PH or salt levels?

[elevatorman]

On this page Sumter County, FL - Official Website - The Village Annex the second item it the local rep from the UF extension service. He can give you all the details about the soil. If you are in the area stop by he will answer questions. He will also come to your club meeting and has a good slide show.

[jimbo2012]

Great lead, they must know, I sent them an email.

[batman911]

Anyone try to grow hostas in TV?