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Frost damage?

rose-frostDon’t trim those frost damaged branches yet!

You might be tempted to cut off those ugly, brown, damaged by freeze branches off your trees and shrubs. Don’t do it! Wait until we are way into March.

Pruning promotes new growth and if another freeze comes, your plant’s new tender leaves will once again be vulnerable. Wait until the spring is in full swing, fertilize your shrubs or trees, then tip the unwanted twigs with garden shears. Your plants will reward your patience and care with renewed, fresh and healthy new growth in no time.

Do trees become dormant in Florida too?

Yes, although Florida has a much warmer climate, many commonly Florida grown trees do go dormant and completely lose their leaves in the winter months. This time of year we receive a lot of inquiries asking if their tree is dying as the leaves are turning brown and dropping. If you have any of the following trees: crape myrtles, elms (drake & winged,) red maple, sweetgums, sycamore and weeping willow, they are simply beginning their dormancy phase for the winter, so do not be alarmed.

Their leaves will return starting in the spring time. A couple other tree varieties may “shed” (lose some of their leaves, but not entirely) including: magnolias and live oaks. So, if you see any yellowing or browning of leaves w/ these varieties this is perfectly fine as they too are acclimating to the winter.