With the freezing temperatures behind us in South Florida, it is time to assess the damage.  At first glance, it does not look too bad, but we will know more in the coming weeks.  The Heliconias, Bananas, and Gingers were hardest hit, and many plants are just now showing cold damage by dropping their leaves.  Of course, leaf drop is probably a good sign that the plant has survived.  In most cases, if the dead leaves persist without dropping, there is a good chance the plant is dead.

Fortunately, we had some space to bring our herbs inside, so they weren’t exposed to the damaging cold temperatures.  Also, on a positive note, we’re hopeful this cold weather will give us a good Lychee crop in the spring.  Now let’s hope we can settle into more normal temperature patterns and watch the greening begin. Not to mention, enjoy one of the many reasons for living in South Florida, the pleasant winter, which everyone in the north can only dream about.

With yesterday’s temperature reaching nearly 80 degrees, a sure sign normalcy is returning.  I saw several hummingbirds out and about along with some warblers, butterflies, and honey bees.  Fortunately, there still are several plants in bloom which weren’t affected by the freeze, such as Firespike (Odontonema), China hat (Holmskioldia), Tropical Hydrangea (Dombeya), and Red Pentas to supply the much needed nectar for these birds and insects.

The calendar has turned over yet again, so HAPPY NEW YEAR to everyone!  Hopefully the cold front that passed through will head on out and more normal temperatures will return.  We shouldn’t complain too much though, as we are fortunate to still have plants flowering throughout the winter months, which is more than most of the country can say.

Looking out in the nursery, the Shower of Orchids Vine (Congea tomentosa) is beginning to bloom with its hundreds of tiny lavender grey orchid like flowers appearing above the foliage.  It gives the plant a somewhat smoky appearance.  Another vine currently blooming is a Tropical Clematis (Clematis smilacifolia).  It has a very pretty white flower and dark purple sepals.

Two Heliconias (Heliconia angusta) of seasonal interest are in bloom, a red and white variety along with a yellow flowered variety of the same species.  The red and white Heliconia is called Christmas Heliconia due to the time of year it blooms.

We are also growing Calabaza Winter Squash (Cucurbita moschata).  They are about 18” long and can way up to 4lbs each.  They can be baked, steamed, or micro waved, with a little salt and pepper, and they are quite good.