G.D. Palmer

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Stories By G.D. Palmer

  • Varieties Of Hawaiian Avocado Trees

    Varieties of Hawaiian Avocado Trees. The avocado is a medium-to-large evergreen tree that prefers subtropical to tropical climates. It grows well in Hawaii, although this state is not one of America's main producers. Hawaiian avocado growers produce some of the same varieties as mainland growers, as well as a few less common types. Many Hawaiian avocados are consumed in the state with only some of the crop shipped to the mainland.

    By G.D. Palmer November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Pet Safe Lawn Grub Control

    Pet Safe Lawn Grub Control. White lawn grubs, the larvae of scarab beetle species like the June beetle, Japanese beetle and European chafer, are a lawn pests during the summer months. These grubs live under the soil, feeding on grass and other plant roots. They cause wilting and browning of the lawn, especially in the late summer months. Many products are available for grub control, but not all are safe for use around pets or small children.

    By G.D. Palmer November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Why Are My Figs Falling Off Before They Are Ripe?

    Why Are My Figs Falling Off Before They Are Ripe?. Figs are members of the Ficus genus, a grouping of vines and viney trees that produces a unique fruit. Commercially, growers produce the Smyrna fig, San Pedro fig and common fig. These fig varieties produce reliably, yielding large, sweet fruit, but may suffer from fruit drop in the wrong environmental conditions or when the correct pollinators are unavailable.

    By G.D. Palmer November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • What Phylum Are Ferns In?

    What Phylum Are Ferns In?. Ferns are vascular plants, containing both phloem and xylem, and have roots, stems and leaves as do most other types of plants. However, unlike trees, flowering shrubs and most other plant types, ferns do not produce flowers or seeds. Instead, they reproduce via spores. Taxonomically, all ferns are grouped together in the same phylum, also called a division.

    By G.D. Palmer November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Perlite Vs. Pumice

    Perlite vs. Pumice. Basic garden soil is enough for many plants. Others need special soil to do their best. This is especially likely if your soil already contains large amounts of clay or organic material. Perlite and pumice are two substances that can help you create the best soil mix for your plants. Both are derived from volcanic rock and can be used in a variety of soil mixes or on their own, but each has its own special characteristics.

    By G.D. Palmer November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • Landscaping Ideas For The Front Yard In North Florida

    Landscaping Ideas for the Front Yard in North Florida. North Florida is located primarily in Zones 8 to 9a and has a significantly different climate from that of central and southern Florida. This more temperature region sees freezing temperatures during the winter, which can limit planting. In addition, northern Florida is also subject to highly variable water availability and problems with invasive plants. Choosing the right plants and locations for your north Florida front yard can make building an attractive, lower-maintenance landscape a lot easier.

    By G.D. Palmer November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • How To Hang A Bat House

    Bat houses are a great way to cut down on local pest insects and encourage biological diversity. However, a badly made or mounted bat house may not attract very many bats. A functional bat house must be the right size, protected against drafts, and mounted correctly. Height, proximity to nearby objects and other elements could make a big difference in whether your project turns out to be bat heaven.

    By G.D. Palmer November 4th, 2022 Read More
  • What Is So Unique About The Candelabra Tree?

    What Is So Unique About the Candelabra Tree?. The candelabra tree (Euphorbia ingens) is a spiny tree native to Southern Africa, including Zimbabwe, South Africa and Mozambique. This plant prefers dry climates, similar to those for cacti and other succulent plants, as well as large amounts of sun. This plant can be grown both in its natural habitat and indoors, and it has some unique features.

    By G.D. Palmer November 3rd, 2022 Read More
  • How Far Apart Do You Have To Plant Live Oak Trees?

    How Far Apart Do You Have to Plant Live Oak Trees?. Live oaks (Quercus virginiana) make a landscaping statement that lasts. These stately trees can live for centuries, reaching majestic heights and developing broad leafy canopies. These evergreen trees' eventual size and spreading root system makes proper spacing at planting time essential, but the right live oak could be a charming addition to your home landscape.

    By G.D. Palmer September 6th, 2022 Read More
  • Signs That A Bromeliad Is Thirsty

    Signs That a Bromeliad Is Thirsty. Bromeliads are slow-growing, long-lived plants. Most of them are epiphytes, or organisms that grow on another plant without harming it. These plants often live without soil, which can make it hard to determine when to water them. Air plants (Tillandsias spp.) for example, don't need soil and some grow outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 through 11. Observing your plant carefully for the subtle signs of dehydration is essential if you want to give it enough moisture.

    By G.D. Palmer September 6th, 2022 Read More
  • Are Physocarpus Opulifolius Deer Resistant?

    Are Physocarpus Opulifolius Deer Resistant?. Physocarpus opulifolius, more commonly known as eastern, Atlantic or common ninebark, is a North American native shrub hardy to cold regions. It withstands drought well once established and is notable for its dramatically peeling bark. Ninebark is not strongly deer resistant, but still works well in native landscaping arrangements.

    By G.D. Palmer September 6th, 2022 Read More