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There have been a lot of things brought into and out of the deep South that seemed like a good idea at the time. From kudzu and mullet haircuts to deep-fried Twinkies and jorts, we should probably think twice about a few trends. One such grand idea was the tung oil tree. Recently, some good [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_39961" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-39961" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/07/tung-oil-5.jpg"><img decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" class="size-medium wp-image-39961 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="225" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/07/tung-oil-5-300x225.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-39961" class="wp-caption-text">The tung oil tree has heart-shaped leaves and large fruit. However, these are toxic to humans. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension</figcaption></figure>
<p>There have been a lot of things brought into and out of the deep South that seemed like a good idea at the time. From <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/2022/05/04/weekly-what-is-it-kudzu/">kudzu</a> and mullet haircuts to deep-fried Twinkies and jorts, we should probably think twice about a few trends. One such grand idea was the tung oil tree.</p>
<p>Recently, some good friends who have a little piece of property over in Walton County asked me about a beautiful, leafy tree with big green citrus-like fruit growing on their land. They were hoping it was edible. While I wasn’t immediately familiar with it, my horticulture agent colleagues were, and emphasized that it is most definitely NOT something to eat.</p>
<p><a href="https://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/plant-directory/aleurites-fordii/">Tung oil trees (<em>Vernicia fordii, </em>formerly <em>Aleurites fordii) </em></a>were introduced along the Gulf Coast from Texas to northwest Florida in the early part of the 20<sup>th</sup> century as a potential cash crop. In its native range in southeast Asia—particularly southern China—oil extracted from wild tung tree nuts was used to waterproof wooden boats the way we used longleaf pine sap. For centuries, they burned the oil in lamps and used the wood for instruments. Awareness of tung oil reached western civilization via Marco Polo, and later through trading along the Silk Road.</p>
<figure id="attachment_39967" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-39967" style="width: 225px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/07/tung-oil-3.jpg"><img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-39967 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="225" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/07/tung-oil-3-225x300.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-39967" class="wp-caption-text">Inside the tung oil tree fruit are nuts, which can be pressed for a high-quality, quick-drying oil. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension</figcaption></figure>
<p>When an American diplomat to China sent seeds of the tung oil tree to contacts in California in the early 1900’s, they did not survive the arid climate. From there, more saplings were sent to <a href="https://www.floridamemory.com/items/show/295194">agricultural experiment stations across the country</a> to see if they’d perform better elsewhere. Several of the first successful stands of tung oil trees were actually nearby, in Tallahassee and Fairhope, Alabama. Turns out, tung oil trees loved the Gulf South. Our humidity, heavy rainfall, and milder winters felt more like “home” than anywhere else in the country. Enthusiasm about a potential new crop saw the planting of thousands of trees in stretch of the northern Gulf Coast and was deemed the “Tung Belt.”</p>
<figure id="attachment_39977" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-39977" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/07/tung-factory.jpg"><img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-39977 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="242" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/07/tung-factory-300x242.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-39977" class="wp-caption-text">A worker feeds tung nuts into a machine inside a tung oil plant in Tallahassee. A single factory could purchase as much as 400 tons of tung nuts in a single day (1949). Photo courtesy State of Florida archives.</figcaption></figure>
<p>Most of the plantations were financed and owned by wealthy Midwestern businessmen taking advantage of a program intended to help poor Southerners buy timberland. <a href="https://www.se-eppc.org/wildlandweeds/pdf/Winter2005-Brown-pp4-6.pdf">Tung oil orchards were first planted in the very areas where our longleaf pine forests had been widely clearcut</a>. After establishing tree orchards and hiring local help to harvest, they were hoping to attract industrial processors for paint, ink, and oil using the raw materials provided by the trees.  The trees are fast-growing, helping manage erosion, and producing a crop in 3-5 years as opposed to the decades required to harvest pine. Experimentation with the oil increased during World War I.  According to the September 1929 issue of the <em>The Journal of American Oil Chemists’ Society</em>, by the mid-1920’s, tung oil was the 4<sup>th</sup> largest chemical import, and there was a lot of interest in elevating domestic production. The first American oil producing plant was opened in Alachua County, Florida, in 1928, hoping to compete with that huge import industry.</p>
<figure id="attachment_39965" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-39965" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/07/Tung-flowers-Photo-Timothy-Rinehart-USDA-Agricultural-Research-Service.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-39965 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="298" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/07/Tung-flowers-Photo-Timothy-Rinehart-USDA-Agricultural-Research-Service-300x298.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-39965" class="wp-caption-text">Tung oil tree flowers in bloom. Photo credit: Timothy Rinehart, USDA Agricultural Research Service</figcaption></figure>
<p>The short-lived effort was first met with great hope for economically and botanically diversifying southern agriculture. Despite great efforts to popularize the tree through “Tung Oil Queen” contests and magazine articles highlighting their lovely flowers, the effort never truly took root. The nascent tung oil industry in the USA lasted through World War II, fueled by rich boosters, government investment, and anti-Chinese messaging. During the war, the federal government commandeered its use for waterproofing clothing, tents, ships, planes, and lubricating machinery.  Unfortunately, growers were unable to ramp up domestic production substantially during the short time frame of the war. By the late 40’s, competition from imported products, synthetic oils, and the tree&#8217;s vulnerability to freezes led to waning enthusiasm and the industry weakened. It was officially deemed over in 1969 when Hurricane Camille wiped out the last of the orchards.</p>
<p><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/07/tung-infograph.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-39963 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="285" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/07/tung-infograph-285x300.jpg"></a>Remnants of these trees still pop up along the northern Gulf coast. Tung oil trees are considered a “species of caution” in north Florida by the IFAS Assessment and a Category II invasive species by the <a href="http://bugwoodcloud.org/CDN/fleppc/plantlists/2019/2019_Plant_List_ABSOLUTE_FINAL.pdf">Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council</a>. According to the <a href="https://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/plant-directory/aleurites-fordii">UF IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants</a>, “all parts of the tung oil tree are poisonous, and one seed can be fatal.” Many people have an allergic reaction when touching the leaves, but if leaves or seeds are ingested they can cause extremely serious <a href="https://www.se-eppc.org/wildlandweeds/pdf/Winter2005-Brown-pp4-6.pdf">gastric and respiratory distress</a>.</p>
<p>Tung oil trees are in the Euphorbia family and are related to rubber trees. The <a href="https://www.se-eppc.org/wildlandweeds/pdf/Winter2005-Brown-pp4-6.pdf">fruit ripens and turns red in the fall</a>. Inside the fruit are nuts with 3-5 seeds, which yield the high-quality oil once pressed. They do have incredibly beautiful, tropical-looking flowers and are still used as ornamental trees in some states. According to Extension colleagues at <a href="https://www.lsuagcenter.com/profiles/mhferguson/articles/page1702046482893">LSU, a new variety</a> that produces few fruits and no viable seeds has been developed that could be a safer option.</p>
<p>I learned a tremendous amount about this species and how it came to our area thanks to an <a href="https://scholarsjunction.msstate.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=5794&amp;context=td">exhaustive examination of the tung oil industry from a PhD history student</a> out of Mississippi State University. <a href="https://directory.msutexas.edu/users/whitneysnow">Dr. Snow&#8217;s</a> dissertation is a fascinating overview of cultural, economic, agricultural, and world history encapsulated in an oily little nut.</p>


The tung oil tree has heart-shaped leaves and large fruit. However, these are toxic to humans. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension
There have been a lot of things brought into and out of the deep South that seemed like a good idea at the time. From kudzu and mullet haircuts to deep-fried Twinkies and jorts, we should probably think twice about a few trends. One such grand idea was the tung oil tree.
Recently, some good friends who have a little piece of property over in Walton County asked me about a beautiful, leafy tree with big green citrus-like fruit growing on their land. They were hoping it was edible. While I wasn’t immediately familiar with it, my horticulture agent colleagues were, and emphasized that it is most definitely NOT something to eat.
Tung oil trees (Vernicia fordii, formerly Aleurites fordii) were introduced along the Gulf Coast from Texas to northwest Florida in the early part of the 20th century as a potential cash crop. In its native range in southeast Asia—particularly southern China—oil extracted from wild tung tree nuts was used to waterproof wooden boats the way we used longleaf pine sap. For centuries, they burned the oil in lamps and used the wood for instruments. Awareness of tung oil reached western civilization via Marco Polo, and later through trading along the Silk Road.
Inside the tung oil tree fruit are nuts, which can be pressed for a high-quality, quick-drying oil. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension
When an American diplomat to China sent seeds of the tung oil tree to contacts in California in the early 1900’s, they did not survive the arid climate. From there, more saplings were sent to agricultural experiment stations across the country to see if they’d perform better elsewhere. Several of the first successful stands of tung oil trees were actually nearby, in Tallahassee and Fairhope, Alabama. Turns out, tung oil trees loved the Gulf South. Our humidity, heavy rainfall, and milder winters felt more like “home” than anywhere else in the country. Enthusiasm about a potential new crop saw the planting of thousands of trees in stretch of the northern Gulf Coast and was deemed the “Tung Belt.”
A worker feeds tung nuts into a machine inside a tung oil plant in Tallahassee. A single factory could purchase as much as 400 tons of tung nuts in a single day (1949). Photo courtesy State of Florida archives.
Most of the plantations were financed and owned by wealthy Midwestern businessmen taking advantage of a program intended to help poor Southerners buy timberland. Tung oil orchards were first planted in the very areas where our longleaf pine forests had been widely clearcut. After establishing tree orchards and hiring local help to harvest, they were hoping to attract industrial processors for paint, ink, and oil using the raw materials provided by the trees.  The trees are fast-growing, helping manage erosion, and producing a crop in 3-5 years as opposed to the decades required to harvest pine. Experimentation with the oil increased during World War I.  According to the September 1929 issue of the The Journal of American Oil Chemists’ Society, by the mid-1920’s, tung oil was the 4th largest chemical import, and there was a lot of interest in elevating domestic production. The first American oil producing plant was opened in Alachua County, Florida, in 1928, hoping to compete with that huge import industry.
Tung oil tree flowers in bloom. Photo credit: Timothy Rinehart, USDA Agricultural Research Service
The short-lived effort was first met with great hope for economically and botanically diversifying southern agriculture. Despite great efforts to popularize the tree through “Tung Oil Queen” contests and magazine articles highlighting their lovely flowers, the effort never truly took root. The nascent tung oil industry in the USA lasted through World War II, fueled by rich boosters, government investment, and anti-Chinese messaging. During the war, the federal government commandeered its use for waterproofing clothing, tents, ships, planes, and lubricating machinery.  Unfortunately, growers were unable to ramp up domestic production substantially during the short time frame of the war. By the late 40’s, competition from imported products, synthetic oils, and the tree’s vulnerability to freezes led to waning enthusiasm and the industry weakened. It was officially deemed over in 1969 when Hurricane Camille wiped out the last of the orchards.
Remnants of these trees still pop up along the northern Gulf coast. Tung oil trees are considered a “species of caution” in north Florida by the IFAS Assessment and a Category II invasive species by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council. According to the UF IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants, “all parts of the tung oil tree are poisonous, and one seed can be fatal.” Many people have an allergic reaction when touching the leaves, but if leaves or seeds are ingested they can cause extremely serious gastric and respiratory distress.
Tung oil trees are in the Euphorbia family and are related to rubber trees. The fruit ripens and turns red in the fall. Inside the fruit are nuts with 3-5 seeds, which yield the high-quality oil once pressed. They do have incredibly beautiful, tropical-looking flowers and are still used as ornamental trees in some states. According to Extension colleagues at LSU, a new variety that produces few fruits and no viable seeds has been developed that could be a safer option.
I learned a tremendous amount about this species and how it came to our area thanks to an exhaustive examination of the tung oil industry from a PhD history student out of Mississippi State University. Dr. Snow’s dissertation is a fascinating overview of cultural, economic, agricultural, and world history encapsulated in an oily little nut.

There have been a lot of things brought into and out of the deep South that seemed like a good idea at the time. From kudzu and mullet haircuts to deep-fried Twinkies and jorts, we should probably think twice about a few trends. One such grand idea was the tung oil tree. Recently, some good […]

Weekly “What is it?”: Tung Oil Tree

Here comes the drought stress&#8230; June first marks the beginning of Florida’s rainy season – although, it has not been that rainy lately. In fact, we&#8217;ve already received a couple of burn ban notifications from the Florida Forest Service. While our spring started off wetter than normal, the past couple of weeks have been dry. [&#8230;]

<h2>Here comes the drought stress&#8230;</h2>
<p>June first marks the beginning of Florida’s rainy season – although, it has not been that rainy lately. In fact, we&#8217;ve already received a couple of burn ban notifications from the Florida Forest Service. While our spring started off wetter than normal, the past couple of weeks have been dry. Some parts of my landscape are longing for rain, while others seem unaffected. As a result, this is the time of year I typically find myself irrigating certain parts of my landscape to prevent drought stress on some plants. Thankfully, by adhering to the principles of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping program, we can easily select plants with drought tolerance that withstand the hottest, dryest days in Florida. This allows our landscape to thrive, look beautiful, require minimal irrigation, and, importantly, demand less effort—a perfect combination for this lazy gardener.</p>
<h2>Drought-Tolerant Plants</h2>
<p>Drought-tolerant plants are truly fascinating. When thinking of the most drought-tolerant species, one might immediately picture plants from the desert southwest, such as rabbitbrush, cacti, acacia, agaves, and yuccas. However, these are not the only plants with impressive drought tolerance. Many of Florida’s native plants also exhibit a high degree of drought tolerance. Consequently, once established, many plants in our landscapes require no irrigation, even during severe drought periods. This resilience is due to specialized morpho-physiological characteristics that allow these plants to protect and conserve water.</p>
<h3>Plant Adaptations</h3>
<p>Plants employ various morpho-physiological adaptations to increase their drought tolerance, primarily aimed at reducing water loss. Strategies include different photosynthesis processes, hormonal regulation, osmotic adjustments, and changes in root morphology. Simply put, plants become adept at conserving water. One crucial strategy is the closure of stomata—tiny openings on leaf surfaces—during dry periods to minimize water loss.</p>
<p>Despite the complex adaptations that enhance drought tolerance, certain physical characteristics can help us quickly identify drought-tolerant plants. When browsing your local nursery, look for plants with thick, leathery, or hairy leaves, or those with thin, strappy leaves. The thick and leathery leaves will sometimes have a waxy cuticle – this helps the plant reflect away light/heat. This is like us wearing light colors in the summer rather than dark colors. Thin and strappy leaves reduce the overall surface area of a leaf, which minimizes water loss opportunities. Lastly, the hairy leaves shade stomata and reduce the plant’s direct contact with warm air. These attributes aid in temperature regulation and reduce water loss, helping plants endure warm, dry conditions.</p>
<h3>Signs of Drought Stress</h3>
<p>Surprisingly, part of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping&#x2122; program&#8217;s &#8220;water efficiency&#8221; principle involves encouraging plants to experience some level of drought stress rather than overwatering them. This approach promotes deeper root growth, enhancing plant resilience to drought. Signs such as folded leaf blades and changes in leaf color indicate when turfgrass needs watering, while wilting leaves and leaf loss indicate drought stress in shrubs and trees.</p>
<h3>When to Irrigate&#8230;</h3>
<p>Trees and shrubs generally require less frequent watering compared to turfgrass. If signs of drought stress appear, consider targeted irrigation only where necessary. Turfgrass and trees/shrubs should ideally have separate irrigation zones to prevent overwatering.</p>
<h3>When to try Something New</h3>
<p>If a part of your landscape consistently requires irrigation due to low drought tolerance, consider replacing those plants with drought-tolerant species. Use resources like online plant selection apps to ensure you choose the most suitable plants for your environment. Some favorite drought-tolerant plants include coontie palms, native lantana, rosemary, beach dune sunflower, blue daze, native clumping grasses, firebush, Texas sage, palmettos, hollies, and cedar trees.</p>
<h2>Become a Lazy Gardener with the FFL Program</h2>
<p>As a self-professed lazy gardener, I adhere to the principle of &#8220;right plant, right place.&#8221; If a plant doesn&#8217;t thrive in its environment, it&#8217;s not the right fit. My aim is to cultivate a landscape that is resilient, low-maintenance, and beautiful, requiring minimal supplemental watering. By doing so, I hope to contribute to the conservation of Florida&#8217;s water resources for crucial sectors like agriculture, fisheries, springs, estuaries, and tourism, all vital to the state&#8217;s economy. Thankfully, achieving this goal is straightforward with the guidance of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping&#x2122; Program.</p>
<h2>Other Drought Tolerant Resources</h2>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZzVwQ010dLo">Drought Tolerant Plants &#8211; A Webinar, UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/orangeco/2020/03/11/drought-tolerant-plants-for-a-florida-friendly-landscape-zone-9/#:~:text=Some%20drought%20tolerant%20annuals%20and,gaura%2C%20gazania%2C%20spider%20lily%2C">Drought Tolerant Plants for a Florida-Friendly Landscape, Zone 9, by Tia Silvasy</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4937719/">A Dive Into the Weeds (The Technical Stuff)</a></li>
</ul>
<h2>How to Reach Us!</h2>
<p>If you have any questions about planting, selecting, and maintaining your garden, reach out to our Master Gardener Volunteer Help Desk at Nassau County’s extension office for more tips. For all your questions about managing your gardens and landscapes, you may reach out to the Nassau County Master Gardener Volunteers at NassauMGV@ifas.ufl.edu.</p>
<h3>Check out <a href="https://sites.google.com/ufl.edu/cultivating-curiosity/home">EXTENSION CORD</a></h3>
<p>A UF/IFAS Extension podcast for anyone interested in plants!</p>
<p><a href="https://sites.google.com/ufl.edu/cultivating-curiosity/home" target="_blank" rel="https://sites.google.com/ufl.edu/cultivating-curiosity/home noopener"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-10235 size-medium aligncenter lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/nassauco/files/2024/01/ManateeCo-Cultivating-Curiosity-Podcast-Graphic-2023-PodcastTitleOnly-2-300x300.png"></a></p>
<h3>More Information:</h3>
<p><a href="https://uflorida-my.sharepoint.com/:f:/g/personal/taylorclem87_ufl_edu/Epu0Hvvf_XlEt22yrjW6imkBsYGaLKqbGL99vBpU2HvEHg">The Good Gardener &#8211; An MGV Newsletter</a></p>
<p><a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/nassau/">UF/IFAS Extension Nassau County</a></p>
<p><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/nassauco/author/taylorclem87/">UF/IFAS Extension Blogs &#8211; Taylor Clem</a></p>
<h3>Social Media:</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/NassauCountyExtension/">Facebook Page</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGsho3D4T-guJ_2QoQmLqAA">YouTube</a></p>


Here comes the drought stress…
June first marks the beginning of Florida’s rainy season – although, it has not been that rainy lately. In fact, we’ve already received a couple of burn ban notifications from the Florida Forest Service. While our spring started off wetter than normal, the past couple of weeks have been dry. Some parts of my landscape are longing for rain, while others seem unaffected. As a result, this is the time of year I typically find myself irrigating certain parts of my landscape to prevent drought stress on some plants. Thankfully, by adhering to the principles of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping program, we can easily select plants with drought tolerance that withstand the hottest, dryest days in Florida. This allows our landscape to thrive, look beautiful, require minimal irrigation, and, importantly, demand less effort—a perfect combination for this lazy gardener.
Drought-Tolerant Plants
Drought-tolerant plants are truly fascinating. When thinking of the most drought-tolerant species, one might immediately picture plants from the desert southwest, such as rabbitbrush, cacti, acacia, agaves, and yuccas. However, these are not the only plants with impressive drought tolerance. Many of Florida’s native plants also exhibit a high degree of drought tolerance. Consequently, once established, many plants in our landscapes require no irrigation, even during severe drought periods. This resilience is due to specialized morpho-physiological characteristics that allow these plants to protect and conserve water.
Plant Adaptations
Plants employ various morpho-physiological adaptations to increase their drought tolerance, primarily aimed at reducing water loss. Strategies include different photosynthesis processes, hormonal regulation, osmotic adjustments, and changes in root morphology. Simply put, plants become adept at conserving water. One crucial strategy is the closure of stomata—tiny openings on leaf surfaces—during dry periods to minimize water loss.
Despite the complex adaptations that enhance drought tolerance, certain physical characteristics can help us quickly identify drought-tolerant plants. When browsing your local nursery, look for plants with thick, leathery, or hairy leaves, or those with thin, strappy leaves. The thick and leathery leaves will sometimes have a waxy cuticle – this helps the plant reflect away light/heat. This is like us wearing light colors in the summer rather than dark colors. Thin and strappy leaves reduce the overall surface area of a leaf, which minimizes water loss opportunities. Lastly, the hairy leaves shade stomata and reduce the plant’s direct contact with warm air. These attributes aid in temperature regulation and reduce water loss, helping plants endure warm, dry conditions.
Signs of Drought Stress
Surprisingly, part of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program’s “water efficiency” principle involves encouraging plants to experience some level of drought stress rather than overwatering them. This approach promotes deeper root growth, enhancing plant resilience to drought. Signs such as folded leaf blades and changes in leaf color indicate when turfgrass needs watering, while wilting leaves and leaf loss indicate drought stress in shrubs and trees.
When to Irrigate…
Trees and shrubs generally require less frequent watering compared to turfgrass. If signs of drought stress appear, consider targeted irrigation only where necessary. Turfgrass and trees/shrubs should ideally have separate irrigation zones to prevent overwatering.
When to try Something New
If a part of your landscape consistently requires irrigation due to low drought tolerance, consider replacing those plants with drought-tolerant species. Use resources like online plant selection apps to ensure you choose the most suitable plants for your environment. Some favorite drought-tolerant plants include coontie palms, native lantana, rosemary, beach dune sunflower, blue daze, native clumping grasses, firebush, Texas sage, palmettos, hollies, and cedar trees.
Become a Lazy Gardener with the FFL Program
As a self-professed lazy gardener, I adhere to the principle of “right plant, right place.” If a plant doesn’t thrive in its environment, it’s not the right fit. My aim is to cultivate a landscape that is resilient, low-maintenance, and beautiful, requiring minimal supplemental watering. By doing so, I hope to contribute to the conservation of Florida’s water resources for crucial sectors like agriculture, fisheries, springs, estuaries, and tourism, all vital to the state’s economy. Thankfully, achieving this goal is straightforward with the guidance of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program.
Other Drought Tolerant Resources
Drought Tolerant Plants – A Webinar, UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County
Drought Tolerant Plants for a Florida-Friendly Landscape, Zone 9, by Tia Silvasy
A Dive Into the Weeds (The Technical Stuff)
How to Reach Us!
If you have any questions about planting, selecting, and maintaining your garden, reach out to our Master Gardener Volunteer Help Desk at Nassau County’s extension office for more tips. For all your questions about managing your gardens and landscapes, you may reach out to the Nassau County Master Gardener Volunteers at NassauMGV@ifas.ufl.edu.
Check out EXTENSION CORD
A UF/IFAS Extension podcast for anyone interested in plants!

More Information:
The Good Gardener – An MGV Newsletter
UF/IFAS Extension Nassau County
UF/IFAS Extension Blogs – Taylor Clem
Social Media:
Facebook Page
YouTube

Here comes the drought stress… June first marks the beginning of Florida’s rainy season – although, it has not been that rainy lately. In fact, we’ve already received a couple of burn ban notifications from the Florida Forest Service. While our spring started off wetter than normal, the past couple of weeks have been dry. […]

Drought Tolerance: The Amazing Plant Adaptations

Landscapes that support our native pollinators are places filled with wonder!  They help our environment by providing safe havens for our smallest of wildlife – bees, butterflies and more!  Homeowners, institutions, developers – even apartment dwellers with balconies – can experience the reward of knowing that individuals CAN make a difference!  Florida&#8217;s pollinators have life [&#8230;]

<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-8377 alignleft lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="yellow and black striped bee on a white native flower" width="300" height="275" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/files/2024/06/bee-on-white-flower-300x275.jpg">Landscapes that support our native pollinators are places filled with wonder!  They help our environment by providing safe havens for our smallest of wildlife – bees, butterflies and more!  Homeowners, institutions, developers – even apartment dwellers with balconies – can experience the reward of knowing that individuals CAN make a difference!  Florida&#8217;s pollinators have life cycles that span the entire year. By following a few simple guidelines during the changing seasons, they will become a vital part of your landscape year after year!</p>
<p>If you are new to the idea of gardening for pollinators, don’t feel intimidated!  You do not need to be a scientist to succeed, and you don’t have to create a park-like formal garden!  For many residents, a great place to start is to reduce large areas of turfgrass and create a plant bed. Adding a diversity of plants in this area – from trees and shrubs to wildflowers &#8211;   will provide an environment in which our pollinators can thrive!   No room? No problem! Many nectar plants make great container gardens!</p>
<h3><strong>Florida&#8217;s Pollinators will thrive in a landscape that provides:</strong></h3>
<p><strong>Nectar: from blooming flowers</strong></p>
<p><strong>Shelter and places to raise their young:</strong> f<strong>oliage, small piles of branches/twigs, small rocks</strong></p>
<p><strong>Water: shallow containers with small rocks for perching, kept clean and refreshed frequently </strong></p>
<p><strong>Pesticide-free zone</strong></p>
<h3>Tips for year-round pollinator support</h3>
<h4><strong>SPRING</strong></h4>
<p>Springtime is a busy time in a pollinator garden!  Prolific blooms are visited by hungry and busy pollinators as they go about their business of sipping nectar and gathering pollen for this active season.<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-8379 alignright lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="225" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/files/2024/06/bees-yellow-flower-225x300.jpg"></p>
<p>Plant suggestions: tea bush, snow square stem, pentas, chastetree, native firebush, button sage lantana, simpson’s stopper, native viburnum species, Texas sage, coreopsis,<em> Salvia</em> species, greeneyes, black-eyed Susan, stokes aster, zinnia, <em>Verbena</em> and many more!</p>
<p>***Specific for attracting butterflies: Plant host plants (those on which butterflies will lay their eggs; these plants are specific to each butterfly species). Suggestions: pawpaw, passionvine, <em>Senna</em> species, <u>native</u> milkweed, purple meadow beauty, golden alexander, dill, parsley, and more!</p>
<p>Remember to provide a shallow water source (a shallow bird bath with rocks for perches).  Keep this fresh and clean, replenishing frequently.</p>
<h4><strong>SUMMER TO FALL</strong></h4>
<p>During the heat of summer, many of the above nectar plants will continue to bloom.  Other hot weather plants to consider: spotted bee balm, <em>Buddleia</em>,  rattlesnake master, native mistflower, <em>Plumbago</em>, sunflowers, bulbine, Gaillardia, native porterweed,  dune sunflower and more!</p>
<p>Fall blooming plants are important nectar sources for resident and migrating pollinators! Some ideas:  goldenrod species, fall-blooming <em>Aster</em> species, <em>Liatris</em>, <em>Garberia,</em> and more.</p>
<p>Remember water source, provide in shade if possible.</p>
<h4><strong>LATE FALL THROUGH WINTER</strong><strong> </strong></h4>
<p>Pollinator activity decreases from late fall through winter. Many pollinators will create overwintering nests, either burrowing underground or in cavities of dormant stems; or in twigs, branches, and logs.  Protect your pollinators in this critical time:</p>
<p>* Leave fallen tree leaves undisturbed and provide open sandy areas for ground-nesters.</p>
<p>* Leave piles of small twigs and branches and even a log or two for cavity-nesters.</p>
<p>* Leave dormant wildflower stems in place for cavity-nesters. Many of these stems are hollow or pithy and provide perfect “tunnels” for native bee homes.</p>
<p>* Don’t forget our migrating birds!  If possible, provide trees and shrubs with seed pods, acorns, and berries.  Provide a water source, keeping it refreshed frequently.</p>
<p>In late winter, provide early-season blooms for emerging and returning pollinators. Some plant ideas: sparkleberry, rusty <em>Lyonia</em>, dwarf powderpuff, senecio, lyre leaf sage, beautyberry, plum, sky blue clustervine.</p>
<h3><strong>Check out the following links for information on planting, </strong><strong> maintaining, and enjoying your pollinator garden all year long!</strong></h3>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-8381 alignleft lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="pipevine swallowtail larvae on pipevine plant" width="300" height="225" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/files/2024/06/Pipevine-swallowtail-300x225.jpg"></p>
<p><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsboroughco/2023/03/07/butterfly-gardening-tips-for-central-florida/">Gardening for Butterflies in Central Florida</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.xerces.org/">Xerces Society</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.fnps.org/plants">Florida Native Plant Society</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.flawildflowers.org/20-easy-to-grow-wildflowers/">Florida Wildflowers</a></p>
<p style="text-align: left"><a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW057">Butterfly Gardening in Florida</a></p>
<p>For more information, contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at (863) 519-1041 or visit us online at <a href="http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk">http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk</a>. The Plant Clinic is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. Give us a call or email us at <a href="mailto:polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu">polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu</a>.</p>
<p>If you are not in Polk County, Contact your<a href="http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office/"> local UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Clinic</a>.</p>
<p>The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program is a volunteer-driven program that benefits UF/IFAS Extension and the citizens of Florida. The program extends the vision of the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, all the while protecting and sustaining natural resources and environmental systems, enhancing the development of human resources, and improving the quality of human life through the development of knowledge in agricultural, human and natural resources and making that knowledge accessible.</p>
<p>This article was written by Master Gardener Volunteer Molly Griner under supervision of the Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator and Residential Horticulture Extension Agent Anne Yasalonis.</p>
<p>An Equal Opportunity Institution.</p>


Landscapes that support our native pollinators are places filled with wonder!  They help our environment by providing safe havens for our smallest of wildlife – bees, butterflies and more!  Homeowners, institutions, developers – even apartment dwellers with balconies – can experience the reward of knowing that individuals CAN make a difference!  Florida’s pollinators have life cycles that span the entire year. By following a few simple guidelines during the changing seasons, they will become a vital part of your landscape year after year!
If you are new to the idea of gardening for pollinators, don’t feel intimidated!  You do not need to be a scientist to succeed, and you don’t have to create a park-like formal garden!  For many residents, a great place to start is to reduce large areas of turfgrass and create a plant bed. Adding a diversity of plants in this area – from trees and shrubs to wildflowers –   will provide an environment in which our pollinators can thrive!   No room? No problem! Many nectar plants make great container gardens!
Florida’s Pollinators will thrive in a landscape that provides:
Nectar: from blooming flowers
Shelter and places to raise their young: foliage, small piles of branches/twigs, small rocks
Water: shallow containers with small rocks for perching, kept clean and refreshed frequently 
Pesticide-free zone
Tips for year-round pollinator support
SPRING
Springtime is a busy time in a pollinator garden!  Prolific blooms are visited by hungry and busy pollinators as they go about their business of sipping nectar and gathering pollen for this active season.
Plant suggestions: tea bush, snow square stem, pentas, chastetree, native firebush, button sage lantana, simpson’s stopper, native viburnum species, Texas sage, coreopsis, Salvia species, greeneyes, black-eyed Susan, stokes aster, zinnia, Verbena and many more!
***Specific for attracting butterflies: Plant host plants (those on which butterflies will lay their eggs; these plants are specific to each butterfly species). Suggestions: pawpaw, passionvine, Senna species, native milkweed, purple meadow beauty, golden alexander, dill, parsley, and more!
Remember to provide a shallow water source (a shallow bird bath with rocks for perches).  Keep this fresh and clean, replenishing frequently.
SUMMER TO FALL
During the heat of summer, many of the above nectar plants will continue to bloom.  Other hot weather plants to consider: spotted bee balm, Buddleia,  rattlesnake master, native mistflower, Plumbago, sunflowers, bulbine, Gaillardia, native porterweed,  dune sunflower and more!
Fall blooming plants are important nectar sources for resident and migrating pollinators! Some ideas:  goldenrod species, fall-blooming Aster species, Liatris, Garberia, and more.
Remember water source, provide in shade if possible.
LATE FALL THROUGH WINTER 
Pollinator activity decreases from late fall through winter. Many pollinators will create overwintering nests, either burrowing underground or in cavities of dormant stems; or in twigs, branches, and logs.  Protect your pollinators in this critical time:
* Leave fallen tree leaves undisturbed and provide open sandy areas for ground-nesters.
* Leave piles of small twigs and branches and even a log or two for cavity-nesters.
* Leave dormant wildflower stems in place for cavity-nesters. Many of these stems are hollow or pithy and provide perfect “tunnels” for native bee homes.
* Don’t forget our migrating birds!  If possible, provide trees and shrubs with seed pods, acorns, and berries.  Provide a water source, keeping it refreshed frequently.
In late winter, provide early-season blooms for emerging and returning pollinators. Some plant ideas: sparkleberry, rusty Lyonia, dwarf powderpuff, senecio, lyre leaf sage, beautyberry, plum, sky blue clustervine.
Check out the following links for information on planting,  maintaining, and enjoying your pollinator garden all year long!

Gardening for Butterflies in Central Florida
Xerces Society
Florida Native Plant Society
Florida Wildflowers
Butterfly Gardening in Florida
For more information, contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at (863) 519-1041 or visit us online at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk. The Plant Clinic is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. Give us a call or email us at polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu.
If you are not in Polk County, Contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Clinic.
The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program is a volunteer-driven program that benefits UF/IFAS Extension and the citizens of Florida. The program extends the vision of the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, all the while protecting and sustaining natural resources and environmental systems, enhancing the development of human resources, and improving the quality of human life through the development of knowledge in agricultural, human and natural resources and making that knowledge accessible.
This article was written by Master Gardener Volunteer Molly Griner under supervision of the Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator and Residential Horticulture Extension Agent Anne Yasalonis.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.

Landscapes that support our native pollinators are places filled with wonder!  They help our environment by providing safe havens for our smallest of wildlife – bees, butterflies and more!  Homeowners, institutions, developers – even apartment dwellers with balconies – can experience the reward of knowing that individuals CAN make a difference!  Florida’s pollinators have life […]

Support Florida’s Pollinators All Year Long

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<p>Bougainvillea is a tropical vining shrub that comes in a wide array of bright and fanciful colors. The "flowers" are actually modified leaves, called bracts, that are long-lasting and bright. The colorful bracts outshine the plant's true (but tiny) flower, much like a poinsettia. For more information on Bougainvillea, see the UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions <a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/bougainvillea/">Bougainvillea page</a>.</p>

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<p>Florida gardeners can choose from a wide variety of bulbous plants that will thrive and produce beautiful flowers year after year with proper care. Bulbous plants have thickened underground storage organs which enable them to survive unfavorable environmental conditions. These underground organs are usually the propagative units of the plants.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Los jardineros de Florida pueden elegir entre una amplia variedad de plantas bulbosas que prosperar&aacute;n y producir&aacute;n hermosas flores a&ntilde;o tras a&ntilde;o con el cuidado adecuado. Las plantas bulbosas tienen &oacute;rganos de almacenamiento subterr&aacute;neos engrosados ​​que les permiten sobrevivir en condiciones ambientales desfavorables. Estos &oacute;rganos subterr&aacute;neos suelen ser las unidades de propagaci&oacute;n de las plantas.</p>

Bulbs for Florida

Cultivos de bulbos en Florida 

<p><span>Floriculture is that branch of horticulture dealing with the production of field-grown or greenhouse-grown plants for their flowers or showy leaves. [<a href="https://lod.nal.usda.gov/nalt/30902">NALT</a>] [<a href="http://aims.fao.org/aos/agrovoc/c_16488">AGROVOC</a>]</span></p><p></p>

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