Garden Blog

Charitable Giving in 2026

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 20:44:06 GMT

Scholarship Awards April 2026

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:13:29 GMT

Congratulations Class of 2026

At our Annual Meeting on April 16, 2026, the Club awarded three $2,000 scholarships to graduating seniors from Jensen Beach High School, along with a $1,500 continuing scholarship to a previous recipient. This represents the largest scholarship award to local students in the Club’s history.

Erin Gimbal will attend Berry College to pursue a double major in Environmental Science and Pre-Law, with plans to become an environmental attorney. A leader in the Earth Savers Club and a counselor at the Environmental Studies Center, she has been involved in shoreline restoration efforts alongside the Garden Club and ORCA and is passionate about addressing environmental challenges facing the Indian River Lagoon, Lake Okeechobee, and the Everglades.

Henry Baker will attend the University of Florida to study Environmental Engineering. As President of the Earth Savers Club and a counselor at the Environmental Studies Center, he has led projects including mangrove planting, beach cleanups, and environmental design work, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability and conservation.

Izzy Fenniman will attend the University of Florida to pursue a career in marine biology. Through her work with River Kids and the Florida Oceanographic Center, she has led outreach efforts and environmental initiatives focused on marine conservation and water quality, and is dedicated to protecting coastal ecosystems.

Sarah Ladd , a previous scholarship recipient, continues to excel at the University of South Florida, where she is majoring in Marine Biology with a minor in Environmental Science and Policy. She is on track to graduate early in 2028 and remains focused on advancing her studies in environmental science and applying her education to long-term environmental solutions.

Congratulations Erin, Henry, Izzy and Sarah!

Click Here to read more in the TCPalm Stuart News - Luminaries Section - May 4, 2026

Tiered Planter at the Tuckahoe Mansion 2026

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 23:38:27 GMT

The Cupcake

Martin County asked the Garden Club to restore a long-neglected three-tiered planter overlooking the Indian River at the Tuckahoe Mansion in Indian Riverside Park. In March 2026, members of our gardening committee worked tirelessly to install new soil, plants, and flowers—transforming the space into something truly stunning. Once tired and overgrown—affectionately nicknamed the “cupcake planter”—it has now been thoughtfully reimagined as a vibrant focal point.

Today, the planter features bold tropical plantings such as Petra crotons, agave, lipstick pentas, oyster plants, flax lilies, blue daze, sedum, ixora, and variegated schefflera. These selections are complemented by clean, structured borders, creating a look that is both welcoming and elegant—perfectly suited to the historic setting and sweeping river views.

Club volunteers will continue to care for the planter as part of their ongoing bi-weekly rotation, ensuring it remains as beautiful as the day it was renewed. The next time you wander through the park, take a moment to pop up the Mansion driveway and enjoy this striking transformation. Be sure to explore the “Gardens We Maintain” section of our website to discover all three gardens in Indian Riverside Park, along with others throughout the community.

An Update on Indian Riverside Park

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 23:15:26 GMT

The park you know… and the hidden gardens you may not...

Indian Riverside Park
1707 NE Indian River Drive, Jensen Beach, FL 34957

Indian Riverside Park in Jensen Beach is one of Martin County’s most scenic and beloved waterfront destinations. Spanning more than 60 acres along the west side of the Indian River Lagoon, it offers sweeping water views, open green space, and a blend of natural beauty and local history. What many visitors may not realize, however, is that some of the park’s most charming spaces are quietly cared for by local volunteers.

For more than 75 years, the Jensen Beach Garden Club has helped enhance public spaces throughout the community—and Indian Riverside Park remains one of its proudest ongoing efforts. Today, the Club maintains three gardens within the park, each with its own personality and story.

The most established of these is the park’s tranquil butterfly garden, shown above. Originally installed with the Garden Club’s involvement, it has been lovingly maintained and enhanced for more than twenty years. A quiet bench invites visitors to relax and take in the peaceful lake view, while a bronze heron statue by renowned artist Geoffrey Smith honors past Club President Dorothy Strauss. Plantings such as Dutchman’s Pipevine, Yellow Butterfly Vine, and vibrant Firebush create a haven that attracts butterflies year-round. A colorful butterfly house—built by a local Eagle Scout and painted and installed by Club members—offers pollinators a place to rest and thrive.

More recently, the Club added a new garden bed at the southwest corner of the park, bringing fresh color and texture to the landscape. The bed is anchored by a sign honoring Carolyn Donigan, placed in her memory, reflecting her family’s ongoing support of the Club’s philanthropic efforts. Filled entirely with plants donated by members, the bed features crinum lilies, ferns, cordylines, cacti, and amaryllis—an example of how community generosity continues to shape the park’s evolving beauty.

Perhaps the most striking transformation can be found at the circular drive of the Tuckahoe Mansion, where the County asked the Garden Club to restore a long-neglected three-tiered planter overlooking the Indian River. Once tired and overgrown—affectionately nicknamed the “cupcake planter”—it has been thoughtfully reimagined as a vibrant focal point.

Today, the planter features bold tropical plantings such as Petra crotons, agave, lipstick pentas, oyster plants, flax lilies, blue daze, and variegated schefflera, all of which complement the clean, structured borders. The result is both welcoming and elegant—perfectly suited to the historic setting and sweeping river views.

Indian Riverside Park offers something for everyone—walking and biking paths, a popular splash pad, beach access, fishing areas, and a children’s museum. A unique boardwalk winds through mangroves at the center of the park, circulating water and supporting abundant wildlife, including turtles often seen just below the surface. Visitors can also explore the historic Tuckahoe Mansion and Captain Sewall’s House, both of which add to the park’s rich sense of place.

Woven throughout it all is a quieter story—one of volunteers who continue to nurture and care for the spaces that so many people enjoy every day.

Planting Day at Shephard Park

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 21:04:04 GMT

Shoreline Restoration at Shepard Park – October 28, 2025

Members of the Jensen Beach Garden Club recently joined forces with the Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA) for a hands-on shoreline restoration project at Shepard Park in Stuart. Led by ORCA Research Assistant Natalie Stephens, volunteers worked to refresh the park’s 7,947-square-foot buffered shoreline—a living barrier designed to slow stormwater runoff and filter pollutants before they reach the Indian River Lagoon.

Armed with trowels, gloves, and plenty of enthusiasm, members helped weed and replant native species, replacing vegetation that had been lost since the original 2021 installation. These “living filters” not only stabilize the shoreline but also improve water quality and provide valuable habitat for wildlife.

This collaborative effort reflects the Garden Club’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community beautification. It was a rewarding morning of teamwork, learning, and friendship—all in the name of keeping our local waters clean and healthy.

Log Cabin Senior Center Gets a Refresh!

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 17:52:52 GMT

A Fresh New Look for the Log Cabin

Since 2004, the Jensen Beach Garden Club has proudly maintained the gardens at the Log Cabin Senior Center in Langford Park. Today, our Garden Committee continues to work tirelessly to keep them healthy, beautiful, and welcoming.

For a long time, we have dreamt about refreshing the landscaping — and this summer, we finally made it happen. With the plant selection and design expertise of Club member and Master Gardener Stacie Latham, we set our plans in motion.

The project began with the removal of two aging trees and several underperforming shrubs. We replaced them with a show-stopping La France hibiscus tree, flanked by smaller hibiscus, graceful muhly grass, white fountain grass, and agapanthus. A trio of Christmas palms now adds height and tropical flair, while we repurposed a frangipani. Around back, pink hibiscus now brightens the beds where bougainvillea once grew, and bold rojo congos add lush, tropical greenery.

The effort was truly a community collaboration. Mark Lynch and his crew from Martin County Parks & Recreation joined forces with an energetic team from Jensen Beach High School’s Jr. ROTC, led by Mark Colbert, Colonel, USAF (Ret), Senior Aerospace Science Instructor. Garden Club members and friends — Dana & Mark von Rinteln, Dina & Raymond Elms, Pat Jones, Mary Chambers, Jan Jovingo, and Kim Thrift — also rolled up their sleeves to help bring the plan to life. A dedicated watering crew — Carol (director at the Log Cabin), Joe and Rob (Log Cabin volunteers), plus Pat, Dina, Annie, Lisa, Jan Jovingo, Stacie Latham, and Patty Spain — will keep the new landscaping healthy until it’s well established.

In all, 14 dedicated people worked side-by-side — and in just four hours, the transformation was complete. We are immensely grateful to each and every one of them for their hard work and dedication. Their efforts have not only brought our vision to life but also strengthened our community spirit.

Already, the fresh landscaping has drawn many compliments from visitors and Senior Center volunteers, who are now helping with watering duties to ensure the new plantings thrive. Their positive feedback is a reflection of our shared commitment and a source of great pride for us all.

Jensen Beach Garden Club Helps Bring Orchids to the Boulevard

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 21:06:52 GMT

The Jensen Beach Garden Club was proud to partner with the Martin County Orchid Society (MCOS) to beautify downtown Jensen Beach Boulevard with 95 orchids—including 65 native species and 30 colorful non-native Dendrobium hybrids.

With support from MCOS members and guidance from our own orchid expert Georgia Fowler , club volunteers helped install the orchids in oak and palm trees along the eastern portion of the boulevard. JBGC also committed to watering the orchids during their two-month acclimation period and will assist with ongoing care to monitor their survival. The addition of non-native orchids was funded by $300 donations from both JBGC and MCOS, providing an eye-catching splash of color as requested by the Chamber of Commerce and Martin County staff.

Please review a summary of the project prepared by MCOS below. Next time you are strolling through downtown Jensen, look up!

Martin County Orchid Society (MCOS)

Native Orchid Restoration Program

Jensen Beach Boulevard Beautification Project

Background on the native orchid project

After five years of participating in others’ native orchid restoration projects dealing with a single species, MCOS formed the Native Orchid Restoration Committee in 2021, with Carly Batts as committee chair. The committee was charged with proposing, obtaining Board of Directors approval and conducting at least two native orchid restoration projects per year.

Projects approved so far include:

2022 - Bridge Road and Martin Highway capsule harvest and seedling grow-out

2023 - Indian Riverside Park and Twin Rivers Park

2024 - St. Lucie Shores STA and Hawk’s Hammock Park

2025 - Jensen Beach Boulevard Beautification and Possum Long Nature Center

Reason for the urban approach

The greatest threats to native orchids are loss of habitat and poaching. The Million Orchid Project, led by Dr. Jason Downing, showed that both threats could be eliminated by urbanizing native orchids—and as such, Miami Dade County now has hundreds of orchids in its most prominent downtown areas, including the Design District, South Beach, and Brickell. This brilliant conservation strategy was relayed by Dr. Downing to Carly Batts & Nick Nickerson at McKee Botanical’s Million Orchid Presentation in the early Summer of 2024. Jensen Beach’s own downtown has beautiful sprawling Live Oak trees, perfect for orchids to attach and flower in.

Furthermore, Jensen Beach as a community is collectively made up of extremely active citizens who appreciate nature and various forms of neighborhood beautification. An enormous outpouring of well wishes and pride was received by MCOS/JBGC and MC Public Works Department over the installation of these 95 orchids from the community - which has created just as we had hoped - a grassroots watch party for this special group of plants.

Numbers and types of orchids we planted

95 orchids (65 Florida natives of four species plus 30 Dendrobium hybrids) were installed in 15 oak trees and two cabbage palm trees. The four native species included the Florida Butterfly Orchid (Encyclia tampensis) in bloom, the Rigid Epidendrum (Epidendrum rigidum), the Night Fragrant Epidendrum (Epidendrum nocturnum) and the Cow Horn Orchid (Cyrtopodium punctatum). Because of moderate shade in the oak trees, the sun-loving and most endangered Florida native cow horn orchids were attached only to two cabbage palms.

Number of volunteers that participated and organizations represented
Twenty volunteers of Martin County Orchid Society, Jensen Beach Garden Club, Florida Native Plant Society and Martin County Public Works Department organizations participated in the four hour planting event on June 9, 2025.

Planned care and follow up and any other future projects planned

All MCOS Native Orchid Restoration Projects require five years of follow-up monitoring to determine and document survival and, occasionally add supplemental orchids to initial plantings. In the case of the Jensen Beach Beautification project that is directly in the public eye, the Jensen Beach Garden Club offered to provide supplemental watering during the two month acclimation period as well as periodic checking for secure attachment and survival of the installed orchids.

Approved MCOS future (2025) native orchid restoration projects are described above. Pending projects include Harbor Island on Jupiter Island, Environmental Studies Center in Jensen Beach and the south Fork of the St. Lucie River in Halpatiokee Park. We encourage suggestions of other public and protected private lands for our projects.

The MCOS native orchid greenhouse at Big Pine Nursery on Salerno Road was generously provided to the society by the owner since 2016. Unfortunately, the owner sold the property, and we lost the greenhouse in September 2024. The native orchid inventory was transported to Odom’s Orchids in Ft. Pierce where we rent bench space from John and Louise Odom on an in kind basis.

Funding for MCOS NOR project was secured from the society’s operating account until 2025. Thanks to Carly Batts and Nick’s innovative funding search and Martin County Staff assistance, we secured a sizeable donation as part of a charitable requirement of the Three Lakes Golf project Planned Unit Development. Consequently, our NORP funding is dedicated only to native orchid restoration and is separate and distinct from the society operating account.

Finally, it may be of interest that the orchids planted at the Jensen Beach Beautification project were purchased from Odom’s Orchids at wholesale pricing. The non-native Dendrobium hybrids were added to the natives for this project because the Chamber of Commerce and Martin County Staff believed more color was needed. We cannot use our native orchid funding for non-native orchids. Such funding must come from another source. We thank MCOS and JBGC for their $300 donations to purchase the Dendrobiums. We do not intend to add non-natives to future projects.

We especially would like to thank Georgia Fowler for her membership in MCOS and her requesting our participation in the JBGC Plant Expo several years ago. Cooperation between nonprofits leads to multiple community successes – our NORP is but one prime example of that.

THANK YOU JBGC!!!

JBGC Installs a New Bed at the Chamber of Commerce

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 17:50:19 GMT

Downtown Jensen Beach Gets a Fresh Burst of Color

JBGC volunteers refresh planting bed between Chamber Plaza and 11 Maple Street

Three years ago, the Jensen Beach Garden Club (JBGC) took on the care and maintenance of the flowering planters that brighten downtown Jensen Beach. Since then, we’ve added two cheerful hanging baskets to the front of the Chamber Building, joined forces with the Martin County Orchid Society and the Florida Native Plant Society to help fund and plant native orchids in our downtown trees, and continue to water them to keep their blooms thriving.

With all this beautification happening, we noticed a small strip of landscaping between the Chamber Plaza and 11 Maple Street that was ready for some extra attention. On August 7, a team of JBGC volunteers — Dana von Rinteln, Stacie Latham, Dina D'Angelico-Elms, Annie Ruffing, Pat Jones, and Lisa Oster — brought new life to the space.

With funding provided by the Jensen Beach Chamber of Commerce, the team cleared away weeds and spent growth, relocated existing oyster plants to shadier spots, and replanted the bed with vibrant color, including a pink flowering hibiscus tree and lush plumbago. A fresh layer of mulch completed the transformation, creating a bright, welcoming space for residents and visitors to enjoy as they stroll through downtown.

It’s just one more way JBGC is helping keep Jensen Beach beautiful.

Fire Ants

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 17:49:35 GMT

Invasive species fueled by state’s growth, global warming

This kind of bites: Climate change is making fire ants an increasingly hot topic in Florida these days. But our efforts to tame them may only be scratching the surface.

Red imported fire ants rank among the world’s most invasive and destructive species. In America, they cause $8.75 billion in yearly economic damages, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. They chew on fruits, roots and stems, damaging crops. They swarm, harm and even kill newborn calves and stunt grazing. Their mounds damage mowers, balers, combines and other farm equipment, resulting in costly repairs and downtime.

On the home front, they nest in our air conditioners, sprinkler controls, utility boxes and traffic signals. They gnaw on all kinds of insulation that triggers short circuits, power outages and expensive repairs.

But we know them for their brutal bites that bring pustules of intense itching that sometimes inflict infections, allergic reactions and in extremely rare occasions, even death.

Buck up, Floridians, and brace for more.

Global warming means more fire ants

Mounting scientific evidence suggests the problems with imported fire ants are getting worse. Biologists warn that the factors that have long made the Sunshine State a welcoming home to the invaders are accelerating.

Climate change is bringing warmer, wetter weather that favors fire ants. Florida’s urban sprawl also means more disturbed landscapes fire ants seek, with fewer natural predators, and more ants hitching rides in potted plants to new landscapes. Meanwhile, global- warming-fed floods float colonies of clung-together fire ants to new heights

Century-long march through Southeast

Like many invasive species, fire ants arrived as stowaways. There are two imported species of fire ants, both introduced into the United States from South America at the port of Mobile, Alabama. The black imported fire ant arrived around 1918. The much more aggressive red fire ant showed up in the late 1930’s. Both ants likely came to the port in soil used as ballast in cargo ships.

Fire ants are easily transported in soil and nursery stock. That’s why all the fresh landscaping in new residential developments helps ants spread.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service developed a quarantine program for the pest in the 1950s. But it could only do so much to fend off such an aggressive survivor in its newfound paradise.

Red fire ant colonies grow and spread quickly, and they die hard. The ant would spread throughout the southeastern United States and Puerto Rico in a few decades, eventually replacing two native species of fire ants and even the black imported fire ant, now found only in parts of Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee. The two fire ants hybridized with dangerous consequences for cattle in Virginia.

Entomologists hoped freezes would keep the red fire ant in check. But climate change dashed much of that wishful thinking. “I do think what we’re seeing all across the country— all across the world — is we’re seeing less cold,” said Andrea Lucky, associate professor, insect systematics at University of Florida. “We’re not having these freezes.”

Fire ants bite — and die — hard

Fire ant trends are heavily driven by habitat type, how we management them, and prevalence of natural enemies. Queens tuck away deep in the ground, so it can be tough to reach them with pesticides.

While fire ants rarely venture inside a house, they’re basically everywhere outside, said Terry Keyzer, board certified entomologist and technical service manager for Terminix. Like termites, there’s no such thing as a ‘season’ for fire ants, Keyzer added. They prosper pretty much year-round. “But once or twice a year, they have a swarm and the immature grow wings to set up another colony,” Keyzer said. “They build their hills higher in wet season.”

So, you’ve probably seen their mounds jut up, lately, from your yard of the edges of neighborhood sidewalks. Fire ant mounds stand out from other native Florida ants because they tend to lack a distinct central hole and are more sprawling than the typical rounded ant hill. But fire ants often just skip making a ground mound and nest in rotting logs, under pavement and buildings, inside electrical equipment and utility housings, where they sometimes cause short circuits.

Deadly insect stings on the rise

Venomous animal deaths rose steadily in recent decades, from an average of 69 per year (1991-2001) to 107 per year, according to a study this year by East Carolina University. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that from 2000 to 2017, a total of 1,109 deaths from hornet, wasp and bee stings, for an annual average of 62 deaths. It’s unclear how many die annually from fire ant bites. But the new ECU study found hornets, wasps and bees among the most common venomous species involved, responsible for an average of 83 deaths per year from 2018 to 2023. Generally, less than 100 people die yearly from such venomous stings, CDC says.

While bees, wasps and hornets are more deadly, some research shows fire ants might cause a significant portion of the deaths. There isn’t much recent research, but a physicians survey by the American Academy of Allergy and Immunology in the late 1980s documented 32 fatal and two near-fatal fire ant-sting reactions, with the most in Texas (14), followed by Florida (10), Alabama (4), and two i(2) n both Georgia and Louisiana.

Fire ants even harm alligators

Recent research shows fire ants harm the eggs and hatchlings of ground-nesting birds and reptiles, even alligators, causing lower weight or killing them. A 2023 study by Florida Atlantic University of alligator nests at Orange Lake in Alachua County found that “even if fire ants are not directly responsible for alligator hatchling deaths, ant presence at the nest may cause hatchlings to die because of lack of maternal care.” “That doesn’t surprise me,” Lucky said. “Once they are on the ground and in high density, they become so disruptive to basic things, like laying eggs, hatchings. or just the act of being there.”

Newer ant invader echoes fire ant effects

Another invasive ant causing concern among biologists is the Asian needle ant. There have been two recorded instances of Asian needle ants in Florida, one near Kennedy Space Center and another near Tallahassee, according to Dr. Jason Williams, postdoctoral research associate, entomology and nematology at the University of Florida. There have been other sightings but tracking them is difficult. They’re less aggressive and pain-inducing than red fire ants. But on rare occasions, like the fire ant, a sting from an Asian needle ant can cause anaphylaxis, a potentially deadly condition.

As with many invasive ants, Asian needle ants look to be here to stay in Florida, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

But Lucky is less worried about them than fire ants, because the Asian needle ant is less aggressive and prefers more wooded than residential areas. “I don’t think that one’s going to be as destructive,” Lucky said. “It likes canopy areas.”

What is government trying to douse fire ants?

A relatively new way to control fire ants involves the release and spread of its natural enemies from South America, or so-called “biological control.” Florida has been testing the effectiveness of two such organisms. One is a “decapitating fly” that attacks fire ant workers. When the ferocious female flies catch fire ants, they lay eggs that develop inside the ant’s head, causing it to top off. Adult flies emerge from the severed head to attack more ants.

The second biological control agent is a disease specific to fire ants introduced into colonies by putting infected ant larvae in the mound. The disease is caused by a protozoan that weakens the colony. Scientists with the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Gainesville determined that infecting fire ants with a recently identified fire-ant virus causes a decrease in foraging in worker ants ultimately resulting in the colony starving.

What can you do to cool down fire ants?

Fire ants like lawns and other sunny, open spaces where there’s always ample water. So Andrea Lucky has this advice: “Don’t water your lawn. Plant trees, so it’s shaded,” she added. “Ants don’t like it when it’s shaded. Try to limit the amount of lawn you have. Close that canopy.” But in a way, we Floridians have to take our lumps from the fire ant and move on. “At this point, they’re so well established it’s just about managing,” Lucky said.

Scholarship Awards April 2025

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 21:36:59 GMT

Congratulations Class of 2025

This year, the Jensen Beach Garden Club continued its commitment to the community by awarding its second annual college scholarship to local high school seniors pursuing environmental and science-related fields. Established in 2023, the JBGC Scholarship Program supports students from Jensen Beach High School who plan to attend college or university and pursue academic careers in horticulture, agriculture, marine biology, oceanographic studies, or similar disciplines. The Club has dedicated an annual scholarship budget to sustain the program for at least five years.

On April 18, 2025, we proudly awarded two $2,000 scholarships to exceptional students, Sarah Ladd and Lilli Redifer. Both recipients embody the ideals of leadership, academic excellence, and environmental stewardship. Their achievements reflect not only personal dedication but also a shared commitment to protecting and understanding our natural world.

Sarah Ladd - Our committee selected Sarah Ladd for her deep commitment to marine biology and her passion for environmental education. Her journey began seven years ago at Camp WET, igniting a lasting interest in science and conservation. A first-generation college student, Sarah showed exceptional initiative in the college application. She plans to attend The University of South Florida at the St. Petersburg Campus.

At school, she led the Earth Savers Club as president, expanding its impact through community outreach in partnership with the Environmental Studies Center. Her teachers describe her as articulate, resilient, and a natural leader who inspires others through her example. We are proud to support Sarah as she begins her academic journey and works toward becoming a lifelong advocate for our planet.

Lilli Redifer - We selected Lilli Redifer for her strong academic record, leadership qualities, and lifelong interest in marine life. Though she didn’t grow up near the coast, she developed a passion for marine biology through books, documentaries, and aquarium visits.

Lilli aspires to a career focused on marine animal rehabilitation and ocean conservation. A committed student, she excelled in a rigorous academic program while also contributing to her school and church communities. She organized a successful service project that brought together local families, students, and church members to help those in need. Her teachers commend her compassion, focus, and unwavering work ethic. Lilli plans to attend Converse University in Spartanburg, South Carolina. We are confident she will make a meaningful impact in the years ahead.

Congratulations Lilli and Sarah!

Charitable Giving in 2025

lisaosterjbgc34@gmail.com (Lisa Oster) — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 17:14:40 GMT

Boy Scout Troup 811

We are so grateful for the help of the Boy Scouts at our Jensen Beach Garden Club 2024 Garden Expo. They worked hard volunteering at the all day event. We are happy to support Boy Scout Troop 811. The Club donated $200 to these amazing young men. Pictured L-R Dana von Rinteln JBGC President and Kevin Johnson, Troop Leader. March 27, 2024.

Garden Tours

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 17:59:29 GMT

Members' Gardens in Bloom

As part of JBGC's 75th Anniversary celebration, club volunteers hosted private tours of their gardens during our 2024-2025 season. Available only to club members, these mini field trips allowed us to gain new ideas for our own gardens and provided a valuable learning experience. We enjoyed a pleasant stroll through the gardens of friends, each tour offering unique insights and knowledge. These stories are a perfect example of how JBGC inspires and supports its members in their gardening journeys. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, our club offers the knowledge, camaraderie, and encouragement to help you create your own outdoor oasis.

Thank you to all of our gracious hosts who opened their homes and gardens, while narrating a tour of their treasured works of love! All of the tours were unique in their own way, and were inspiring to us all.

PART 1 - STACIE'S EDIBLE GARDEN

PART 2 - LAURA'S PINK HIDEAWAY

It was an absolutely lovely morning for Laura Young's garden tour, and the sun was shining brightly, casting a soft, warm glow over everything. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and there was a sense of calm and joy in the atmosphere. Her garden, affectionately called The Pink Hideaway, was a stunning retreat, brimming with vibrant life. Beautiful pink cleodendrums, stunning oleander bushes, and a breathtaking display of fuchsia pink bougainvillea dotted the landscape, each adding a splash of color. Coconut palms swayed gently in the morning breeze, completing the picture of serenity.

Laura said "I have lived at The Hideaway for 8 years. Of course it's a work in progress and so much cheaper than therapy!"

We all get that, right? Thank you Laura for a terrific day in your cute little hideaway!

PART 3 - A GARDEN TRANSFORMATION -

JAN'S JOURNEY

Jan Jovingo , our dedicated treasurer, played a key role in organizing the garden tours. Her passion for gardening has grown tremendously since she first joined the club, and she recently had the opportunity to showcase her own beautiful backyard transformation. Here’s her story:

“We moved to Jensen 3.5 years ago. Our backyard was a blank canvas. We had a nice view of a preserve and water with a fountain, but otherwise, it was just plain and boring. I attended the first Expo at IRP, where I learned about the club. I joined shortly after and became part of the Gardeners Committee. While I had no gardening experience, I could get on my knees and pull weeds!

I have learned so much from the other members, and they have helped me realize that I could do something to beautify my backyard. We planted a couple of palm trees, but I needed help designing something that would make the space truly beautiful. We had a plan created and hired someone to install it. It looked lovely, but some of the plants struggled in our full-sun yard.

This year, we made some changes—removing plants that weren’t thriving and replacing them with sun-loving impatiens, a variety of salvias, tibouchina bushes, and Texas sage. The vibrant colors have brightened the yard, and I love seeing it every day. We also added lighting so we could enjoy the view at night.

Thanks to the advice of JBGC members and the insightful presentations at our meetings, I have grown much more confident in my gardening skills. I really enjoyed showing off my hard work during the recent JBGC garden tours, and I look forward to continuing to tend my garden—maybe even expanding it soon!”

What an inspiration Jan, thank you so much for a fun and educational tour!

PART 4 - DANA'S OASIS

Dana von Rinteln, our illustrious Club President & Expo Extraordinaire, has built a tropical oasis, hidden inside a garden abundant in color, texture, variety. As we walked through Dana's carefully curated paradise, she shared her inspiring five-year outdoor transformation. When she and her husband, Mark, moved into their home in Jensen Beach, they immediately set about redesigning their dream garden. They began by removing the invasive Australian pines that had overgrown in the back of their yard. They planted large Areca and Christmas palms in their place to provide height and privacy while concealing a fence. Next, they added a variety of colorful copper leaf bushes and crotons to enhance the garden's texture. To add interest, they also included bromeliads and other smaller shade-loving plants along the border.

To revitalize other areas, they installed new beds and renovated others with lush greenery, and plants with different shapes and sizes. They installed spider plants and dieffenbachia and transplanted some "volunteer" oak leaf philodendrons, which flourished beautifully. Additionally, they hung orchids in baskets and on trees, bringing vibrant color to the garden.

Around their newly renovated pool deck, they created a lovely new dining area, surrounded by a collection of herbs and fruit trees thriving in attractive planters and filling the air with delightful scents. The finishing touch was Mark's outdoor lighting installation, which creates a peaceful ambiance at night while showcasing the beauty of their South Florida lifestyle. Their garden journey is and will continue being a lifelong adventure and a labor of love. Thank you, Dana, for sharing your inspiring story!

Georgia Fowler's Orchids - Nestled on a cozy patio, Georgia Fowler’s garden may be small, but it’s bursting with charm. Her screen-enclosed space is a little slice of serenity, where orchids and succulents thrive. With every glance out the back window, Georgia enjoys a vibrant, living tapestry—low-maintenance, high-impact, and perfectly curated for a tranquil backyard view.

Pat Jones Propagated Garden - Pat has created a veritable jungle paradise right in her backyard, which opens up to a beautiful nature preserve. She’s a propagation pro, multiplying everything from Plumeria to Crown of Thorns. Her garden overflows with personality and texture thanks to her diverse collection—Walking Iris, Parakeet Heliconia, Elephant Ears, Blue Agave, and even a whimsical-sounding Little Red Riding Hood Aloe. With so much color and variety, her garden is a true showcase of tropical flair and gardening know-how.

Tina Reagan's Colorful Garden - Tina's backyard boasts more than just a gorgeous garden—it comes with prime views of both a golf course and a lake. But it’s the shady oasis she’s created under her stately oak and palm trees that really steals the show. Her island of in-ground and potted plants is a celebration of color, with ground orchids, vibrant purple cattleyas, and an ever-changing lineup of cheerful annuals. Look up, and you’ll spot delicate orchids swaying gently from the palms—a tropical treat from every angle.

These three gardens may be different in scale and setting, but they all reflect the creativity, care, and joyful spirit of their gardeners. From Georgia’s calming orchid nook to Patricia’s botanical treasure trove to Tina’s breezy, flower-filled hideaway, each one is a blooming testament to the beauty of personal garden spaces.

PHOTOS WILL FOLLOW.

Spreading Wings: Butterfly Conservation in Jensen Beach

lisaosterjbgc34@gmail.com (Lisa Oster) — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 23:15:16 GMT

Spreading Wings: Butterfly Conservation in Jensen Beach

The Jensen Beach Garden Club proudly maintains four beautiful gardens in our area, along with the vibrant flower planters that brighten downtown Jensen Beach. These gardens are lovingly tended by our dedicated Garden Committee, co-chaired by Annie Ruffing and Dina D’Angelico-Elms. Every two weeks, rain or shine, committee members roll up their sleeves to plant, prune, and water, ensuring these spaces remain havens for butterflies and other pollinators and provide beautiful landscapes for everyone.

Among our projects are two flourishing butterfly gardens—one at Hoke Library and another at Indian Riverside Park—designed to attract, nourish, and protect essential pollinators. Did you know that the Hoke Library Butterfly Garden was certified by the North American Butterfly Association in 2002? This distinction recognizes its role in providing vital resources for butterfly populations worldwide. And this year, we’re taking our conservation efforts to new heights by adding butterfly houses to both gardens!

The Buzz on Butterfly Houses

A butterfly house creates a safe and nurturing environment, mimicking the natural habitats butterflies need to thrive. These houses help protect against habitat loss by offering a space to rest, mate, and feed—all while supporting education, research, and conservation efforts.

To bring this project to life, our club collaborated with a remarkable young leader: Sebastian Gonzalez, a senior at Jensen Beach High School and an aspiring Eagle Scout. Sebastian, no stranger to community service, has been a dedicated partner in our gardening efforts. You may have spotted him lending a hand at our February 25, 2023, Garden Expo or helping spread mulch at Indian Riverside Park. Built by Sebastian and beautifully painted by club members Linda Elliott and Kathryn Lerett, the houses were installed in the garden beds in October 2024.

A Passion for the Atala Butterfly

For his Eagle Scout project, Sebastian focused on supporting the recovery of the Atala butterfly, a small, brilliantly colored species native to Florida. Once considered extinct in the state, the Atala has made a remarkable comeback thanks to conservation initiatives like ours. Sebastian recommended we add more Coonti plants (Zamia integrifolia) to our gardens—the sole host plant for Atala butterfly larvae. Each house features a dedication placard, symbolizing our shared commitment to protecting butterflies and enhancing biodiversity in Jensen Beach. Sebastian will be studying the activities of our beloved butterflies and will keep us posted on his findings.

Celebrate With Us

We’re thrilled to see Sebastian’s butterfly houses in action and invite you to join us in celebrating his achievements. His dedication to conservation and our community has made a lasting impact, both on our gardens and the butterflies they support. Look for them during your next visit!

Stay tuned for updates on this project and other exciting initiatives from the Jensen Beach Garden Club. Together, we’re growing a greener, more beautiful world—one garden at a time!

Happy 75th Anniversary JBGC!

lisaosterjbgc34@gmail.com (Lisa Oster) — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 20:40:01 GMT

A Blossoming Legacy:

Jensen Beach Garden Club to Celebrate 75 Years of Community and Growth

The Jensen Beach Garden Club is set to celebrate its 75th anniversary in January 2025, reflecting a long-standing commitment to community service and gardening expertise. Founded by Rose Ditterline as an off-shoot of the Stuart Garden Club, JBGC’s early efforts focused on beautification projects, including enhancements at All Saints Cemetery, flower deliveries to nursing home residents, and plant exchanges.

Over the decades, the Jensen Beach Garden Club significantly expanded its initiatives. In the 1960s, it contributed to the beautification of Jensen Beach Blvd and the Chamber of Commerce building. The 1970s were marked by the planting of the "Liberty Tree" at the Environmental Studies Center and the organization of the popular Spring Flower Show. In the 1980s, the Club revitalized downtown Jensen Beach, collaborating with the Historic Downtown Jensen Beach Merchants Association on the Pineapple Festival, which featured a concert with Marie Osmond. The Club adopted Langford Park and hosted annual Earth Day and Arbor Day celebrations.

The 1990s and early 2000s saw impactful projects, including the planting of 180 trees on Savannah Road and the installation of a Butterfly Garden at Indian Riverside Park and at the new Hoke Library, which won an Achievement Award from the National Wildlife Federation in 2003. A highlight was the dedication of the Blue Star Byway Marker at the Arches, honoring U.S. Armed Forces.

In 2010, the Club launched its first Annual Plant Sale at Indian Riverside Park, which thrived for nine years. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, the Club adapted, evolving the Plant Sale into the "Jensen Beach Garden Expo," which debuted in 2022. A hallmark, Treasure Coast tradition; it kicks off the spring planting season featuring local vendors and educational presentations and demonstrations. Mark your calendars for the 4th Annual Garden Expo on March 1, 2025!

The Jensen Beach Garden Club's philanthropy extends beyond the Expo. Fundraisers have supported local organizations such as House of Hope, the Environmental Studies Center, and the Junior Master Gardeners of Martin County. In 2024, the Club awarded its first college scholarship for high school students pursuing horticulture, environmental sciences and similar studies.

Today, with over 100 members, the Club fosters a strong sense of community. Its gardening committee actively maintains public spaces, including the Butterfly Garden at Hoke Library and two gardens at Indian Riverside Park, the Senior Center “Log Cabin” in Langford Park and the planters downtown.

We invite anyone who shares our passion for gardening and community service to join us. Meetings are typically held from October to April on the third Wednesday of each month. For more information about the Jensen Beach Garden Club or to participate in an upcoming event, please visit jensenbeachgardenclub.com or email us at jensenbeachgc@gmail.com.

STAY TUNED! More information to follow as we plan for the anniversary in January 2025.

Educational Series Continues for the Junior Master Gardeners/4H of Martin County

lisaosterjbgc34@gmail.com (Lisa Oster) — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 20:11:00 GMT

Growing Microgreens

Stuart Florida, September 20, 2024

As part of our very successful Educational Series, Stacie Latham captivated the Junior Master Gardeners/4H Club of Martin County with an exciting class focused on delightful edibles and microgreens! This interactive one-hour session showcased how easy it is to grow these nutritious gems, whether in the ground, in pots, or even on a patio.

The kids were all ears as they discovered the incredible health benefits and culinary delights of microgreens. Stacie’s hands-on demonstration of sprouting lentils in mushroom boxes sparked their creativity, with young gardeners eagerly poking holes in plastic containers with hammers, their eyes shining with curiosity. With about 15 kids (ranging in age from 5 to 15 years) and some parents in attendance, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement and laughter. Each child left with a newfound passion for personally growing their own microgreens. Stacie provided fun and easy recipes and explained how to use them as part of their future nutrition, gardening and culinary hobbies. Everyone left with a smile on their face!

A special thank you to Ms. Stacie Latham, a proud member of the Jensen Beach Garden Club and a certified Master Gardener through the University of Florida/UFIS. With a Bachelor’s of Science from the University of Connecticut and a rich background as a Florida state-licensed clinical laboratory supervisor, Stacie brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to our community. She crafted this engaging program and has shared it with joy on numerous occasions. Great job, Miss Stacie! And thanks to Club members Mary Chambers, Lisa Girouard and Dana von Rinteln for supporting Stacie and the Club at the event.

Scholarship Award April 25, 2024

lisaosterjbgc34@gmail.com (Lisa Oster) — Thu, 09 May 2024 21:02:43 GMT

Congratulations Class of 2024

The Jensen Beach Garden Club presented local high school senior Emma Giesing with a Scholarship Award on April 25, 2024. Emma has a remarkable academic and athletic record. Her experience in playing and coaching lacrosse has helped her develop her communication, problem-solving, leadership, and community involvement skills. Her impressive commitment to protecting our local resources and dedication to actively volunteering in the community has influenced her future goals. And Emma's lifelong passion for the environment has made her want to pursue a career where she can make a positive impact.

Emma's achievements and dedication to excellence have made her a deserving recipient of the award. She will attend Florida State University, where she plans to study Biology. The Jensen Beach Garden Club is proud of Emma and excited to see her continue to excel. Congratulations Emma!

Pictured above L-R: Dee Mertz, JBGC, Scholarship Recipient Emma Giesing, Linda Menikheim JBGC, and Dana von Rinteln, JBGC President. Photo courtesy of Cady Studios.

JBGC & Arbor Day 2024

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 19:08:55 GMT

Hong Kong Orchid Tree

On April 16, 2024, the Jensen Beach Garden Club proudly funded, selected, and supervised the planting of a Hong Kong Orchid Tree at Hoke Library in Jensen Beach. Every y ear, in honor of Arbor Day, the club donates a tree to one of Martin County's public gardens or parks or other public facilities. This year, we chose a unique tree to grace the library's lawn facing Jensen Beach Blvd. Also known by its Latin name, Bauhinia, this magnificent specimen perfectly fits our South Florida climate. Providing an abundance of stunning orchid-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, and rose, this orchid tree is a sight to behold from November to March and it is the official tree of Martin County.

Since its inception in 1950, the Jensen Beach Garden Club has been a beacon of community support. It has served the greater Jensen Beach area through various gardening and beautification projects. The club's philanthropic efforts have extended to supporting local nonprofit organizations and providing aid to families and children in need. Additionally, the club has been a strong advocate for environmental education, providing scholarships to local summer environmental camp programs for children. This year, it took its commitment to the community a step further by establishing a college scholarship for a Jensen Beach High School student pursuing an academic career in horticulture, agriculture, marine biology, oceanographic studies or a similar field.

2024 Community Donations

lisaosterjbgc34@gmail.com (Lisa Oster) — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 16:36:42 GMT

2024 Donation Presentations

Boy Scout Troup 811

Unusual Edible Plant Sale at the 2024 Garden Expo

lisaosterjbgc34@gmail.com (Lisa Oster) — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 19:21:55 GMT

3rd Annual Jensen Beach Garden Expo

At the 3rd Annual Jensen Beach Garden Expo on February 24, 2024

at Indian Riverside Park 9-3pm Jensen Beach Garden Club featured unique & unusual edible plants for sale. Volunteers shared how to grow and care for healthy, organic plants and trees, which were grown by Jensen Beach Garden Club members. Many of the plants are featured in the Club's new cookbook, also available for purchase: "Seeds of Flavor, Jensen Beach Garden Club Cookbook."

Download a list of these delicious, pretty and easy to grow plants. Learn how to care for them in your garden and use them on your family's table.

African Blue Basil

Brazilian Sissoo Spinach

Chaya

Cranberry Hibiscus

Cuban Oregano

Katuk

Longevity Spinach

Malabar Spinach

Surinam Purslane

Net Proceeds from the sale of these healthy plants and the cookbook are donated to families in need in our community.This project's committee was lead by Ms. Stacie Latham, Master Gardener and Club Member since 2023.

Jensen Beach Garden Club Hosts "Home Gardening Series: The Joy of Gardening"

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 19:02:14 GMT

Take a Break from Your Screen and Look at Plants!

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 20:40:33 GMT

Authored by Jacob S. Suissa of University of Tennessee and

Ben Goulet-Scott of Harvard University of LetsBotanize.org

When you hear about the abundance of life on Earth, what do you picture? For many people, it’s animals – but awareness of plant diversity is growing rapidly. Our planet has nearly 300,000 species of flowering plants. Among animals, only beetles can compete with that number. There are more species of ferns than birds, more mints than mammals, and more beans than butterflies. Measured in total mass, plants make up 82% of all life on land across the globe.

We are plant scientists and co-founders of Let’s Botanize, an educational nonprofit that uses plant life to teach about ecology, evolution and biodiversity. In the past several years we have witnessed a botanical boom, with participation in plant-based hobbies surging. From cultivating houseplants to foraging for wild foods and outdoor gardening, plant appreciation is on the rise.

Botanizing is spending time alongside plants in order to observe and appreciate them as living organisms – like birding, but with subjects that stay in place. When you botanize, a simple walk in the woods becomes an immersive experience shared with many species. Getting to know your nonhuman neighbors is a way to engage with a changing planet.

Plant collecting and colonialism

Botanizing has a deep and checkered history. Humans have been analyzing and classifying plants for thousands of years, often to figure out what they can safely eat or cultivate. When Europeans began exploring and colonizing other parts of the world, they were interested in finding plants that were useful as food, medicine or for other purposes. For example, in the early 17th century, the Dutch East India Company forcibly colonized the Banda Islands in what is now Indonesia in order to monopolize the cultivation and lucrative trade of nutmeg ( Myristica fragrans ).

In 19th-century England, Victorians became obsessed with plants, especially ferns. This craze came to be known as pteridomania, or fern fever. It coincided with the height of European imperialism across the globe, which included widespread collection of valuable plants from faraway places. Today, however, many botanic gardens and arboreta – gardens that focus on trees and shrubs – have shifted their mission to public education, scientific research and biodiversity conservation. They can be good resources for learning to botanize.

Why botanize?

Plants provide raw materials for the homes we live in, the food we eat and the oxygen we breathe. Without them, life as humans know it could not exist. Nonetheless, many people think of plants more as a backdrop to life, rather than as a central part of it. Scientists and educators call this phenomenon plant awareness disparity – a widespread cognitive bias that leads people to underestimate the diversity and importance of plants. Research has shown the value of being outside in natural green areas or around plants indoors. Even traditional western doctors are starting to prescribe nature walks to reduce stress and improve physical well-being. Botanizing can provide a reason to get outdoors, and spending time closely observing plants’ minute structures is a great mindfulness practice.

We also see botanizing as a valuable alternative to spending time on social media. As many experts have observed, online platforms have become so individually tailored by algorithms that each user participates in their own version of reality, a trend that has enabled increasingly combative and antisocial behavior. Botanizing is an opportunity to take a break from these tailored worlds and deeply engage with local human and nonhuman communities.

Finally, since plants form the foundation of life on Earth, caring for plants is a way of caring for our planet. Botanizing is one simple way to inspire change in other aspects of our lives that prioritizes sustainability.

Tools of the trade

There are many ways to botanize. Typically it involves trying to identify a plant species, observing its form and structure or assessing how it survives in the landscape. Plants are everywhere and don’t move, so this can be done in virtually any setting, including your windowsill or sidewalk. So, how do you start? You can focus on plant structure, ecology, interactions, colors, textures or scents – or tastes, if you’re bold. You don’t need to travel far or spend a lot of money. There’s much to learn from your houseplants, the food you cook, the wood grain of your furniture, the plants growing in your sidewalks, gardens or local green spaces.

Here are a few essential tools:

A hand lens is a window into the minutia of the botanical world. It’s as essential for a botanist as binoculars are for a birder. We recommend one with 10x magnification – that is, one that magnifies what you’re looking at by a factor of 10.

A local field guide is your reference textbook. A good field guide to your local plants will have images and detailed text that you can use to cross-reference your identifications.

A plant identification app can help confirm your identifications. Machine learning algorithms are getting increasingly good at matching plant images with species. One popular choice is the Seek app, which is powered by iNaturalist, an online social network where people share information about living species and get help with identifications.

Almost every region of the U.S. has local botanical clubs that typically hold regular meetings and organize workshops, online groups, botanizing days and more. Joining one is a great way to meet and learn from people with similar interests.

To germinate your initial interest, we recommend searching for a spark plant – one that excites, engages or is meaningful to you. It can be a plant that you are familiar with but haven’t seen growing in real life, one that is totally new to you, or one that you associate with a special moment. If botanizing is to reclaim its place as a nature-based hobby, we believe it is important to reimagine it as a critically evolved 21st century pastime. That means looking at plants with appreciation – not simply as products for human use but as foundational and interconnected members of life on Earth.

Piece by Jacob S. Suissa of University of Tennessee and Ben Goulet-Scott of Harvard University.

Published in Treasure Coast News from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization.

JBGC used this article with permission.

An Inspiring Backyard Transformation

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 19:36:28 GMT

by Dana von Rinteln, Club President 2023

Behind the pineapple area was a thick grove of invasive Australian pine trees - obviously not native Floridians! Six large 50 foot trees and dozens of 6 foot high young volunteers were growing from its roots. It was impenetrable! And God knows what lived in there. Pineapple bandits, for sure. By another name, perhaps raccoons or opossums? Armadillos and snakes? The list could go on and on. It was time to hit the drawing board and plan some changes to our garden.

Planning is probably the most critical part of any gardening project. Mark took pictures of the plants we liked. We evaluated existing plants to repurpose and measured the areas we planned to amend. Then, we interviewed and hired contractors for some help.

Our backyard is roughly pie-wedge-shaped with a point at the back. This point backs up to a road that is regularly traveled. On the left side was a chain link fence, and on the right, an old wooden fence. Our next-door neighbor was replacing his old wooden fence bordering the back of his property with a cement block wall. It would be more secure and hopefully reduce the road noise. He asked if we wanted to extend that wall to cover our property's 12 feet of road frontage. We considered it and decided yes. However, we planned to continue that block wall about 60 feet further down the left side of our yard that borders a preserved wooded area. We were excited about how a wall would enhance the look of our garden and further reduce the noise and visual distraction of passing cars.

Our plan looked like this:

Clear the pineapple garden . It was somewhat cathartic for me to yank up the sharp pineapples, especially after all the blood and pain they caused me.

Remove the old chain link fence. This part of the project was relatively easy for us; it was about to fall on its own anyway.

Remove the pine trees.

We contracted with a local nursery to remove the pine trees. We were pleasantly surprised how reasonable the quote was for the job. The crew came out, scampered up the trees, and lopped off limbs without much hefty equipment. It was amazing how efficient they were. When the big trees came down, they shook the house and left massive dents in the yard. We were fascinated to find that the freshly cut wood of the Australian pine is a bright day-glo orange as you can see below in the photos.

The crew removed the stumps after a few minor mechanical failures and delays with the stump grinder. It was bare-looking, but we had a fresh start. We gained about 30 feet of backyard!

Install a privacy wall. The vast openness without the trees was disconcerting after having that dense little forest back there. Gone were the old fence and the pineapples. I felt indecent being in a swimsuit and getting into our pool, and I was anxious for some color and contrast. Up went the new block wall. We were surprised by Florida's building codes for concrete walls, requiring reinforcement to withstand our weather. A father-son operation installed the wall and did a great job. Our next-door neighbor had a professional paint sprayer and was painting his wall white. He graciously let us use it, and we also painted ours white.

Repair the right side fence. We have a wooden fence separating our two properties, and it looked a bit drunken as it swayed and bowed a bit. After shoring it up, straightening, and replacing any rotten boards, we set about painting it. It's amazing how a fresh coat of paint can change the look of something!

Add the nursery bed . Having so many new places to plant, we knew our project could quickly get expensive. Since I love propagating my plants, it made sense to incorporate some of them into our plan. Starting with an area by our new wall, I created a nursery garden to grow a nice collection of new plants to repurpose in our beds.

Add a bed for the new block wall. We placed six, 12-foot-high areca palms and two small areca palms inside the new block wall. We were thrilled with how well they hid the wall, provided privacy, and hindered even more traffic noise.

Uh oh! Change in plans! Our contractor planted the new areca palms too close to each other! They looked cramped and frightened, huddled together in the corner of the backyard. The bottom line, they had to be moved! Disappointed, we called our landscaper and asked him to dig new holes and properly space the trees . The crew moved the palms, and what a difference! It looked perfect!

Add a bed for the fence. It was time to focus on the bare area along our freshly painted white wooden fence. We had two clusters of Christmas palm trees planted at the corners of our garage – under lights. Well, plants have a habit of growing, and the palms were about to become a problem with the lights. We decided to repurpose them, becoming focal points in the new, long bed we laid out along the fence.

Add plant material to our new beds . Now for the fun stuff! We visited area nurseries with our wish list of new plants . I decided to invest in some beautiful variegated firebushes, a good-sized foxtail palm (to obstruct a way too bright streetlight), foxtail ferns, hibiscus, song of India, petra croton, trinette, coontie palm, bird of paradise, agapanthus, and Auntie Lou ti plants.

I augmented these with my propagated bromeliads, spider plants, walking iris, and oyster plants. We dug up a crowded cardboard palm from another bed, which earned a roomy spot in the new bed next to a giant newly purchased split-leaf philodendron.

Before

After

Overall, it was an excellent improvement to our backyard; it gave us more usable space and vastly improved our view of the walls and fences. We love the privacy we created. It was a lot of work, but it has been incredibly gratifying, and now our garden is the quiet, tropical oasis we have always dreamed about.

I hope this story inspires you to tackle that project in your garden you have been dreaming about.

Now, it is time for a well-earned rest!

Becoming a Master Gardener

Thu, 25 May 2023 21:43:10 GMT

A Gardeners Journey

Images provided by JBGC member Stacie Latham. 2023 The Martin County UF/IFAS Master Gardener Volunteer Trainee Class visits Unbelievable Acres Botanical Garden and Mounts Botanical Gardens both in West Palm Beach. Click green hyperlinks for more information about the beautiful gardens.

May is National Historic Preservation Month

lisaosterjbgc34@gmail.com (Lisa Oster) — Sat, 20 May 2023 14:58:50 GMT

Celebrating the Log Cabin in Langford Park

May is National Historic Preservation Month. The Historic Log Cabin was listed on the Martin County Register of Historic Places in 2006 and is now a unique feature on the Martin County Historic Preservation Trail. The Jensen Beach Garden Club has maintained the beautiful garden at the Log Cabin for almost ten years. Please see the Gardens We Maintain tab and the photos below for more information about these garden s at one of Martin County's most treasured facilit ies.

Originally built in 1935 on 4th Street in downtown Stuart (now East Ocean), the local community enjoyed the Cabin as a meeting place for events such as dances and high school band practice, the Girl Scout Troops, and the local Kiwanis. But in 1971, it was believed to have lost its usefulness, so the Log Cabin was disassembled and placed outdoors near the MC Fairgrounds. The logs sat in a pile rotting, but folks had high hopes that a restoration would soon follow. After eight long years in the Florida weather, a local contractor Vince Bocchino agreed with members of the community and county commissioners to meticulously reassemble the Cabin and relocate it to Langford Park in Jensen Beach. The Cabin reopened in November 1981.

Today our historic log cabin is home to Martin County Parks and Recreation Senior Center. Pop in one day and see the beautiful coral and stone fireplace. Check out the beautiful frangipani tree and other pretty plants around the hand-built Cabin.

RoundUp Alternatives

lisaosterjbgc34@gmail.com (Lisa Oster) — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 17:01:26 GMT

A Guide for Gardeners

Roundup Alternatives for Your Lawn and Garden

Most pesticides can pose a risk to humans and animals, especially pollinators. For that reason, ConsumerNotice.org has published a guide with organic, homemade, and agricultural alternatives to help spread awareness about preventing permanent damage to our health and the environment.

A few highlights:

Use 2-3” mulch,
Dig up and remove weeds by hand,
Use organic herbicides when weeds are small. Carefully follow directions, not all alternatives work on everything in your yard or garden. Suggestions are provided.)
Corn gluten meal can kill grass weeds and broadleaf weeds. Again, carefully follow directions.

You can check out the guide here:

https://www.consumernotice.org/environmental/pesticides/roundup/alternatives/

This information has been provided by and used by the permission of Consumernotice.org. For questions, please write Daniela Rodriguez, Outreach Coordinator, drodriguez@consumernotice.org

Gardening Tips for South Florida

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 14:03:11 GMT

Palm Fertilization

Here in Florida our soil is poor, shallow, coupled with heavy rainfall during the growing season which results in a low natural reservoir of plant nutrients. Mature palms in your landscape should receive a complete granular fertilizer formulated for palms 3-4 times a year at the rate recommended on the bag. Small palms under 8 feet tall 2-5 lbs of fertilizer should be adequate. Select a fertilizer that contains controlled release nitrogen, potassium and magnesium. 8-2-12-Mg or even better 8-0-12 Mg to ensure you are getting an effective fertilizer is to specify that 100% of the N, K, Mg, and B sources are slow release and the Mn, Fe and other micronutrients are present in sulfate or chelated form. Click here to learn more about palm fertilization.

Landscape Mulch

All the different kinds of mulch available in Florida have benefits and drawbacks. Some are long lasting but don’t provide many nutrients when they break down. Soil pH may be reduced by pine bark and pine straw, which would be great for acid loving plants, but not for plants that require high-pH. Here is an overview of popular mulches.

Pine bark is a by-product of the forest industry. It comes in ground or nugget forms and has a dark brown color.

Melaleuca mulch is made from the invasive exotic trees. The product is cured at a high temperature to kill seeds.

Mixed hardwood mulch is a product from scrap lumber, recycled pallets, or tree stems that are too small to be used for paper or wood products.

Eucalyptus mulch comes from plantations in South and Central Florida where the trees are grown for mulch. They grow quickly so this is considered renewable.

Utility mulch is sold or given away for free by many utility companies.

This mulch comes from trimming trees, but it can come with weed seeds.

Cypress mulch Cypress trees grown in Florida are harvested for lumber used in fences, flooring, and other wood products. Cypress mulch is often produced from the waste wood generated in making these products, but it may also be produced from whole trees cut from our wetlands. The Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program does not recommend the use of cypress mulch, as it may be difficult to determine its origins.

Mulch inhibits weeds, adds beauty, helps reduce soil erosion, can improve soil and protects your plants.

Avoid “volcano mulching” when mulch is piled against the base of a tree, it holds moisture, encouraging rot in the trunk. Mulch to the drip line or beyond. Rake old mulch. Some mulch can become matted, preventing water and air from seeping through. Rake it to benefit plantings and refresh the mulch’s appearance.

Invasive Plant Species

Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC) “Category 1” list of invasive plants considered to be non-native invasive plants that are currently disrupting native plant communities in certain areas or throughout the state. Three popular landscaping plants on that list we should avoid planting to protect native habitats are:

Lantana camara- alternatives that can be planted are infertile camara, look for the names Bloomify Red and Bloomify Rose.
Ruellia simplex (Mexican petunia) - alternative plant, look for the names Mayan purple, Mayan white, Mayan pink, and Mayan compact purple.
Sansevieria Hyacinthoides (snakeplant) “Category 2” – alternative, grow this plant in containers. The snake plant is a carefree house plant, needing minimal light and water and able to help keep the air inside your home clean.

Submitted by: Gail Rounds, Club Member, Gardening Consultant and Master Gardener

Gardening in January

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 14:03:09 GMT

January Gardening in South Florida

Welcome 2022, with the new year comes new year’s resolutions. One of my goals this year is to support our local farmers by eating more seasonally grown edibles. To do this I will shop at farmers markets and grocery stores that specialize in locally grown produce. For a list of produce currently in season there is a web tool called Florida Fresh Now at https://floridafresh.ifas.ufl.edu/ You can enter your zip code for a list of produce in our area.

Things You Can Do This Month

This is a good time to plant shrubs, water new plantings frequently to get plants off to a good start. Prune non-spring flowering shrubs and trees to improve form. Celebrate Florida Arbor Day the third Friday in January by planting a tree (with AMC approval of course). Bring sensitive plants like orchids inside if a freeze or frost is predicted.

Plant Spotlight

A dwarf ginger one to two feet in height at maturity with bright orange cones of blooms. This plant can make an excellent houseplant because it tolerates moderate temperatures in the 60s or 70s. It generally blooms twice a year with blooms lasting about two weeks. Although it enjoys some sun too much can be harmful. It can be grown in bright indirect light. This plant is not bothered by most bugs maybe because of its gingery scent. This ginger is easy to divide and share with friends.

Submitted by: Gail Rounds, Club Member, Gardening Consultant and Master Gardener

Some of the Best Florida Plants for Attracting Honeybees

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 14:03:07 GMT

Anise hyssopIt – Easy to grow and is drought tolerant once established.

Black-eyed Susan – Bees and butterflies love this flower and it is a good choice for coastal areas.

Gaillardia – is a native perennial that has bright flowers that bloom through the summer and fall.

Marigolds – a reliable annual, it blooms in a range of yellows and oranges.

Pentas – a favorite of butterflies and comes in an array of reds, pinks and purples.

Purple coneflower – a beautiful perennial.

Salvisas – are great plants that come in many sizes and colors.

Herbs – such as Basil, Cilantro, Mint, Oregano and Rosemary are loved by our pollinators.

For all your gardening questions, Web search askifas. Rebranded as “Ask IFAS” in April 2021, UF/IFAS’ Electronic Data Information Source (EDIS) is evolving to meet the needs of our audiences, as well as the faculty who provide research-based, timely information about agriculture, natural resources, family & consumer sciences and youth development.

Have You Seen a Blue Bee?

Click here to find out more about the rare Calamintha bee.

Submitted by: Gail Rounds , Martin County Volunteer Master Gardener

Mexican Petunia

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 14:03:06 GMT

Mexican Petunia

“Ruellia simplex” better known as Mexican petunia, beautiful to look at, but did you know that it is considered invasive here in Florida? This means that it can escape from home gardens and spread into natural areas where it crowds out native species.

You shouldn't plant Mexican petunia in your garden, unless you're able to buy a cultivar like 'Purple Showers' that has been tested and specifically found not to be invasive. There's also a native wild petunia, Ruellia caroliniensis, but it's not as widely available. By making responsible choices and not planting invasive species, you'll help safeguard Florida's natural areas for future generations to enjoy.

(*Note: Mexican petunia's Latin name has changed many times, due to the rules of taxonomy. Suffice it to say: if you're purchasing a Mexican petunia plant, be sure it's either the native caroliniensis or a sterile cultivar. When in doubt, ask the seller.)

Submitted by: Gail Rounds , Martin County Volunteer Master Gardener

Palm Diseases

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 14:03:05 GMT

Palm Diseases

Palms are susceptible to fungal infections and some of the common ones you may have heard of are Fusarium Wilt, Bud rot and Ganoderma Butt Rot.

Fungal spores can hang around in the soil for years after plants have died, so planting new palms in the same location will make them susceptible to the infection as well.

Fusarium wilt is caused by soil fungus Fusarium oxysporum. The spores enter the palm through the roots with water into the stems and leaves and colonize closing up the tissue with a gummy substance. New growth of infected palm is often stunted. You will see older, lower fronds turning yellow, wilting and dying followed by upper fronds. This happens rapidly, only a few surviving fronds form a spike at the top of the palm and finally the entire plant dies. There is no cure and the palm should be removed.

Bud rot is caused by the fungus Phytophthora palmivora which causes the heart fronds to wilt and die. You may not notice this unless the palm is eye level. What you may see is the lack of new growth and an open crown. Older growth can look healthy for a time after the bud dies. No new leaves will emerge and the palm will die.

Ganoderma butt rot a lethal disease in Florida palms is caused by the fungus Ganoderma zonatum. It enters a palm by way of a wound on the lower 4-5 feet of the trunk. It worked its way through the trees base rotting the wood. When the fungus has work through the center of the palm to the surface it forms a conk, a mushroom-like growth which forms a horizontal shelf-like disk extending out from the trunk. You won’t be aware of the disease until the conk forms on the trunk or the palm is cut down and the internal rotting can be seen.

Keep an eye on your palms and have diseased palms promptly removed to avoid contamination of other palms.

Submitted by: Gail Rounds , Martin County Volunteer Master Gardener

Gardening in October

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 14:03:04 GMT

October Gardening in South Florida

It’s late August as I’m writing this garden article for the October Newsletter and I cannot remember a summer with so many days that have felt like 105 degrees. Gardening, being my favorite past time, has been challenging for me and the plants in my yard, especially those growing in containers.

Even though temperatures are still warm in October we can begin planting for cooler months ahead. Impatiens, alyssum, dianthus, begonia, geranium and snapdragon are a few that do well in the cooler months. See annuals at: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_annual_landscape_plants .

A wide range of herbs can be planted now such as dill, fennel, parsley and cilantro. See herbs at: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_herbs .

This month we can fertilize plants that are not performing well. A controlled-release fertilizer will provide nutrients over a longer period of time. Also, don’t forget to fertilize your palms with a controlled release nitrogen, potassium and magnesium fertilizer. 8-0-12 or 8-2-12 is recommended by the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, IFAS .

Would you like to attract butterflies? Try planting a nectar shrub: firebush, jatropha, plumbago, porterweed, wild coffee, firespike and golden dewdrop. Some vines that attract butterflies are coral honeysuckle, dutchman’s pipe and passion vine. To observe butterflies more closely, place plants near the house or even in patio containers.

A species of flowering plant in the Bromeliaceae family commonly called the silver vase or urn plant and is a native of Brazil. The urn plant is often grown as a house plant and best grown in bright but filtered sun to part shade, moist well drained soil. It’s best with a small pool of water in the central cup formed by the rosette of leaves. The urn plant blooms only once and then dies. Offsets form at the base of the plant and can be removed when 6” tall to transplant. No significant insect or disease problems. Root rot may occur if soil is too moist.

Submitted by: Gail Rounds, Martin County Volunteer Master Gardener

One of my favorite container plants is…

Aechmea fasciata

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At the 3rd Annual Jensen Beach Garden Expo on February 24, 2024

Download a list of these delicious, pretty and easy to grow plants. Learn how to care for them in your garden and use them on your family's table.

African Blue Basil

Brazilian Sissoo Spinach

Chaya

Cranberry Hibiscus

Cuban Oregano

Katuk

Longevity Spinach

Malabar Spinach

Surinam Purslane

Net Proceeds from the sale of these healthy plants and the cookbook are donated to families in need in our community.This project's committee was lead by Ms. Stacie Latham, Master Gardener and Club Member since 2023.

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