Cultural Significance:

• Traditional Knowledge: For generations, cultures have tracked the moon for timekeeping and planning agricultural activities. Lunar gardening reflects this connection with nature’s cycles.
• Harmony with Nature: Proponents believe this practice fosters harmony with the natural world, encouraging gardeners to observe and adapt to subtle environmental cues.
• Engaging Practice: It can add an intriguing dimension to gardening, fostering interest and connection to the process.

Scientific Exploration:

• Limited Evidence: While the moon’s gravitational pull demonstrably affects tides, current research lacks strong evidence for its significant influence on plant growth.
• Negligible Gravitational Impact: Studies suggest the moon’s gravity is too weak to significantly affect plant processes compared to Earth’s gravity and other environmental factors.
• Future Research: Despite the lack of conclusive evidence, some research suggestsindirect connections like increased pollination under a full moon. This highlights the need for further exploration.

Gardening by Moon Phases: A Choice

• Lack of harm: Regardless of the science, there’s no harm in trying lunar gardening if you find it interesting.
• Focus on fundamentals: Regardless of the method, proper soil preparation, sun exposure, and water management remain crucial for successful gardening.
• Scientific gardening: For reliable results, scientifically proven methods like appropriate planting times and soil care are recommended.

Ultimately, gardening by moon phases is a cultural practice with limited scientific support. Whether you choose to follow it or not, paying attention to details and understanding basic plant needs remains key to successful gardening. For more detailed information on how to garden by the moon phases a terrific resource is the Farmer’s Almanac.

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites throughout Northeast Florida, Rockaway Inc proudly serves both commercial and residential sustainable landscape design, maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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A Dramatic Decline in Mexico:

• 59% Drop in Population: The 2023-2024 winter season saw a shocking 59% decrease in the area occupied by monarch butterflies in central Mexican forests compared to the previous year. This represents the second-lowest population level ever recorded, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
• Heat, Drought, and Habitat Loss: Experts attribute the decline to a combination of factors, including extreme heat and drought conditions in the butterflies’ breeding grounds in North America, which limited milkweed availability, their sole food source for caterpillars. Additionally, habitat loss due to deforestation in Mexico further threatens their overwintering survival.

What You Can Do in Your Landscape:

While the challenges faced by monarchs are extensive, individual actions can contribute to their conservation. By creating a haven for them in your landscape, you can provide essential resources and support their recovery:

• Plant a Monarch Butterfly Garden:

  • Focus on Milkweed: Choose native milkweed species suitable for your region, as they are vital for caterpillar development.
  • Offer Nectar Sources: Plant a variety of flowering plants that bloom throughout the season, providing adult butterflies with energy. Consider native wildflowers, butterfly bushes, and coneflowers.
  • Create a Diverse Habitat: Include various plant types and heights to offer shelter, nesting sites, and basking areas for monarchs.

• Embrace Sustainable Practices:

  • Avoid Pesticides and Herbicides: These chemicals harm not only butterflies but also the insects they rely on for food. Opt for organic gardening methods and natural pest control solutions.
  • Provide Overwintering Sites: If you live in a warm climate, consider planting native trees and shrubs that offer protection from wind and cold.
  • Let Your Garden Flourish: Avoid excessive trimming and mowing, allowing some areas to grow wild and provide natural habitat elements.

Spreading Awareness and Taking Action:

• Educate Others: Share your knowledge about monarch butterflies and their needs with friends, family, and neighbors. Encourage them to create butterfly-friendly gardens as well. These areas will likewise benefit other pollinator species.
• Support Conservation Efforts: Donate to organizations working to protect monarch butterflies and their habitat, such as Monarch Watch, The Xerces Society, and The World Wildlife Fund.

By taking these steps, you can become part of the solution and contribute to the conservation of this iconic butterfly species. Remember, every action, no matter how small, can make a difference. Even a single butterfly garden can provide essential resources for monarchs, and the collective efforts of individuals like you can create a network of habitat that can significantly impact their survival. Additionally, by spreading awareness and supporting conservation organizations, you can amplify your positive influence and inspire others to join the cause. Together, we can create a future where these magnificent creatures continue to grace our skies and inspire us with their beauty and remarkable journey.

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites throughout Northeast Florida, Rockaway Inc proudly serves both commercial and residential sustainable landscape design, maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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Recent research at the University of Maryland and published in the scientific journal Current Biology sheds light on two key pathways that work together, directing the development of leaves in strawberries. These pathways, controlled by specific genes, influence features like the number of leaflets (single vs. multiple) and the edge patterns (smooth vs. serrated). Interestingly, they take turns influencing the leaf at different stages, shaping its final form.

This discovery suggests exciting possibilities for the future. By understanding how these pathways interact, scientists might be able to “tune” them to enhance certain qualities in plants. Imagine strawberries with more serrated leaves, better suited for cold climates, or broader, smoother leaves that thrive in warmer ecosystems. This could increase crop yields, provide new hybridizing opportunities and serve as a means to help plants adapt to changing environment conditions.

Besides strawberries the early stages of this research has isolated similar mechanisms in Arabidopsis, a member of the mustard family, suggesting this “genetic language of leaves” may be widespread. By combining this knowledge with cutting-edge technologies like genomics and transcriptomics, scientists are unraveling the mysteries of leaf diversity across the plant kingdom.

This research holds immense potential for agriculture, forestry, and our gardens and landscapes. So the next time you admire a leaf, remember the fascinating story hidden within its shape. Congratulations to the scientists at the University of Maryland in unraveling the mystery of leaf shapes and in the process helping shape new pathways of sustainability for us all.

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites throughout Northeast Florida, Rockaway Inc proudly serves both commercial and residential landscape design, maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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Composting isn’t about complicated formulas or expensive equipment. With a basic understanding and a few essential tools, you can embark on this rewarding journey. Let’s explore the ingredients and tools you’ll need:

Nature’s Building Blocks:

• Nitrogen-rich “Greens”: Fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells (crushed!), grass clippings (weed-free), and stale bread provide essential nitrogen for microbial growth and decomposition.
• Carbon-rich “Browns”: Dry leaves, straw, shredded cardboard (unprinted!), twiggy prunings (chopped), wood chips (untreated), and sawdust (sparingly) offer structure and balance, ensuring proper airflow and moisture retention.

Your Composting Toolkit:

• Comfortable Abode: Choose a well-drained, partially shaded location for your compost bin or pile. Repurposed pallets or store-bought options provide suitable homes for your composting endeavors.
• Turning Tool: A pitchfork or shovel is your trusty companion, regularly fluffing the pile to maintain aeration and accelerate decomposition.
• Temperature Monitor (optional): A compost thermometer helps you track the internal temperature (aiming for 135-160°F) for optimal microbial activity.
• Hydration Master: Water plays a crucial role. Keep the pile moist but not soggy, aiming for the consistency of a wrung-out sponge.

Optional Boosters:

• Finished compost or garden soil: Introduce beneficial microbes to jumpstart the process.
• Compost starter (commercial): Follow instructions carefully for an additional microbial boost.

Remember, patience is key! Composting is a natural process that unfolds over time. Embrace the learning journey, experiment, and observe how your pile responds to adjustments.

Here are some guiding principles for successful composting:

• Balance is Vital: Maintain a 3:1 ratio of browns to greens by volume. This ensures optimal nutrient availability for microbes.
• Moisture Matters: Consistent moisture is crucial. Adjust with water if dry, and add browns if overly wet.
• Aeration is Life: Regular turning (every 1-2 weeks) allows oxygen to reach microbes, ensuring efficient decomposition.
• Size Matters: Larger piles (around 3x3x3ft) retain heat better, promoting faster decomposition.
• Diversity is Delicious: Include a variety of materials for richer, more nutritious compost. Think of it as a balanced diet for your soil!
• Monitor and Adapt: Use your thermometer and observations to understand your pile’s needs and adjust accordingly.

Challenges Are Stepping Stones:

• Slow decomposition? Check moisture, balance, and aeration. Consider adding activators if needed.
• Unpleasant odors? Anaerobic conditions are likely the culprit. Turn the pile and add browns for better aeration.
• Pesty visitors? Bury scraps, use a lidded bin, and avoid meat/dairy/oils.

With the knowledge gleaned from “Learn Composting Basics: A Beginner’s Guide,” you’re now equipped to embark on this enriching journey. From understanding the essential ingredients to navigating common challenges, you have the tools to transform waste into “garden gold.” Remember, composting is a natural process that thrives on experimentation and observation. Embrace the learning curve, track your progress, and relish the satisfaction of nurturing your garden and the earth with your own homemade compost. As you witness the magic unfold, don’t hesitate to delve deeper into the guide for more advanced techniques and troubleshooting tips.

Additional Resources:

• US Environmental Protection Agency: https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/recycle/composting-home
• The National Gardening Association: https://garden.org/
• Compost Tea Brewing: https://www.agrosustentavel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Teaming-With-Microbes.pdf
• Ultimate Composting Guide: https://forestry.com/reviews/how-to-make-compost-quickly-the-ultimate-easy-guide-for-fast-result

Happy composting!

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The Sunshine State’s winter has been unusually cloudy and wet, thanks in part to a strong El Niño. But El Niño is weakening and is expected to transition to neutral conditions by spring, with a possibility of La Niña developing later in the year.  This means Florida’s springis likely to be wetter than usual with more storms, offering some relief from the cloud cover. However, summer rainfall is uncertain and may be less than usual if La Niña develops.

Here’s a breakdown of how the changing weather patterns might affect your gardening and landscaping:

Spring:

• Expect wetter conditions: “L​ooking at past strong El Niño winters and springs since 1950, they’ve been wet in Florida in March, then eased off a bit into April and May,” according to Weather Underground. Increased rain means adjusting watering schedules and preparing for potential flooding. Pay attention to local forecasts and adjust accordingly.
• More storms: Be prepared for strong winds and potential hail damage. Protect sensitive plants and consider storm-resistant landscaping options.
• Possible relief from cloud cover: As El Niño fades, sunshine may return, boosting plant growth.
• Focus on plants that thrive in wetter conditions: Choose vegetables like leafy greens and root vegetables that tolerate moisture.

Summer:

• Rainfall uncertainty: If La Niña develops, summer rainfall could be less than usual. This might require more frequent watering or drought-resistant plant choices.
• Monitor drought conditions: Stay informed about local drought declarations and restrictions on water usage.
• Consider heat-tolerant plants: Choose varieties that withstand high temperatures and sun exposure.

Additional tips:

• Mulch: A layer of mulch helps retain moisture in the soil, especially important during drier periods.
• Group plants: Planting similar plants together creates microclimates that can help conserve water and protect from wind.
• Use drip irrigation: Drip irrigation reduces water consumption costs benefiting plants water needs and conserves this limited resource.
• Compost: Improve soil quality and water retention by composting and adding this nutrient rich amendment back into your landscape.
• Aeration: Reduces compaction and encourages water absorption, which in turn reduces stormwater runoff.

By staying informed about the changing weather patterns and adapting your gardening practices accordingly, you improve the likelihood that your Florida landscape thrives throughout the year.

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Love your urban garden, but want to minimize its environmental impact? A recent University of Michigan study found that urban-grown produce generally has a higher carbon footprint than store-bought options. However, don’t despair! Here are some tips inspired by the study’s findings to make your urban garden more sustainable:

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle in the Garden:

• Extend the life of your garden structures: The study highlights that materials used for raised beds, composters, and sheds contribute significantly to the carbon footprint. Opt for durable materials and aim for at least 20 years of use – the longer they last, the lower their footprint per serving! (This aligns with the study’s finding that raised beds used for 5 years have 4 times the impact as those used for 20 years.)
• Give “urban waste” a new life: Repurpose used materials like construction debris for paths or raised beds, following the study’s suggestion of “urban symbiosis.” Collect rainwater and greywater for irrigation instead of relying on tap water. It’s all about reducing waste and giving materials a second life! Including livestock such as chickens can actually aid in the recycling of food waste and yield valuable high nitrogen fertilizer.
• Choose wisely what you buy: Opt for compost and fertilizers made with recycled materials, minimizing the use of non-biodegradable petroleum-based products. Remember, the study emphasizes the importance of reducing resource inputs.

Grow Smart, Grow Sustainable:

• Select strategic crops: The study suggests focusing on varieties typically grown in greenhouses or requiring airfreight (like asparagus) for a potentially lower carbon footprint compared to conventionally grown options. Choose crops suited to your local climate and minimize the need for additional resources like heating or transportation.
• Embrace open-air growing: The study found that tomatoes grown in open-air urban plots had a lower carbon footprint than their greenhouse counterparts. Consider alternatives to high energy consumption greenhouses whenever possible, especially for suitable crops.
• Compost kitchen scraps: It’s free fertilizer, reduces waste going to landfills, and contributes to a closed-loop system within your garden, aligning with the study’s emphasis on resource efficiency. Our partner company Locally Laid builds raised beds and chicken coops with Greg Burghardt being available for consultations  and demonstrates what crops to grow, how to compost and improve your resource efficiencies.

Remember, the Social Side Matters Too:

• Grow with your community: Community gardens foster social connections and shared knowledge, creating a more sustainable and vibrant urban environment, as highlighted in the study’s mention of the social benefits of urban agriculture. Community gardening influencer Nathan Ballentine, aka Man in Overalls is likewise a wealth of knowledge with a passion for teaching.
• Enjoy the benefits: Studies show urban gardening improves mental health, diet, and social networks. These “non-food outputs,” while not directly reducing the carbon footprint, contribute to a holistic, engaging, and sustainable approach to urban living, echoing the study’s conclusion about the broader value of urban agriculture.

By following these tips, you can reduce your urban garden carbon footprint, which minimizes its environmental impact while enjoying the benefits of more home grown food on your table.

Happy Sustainable Gardening!

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites throughout Northeast Florida, Rockaway Inc proudly serves both commercial and residential landscape design,maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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Community Development Districts (CDDs) in Florida represent a unique and impactful approach to community development. The Florida legislature authorized CDDs via Chapter 190 known as the “Uniform Community Development District Act of 1980.” Often considered an advantageous framework for both residents and developers, CDDs offer a distinctive framework for fostering high-quality communities with enriched living experiences.

Investing in Infrastructure and Amenities:

One of the primary benefits of CDDs lies in their ability to dedicate resources specifically to the community’s infrastructure and amenities. Imagine living in a vibrant neighborhood equipped with:

• Top-notch infrastructure: Well-maintained roads, efficient drainage systems, and reliable utilities form the foundation of any thriving community. CDDs prioritize such infrastructure advancements, ensuring a smooth and secure environment for residents.
• Enriching amenities: Parks with lush greenery and play areas, sparkling swimming pools, community centers buzzing with activity, and even recreational options like golf courses or fitness centers – these are just a few examples of the amenities that CDDs can bring to life.
• Preserving green spaces: Dedicated landscape maintenance services, meticulously maintained common areas, and proactive environmental conservation efforts contribute to a beautiful and sustainable living environment within CDD communities.

Empowering Resident Involvement:

Beyond the tangible benefits, CDDs offer residents a voice in shaping their community’s future. Through a democratically elected Board of Supervisors, residents directly participate in decision-making processes, ensuring that the community’s development aligns with their aspirations and needs. This fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, leading to a more engaged and vibrant community spirit.

Financial Considerations:

It’s essential to acknowledge that CDD communities come with an additional financial responsibility – namely, CDD fees. These fees contribute to the ongoing maintenance and development of the community’s infrastructure and amenities. While these fees may pose an initial consideration, it’s crucial to recognize the value they bring in terms of enhanced living conditions and potential property value appreciation.

Weighing the Advantages:

When considering a CDD community, it’s vital to do your research and carefully evaluate the specific benefits and costs associated with each district. However, for individuals seeking a community that prioritizes quality infrastructure, engaging amenities, and resident involvement, CDDs can present an advantageous pathway to an enriched and fulfilling living experience.

Remember, CDDs are not a “one-size-fits-all” solution, but rather a distinct option worthy of exploration for those seeking a community that invests in its future and empowers its residents.

Jacksonville, Florida and surrounding county CDDs include:

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites throughout Northeast Florida, Rockaway Inc proudly serves both commercial and residential landscape design,maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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Boosting Curb Appeal:

-Plant stunning new flower beds. Consider planting Winter annuals and make plans for a fresh selection of perennials for rotating into the beds in Spring. Choose vibrant blooms that thrive in your climate and create a showstopping display in your front yard. 

-Upgrade your landscaping. Refresh tired mulch, prune overgrown shrubs, and remember that Winter is a great time for major landscaping upgrades including irrigation, decks, pergolas, driveways, and walkways. Planning such projects well in advance of Spring will reduce the delays associated with the seasonal rush.

-Install new outdoor lighting. String lights, pathway lights and architectural lighting can add ambiance and make your outdoor space more inviting in the evenings and contribute to enhanced security. It’s about extending your living space, creating an ambiance that invites relaxation, conversation, and outdoor entertainment long after the sun dips below the horizon. We provide a variety of lighting options tailored to your unique outdoor living area in our design consultation process. 

-Book a landscape design consultation. Landscape architects and designers have the experience to walk you through all aspects of boosting curb appeal.

Gardening for Sustainability:

-Incorporate organic gardening practices. For plant disease and pest control before they get too bad consider products such as neem oil and insecticidal soap.  Consider companion planting, and use of beneficial mycorrhiza and nurturing beneficial insects such as as lady bugs for a healthier garden and landscape. These are all valuable opportunities to learn about ecological web for young and old alike. 

-Conserve water. Implement water-saving measures like drip irrigation, smart irrigation timers, rain barrels, and drought-tolerant plants to reduce your
environmental impact and save money on your water bill. Rockaway encourages use of Weathermatic irrigation technologies for conserving water in our HOA, COA, and commercial clients.

-Plant a pollinator garden. Attract bees, butterflies, humming birds and other pollinators by planting a variety of native flowers that provide nectar and pollen during different seasons and throughout the year.

Enjoying Your Outdoor Space:

-Create a cozy patio retreat. Install a deck or paver patio. Add comfy seating, string lights, and potted plants to transform your patio into an inviting oasis for relaxation and entertaining. Consider these 5 Best deck styles for Florida backyards. 

-Install a fire pit or fire table. Gather around a crackling fire on chilly nights for warmth, ambiance, and s’mores roasting fun. Consider our list of fire pit styles.

-Install a pergola or swing. Hanging out in a peaceful spot dedicated to unwinding and enjoyment under a pergola or swing. Consider these 5 Advantages of Pergolas.

-Grow a vegetable garden. Grow your own fresh produce and herbs for delicious, homegrown meals all year long. Gardening is a terrific stress reliever that affords us the opportunity to see the positive results of our labor in relation to the accompanying challenges of nature.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose resolutions that you’re excited about and that fit your lifestyle and budget. With a little effort, you can transform your lawn and garden into a more beautiful and enjoyable space for the whole family to cherish in the new year. At Rockaway we hope this gives you some inspiration for your own New Year’s landscape and garden resolutions!

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites in Jacksonville and St. Johns County, Rockaway Inc., your outdoor living experts, proudly serves both commercial and residential landscape design, maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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The new USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map update, released on November 15, 2023, paints a warmer picture for much of the country, with half the nation shifting to a higher hardiness zone. This shift, particularly relevant for Jacksonville, Florida, comes amidst concerns about the potential for an El Niño-influenced winter and wetter spring.

Jacksonville’s Zone Shift and El Niño’s Potential Impact:

Previously split between zones 8b and 9a, Jacksonville is now split between zone 9a west and 9b east of State Highway 9A, with the new 8b zone migrating nearly 200 miles north to near Macon, Georgia. While this upward revision reflects warming trends, the potential for an El Niño event adds a layer of complexity to consider for the health of our landscapes and gardens.

El Niño, characterized by warmer Pacific Ocean temperatures, can influence weather patterns across the globe, often bringing increased rainfall to the southeastern United States, including Florida. “More turbulent wet weather in the Sunshine State is possible, however, with a separate forecast predicting most of Florida as having an 80 to 90 percent chance of above-average rainfall, according to Newsweek. “That prediction may not be welcomed by residents in cities like Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as NBC Boston named it the wettest city in America this year.” This could lead to wetter-than-average spring conditions in Jacksonville, potentially impacting planting times and plant selection. 

Combining Hardiness Zones with Rainfall Predictions:

While the new USDA plant hardiness zone map provides valuable guidance on cold tolerance, it’s crucial to consider Jacksonville’s specific climate and potential El Niño effects. Here are some tips:

Factor in rainfall: When choosing plants, consider not just their cold hardiness but also their tolerance to moisture. Opt for varieties that thrive in wetter conditions if El Niño predictions hold true.

Monitor weather forecasts: Stay informed about the latest El Niño developments and adjust your planting plans accordingly. Delay planting frost-sensitive species if heavy rains are expected.

Seek local expert advice: Consult with the University of Florida Duval County Extension Office and our landscape architects and designers for plant varieties suited for Jacksonville and the beach’s specific microclimates and potential El Niño impacts.

Remember, the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is a general guideline, and microclimates within your area can create variations in temperature and rainfall. Combining this information
with El Niño forecasts and local expertise enables you to make informed decisions about plant selection and care, ensuring your Jacksonville garden flourishes throughout the year. For more information consider our article “Why is it important to know your cold hardiness zone?“.

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites in Jacksonville and St. Johns County, Rockaway Inc proudly serves both commercial and residential landscape design, maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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