What is that yellow tree in bloom right now?

The Yellow Poinciana, Peltophorum pterocarpum, is quite showy right now which spurs many to ask about it.  It is not a native tree, however, it is considered Florida-Friendly as it can with stand periods of drought and is resistant to many pests in our area.

From May through September, the entire tree’s canopy is smothered with a yellow blanket of flowers.  The yellow poinciana tree can grow to heights of 50 feet with a spread of 40 feet so be sure to find the right place for this plant ensuring it has lots of room to grow.  Also, keep in mind that these blooms drop off, so plan ahead of planting to keep your maintenance level low by placing this tree where the expended blooms are not a nuisance.

Canopy in bloom

Poinciana without blooms

It's Raining, It's Pouring

Our summer afternoon showers, rain events, have begun.  What does this mean to you? 

• Your rain barrel is filling or full, good news!  Now is a great time to add another rain barrel to your collection.  If you are not currently using a rain barrel you can sign up for an upcoming workshop at http://manateefyn.eventbrite.com/
• It's time to check your irrigation timer!  You may be able to turn it off.  For more info check out http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/conservation/irrigating/watch-weather/
• Consider a Rain Garden.  Find out how to include a rain garden into your landscape at http://buildgreen.ufl.edu/Fact_sheet_Bioretention_Basins_Rain_Gardens.pdf

Upcoming Events

Summer Sat. Series: Bring the family and discover interesting Florida facts, animals, plants and ways to be friendly to our environment. This event is outside please be prepared with a drink, hat and/or sunscreen.




Meet the Natives – June 26th – Rye Preserve
Rye Wilderness Preserve 905 Wilderness Trail  Parrish, FL 34219

Take a walk with one of our Master Gardeners to identify Florida native plants. Listen to stories about our native friends as you tour the preserve spying new species along the way. Pot and take home a native plant. Registration is required.

*No fee required. Please register at http://metthenatives062610.eventbrite.com/

Program Location Description: Rye Preserve is a 145 acre property located just northwest of the Lake Manatee Dam. The preserve features nature trails, horseback trails, picnic areas, a playground and a canoe/kayak launch.
The preserve's trail system leads visitors through four distinctive ecosystems, including sand pine scrub, xeric oak scrub, oak hammocks and the river community. A variety of interesting creatures can be seen in these areas including the rare gopher tortoise, and Florida scrub-jay.
Rye Preserve is home to a piece of Manatee County's early pioneer history. Within the preserve visitors can view the Rye Family Cemetery, the last remaining reminder of the old Rye river community.

Other Series Titles:
Hippity Hoppity Frog Habitats- July 10th – Palma Sola Botanical Park http://froghabitats071010.eventbrite.com/


Wiggly Squiggly Worm Composting- August 14th - Manatee County Extension Office
http://wigglysquiggly081410.eventbrite.com/