Nature's Keeper

Here in South Florida, especially in the Treasure Coast, we are always trying to grow our own fruit. Not surprising really, considering Minute Maid and Tropicana have groves just around the corner to take advantage of this perfect tropical climate!

Recently it has become more difficult to grow backyard citrus due to the various diseases

Recently it has become more difficult to grow backyard citrus due to the various diseases. Citrus canker was a pretty nasty one, but Greening, or Huanglongbing, seems to take the cake. This stubborn disease is deadly, ruins the fruit and can’t be cured. Homeowners have been complaining, but imagine the impact on our agricultural produces, who employ a large majority of our rural residents. Because of this, many Master Gardeners recommend homeowners look into alternative options for their home grown fruit fetish.

My first alternative fruit tree was a carambola or starfruit tree. This picture was taken just this week to brag on my beautiful purple blossoms! The carambola tree produces sweet and light starfruit- which tastes completely different fresh than from the store. When the fruit is sliced each slice is shaped like a star.

The carambola tree is a great backyard tree for South Florida. The tree is hardy for our hot, hot summers and will withstand the brisk temperatures in the winter. Starfruit trees do require regular watering and proper drainage- too much or too little water will be the end of your tree! They are also very sensitive to high winds- plant this tree in a protected area for the best production. Fertilize a few times a year and your tree will produce plenty of starfruit for you and your family.

The carambola tree originates in southeast Asia where it has been grown for hundreds of years. Like most fruit trees, starfruit seedlings are usually grafted to provide the best quality fruit. There are usually two harvests each year- one in the late spring (April-May) and one in late summer (September-October).

Welcome to the Nature’s Keeper Blog! If any of you know Carl, the owner of Nature’s Keeper, then you know this isn’t him. Carl is not computer-friendly… but I am! My name is Kara, and I am Carl’s fiance and the office administrator here at Nature’s Keeper of Palm City.

Welcome to the Nature’s Keeper Blog! If any of you know Carl, the owner of Nature’s Keeper, then you know this isn’t him.

I ventured into the world of gardening, and blogging, in my last garden blog, Kara’s Garden (www.karasgarden.com). I enjoyed my vegetable and fruit garden, but we have moved to a more stable annual bed now (which is much less work!). I will be updating this blog with ideas, tips and tricks and  other South Florida landscape related information, as well as a few posts about our own plants. Please check back often, and feel free to leave a comment below!

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