As autumn arrives in Sarasota County, it brings cooler temperatures and the perfect opportunity to prepare your landscape for holiday gatherings. Our Thanksgiving Day Sale will help you create a stunning garden featuring majestic hardwood trees, including our Shady Lady Trees, and vibrant Bougainvillea blooms. Let’s explore how these plants thrive during the fall season and how they can make your garden festive and functional
Hardwood Trees: Garden Giants with Autumn Appeal
When thinking about autumn in Sarasota, it’s all about enjoying the subtle drop in humidity and temperatures, making garden work a joy. Hardwood trees become the unsung heroes of the season, providing beauty, shade, and a perfect setting for outdoor celebrations and family gatherings.
Top Hardwood Trees for Autumn in Sarasota County
- Shady Lady Tree (Bucida buceras): Known for its elegant, weeping branches and lush, dense canopy, the Shady Lady Tree adds a touch of sophistication to any landscape. It’s ideal for creating a shaded retreat, perfect for hosting Thanksgiving dinners or enjoying quiet moments outdoors. With its drought tolerance and low maintenance needs, it’s a Florida-friendly choice that thrives in our climate. During our Thanksgiving Day Sale, these beauties are available at an incredible price! (Source: Florida Native Plant Society)
- Live Oak (Quercus virginiana): Even in the fall, Live Oaks are a source of enduring beauty. Their sprawling branches create a natural canopy that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings. These oaks retain most of their foliage year-round, giving your garden a consistent, classic look. (Source: University of Florida IFAS Extension)
- Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora): As temperatures cool, Southern Magnolias remain lush with glossy green leaves. Decorate them with lights for a holiday-ready landscape.
- Florida Maple (Acer barbatum): For traditional autumn color, the Florida Maple provides a rare fall foliage experience in Sarasota, with leaves turning orange and gold. It’s a lovely addition for seasonal events and family photos.
Why Autumn Is the Ideal Time to Plant Hardwood Trees
- Cooler Temperatures: Trees experience less stress when planted in fall, allowing roots to establish before the heat returns.
- Festive Settings: A well-placed hardwood tree, like the Shady Lady, can anchor your outdoor space, making it ideal for holiday meals or gatherings.
Bougainvillea: Fall Blooms for Seasonal Cheer
Autumn may cool the air, but Bougainvillea keeps adding vibrancy to your garden. These flowering climbers thrive in Sarasota’s sunny fall weather, making them perfect for a festive landscape.
Coconut Ice Bougainvillea
- Description: Coconut Ice features pure white bracts with a soft pink blush, creating an elegant look. Its blooms complement any fall decor, making it ideal for outdoor Thanksgiving settings.
- Autumn Care Tips: Bougainvillea prefers to dry out between waterings. Prune sparingly to keep it tidy for holiday gatherings.
Blueberry Ice Bougainvillea
- Description: For bold color, Blueberry Ice has purple and white bracts that add an eye-catching element to your garden. It’s perfect for climbing over fences or trellises, creating a vibrant welcome for holiday guests.
- Autumn Care Tips: Fertilize lightly for extended blooming. Be prepared to protect from any unexpected cold snaps.
How to Combine Shady Lady Trees, Other Hardwoods, and Bougainvillea for a Festive Fall Garden
Pairing Shady Lady Trees with Bougainvillea can transform your outdoor space:
- Create a Focal Point: Use Shady Lady Trees to provide a shaded area for entertaining, while Bougainvillea adds color and vibrancy.
- Seasonal Decorating Tips: Add string lights or rustic decor around trees for a festive holiday look.
- Wildlife-Friendly Garden: The dense canopy of Shady Lady Trees attracts birds, while Bougainvillea draws butterflies.
Check out more Bougainvillea varieties for your Florida Garden.
CITATIONS:
- University of Florida IFAS Extension – Sarasota County: Sarasota County Gardening and Landscaping – UF/IFAS
- Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD): SWFWMD – Conservation and Irrigation
- UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Gardening Solutions – UF/IFAS
- Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program: Florida-Friendly Landscaping – UF/IFAS
- Three Seasons Nursery: 8 Beautiful Winter Flowering Plants in South Florida
- Naples Daily News Archive: THREE SEASONS LLC