The Live Oak

Live Oak Tree

Draped in Spanish moss, the live oak has to be one of the most beautiful sights there is. I am fortunate to have several in my backyard. I did not realize until moving here how ubiquitous they are in South Florida. Did you know they can live 1,000 years? Interestingly, they are evergreen but deciduous - they stay green all winter, then drop their leaves in the spring as the new leaves push the old ones off.

Mine are all leafing out this week and it is quite a sight. That and temperatures of about eighty have me working in the garden this week. I am delighted with my progress in the garden. It is a mix of English garden and tropical paradise. My Brugmansias that are just a few months old are already six feet tall - it is amazing how things grow here including my hair and nails that grow like weeds down here. I also found Agapanthus yesterday at Lowe's and planted a big urn with it. Being able to garden 365 days a year really is a dream come true.