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Burgundy Plum Tree The Burgundy Plum Tree is a compact and productive fruit tree, prized for its adaptability and ease of care. Thriving in full sun, this variety can also tolerate partial shade, making it a versatile option for home gardens. Its relatively small size allows for planting in tighter spaces, with a minimum of 10 feet between trees. For those who prefer wider growth or more open spacing, additional distance can be provided during planting. Climate & Growing Conditions The Burgundy Plum Tree grows best in warm, sunny environments but remains resilient across various climates. Its moderate size makes it ideal for backyard orchards, smaller gardens, or mixed plantings. Watering Schedule Winter Dormancy – During dormancy, the tree does not require supplemental water. Spring – Begin watering once per week as new growth emerges. Summer – Increase to twice per week in hot weather to support vigorous growth and fruit development. Fall – As temperatures cool, gradually reduce watering until it is discontinued for the winter. Fertilization Winter Fertilization – Before spring growth begins, apply fertilizers rich in phosphorus and potassium, such as bone meal, humus, or manure, to prepare the tree for the season. Spring & Summer Fertilization – Transition to fertilizers higher in nitrogen, such as blood meal or balanced granular fertilizers, to encourage active growth and maximize fruit production. Burgundy Plum Tree Pruning Winter Pruning – While dormant, prune the tree to maintain its shape, size, and structure. Summer Thinning – In summer, remove dry or damaged branches, thin excess fruit, and cut back suckers to promote healthy growth and prevent the tree from being overloaded with fruit. Pest & Fruit Protection Winter Pest Control – Apply organic horticultural oils during winter dormancy to prevent soft-bodied insects from infesting the tree during the growing season. Fruit Protection – As plums ripen, protect the harvest from birds and rodents using repellents or by covering the tree with netting.

Cape Leadwort, scientifically known as Plumbago auriculata, is a popular choice for gardens and landscapes due to its striking blue or white flowers and green foliage. It is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 10 feet in height but can be clipped to maintain a smaller size. The plant features lance-shaped, dark green leaves on its stalks, and its most striking feature is its clusters of tubular, five-petaled flowers, which bloom in either blue or white. These flowers are about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter and bloom throughout the year in suitable climates. Growing Conditions and Care Cape Leadwort is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in various conditions: Sunlight: It does well in either full sun or light shade. Soil Requirements: The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral, well-draining soil but can tolerate a wide range of soil types. Watering: Regular watering is necessary during the growing season to keep it healthy. Climate: This plant grows well in warm, subtropical climates and is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. It can be cultivated in containers and kept indoors during colder months. Special Features Some types of Cape Leadwort, especially the blue-flowering variety, emit a pleasant aroma that enhances its appeal in the garden. Though generally non-toxic, some individuals may experience skin sensitivity when touching the plant. Uses in Landscaping This shrub is ideal for a variety of landscaping purposes: Ornamental Use: It serves as an eye-catching standalone plant, perfect for hedges, borders, or containers. Coastal Gardens: Its salt tolerance makes it a great choice for coastal areas. History of Cape Leadwort Native to South Africa, Cape Leadwort has a rich horticultural history and cultural significance. It has been featured in art, literature, and traditional practices, making it a timeless and inspiring addition to gardens around the world. Size and Shaping Maintaining the size and shape of Cape Leadwort is easy: Pruning: Prune after flowering to encourage a bushy growth habit. Regular pruning helps preserve its form and ensures that it remains a striking feature in your garden or landscape.  

Cara Cara Orange Tree The Cara Cara Orange Tree is a highly productive evergreen citrus variety prized for its uniquely colored fruit and exceptional flavor. This navel orange features a small navel, slightly oblong shape, and smooth skin without blush. The fruit is known for its deep pink to reddish flesh, similar to that of a red grapefruit, yet sweeter and less acidic. With a complex flavor profile blending cherries, berries, and classic orange, Cara Cara oranges are both refreshing and versatile. Rich in antioxidants, they contain high levels of vitamin C and vitamin A, making them not only delicious but also highly nutritious, supporting heart health and overall wellness. Climate & Growing Conditions The Cara Cara Orange Tree thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil. As with most citrus, consistent watering is important—especially during the establishment phase and in dry climates. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can cause issues like yellowing leaves or leaf drop, particularly in container-grown trees. Adaptable and resilient, Cara Cara oranges can be grown successfully in the ground or in large containers, provided they receive proper sunlight, soil, and water conditions. Fertilization For healthy growth and abundant fruiting, fertilize the Cara Cara Orange Tree with a balanced organic citrus food: Spring & Summer: Use fertilizers higher in nitrogen to encourage vigorous growth. Winter: Switch to blends with higher phosphorus and potassium to promote root strength and fruit production. Citrus fertilizers often include essential micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and iron, which further support vibrant foliage, strong roots, and heavy fruit yields. Cara Cara Orange Tree Pruning & Care Pruning helps maintain the tree’s structure, airflow, and productivity. Winter (cooler months, typically January): Perform general pruning to shape the tree and remove unwanted growth. Summer: Thin by removing spurs, suckers, and inward-growing branches. Clear away dry fruit, weak twigs, and shaded interior branches to improve light penetration. Trunk Care: Painting the trunk with white, water-based paint before summer can protect against sunburn and heat damage. Growth & Maintenance If left unpruned, the Cara Cara Orange Tree can reach 15–20 feet tall, though it can also be maintained at a smaller size for ease of harvest. With consistent care, this tree will reward growers with large crops of richly flavored fruit year after year. For best results, plant in a sunny location with good drainage, and water regularly while avoiding excess moisture.

Dancy Mandarin / Tangerine Tree The Dancy Mandarin Tree, often called the Dancy Tangerine, is a classic heirloom citrus variety prized for its rich flavor, vibrant color, and heavy fruit production. Available in Standard, Semi-Dwarf, and Dwarf forms, it can be grown in the ground or in containers, making it a versatile choice for any home garden. Tree Size & Growth Habit Standard & Semi-Dwarf: Grow with a strong single trunk that branches into a rounded canopy. Dwarf: Topped low for a bush-like form, perfect for pots and small spaces. Although Dancy Mandarin trees can reach over 20 feet tall, most home gardeners prune them to a manageable height of 9–15 feet. For orchard planting, space trees as close as 9 feet apart, allowing more room for larger growth. With their lush green foliage, fragrant blossoms, and abundant fruit, Dancy Mandarins are both ornamental and productive, making them ideal for home landscapes. Planting & Growing Conditions Sunlight: Plant in full sun for optimal growth and fruit production. Soil: Use well-draining soil with a high-quality planting mix and fertilizer. Watering Guidelines Spring–Summer: Water young trees twice per week. Fall–Winter: Reduce watering to once per week in cooler weather. Hot & Sandy Soils: Increase watering frequency as needed to prevent stress. Dancy Mandarin Tree Fertilization Spring & Summer: Apply a citrus fertilizer with a 2-1-1 NPK ratio to encourage strong foliage growth. Organic Nitrogen Sources: Blood meal or well-aged manure provide natural nitrogen. Winter: Switch to fertilizers higher in phosphorus and potassium (such as humus or bone meal) to support flowering and fruit development. Pest & Problem Management The Dancy Mandarin tree is low-maintenance and typically less attractive to birds and small animals, such as squirrels, compared to other fruit trees. This makes it a reliable, easy-care option for home gardeners. Ideal Growing Regions The Dancy Mandarin thrives in the warm climates of Southern California, especially in: Los Angeles County Ventura County Santa Barbara County Riverside County Orange County San Diego County

Dorsett Golden Apple Tree The Dorsett Golden Apple Tree originated in the Bahamas and was introduced to the United States in the 1950s. Celebrated for its adaptability to warm winter climates, it has become one of the most reliable and flavorful apple varieties for home orchards and gardens across the southern states. With its outstanding sweetness, firm texture, and consistent productivity, the Dorsett Golden remains a top choice for both backyard growers and commercial orchards. Climate & Growing Conditions This variety is exceptionally well-suited for Southern California, Phoenix, Arizona, and other warm winter regions. It requires only about 100 chill hours, making it one of the lowest-chill apple trees available. The tree is self-fruitful, though planting alongside an Anna Apple Tree can improve pollination and extend the harvest season. Thriving in USDA Zones 5–10, the Dorsett Golden Apple Tree adapts to a wide range of climates and is especially valued in regions where traditional apple varieties struggle. Fruit Description The Dorsett Golden Apple is firm, crisp, and exceptionally sweet, with a flavor profile reminiscent of the classic Golden Delicious apple. When ripe, the fruit develops a striking golden-yellow skin, offering both visual beauty and delicious taste. Known for its early ripening season, the Dorsett Golden provides a generous, reliable harvest of apples perfect for eating fresh, juicing, or cooking. Dorsett Golden Apple Tree Characteristics The Dorsett Golden Apple Tree is as attractive as it is productive. In spring, it bursts into bloom with clusters of white blossoms that attract pollinators and add ornamental value to the landscape. Its dense green foliage creates a lush canopy, offering seasonal shade and beauty. A strong root system ensures stability and efficient nutrient uptake, while the tree’s textured bark lends character to its appearance throughout the year. Uses The Dorsett Golden Apple is a versatile fruit that shines in a variety of culinary uses. Its crisp, sweet flesh makes it delicious for fresh eating, while its firm texture holds up beautifully in baked goods, sauces, and pies. The apples also produce excellent juice and applesauce. Whether enjoyed as a snack, added to salads, or used in savory and sweet recipes, the Dorsett Golden Apple brings exceptional flavor to every dish.

Eureka Lemon Tree The Eureka Lemon Tree is a small evergreen citrus tree best known for producing the classic tart lemons found in grocery stores. A vigorous and reliable grower, it produces fruit year-round, making it one of the most popular lemon varieties for both home gardeners and commercial growers. Its glossy green foliage, fragrant blossoms, and continuous harvests make it both ornamental and highly productive. Climate & Growing Conditions The Eureka Lemon Tree thrives in Southern California’s mild, Mediterranean climate, especially in regions such as Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Riverside, Orange, and San Diego Counties. It performs best when planted in full sun with well-draining soil. Available in Standard and Semi-Dwarf forms, the tree can grow over 20 feet tall, though it is commonly pruned to a manageable 9–15 feet. Semi-Dwarf forms are ideal for smaller spaces or containers, while Standard trees provide shade and structure in larger landscapes. For best growth, plant trees 9–12 feet apart, allowing adequate room for maturity. Fruit Description Eureka Lemons are prized for their bright, tangy flavor and abundant juice. They are medium-sized, with a smooth yellow rind and very few seeds. Their classic sharp acidity makes them the go-to lemon variety for culinary and household use. The tree produces fruit almost continuously throughout the year, with heaviest harvests in spring and summer. Culinary Uses Eureka Lemons are highly versatile in the kitchen: Juice, zest, and pulp add flavor to poultry, fish, vegetables, soups, sauces, and marinades. They are the key ingredient in lemon bars, pies, cakes, curd, and sorbets. Fresh lemons are essential for lemonade, cocktails, teas, and limoncello. Household & Health Benefits Natural cleaner: Lemon juice disinfects cutting boards, surfaces, and utensils, while lemon peels deodorize garbage disposals. Air freshener: Fresh lemons and peels release a clean, refreshing aroma. Health benefits: Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and bioflavonoids, lemons support immune health and wellness. Many enjoy drinking lemon water in the morning for a refreshing start. Landscaping & Aromatherapy The Eureka Lemon Tree is not only productive but also ornamental. Its glossy leaves, fragrant white blossoms, and clusters of bright yellow lemons provide shade, privacy, and beauty to gardens. Lemon oil, extracted from the fruit, is valued in aromatherapy for its mood-boosting, calming, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Eureka Lemon  Tree Care & Maintenance Planting: Plant in a sunny location with well-drained soil, amending with high-quality planting mix and fertilizer. Watering: Newly planted trees should be watered twice per week in spring and summer, and once per week in fall and winter. Hot climates or sandy soils may require more frequent watering. Fertilizing: Use a citrus fertilizer with a 2-1-1 NPK ratio in spring through summer. Organic nitrogen sources like blood meal and manure encourage growth. In winter, apply fertilizers higher in phosphorus and potassium (such as bone meal) to support flowering and fruiting. Pest Resistance Eureka Lemons are less attractive to birds and animals like squirrels due to their tart flavor, making them easier to maintain than sweeter fruit varieties. History of the Eureka Lemon Tree The Eureka Lemon was introduced to Los Angeles in 1858 from seeds brought from Italy (not 1958). The lemon itself, however, has a much older origin. Believed to have originated in Myanmar or Assam, India, lemons traveled through Persia and the Mediterranean before arriving in the Americas with Columbus in 1492. Historically, lemons have been prized for their culinary, medicinal, and decorative uses. In ancient Rome, they were considered symbols of wealth and status, while the British Royal Navy famously used them to prevent scurvy. Today, the Eureka Lemon continues this legacy as one of the most widely grown and consumed lemon varieties in the world.

Fantasia Nectarine Tree The Fantasia Nectarine Tree is a highly prized variety known for producing large, yellow freestone nectarines with exceptional flavor. It is especially popular for its unique ripening profile—early in the harvest season, the fruit is firm-ripe with a tangy, refreshing zest, while later harvests yield nectarines that are sweet, juicy, and richly flavored. This adaptability makes Fantasia one of the most versatile and sought-after nectarine varieties. Climate & Growing Conditions The Fantasia Nectarine Tree typically ripens in late July through early August in Central California, though harvest times may vary slightly by region. With a chilling requirement of approximately 500 hours or less, this variety is well-suited for many different climates. The tree is self-fruitful, meaning it does not require a second tree for pollination, though planting multiple trees can improve overall yields. Fruit Description Fantasia nectarines are celebrated for their large size, bright golden-yellow skin, and vibrant flavor. Early in the season, the fruit offers a firm, crisp texture with a tangy, sweet-tart taste. As the season progresses, the nectarines develop a richer sweetness and luscious juiciness, making them highly rated in flavor trials. The yellow flesh is succulent and aromatic, making these nectarines ideal for fresh eating or culinary use. Fantasia Nectarine Tree Characteristics The Fantasia Nectarine Tree is both productive and ornamental. In spring, it bursts into bloom with beautiful blossoms that attract pollinators and signal the start of fruit development. During summer, its lush green canopy provides a striking presence in the garden. With a strong root system and healthy growth habit, this tree establishes well and produces reliable crops year after year. Uses Fantasia nectarines are extremely versatile: Early Harvest: Firm-ripe fruits add a tangy brightness to salads, salsas, and savory dishes. Later Harvest: Sweet, juicy nectarines are perfect for snacking, desserts, smoothies, and jams. Culinary Creations: Their large size, rich flavor, and attractive color make them ideal for fruit salads, baked goods, and platters. History of Nectarines Nectarines have a fascinating history stretching back thousands of years: Origins: Though the botanical name Prunus persica suggests ties to Persia (Iran), nectarines were first cultivated in China around 6000 BC, particularly in the Zhejiang Province. Spread: From China, they traveled westward to Iran, Greece, and Rome, reaching northern Europe and England by the 16th century. Introduction to the U.S.: Spanish settlers introduced nectarines to the Americas, where they found an ideal home in California’s sunny climate. Development: Through centuries of cultivation and selective breeding, nectarines have evolved into the many flavorful varieties enjoyed today, with Fantasia being one of the most popular for both home gardens and commercial orchards.

Ficus Nitida Column – Indian Laurel The Ficus Nitida Column (Indian Laurel Column) is an elegant, fast-growing tree ideal for creating lush vertical accents and dense privacy screens. Carefully cultivated to grow in a tall, narrow form, this variety of Ficus Nitida provides year-round greenery while maximizing space, making it an excellent choice for landscapes, hedges, and container planting. Appearance & Growth Habit The Ficus Nitida Column features a refined columnar growth habit, reaching heights of 10 to 30 feet while maintaining a slender width of 3 to 5 feet. Its glossy, dark green foliage is dense and vibrant, creating a striking vertical presence that enhances any garden, entrance, or outdoor living area. When planted in rows, the trees form a solid living wall of greenery. With regular pruning, they can be maintained at a smaller size to control shape and root spread. Planting & Landscape Uses Privacy Hedges: Plant 3 to 5 feet apart to create a seamless privacy hedge or windbreak. Vertical Accents: Use along driveways, property lines, or entrances for a dramatic architectural effect. Container Planting: Its compact and upright form makes it suitable for patios, balconies, and smaller spaces when grown in large containers. Growing Conditions The Ficus Nitida Column thrives in warm, tropical, and Mediterranean climates, performing best in full sun but tolerating partial shade. It grows rapidly in mild, frost-free regions and may require protection in colder climates. Proper watering, well-drained soil, and occasional pruning ensure long-term health and structure. Root Considerations Like most Ficus species, the Ficus Nitida Column has invasive roots that can damage nearby concrete, walls, or underground systems if not managed properly. To avoid issues, consider installing a root barrier at the time of planting or maintaining the trees at a smaller size through pruning. Alternative Option For those concerned about root invasiveness, the Ligustrum Japonicum ‘Texanum’ (Wax Leaf Privet) is an excellent substitute. This evergreen shrub/tree offers similar dense, glossy foliage and is ideal for hedges and privacy screens, but without aggressive roots. Available Sizes 15 Gallon – Approximately 5 feet tall in columnar form at planting. 25 Gallon – Approximately 8.5 feet tall by 2 feet wide in columnar form at planting.

Plant Description The Firesticks Euphorbia (Euphorbia Tirucalli) is a succulent shrub known for its unique and eye-catching appearance. It features upright, slender, cylindrical stems that resemble pencils or sticks. Under ideal conditions, the stems can grow as tall as 6 to 8 feet or even higher. While the stems are typically green, they take on a vibrant red or coral hue in direct sunlight, creating the "sticks on fire" effect. The stems are covered with small, deciduous green leaves that fall off as the plant matures. Growing Conditions Sunlight: Firesticks need full sunlight to develop their bright color. Soil: Plant in well-draining soil, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. USDA Zones: Best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11, as this plant cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. Handling Precaution: The white sap produced by the plant when cut or damaged can irritate the skin and is toxic if ingested. Handle with caution. Size and Shaping Maintaining the size and shape of Firesticks Euphorbia is simple: Pruning: Prune with care, especially when managing the plant's size. Wear protective gear, as the plant's sap is toxic and can irritate the skin. Shaping: Proper pruning helps maintain its form and encourages healthy growth, keeping it an attractive feature in your garden. Occasional Blooms On rare occasions, Firesticks may produce small, inconspicuous yellow or greenish blooms at the stem tips. Though these flowers are not the primary decorative feature of the plant, they can add an interesting touch. Uses for Firesticks - Euphorbia Tirucalli This drought-tolerant succulent is perfect for xeriscaping, rock gardens, or adding vibrant accents to your garden. Its low-maintenance nature and striking appearance make it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor decor. Use it to bring a pop of color and vertical interest to desert and arid landscapes, rock gardens, and pots. History Native to Africa, the Firesticks Euphorbia is part of the Euphorbiaceae family. Over time, it has gained global popularity for its ornamental value, becoming a sought-after choice for landscape designers due to its striking look.