I recently took an out-of-state family trip, and a family member was gifted with many plants. I knew one of the plants would not do well in my county because of the preferred USDA plant hardiness zone 10a. I explained why the plant would not do well, but the person replied it was too beautiful to leave. Information on USDA plant hardiness can be found at 2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map | USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.

Hydrangea was one of the plants of interest; it may grow best between USDA zones 3 and 9, depending on the variety. Soon after we got home, the potted hydrangea was installed. A couple of days later, I noticed the plant leaves started to scorch. This is a case of bringing home a strange plant without knowing its requirements. It’s also essential that we install the right plant at the place. Information on growing hydrangea can be found at FPS-259/FP259: Hydrangea quercifolia Oakleaf Hydrangea (ufl.edu).

A few years ago, a family relocated from New York to Florida; they had a beautiful red maple with deep red leaves while living in New York. The plant was so lovely that they could not leave it in New York, so they took it to Florida. The homeowner was frustrated that the plant was no longer red and wanted to know the issue. According to US Forest Service researcher Paul Schaberg, during the cool/autumn season, when the plant is stressed, the leaves produce a pigment called anthocyanin, creating bright red displays. Most areas in the state of Florida do not experience prolonged cool seasons. Therefore, red maple leaves do not turn deep red. It is essential to know the following requirements before installing a plant. Know your USDA plant hardiness zone, water requirement, soil pH, and sunlight. For more information on plants and other horticulture-related topics, contact Grantly Ricketts with the UF/IFAS Extension at gricketts@ufl.edu or 772-462-1660.

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