Jenes Tropicals

Tampa Bay isn’t just a hotspot for sunshine and snowbirds—it’s a fruit lover’s paradise! Thanks to our glorious subtropic weather, you can grow goodies from just about anywhere in the world… right in your backyard. In this episode, Jene dives into the juicy world of subtropical fruit trees and plants—from mangoes that taste like your last vacation to guavas tha...

Is your landscape looking more "blah" than "ahh"? Don’t sweat it—literally! Sure, it's hotter than a jalapeño in a sauna here in Florida, but it’s never too late to spice things up in your yard. In this episode, Gene spills the soil on her top summer landscape pop picks—from the tropical flair of Hibiscus to the bold beauty of King’s Mantle and beyond. Whether...

Is your lawn looking more “crispy toast” than “lush paradise”? This week, Jene dives headfirst (safely) into the wild world of summer lawn care in Florida. From battling sad sod to decoding mysterious brown patches, she’s got the tips and tricks to turn your struggling yard into the neighborhood’s green envy. Don’t know what’s wrong with your grass?...

Calling all big kids, little kids, and dads—why not surprise Mom with something special and lasting? Starting a flower garden is a fun and meaningful way to spend time together as a family, learn something new, and create lasting memories. In this episode, Jene shares everything you need to know to get started, including her top flower picks for June in Florida. Whether you're a seasoned gar...

Ever wish you could grow your own tropical fruit—without the drama? Say hello to starfruit! In this juicy episode of Jene’s Tropicals , Jene spills the (composted) tea on why starfruit is the ultimate backyard MVP. It’s easy to grow, low-maintenance, and cranks out fruit like it’s on a mission. Whether you’ve got a green thumb or just wish you did, this episode is you...

Did you know jackfruit can grow up to 100 pounds? That’s basically a fruit the size of a 6th grader. And here’s the kicker—it smells like Juicy Fruit gum. Coincidence? We think not. Today, Jene peels back the layers (literally) on the world’s largest tree fruit. From wild facts to tasty tips, we’re talking everything jackfruit—how to grow it, eat it, and impress...

When's the best time to plant a tree? According to Jene, the answer is simple— yesterday! In this episode, Jene shares why there's truly never a bad time to get a tree in the ground, especially in the subtropical climate of Florida. From tropical fruit trees to flowering favorites, she highlights the best picks for planting in May and June , along with the unique benefits of getting started...

If you're dreaming of a lush, tropical vibe in your yard, look no further than the dazzling Hibiscus. In this episode, Jene dives into the vibrant world of Hibiscus plants—from classic reds and yellows to exotic hybrid varieties bursting with color. You'll get expert tips and tricks for growing and caring for these bold beauties, plus inspiration to create your own stunning combinations. Rea...

Did you know there’s a fertilizer ban in the Tampa Bay area from June 1 to June 30 ? Now you do! In this timely episode, Jene breaks down everything you need to know about the upcoming ban—why it exists, what it means for your garden, and why now is the time to fertilize if you haven’t already. Jene also dives into the dos and don’ts of choosing the right fertilizer, especi...

Nobody likes finding bugs, worms, or mysterious holes in their plants—but it happens to even the best gardens. So how do you fight back without hurting your garden in the process? In this episode, Jene shares practical tips, natural solutions, and must-know advice to help you identify, control, and prevent pest problems in your garden and lawn . Whether you're dealing with aphids, caterpilla...

Known for their stunning blooms and unforgettable scent, Plumerias —also called Frangipani —are tropical showstoppers that bring color and fragrance to any garden. In this episode, Jene dives into everything you need to know about growing and enjoying these beautiful plants. From reds and yellows to rainbows , whites , and more, there’s a Plumeria for everyone—and each colo...

Ever wondered which flowering trees thrive best in the Tampa Bay area? Wonder no more—Jene’s here to guide you through the most stunning and reliable options for our Florida climate. From the striking Bauhinia x blakeana (Hong Kong Orchid Tree) to the regal Queen’s Crape Myrtle , this episode is your all-access pass to creating a colorful, blooming landscape you'll love. So buckl...

Has your avocado tree set fruit but now the leaves are dropping like crazy? Don’t worry—it’s totally normal! In this episode, Jene sets the record straight on leaf drop in avocado trees and explains why it’s part of the natural process, not a sign your tree is in trouble. Tune in to learn what to expect during fruiting season, how to keep your tree healthy, and pick up some...

Ever driven around the Tampa Bay area and spotted stunning purple, trumpet-shaped blossoms or roads blanketed in what looks like a purple flower carpet? That’s the breathtaking Jacaranda mimosifolia —just one of the many flowering trees Jene highlights in this colorful episode. From the elegant Hong Kong Orchid to the sunshine-drenched Golden Shower Tree ( Cassia fistula ), the fragran...

With Easter just around the corner, what flower could be more fitting than the elegant Easter Lily ? In this special holiday episode, Jene shares everything you need to know about selecting the perfect lily and keeping it looking fresh and beautiful long after the holiday. Plus, she’ll sprinkle in some extra spring gardening tips to help you make the most of the season. Stop by Jene’s...

Got mangoes on your mind? In today’s episode, Jene dives deep into the delicious world of mango trees —sharing everything you need to know (and even a few things you didn’t know you needed to know!) about growing them successfully. Whether you’ve got a big backyard or just a sunny patio, Jene shows you how easy it is to grow mango trees right at home, even in a pot! Ready t...

Looking for a fun and creative way to relax and lower your stress levels? Try Bonsai! This podcast explores the calming, artistic world of Bonsai—the Japanese art of growing and shaping miniature trees in containers. Whether you're a curious beginner or looking to deepen your practice, Bonsai & Beyond offers tips, inspiration, and expert advice to help you grow—literally and figura...

Got an ugly chain link fence and an appetite? Good news—a passion fruit vine can fix both! In this episode, Jene dives into some of the fastest-growing, most productive fruiting plants perfect for our area. From the vigorous passion fruit vine to the ever-reliable mulberry tree, bananas, pineapples, and more, these plants not only grow quickly but reward you with delicious harvests in no tim...

Got mangoes on your mind? In today’s episode, Jene dives deep into the delicious world of mango trees —sharing everything you need to know (and even a few things you didn’t know you needed to know!) about growing them successfully. Whether you’ve got a big backyard or just a sunny patio, Jene shows you how easy it is to grow mango trees right at home, even in a pot! Ready t...

Looking for a fun and creative way to relax and lower your stress levels? Try Bonsai! This podcast explores the calming, artistic world of Bonsai—the Japanese art of growing and shaping miniature trees in containers. Whether you're a curious beginner or looking to deepen your practice, Bonsai & Beyond offers tips, inspiration, and expert advice to help you grow—literally and figura...

Got an ugly chain link fence and an appetite? Good news—a passion fruit vine can fix both! In this episode, Jene dives into some of the fastest-growing, most productive fruiting plants perfect for our area. From the vigorous passion fruit vine to the ever-reliable mulberry tree, bananas, pineapples, and more, these plants not only grow quickly but reward you with delicious harvests in no tim...

Dreaming of picking fresh fruit right from your own backyard? In this episode, Jene shares some of her favorite easy-to-grow fruit trees that are perfect for Florida gardens—including passion fruit, mulberries, bananas, plantains, and pineapples. Whether you're a beginner or just looking to add more to your edible landscape, these low-maintenance options are a great place to start. Jene&rsqu...

It’s February in Florida—which means the weather could be warm, cool, or both in a single day! But even with the temperature swings, many beautiful flowers are blooming this time of year. In this episode, Jene guides you through what’s blooming now, what to plant, and how to keep your garden thriving through Florida’s unpredictable winter weather. From choosing the right fe...

Mangos, Mangos, Mangos! When most people think of mangos, they picture the standard varieties found at the grocery store—but there’s a whole world of mangos out there! In today’s episode, Jene dives into the amazing diversity of mango trees, from compact dwarf varieties perfect for small spaces to larger trees for serious growers. With hundreds of types to choose from, there&rsqu...

January weather can be unpredictable, and your plants feel it too! In this episode, Jene shares essential tips for protecting your garden from the cold. While the golden rule is to choose plants suited for your area, Jene goes beyond that with practical advice, proven techniques, and insider knowledge to help your garden thrive—even when temperatures drop. Plus, don’t miss Jene’s...