Spring planting tips

   Spring is in full bloom in Citrus Hills. Lawns are becoming plush and green, and flowers are blooming everywhere. But what do should you do if your plants are looking a little peaked? Here are some tips to make your spring and summer foliage look its best.
     I plan to keep my plants in containers. What kind of container should I use? When choosing your container, think about where you are going to place it. Will the container stand up to Florida weather? Will the container react to water or fertilizer? What color complements your home and makes the flowers colors stand out? What size is your plant now, and how big will it become?
   My window boxes are looking rather worn. The flowers are still healthy, but they don't have the spark they did when I first planted them. I really don't want to replace them. What can I do? Once a week, add some liquid fertilizer, Be sure to remove all spent blooms, yellowed leaves and scraggly branches. This will help keep your planting lush.

10 Tips to Help Stay Cool this Summer

Keeping cool when temperatures reach record highs isn't just about comfort. Dangerously high temperatures can result in heat-related illnesses. The following tips can help you keep cool all summer long.

 1. Alter your pattern of outdoor activity and exercise to take advantage of cooler times (early morning or late evening). If you can't change the time of your workout, scale it down by doing fewer minutes, walking instead or running, or decreasing your level of exertion.

2. Wear loose-fitting clothing, preferably of a light color. Cotton clothing will keep you cooler than most synthetics.