Winter Gems for Treasure Coast Gardens

Blushing Bromeliads

Winter is usually a time for introspection in the garden. Not so on the Treasure Coast of Florida. Our gardening season is in full swing, so let’s take a look at what is showing color in the garden. Bromeliads are a fairly standard feature here, providing year-round color and structure to our gardens. In winter the Blushing Bromeliads add red to their usual green coloration. I don’t think they are embarrassed, maybe just celebrating the holidays?

Above is a McWilliams Neoregelia Bromeliad (Neoregelia mcwilliamsii) in winter color. This plant grows in partial shade to sun and has striated green foliage in summer. It grows to 30″ tall and resembles stacks when at full size. The key for these bromeliads is well drained soil, otherwise, they are basically indestructible with little care. Mine are protected from late afternoon sun and in an area without irrigation. I rarely water them, the most maintenance I do is brush the leaves out of the cups, cut off new plants and old foliage, and add mosquito bits to the cups at the center of the foliage to prevent mosquitoes. Usually other insects or birds eat mosquitoes, but a little protection is worthwhile.

McWilliams Neoregelia in summer green at full size.

If a lower growing Blushing Bromeliad works better in your garden, then Neoregelia carolinae may be the answer. They are smaller, turn red in the center in winter, and are available in different colors and varigated foliage. Here are some in my garden.

That’s all from my Treasure Coast garden this week. For more local gardening info follow me on Facebook at theshrubqueen.