October Permaculture


As the first day of October unfolds, there's a noticeable shift in the air, signaling the transition from the sweltering summer to the more temperate fall season in Florida's Planting Zone 9. This change in weather beckons gardeners to adapt their practices to continue fostering a thriving garden ecosystem. Through a blend of observation, soil care, water conservation, and community engagement among other practices, here is some information to use as a guide on how to harmoniously align our gardening endeavors with the natural ebb and flow of Zone 9’s unique environment.
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1st Rate Pet Services Summer 2023 recap

1st Rate Pet Services Summer 2023 recap
It’s been one crazy, tumultuous challenging year for us here at 1st Rate Pet Services! I had a webpage as our home page on 1stRateLife.com for awhile with the updates since it was the best way to make sure people knew what was going on. This blog post is a compilation of main ideas from the March-June, 2023 saga for anyone who didn’t catch the live version!!!  Blessedly, things are calming down a bit now.

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4 Simple Shifts to End Overwhelm & Create Optimism

4 Simple Shifts to End Overwhelm & Create Optimism
Are you looking to reduce stress and overwhelm in your life? There are simple shifts you can make to end chronic overwhelm and cultivate ongoing optimism. By staying grounded and noticing your general awareness, you can take control of how you think, feel, and act in response to the world around you. As I get older, I find that I am passionate about living in peace, wellness and simplicity. One way to do this is to be generous and giving of your time, talents, and treasure, while also setting boundaries to take care of your own well-being. Approaching life with curiosity and a child-like sense of wonder can help you find joy and meaning in everyday experiences, and living in a constant state of gratitude can enhance your quality of life in all aspects. If you would like support on your journey to end overwhelm and add optimism, please get in touch with me. Let's work together to build a life of intention and positivity.
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The Firebush: A Beautiful and Versatile Plant for Your Landscape


Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.


Hamelia Patens, also known as firebush, is a stunning plant that adds color and beauty to any landscape. This evergreen shrub belongs to the family of Rubiaceae and is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America. However, it is also commonly grown in the southern parts of the United States, particularly in Florida, where it is used as an ornamental plant. Hamelia Patens is popular for its brilliant red-orange flowers that bloom all year round and attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators.

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Pineapple Sage: A Fragrant and Flavorful Addition to Your Garden


Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.

Salvia Elegans, commonly known as pineapple sage, is a beautiful and fragrant plant that can add a pop of color and texture to any garden. This herbaceous perennial plant belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae, and is native to Mexico and Guatemala. The plant is named after its distinctive pineapple scent and flavor, which makes it a popular addition to many culinary dishes.

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Growing and Caring for society Garlic

Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.

Tulbaghia Violacea, also known as society garlic or wild garlic, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. This plant is native to southern Africa and has become popular in gardens worldwide due to its striking purple-pink flowers, attractive foliage, and ease of care.
 
Here's what you need to know about growing and caring for Tulbaghia Violacea:
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Anise Hyssop: Everything You Need to Know

Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.

   The Agastache Foeniculum plant is a member of the Lamiaceae family and is also known as anise hyssop. This hardy perennial herb has been used in gardens and landscapes for many years due to its attractive blue-green foliage and showy purple flowers. Let's take a closer look at this beautiful plant, including its characteristics, uses, and care instructions. 
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The Many Benefits of Hiring a Professional Pet Sitter

The Many Benefits of Hiring a Professional Pet Sitter
When it comes to taking care of your furry friends while you are away from home, there are a few options available.  One popular choice is taking your pets to your veterinarian or a boarding kennel to stay, or having friends, neighbors or family members stop by your home to care for them.

These options are helpful and get the job done, but have you ever considered hiring a professional pet sitter to take care of your pets instead? The next few paragraphs will explore why having a pet sitter come to your home is a better option than boarding your pets or depending on friends, neighbors and/or family members to do it.

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The Everglades Tomato Plant: Solanum Pimpinellifolium

   The Everglades tomato, or Solanum pimpinellifolium, is a plant native to the Florida Everglades. It is an important source of nutrition for native wildlife and humans alike. This article will provide an overview of this unique species, discussing its characteristics and benefits.

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Sambucus Simpsonii: All About the Elderberry Plant

Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.

   The Sambucus Simpsonii, or elderberry plant, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. The elderberry plant is a member of the Adoxaceae family and can grow to be up to 12 feet tall. The elderberry plant has dark green leaves and produces small white flowers that turn into dark purple berries. The berries of the elderberry plant are used in pies, jams, and wine. The elderberry plant is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used to treat colds, flu, and other ailments for centuries.

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