Have duck. Duck takes a bath. Duck poops in the water. Duck splashes poo water out to drain into irrigate and fertilize bananas. Float valve refills automatically with clean water.

When choosing varieties of Cassava to grow in your food forest, consider selecting a cultivar that is well-suited to the specific growing conditions in your area. There is a bitter and sweet variety. The sweet variety contains less poisonous acid in its skin. All cassava has to be cooked, usually boiled, to be eaten. I actually prefer it to boiled potatoes.

Cassava prefers well-drained soil, full sun, and regular watering. When planting Cassava, make sure to space the plants about 3-4 feet apart and make sure they get at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Cassava is a relatively low-maintenance plant and does not require frequent watering or fertilization once it is established. However, it’s important to keep an eye on the moisture level of the soil during the first year after planting, as young plants need consistent moisture to establish their root systems.

Cassava roots are ready to harvest after 6-8 months, sometimes up to a year after planting. The roots can be harvested by digging them up gently with a as few tools as possible so as not to break the tubers. Be sure to remove all the leaves from the roots before storage. Cassava roots should be peeled and boiled or roasted to remove the toxic compounds before consuming. Cassava does not store as long as other root vegetable types, so it’s important to use them quickly.

Cassava plants are self-pollinating, meaning that they do not require a separate pollinator to produce fruit. They are not cold-hardy, so it’s important to protect them from frost or freeze events. Propagation is usually done by stem cuttings, which can be taken from mature plants. You can harvest, save the cuttings, overwinter them, and plant again in spring.

Disease and pest management for cassava includes regular monitoring for signs of cassava mosaic disease and taking action to prevent the spread of infected plants. Pests such as mealybugs and white flies can also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

There are several cultivars of chaya (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius), and some may have broader leaves than others. However, the plant is typically characterized by its deeply lobed leaves, which can range from 3 to 12 inches in length and 2 to 10 inches in width. The size and shape of the leaves may also vary depending on the growing conditions and age of the plant. The maple leaf shaped variety of chaya (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius) is a cultivar that has a distinctively different leaf shape than other chaya varieties. The leaves of the maple leaf chaya are more rounded and have a shape similar to that of a maple leaf, hence, its name.

This variety is known for its tender leaves that are easy to cook and have a mild, nutty flavor. The leaves are high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.

To plant Chaya, choose a spot with well-drained soil and full sun exposure. Space the plants approximately 6-8 feet apart, and ensure they receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. While Chaya is a low-maintenance plant, it is important to monitor the soil moisture level during the first year after planting to ensure consistent moisture for the establishment of the root system.

Chaya is self-pollinating and can produce fruit, but it is primarily grown for its large, nutritious leaves. Leaves are ready for harvest within 3-4 months after planting, and they can be picked regularly. It is recommended to leave some leaves on the plant for continued photosynthesis and growth. Raw leaves contain small amounts of hydrocyanic acid, which can cause discomfort or illness if consumed in large quantities, so it is important to cook the leaves before eating.

Propagation of Chaya is easy through cuttings, which can be taken at any time of the year. While Chaya is a hardy plant, it is still susceptible to some pests and diseases. To manage pests, use a natural insecticide like neem oil, and for diseases, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.

Chaya is a valuable addition to any food forest in central Florida, providing a bountiful and nutritious harvest of large leaves for many years with proper care and attention.

There are a few different varieties of katuk, but all require similar growing conditions. The plant prefers a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures between 70-90°F (21-32°C). It also requires a well-drained soil and a lot of sunlight.

To plant katuk, it’s best to start with a young plant or cutting. The plant can be propagated by taking a cutting from a mature plant and rooting it in water or soil. Once rooted, the cutting can be transplanted into a well-drained soil in a location that receives full sun.

Katuk is a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t require frequent watering or fertilization once it is established. It can tolerate some drought, but it’s important to monitor the soil moisture level during the first year after planting, as young plants need consistent moisture to establish their root systems.

The leaves of katuk can be harvested within 2-3 months after planting. They can be picked regularly, but make sure to leave some leaves on the plant to continue photosynthesis and growth. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked and have a nuttier flavor than other leafy greens.

In terms of disease and pest management, katuk is generally a hardy plant with few issues. However, like any plant, it may be susceptible to pests such as aphids or spider mites. Keeping the plant well-watered and healthy can help prevent infestations.

Katuk is a common food forest plant to grow in Central Florida due to its high humidity and heat requirements, it can be a great addition to a food forest if given the right growing conditions. It is easy to care for, and its edible leaves are highly nutritious. To grow katuk successfully, start with a young plant or cutting, provide it with a well-drained soil, full sun, and consistent moisture during its first year of growth.

When planting mulberry trees in your food forest, it’s important to choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun. Mulberry trees can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but they prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the tree’s root ball and plant it at the same depth it was previously growing. Space the trees about at least 15 feet and up to 20-30 feet apart, depending on the variety, to allow for proper growth and fruit production.

Mulberry trees are relatively low-maintenance and do not require frequent watering or fertilization once they are established. However, it’s important to keep an eye on the moisture level of the soil during the first year after planting, as young trees need consistent moisture to establish their root systems. An established mulberry tree can tolerate dry spells, but a young tree needs regular watering.

Mulberry trees can fruit the first year although it may only be a handful, but the following year, especially if pruned correctly, it will produce in larger volume. Some nurseries sell trees that will likely result in significant fruit the first year.  This is also in my top three fruit trees to put into a food forest or edible landscape early.  The fruit is ready to harvest when it turns dark purple or black, usually around late spring to early summer, depending on the variety and the weather conditions. The fruit can be picked by hand or with a fruit picker.

In addition to its delicious fruit, the mulberry tree also provides other benefits for a food forest. The tree’s leaves are also edible, and are sometimes used in super nutritious teas or as a leafy green in salads. The tree also provides shade and habitat for wildlife.

Mulberry trees are a great addition to a food forest in central Florida. They are hardy and easy to care for, and produce a delicious and nutritious fruit. I have abused a number of them quite a bit and they still come back to life.  I even removed one from a pile that was set to be burned, trimmed the roots, potted it up, then sold it for $200 after bringing it back to life.  Florida native varieties such as the red mulberry and the white mulberry are well-suited to the growing conditions in central Florida. These trees are low-maintenance and can produce fruit relatively quickly after planting.

Loquat trees prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. They are drought tolerant, but regular watering during dry spells will help ensure healthy growth and fruit production. When planting a loquat tree, dig a hole that is twice the size of the tree’s root ball and plant it at the same depth it was previously growing. Do not amend the native soil. Loquat trees prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.

Fertilize loquat trees with a balanced organic fertilizer in the spring and summer. Mulching around the base of the tree will help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to promote healthy growth and shape the tree.

Loquat trees are cold hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C) for short periods. However, extended periods of freezing temperatures can damage the tree and reduce fruit production.

When choosing varieties of Loquat to grow in your food forest, consider selecting a cultivar that is well-suited to the specific growing conditions in your area. Some varieties for central Florida include:

‘Big Jim’: This variety is known for its large fruit size and high yield.

‘Champagne’: This variety is known for its sweet and juicy fruit with a high sugar content.

‘Fukushu’: This variety is known for its large and sweet fruit and tolerance to cold temperatures.

Loquats are self-fertile, meaning they can produce fruit without the need for cross-pollination. However, planting multiple trees can increase fruit production and improve fruit quality.

Loquat trees typically take about 2-3 years from planting to reach maturity and be ready for harvest. The fruit should be picked when it is fully ripe, which is when the fruit is orange or yellow in color and slightly soft to the touch. To harvest, simply pick the fruit off the tree with your fingers. Loquat fruit does not continue to ripen after being picked, so it is important to harvest the fruit at the right time.

Loquat fruit is a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be eaten fresh, used in jams, jellies, and baking, or dried and used as a sweetener. The fruit can be eaten as is, or used in a variety of culinary applications such as pies, jams, jellies, and syrups.

Loquat trees can be propagated by seed or by grafting. Seed propagation is simple but can result in trees with variable fruit quality. Grafting is a more reliable method of propagation and allows for the selection of specific fruit varieties.

Loquats are relatively pest and disease resistant. However, they can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Loquat trees can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and anthracnose. These diseases can be controlled by ensuring good air circulation around the tree, avoiding overhead watering, and treating with a fungicide if necessary.

The Surinam cherry (Eugenia uniflora), also known as Pitanga, is a small tropical fruit tree that can be grown in a food forest in central Florida. It is known for its small, red, and juicy fruit that are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. Surinam cherry is a nutritious and flavorful fruit that can be eaten fresh, used in jams, jellies and baking, or dried and used as a sweetener. It is a hardy and easy to care for plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and moisture levels. However, it’s important to note that Surinam cherry is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures, so it’s best to grow them in a protected location or in a container that can be brought indoors during the winter months.

Surinam cherry prefers well-drained soil, full sun, and regular watering. When planting Surinam cherry, make sure to space the trees about 8-10 feet apart and make sure they get at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Surinam cherry typically take about 2-3 years from planting to reach maturity and be ready for harvest. The fruit should be picked when it is fully ripe, which is when the fruit is bright red and slightly soft to the touch. To harvest, simply pick the fruit off the tree with your fingers.

Cold Hardiness

Surinam cherry is a tropical plant that prefers warm and humid conditions, but there are some cold hardy varieties that can tolerate temperatures down to 28°F.

Self-Pollinating

Surinam cherry is a self-fertile plant, which means that it doesn’t require cross-pollination from other plants to produce fruit. However, planting multiple trees will increase fruit production.

Planting and Care

Surinam cherry prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, but can also grow in full sun. It is important to water the tree regularly during the growing season, especially during dry spells. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and late summer can help promote healthy growth and fruit production.

Harvesting

Surinam cherry fruits are ripe when they turn bright red or purple and have a slightly soft texture. The fruits can be harvested by hand or using a fruit picker. It is important to handle the fruits carefully as they are delicate and can bruise easily.

Propagation

Surinam cherry can be propagated by seed or cuttings. To propagate by seed, collect the ripe fruits, remove the pulp and wash the seeds. Plant the seeds in well-drained soil and keep the soil moist. Germination can take 2-4 weeks. To propagate by cuttings, take a 6-8 inch cutting from a healthy plant and remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Dip the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a shaded area until roots develop.

Diseases and Pests

Surinam cherry is generally pest and disease resistant, but it can be affected by aphids, mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Surinam cherry can also be affected by root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly-drained soil. To prevent root rot, ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.

Surinam cherry is a delicious and low-maintenance fruit tree that can be a great addition to a central Florida food forest. By following the planting and care tips outlined above, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of Surinam cherry fruits.

Barbados cherry prefers well-drained soil, full sun, and regular watering. When planting Barbados cherry, make sure to space the trees about 8-10 feet apart and make sure they get at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Barbados cherry require regular watering, but be careful not to over-water, as they do not tolerate soggy soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer.

Barbados cherry is one of my top three picks for fruit shrubs or trees as it typically takes about 1-2 years from planting to reach maturity and be ready for harvest. Generally, it can fruit the first year.  The fruit should be picked when it is fully ripe, which is when the fruit is bright red and slightly soft to the touch. To harvest, simply pick the fruit off the tree with your fingers.

Barbados cherry is a nutritious and flavorful fruit that can be eaten fresh, used in jams, jellies and baking, or dried and used as a sweetener.

Barbados cherry is generally a hardy and disease-resistant tree. However, there are a few pests and diseases that can affect it:

1. Fruit fly: This is one of the most common pests that affect Barbados cherry. To control fruit flies, you can use insecticides or cover the fruits with bags or nets.
2. Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and fruits of Barbados cherry. It can be controlled by pruning the affected parts of the tree, ensuring proper drainage, and avoiding over-fertilization.
3. Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the tree, leading to poor growth and eventual death. It can be controlled by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding over-watering.

Propagation of Barbados cherry can be done through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy branches and planted in well-draining soil and placed in a warm humid place to fully root.

Barbados cherry can be grown in a food forest in central Florida, but it’s important to choose cold hardy varieties and to take extra precautions to protect the trees from frost and cold temperatures. With proper care and attention, a Barbados cherry tree can produce a bountiful harvest of nutritious and delicious fruit. 

When choosing varieties of fig trees to grow in your food forest, consider selecting a cultivar that is well-suited to the specific growing conditions in your area. Some cold hardy edible varieties for central Florida include:

‘Celeste’: This variety is known for its small, sweet fruit and its ability to tolerate cold temperatures. It can survive temperatures down to 10°F (-12°C). I like the Celeste because it is cold hardy and “closed eye” on the bottom end to avoid the beetle pest that sometimes enters other open eye fig varieties.

‘Brown Turkey’: This variety is known for its large, sweet fruit and its tolerance to cold temperatures. It can survive temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C).

‘Chicago Hardy’: This variety is known for its hardiness and ability to tolerate cold temperatures. It can survive temperatures down to -10°F (-23°C).

Fig trees prefer well-drained soil, full sun, and regular watering. When planting fig trees, make sure to space the trees about 10-15 feet apart and make sure they get at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Fig trees also benefit from being mulched with leaves or straw.

Fig trees require regular watering, but be careful not to over-water, as they do not tolerate soggy soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer.

Fig trees typically take about 2-3 years from planting to reach maturity and be ready for harvest. The fruit should be picked when it is fully ripe, which is when the fruit is soft and the skin is slightly wrinkled. To harvest, simply pick the fruit off the tree with your fingers.

Fig trees are a nutritious and flavorful fruit that can be eaten fresh, used in jams, jellies and baking, or dried and used as a sweetener.

Fig trees can be grown in a food forest in central Florida, but it’s important to choose cold hardy varieties and to take extra precautions to protect the trees from frost and cold temperatures. With proper care and attention, a fig tree can produce a bountiful harvest of nutritious and delicious fruit for many years. Keep in mind that fig trees are sensitive to cold temperatures, so it’s best to grow them in a protected location or in a container.

When choosing varieties of bananas to grow in your food forest, consider selecting a cultivar that is well-suited to the specific growing conditions in your area. Some cold hardy edible varieties for central Florida include:

Dwarf Cavendish is a popular variety that is considered to be cold hardy and can tolerate temperatures down to 28°F (-2°C)

Rajapuri is a variety known for its hardiness and can tolerate temperatures down to 30°F (-1°C)

Grand Nain (Musa ‘Grand Nain’) and Blue Java (Musa ‘Ice Cream’) are two varieties of banana that are known for their cold hardiness and their large, flavorful fruit.

The Grand Nain variety is also known as the “Chiquita Banana” and it’s considered to be one of the most cold hardy varieties of banana, it can tolerate temperatures down to 28°F (-2°C) and is a heavy yielder. It is known for its large, elongated fruit that has a sweet and creamy flavor.

The Blue Java, also known as “Ice Cream Banana” is a cold hardy variety that is known for its tolerance to cold temperatures, it can tolerate temperatures down to 25°F (-4°C) and it’s also a heavy yielder. It is known for its unique blue-gray skin and creamy, vanilla-flavored fruit.

There is a very cold hardy banana called a “hardy banana” or Musa Basjoo or fiber banana. This is generally considered an inedible fibrous fruit.

Both varieties are considered to be cold hardy and can tolerate temperatures lower than other banana varieties, but it’s important to note that they still require some protection from frost and cold temperatures. They will require protection during the winter and some growers recommend covering them with frost blankets or moving them indoors during the coldest months if they are still in containers. Even if they get knocked back, even to the ground, in sub freezing temps, they will probably come right back up as temps rise consistently.  Creating microclimates by placing them in a banana circle or close to the southern side foundation of your house can keep them warmer during the coldest periods.  Additionally, a windbreak that will stop strong cold winds from lashing them will also help.

Plaintains are another option from the same family as bananas. Plaintains are more often cooked green as a starchy addition to a meal rather than eating like a sweet desert banana. Cooked plaintains go very well with beans like black beans in Cuban or other island types of cooking and cuisine.

Bananas prefer full sun, well-drained soil, and warm weather. They can be grown in a container or in the ground, but they do require a lot of space. When planting bananas, make sure to space the plants about 8-10 feet apart, and make sure they get at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Bananas require regular watering, but be careful not to over-water, as they do not tolerate soggy soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Planting them a top swales in a permaculture setting is a good design placement.  Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer or feed with scraps to make compost into the middle of a banana circle.

Bananas typically take about 9-12 months from planting to reach maturity and be ready for harvest. The fruit should be picked when it is fully ripe, which is when the skin turns from green to yellow. To harvest, simply cut the fruit off the stem with a sharp knife.

Bananas are a nutritious and flavorful fruit that can be eaten fresh, used in cooking and baking, or dried, or used as a sweetener.

Bananas can be grown in a food forest in central Florida, but it’s important to choose cold hardy varieties and to take extra precautions to protect the plants from frost and cold temperatures. With proper care and attention, a banana tree crop can produce a bountiful harvest of nutritious and delicious fruit for many years.