Maria’s Garden

stablished 2014 specialty nursery in Punta Gorda, FL – nationally known experts in Adenium (Desert Rose), succulents, hoyas, cacti & hundreds of rare species.

Turnkey sale includes:
- Trademarked **Desert Rose Miracle Potting Mix** (high-margin bestseller – over $50K sold last year, customers call it “a miracle because it works!”)
- Website (mariasgarden.us) with online shop & repeat buyers
- YouTube channel (67,000+ subscribers sharing free propagation techniques since 2014)
- Inventory, customer database, and strong brand goodwill

Outstanding reputation:
- 96% recommend on Facebook (26+ reviews)
- “Overjoyed with how many wonderful desert rose plants… tons of sizes for all budgets!”
- “The nicest women – both very helpful and informative… huge selection!”
- “All plants so loved and well cared for.”
- Potting mix reviews: “Roots grabbed the mix in 3 days!” “It saved my plant – doing amazing!”

Resilient business with excellent online growth potential.

**Serious buyers only** – must provide proof of funds or financial pre-qualification.
Confidential sale – priced fairly based on assets, earnings history, trademarked products, and growth potential.
Owner training included.

Contact:
Bessie Ricoarango
Phone: 954-662-8049
Email: bricoarango@gmail.com

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happy gardening

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Hi my friend happy day

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Winter Plants That Bloom in the Southern States: Brighten Your Garden When Adenium Obesum Sleeps
When winter arrives in the southern states, many gardeners miss the beautiful blooms of their Adenium obesum (Desert Rose). As temperatures drop, Adenium obesum goes dormant—its leaves fall off, and it stops blooming until spring. If you’re looking for color during these months, don’t worry! There are many easy-care winter-blooming plants perfect for southern gardens.
Why Does Adenium Obesum Go Dormant?
Adenium obesum is a tropical plant that loves warmth and sunlight. When it gets cold (especially in USDA zones 8-10), it naturally stops growing and blooming. This is called dormancy—a time when the plant “sleeps” to survive winter. While your Desert Rose rests, you can still enjoy a bright garden by planting other winter-flowering shrubs.
Best Winter-Blooming Plants for Southern Gardens

1. Camellia (Camellia japonica)

Camellias are classic southern shrubs with glossy evergreen leaves and large flowers in pink, red, or white. They bloom from November to March, making them a top choice for winter color.
Tips:
* Plant in partial shade with acidic, well-drained soil.
* Mulch to protect roots during cold snaps.
Where to buy:
Fastgrowingtrees.com

2. Winter Daphne (Daphne odora)

Winter daphne bursts into fragrant pink or white flowers as early as January. This evergreen shrub is great for borders or containers near doors where you can enjoy its sweet scent.
Tips:
* Prefers dappled shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Where to buy:
Sing tree.com
Winter Daphne

3. Hellebore (Helleborus orientalis)

Also called the Lenten rose, hellebores bloom from late winter into early spring. Their nodding flowers come in purple, green, pink, and white shades. They are deer-resistant and do well in shady spots.
Tips:
* Plant in humus-rich, well-drained soil under deciduous trees.
Where to buy:
White flower.com
Hellebore at White Flower Farm

4. Mahonia (Mahonia aquifolium)

Mahonia, also known as Oregon grape holly, produces bright yellow flowers in late winter. Its spiky evergreen leaves add year-round texture to your garden.
Tips:
* Grows well in shade and tolerates drought once established.
Where to buy
Natureshill.com

Best Potting Mix for Desert Rose & More
For your Adenium obesum or other flowering plants, use Maria’s Garden Desert Rose Miracle Potting Mix mariasgarden.us/shop-now/ols/categories/marias-gar… oThis special mix helps your plants grow healthy roots and beautiful blooms all year long!

Written by Bessie Ricoarango

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Maria’s Garden

A sensory garden is a thoughtfully designed outdoor space that engages all five senses through a blend of plants, textures, sounds, and interactive features. Unlike traditional gardens focused solely on visual beauty, sensory gardens are immersive environments created for inclusivity, accessibility, and holistic well-being. Whether for children with sensory processing needs, adults seeking mindful retreat, or seniors with cognitive challenges, these gardens provide therapeutic value for everyone.

What Makes Sensory Gardens Unique?

Sensory gardens invite visitors to actively interact with their surroundings. You’re encouraged to touch soft leaves, listen to trickling water or wind chimes, smell fragrant herbs, and taste edible plants. This multi-sensory approach not only enhances enjoyment but also supports therapy, learning, and relaxation.

For inspiration and plant lists, explore [Maria's Garden](www.mariasgarden.us/) or the [Maria's Garden YouTube channel](youtube.com/@mariasgardengarden?si=5tc-HEZUSgrxgtA….

Core Principles of Sensory Garden Design

1. Inclusivity & Accessibility

A truly sensory garden is designed for everyone:
- **Wide, level pathways** (4–5 feet), made of compacted gravel or concrete for wheelchair access
- **Raised beds** (24–36 inches high) for ease of use by seated visitors
- **Tactile wayfinding**: Edged paths or textured paving for navigation
- **Clear signage**: Large print and braille
- **Resting spots**: Benches with backs and armrests in sun and shade

2. Comfort & Robust Materials

Every element should be durable and comfortable:
- Weatherproof benches every 50–100 feet
- Shade structures (pergolas, arbors) for extended use in all weather
- Resilient materials like treated wood, stone, or metal that withstand frequent contact
- Sturdy planters and containers that won’t tip over

3. Multi-Sensory Engagement

Design to stimulate all five senses throughout the year by layering experiences and grouping features:

Sight: Color & Patterns
- Use bold color combinations (e.g., chartreuse hostas with purple pansies)
- Plant for year-round interest—spring bulbs, summer perennials, fall grasses, winter evergreens
- Arrange beds in geometric patterns for clarity ([Geometric Planting Patterns Guide](www.terrapinbrightgreen.com/reports/14-patterns/))

Touch: Texture Variety
- Include plants like lamb’s ear (*Stachys byzantina*), ornamental grasses, papery honesty (*Lunaria*)
- Add pebble mosaics or wooden decking for changing ground feel ([The Sensuous Garden PDF](www2.arpel.org/default.aspx/s272I2/243268/The%20Se…)

Smell: Aromatic Plants
- Lavender, rosemary, mint, thyme at entrances and along paths
- Subtle scents (chamomile) in quiet corners for calming effect

Sound: Natural & Interactive Elements
- Rustling bamboo or grasses, water features (fountains), wind chimes at different heights

Taste: Edible Experiences
- Strawberries, cherry tomatoes, nasturtiums, mint—positioned at accessible heights ([Maria’s Garden Edible Ideas](www.mariasgarden.us/))

Enhancing Less Commonly Considered Senses

A sensory garden can go beyond the classic five senses to include:
- **Proprioception (body awareness)**: Logs or balance beams to walk along
- **Vestibular input (movement)**: Low platforms or stepping stones for navigating space
- **Spatial awareness**: Curved paths and variable-width walkways encourage mindful movement

Creating Sensory Zones & Ambiance

Divide your sensory garden into zones tailored to different moods and needs ([Outdoor Learning Spaces Resource](xiairworld.com/outdoor-learning/)):

Calming Retreats

Quiet spaces for relaxation:
- Soft color palette (whites/blues/greens)
- Limited plant variety for reduced visual stimulation
- Enclosed seating surrounded by tall grasses or hedges
- Subtle scents (lavender, chamomile)
- Located away from main paths for privacy

Active Exploration Areas

Dynamic zones for engagement:
- Bold colors (reds/oranges/purples) and strong contrasts
- Multiple textures within reach
- Interactive features (chimes, spinning wheels, sand tables)
- Strongly scented and edible plants at multiple heights
- Placed near entrances or primary routes ([Outdoor Play Area Design Tips](www.theempowerededucatoronline.com/2018/03/outdoor…)

Visitors can self-select their preferred environment based on energy levels or sensory preferences.

Practical Tips for Plant Selection in Sensory Gardens

1. Prioritize Durability

Choose hardy species that can tolerate frequent touching ([UMN Extension Guide](extension.umn.edu/lawns-and-landscapes/landscape-d…
- Lavender, rosemary, ornamental grasses
- Avoid delicate ferns in high-traffic areas
- Match plant choices to local climate for resilience

2. Maximize Seasonal Interest

Layer plantings for four-season appeal ([Xeriscape Guide](www.fcgov.com/utilities/residential/conserve/water…
- Spring: Hyacinth, daffodils
- Summer: Echinacea, daylilies
- Fall: Ornamental grasses, asters
- Winter: Evergreens (pine, holly), red-twig dogwood

3. Plan Maintenance Efficiently

Group plants by water and care needs ([Stormwater Manual](dos.ny.gov/stormwater-management-design-manual)):
- Use low-maintenance perennials in high-touch areas (sedum)
- Replace annuals as needed for color and tactile interest
- Plan for accessible watering and pruning routines

Beyond Plants: Interactive Features for Sensory Gardens

Interactive Sculptures

Install kinetic sculptures that move in the wind—metal spinners or carved wood pieces at various heights for visual intrigue and tactile exploration.

Water Features

Add shallow splash pads or recirculating fountains with smooth rocks and textured tiles for soothing sound and touch.

### Wildlife Attraction

Encourage nature connections:
- Bird feeders at multiple heights
- Milkweed and coneflowers for butterflies
- Birdbaths near seating areas for easy wildlife watching

## Conclusion

Creating a sensory garden means designing a space where everyone can connect with nature through sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste. Start small—add a few textured plants or a simple fountain—and expand over time as you discover what brings joy and connection to your visitors.

By emphasizing accessibility, durability, seasonal interest, and interactive features, you’ll transform an ordinary landscape into a therapeutic oasis for all ages and abilities.

Researched and written by Bessie Ricoarango

**For further reading and resources:**
• [Maria's Garden website](www.mariasgarden.us/)
• [Maria's Garden YouTube channel](youtube.com/@mariasgardengarden?si=5tc-HEZUSgrxgtA…)
• [The Sensuous Garden PDF](www2.arpel.org/default.aspx/s272I2/243268/The%20Se…)
• [Geometric Planting Patterns Guide](www.terrapinbrightgreen.com/reports/14-patterns/)
• [Outdoor Learning Spaces Resource](xiairworld.com/outdoor-learning/)
• [Outdoor Play Area Design Tips](www.theempowerededucatoronline.com/2018/03/outdoor…)
• [UMN Extension Guide to Landscape Design](extension.umn.edu/lawns-and-landscapes/landscape-d…)
• [Xeriscape Guide](www.fcgov.com/utilities/residential/conserve/water…

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