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HOW DO FERTILIZERS AFFECT PONDS? Native Flowers of During the summer months, lawns are heavily fertilized. Excessive quantities and sloppy application can be detrimental to adjacent ponds. Fertilizers are predominantly composed of phosphorus and nitrogen, and when introduced to a nearby pond, they can increase the levels of nutrients. Increasing nutrient levels increases the likelihood that algae will flourish. The white particles in the image are fertilizer granules that have been introduced to one of Lake Ashton's ponds. Please remind lawn care professionals to use caution when fertilizing lawns in order to limit the quantity of fertilizer that could potentially end up in ponds. Please contact Matt Fisher at mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.com if you have queries or concerns regarding aquatic maintenance in any ponds in Lake Wales. Central Florida By Lynn Davis The Butterfly Orchid is a slow growing, less than an inch, epiphytic plant. That means it adheres to a living plant surface; no need to worry about soil. It can be seen on trunks and branches of live oaks, mangroves, and bald cypresses. The flower petal is bronze or orangish in color with a white lip and a purple dot. It has one to two grass-like looking leaves. The orchid resembles a butterfly, hence its name. Why Grow Butterfly Orchids in your trees? The orchids have a honey-like fragrant that attracts a variety of bees. This is the main pollinator for the orchid. It isn’t picky. It can grow in full sun or part shade. Since it’s a native plant, its sustainability makes it a perfect landscape addition. You’ll be rewarded in Spring and Summer with an abundance of showy flowers. Buyer beware! These orchids have been commercially exploited. Make sure to buy from a reputable source.

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