​Welcome ​


Pepe's Plants is dedicated to helping you grow subtropical, tropical and some temperate fruits and vegetables. The information is relevant to the Southern regions of the United States and other countries with similar climates. Keep in mind that our main focus is on fruit trees but we do cover vegetables, herbs and medicinal plants. The information is based on personal experience growing in South Florida. 

Growing food is an important endeavor and one with a great future. You can start at any level desired. Begin simply with a container garden on a condo balcony or in a backyard. The idea of growing food not lawns is alive and well.

People, from cities all over the world, are enthusiastically embracing the idea of growing fruits and vegetables. This interest is fueled by new thinking.

Today, more people than ever are environmentally focused and see the benefits of growing and obtaining local fruits and vegetables. People also are very concerned about GMO's, pesticides, herbicides and the association these test tube altered genes and chemicals have on human and environmental health.  

Sustainable agriculture and organic growing methods are popular and in big demand. Composting, rain water collection, mulching, integrated pest management and waste reduction are just some of the smart strategies to use. People are tired of chemicals in the food they eat. They care about the future of our planet. They want a healthier more nutritious food supply and they know it can be done! 

The demand for sustainable, local food production is an opportunity. Right now as you read this, people are starting back yard groves, vegetable and herb gardens as well. Either way big or small, growing some of your own food is a good thing.

Many people are also growing on more advanced levels and making profits. 
Entrepreneurs are growing greens indoors. Some of them use specially designed shipping containers for lettuce, arugula, spinach and other green leafy veggies. The idea is catching on and producing fresh greens all year round. Local restaurants love it and so do the consumers.

​On another level mushroom growers are setting up entire warehouse operations for oyster mushrooms and many other varieties of mushroom. 

Another great and growing food production system that is gaining steam is aquaponics. It is a system of aquaculture in which the waste produced by farmed fish or other aquatic animals, supplies nutrients for plants. How is that for synergy and sustainability?

Becoming an urban farmer is the way to real sustainable local agriculture. The majority of the worlds population after all lives in the cities. Think about the fuel savings and the environmental benefits to the air and water. Think about the job opportunities that urban farming can provide. 

People like you, can get started today and it is not that difficult once you have the knowledge. The best way to begin is by researching what works in your area and then get growing! Get involved in community supported agriculture (CSA) programs as a consumer or as a grower. Learn all you can and be sure to practice, practice, and practice. You don't need to go big, go small and enjoy the delicious leafy greens, tomatoes, herbs and fruits with your friends and family. You and your family will be so proud and before you know it, your thumb will turn green. Now, as for your friends they will be green with envy. LOL. :-)

Thanks for visiting, browse the site and don't be a stranger. We like having you around - as the old saying goes. "Mi casa es su casa"
 
That means: My home is your home. 
Jason "Pepe"

PS.
For those of you thinking about buying some fruit trees visit our sample fruit tree page. This will give you an idea as to what a healthy tree should look like. You can also get an idea of the average prices. 

​A special note to those of you considering planting citrus trees. Don't spend a penny on citrus trees until you check out this link: Citrus Trees
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More about growing your own food

When you grow something yourself and you involve the entire family or the community, that truly becomes an amazing adventure. Everything you eat and share tastes so good and delicious. One other really nice thing. Planting and tending to the grove or vegetable garden builds friendships with like minded people. Young children and teens begin to appreciate nature and learn what real food is all about. Finally, let me remind you it's terrific exercise!

Get your friends, neighbors and family started on a path towards sharing healthier, fresher and more delicious fruits and vegetables. A healthy and wholesome food supply is at your fingertips. Consulting services for that backyard project? click here!
​Pepe Tip: 
When planting fruit trees inoculate the soil with Mycorrhizal Fungi. This beneficial fungi increases your tree's ability to absorb and distribute nutrients and water. Your tree will be more disease resistant and stay healthier. Follow this link for more information about Mycorrhizal Fungi.

​Be conscious of your health and the environment, use organic nutritional formulations and safe organic pesticides. Utilizing these growing methods will give you stronger healthier plants and a healthier environment for all. Read up and look into GMO's.