We’re thrilled to share a special milestone—this is the 100th blog post from VISTA Gardens!
Over the years, we’ve shared tips, stories, and updates that connect our members, enrich our community, and celebrate the joys of gardening. This achievement is a testament to the passion, dedication, and hard work of every member who makes VISTA the vibrant community it is today. 🌱🎉
What Has VISTA Been Up to Lately?
Here’s a glimpse at some of our recent accomplishments:
Paying It Forward: After hurricanes devastated Apollo Beach Community Forest Garden, VISTA’s compost committee generously donated four large cans of our precious Black Gold compost, helping them rebuild their garden.
Pollinator Paradise: Our wildflower gardens, featuring beautiful cardinal flowers (Lobelia cardinalis), continue to thrive, attracting pollinators and inspiring gardeners to create butterfly-friendly spaces.
Community Engagement: The Herb Committee has been restoring the herb garden post-storms, and members have contributed to educational initiatives like the MEAD-ing event on sustainable gardening practices and our upcoming Flower Fest.
These efforts highlight the power of community-driven gardening and the resilience that defines VISTA. If you'd like to learn more, please download a PDF version of our January 2025 newsletter here:
A Look Back at Our Best Blogs
Over 99 blog posts, we’ve covered a range of topics to educate, inspire, and engage gardeners of all levels. Here are some of the most popular and impactful:
Don’t forget to explore our Florida Gardening Links & Resources Page for more tips, guides, and sustainable gardening practices. It’s an invaluable hub for learning and growing!
Honoring Our Members
This blog is dedicated to every VISTA member who contributes to our garden’s success.
A special shout-out goes to several individuals who have gone above and beyond to enhance our online presence and communication efforts:
Danielle Fiore, VISTA Member & Social Media Expert
Jennifer Grebenschikoff, President of VISTA
Roberta Owens, Wildflower Garden Chair & Jack of All Trades
Elizabeth Warner, Woodland Committee Chair
Laurie & Marty Kleiner, Vice President & Infrastructure Chair
Rick Jackson, VISTA Photographer & Video Recording
Nicole Jagusztyn, Education Chair
Stephen Badgley, VISTA Member & Social Media Master
Susan Baxter-Gibson, Treasurer, House of Rising Seeds Chair, Garden Angels Founder
Your dedication ensures that VISTA’s voice continues to grow and reach new audiences. While we can’t name everyone, know that every contribution matters, and we’re grateful for the work of all our members.
How You Can Get Involved
Be part of VISTA’s story! Here are some ways to engage:
Social Membership: Join our community and enjoy all the benefits VISTA has to offer.
Volunteer: Help maintain our beautiful garden spaces and participate in rewarding projects.
Donate: Support our initiatives and keep VISTA thriving for years to come.
Stay connected with us on Instagram and Facebook for updates, tips, and stories. Let us know in the comments what topics you’d love to see covered next!
Thank You to Our Affiliates
A heartfelt thank-you to all our affiliates, whose support strengthens our mission:
Food & Dining Partners: Tampa Sports Bar, New York Bagel Cafe and Catering, Terra Sur Cafe, and more.
Garden & Environmental Organizations: Tampa Garden Club, Florida Wildflower Foundation, Urban Roots Tampa, and others.
Community Organizations: Carrollwood Village, AARP, and Carrollwood Cultural Center.
Service Providers: Natural Choice Nutrition and Independent Tree Service, Inc.
Together, we’re making VISTA Gardens a model for sustainable, community-focused gardening. Here’s to the next 100 blogs! 🎉
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