Lorence Ruderman has more than a green thumb she has the magic touch. Her home in east Manatee
County looks like something out of a gardening magazine, with pergolas, lush beds and secret gardens of gorgeous plants, vines, flowers, trees and palms. This creative gardener's serene tropical paradise began when she fell in love with Florida's endless variety of plants and non-stop growing season.
When we moved here six years ago from suburban Philadelphia, I knew nothing of this kind of gardening, says Florence, who was knowledgeable about Northern plants from her job managing a shop of unusual gifts and plants.
Florida gardening is totally different. It's my passion a whole new beginning for me, she says. It's such a miracle to discover buds or berries that weren't there yesterday. She spends several hours a day tending to her orchids, ferns and other plants, including gardenias that bloom yes! year round.
Florence also volunteers at Southeastern Guide Dogs twice a week, including managing the gift shop. Her husband Gill, a retired Army Colonel, is active in several veterans' organizations, one of which raises money for Southeastern's Paws for Patriots, which gives guide dogs to wounded veterans.
The Rudermans are well-traveled, even taking their children and grandchildren with them on a cruise later this year to celebrate their 10th anniversary. But Florence's favorite place is at home surrounded by her beautiful plants and the couple's four lively Shih Tzus.
Why would I want to travel to some exotic island? When I get up in the morning and come outside this is paradise!
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