By Grace Rabano, The Clermont Garden Club
Every month from September through May, Clermont Garden Club members loan plants to Cooper Memorial Library and Clermont City Hall to promote horticulture awareness and connect our community to Clermont Garden Club’s programs, civic activities and community outreach.
For the month of October 2026, Clermont Garden Club member Tina Worrell loaned a spooky grey earth star plant in a witch’s shoe to Cooper Memorial Library. The grey earth star plant usually refers to varieties of Cryptanthus (such as Cryptanthus zonatusor cultivars like Cryptanthus ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’) featuring striking silvery-grey or metallic banding. The plant prefers bright, indirect light to maintain leaf patterns and subtle coloring without scorching the foliage. Use a loose, fast-draining potting mix designed for succulents or bromeliads. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing it to dry out slightly between waterings.
Leslie Lugo shared a variegated mini Monstera, Monsteradeliciosa, to Clermont City Hall. Monstera plants need bright, indirect light, and should be kept away from direct sunlight to prevent sunburn. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry, then water thoroughly so water drains out the bottom of the pot. General potting soil will do nicely for these plants. Fertilizing monthly Spring and Summer with a diluted houseplant formula. Monsteras enjoy an area of over 50% humidity, as they are native to tropical areas. Support structures like moss poles or trellises help the plant grow upwards and get bigger leaves. Gently tie the stems to these supports to mimic how they climb trees in nature.
Clermont Garden Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. See clermontgardenclub.org for more information.
Come to our Annual Plant Sale on Saturday, Oct 24th at our clubhouse at 849 West Ave., in historic downtown Clermont. The clubhouse is also available for rentals for meetings, birthday celebrations, showers, etc.
