Thanks to all who responded about a brackish water pond.
I have just purchased some acreage on the Caribbean side of Panama, close to Costa Rica. The rainforest comes down to the sea, and I am clearing a building lot about 50' from the shore (hence my concern about brackish water), which will thin out underbrush and other growth, and let in more light. As one DG correspondent put it, it's mangrove city. But also coconut palms grow naturally (I intend to plant many more), and 50-100' further inland, banyan, mango, cacao, other kinds of palms, and stuff I don't recognize. I also plan to plant lemon, banana, papaya, and other nice stuff. But I didn't see many flowering plants -- maybe the time of year? -- and also didn't see or hear many birds (a pity, because Panama is a bird lover's paradise.)
Three questions:
1. Can you recommend tropical flowering plants/trees for sun, shade, semi-shade?
2. Anything special I should do/plant to attract birds?
3. Is it appropriate to import these to Panama?
Rainforest garden
I sure dont have much experience this kind of things......but I think so that others plant should but sun...and others semi shade........maybe somes on shade to too.....
Strelitzia could attract birds?
you could put some Nepenthes in your Rainfores....some infudibuliformis.....or Rafflesiana wouls look very good!
lowland species specially! the dont need cold nights...
I wouldn't plant anything that is not native to the area..things can ESCAPE and reak havoc on the native species of plants..you only have to look at what happened in Hawaii...to not import new species that don't already exist there. Contact a local zoo or botanical garden for types of plants to draw birds.There should be tons of parrots in the jungle(lucky you!!) as well as smaller species.They are mostly drawn to fruiting trees and flowering trees. Check the internet for books on Panama fauna and flora then go collecting in the jungle.
Heliconias would be awesome flowering plants..many grow wild there. :-) Sorry I don't mean to preach!
Well taken Eclipse! Thanks.
Algae....how do you feel about holding a Round-up on your new property?
We can all bring you a housewarming plant....LOL
I think taking Eclipse seriously is of great import. There must be a Department of Agriculture or some such body for info on restrictions,etc. Above all else: Do no harm. Of course, none of us stick to natives strictly--do we? It sounds like a wonderfully exciting opportunity, algae, and I must commend crestedchik on the fabulous idea! Also algae, I think of you every time I pass my pond, and as it is at the front door entrance--that is often. I have a gardening friend living in Malaysia now--I see orchids, orchids, Colocasia, Alocasia, bromeliads, palms, etc. Lovely. Enjoy