Grows With Natives

1222 N Fern Creek Ave, Orlando FL 32803,Orlando FL 32803

20 May, 2023

Description

Invasive non-native plants are among the greatest threats to existing ecosystems. In their native habitat they grow under certain constraints (soil, wind, rainfall, temp, sun) and removed from these constraints they can thrive beyond all expectation. They wipe out native plants and destroy wildlife habitat by altering the ecosystem into an alternative ecological regime, with its own district biome. Planting native restores these disturbed areas into resilient ecosystems that are reminiscent of natural Florida and give our neighborhood and city a sense of place. Planting native promotes biodiversity by providing food and habitat for birds, butterflies and other pollinators. These plants, like false petunia or native lantana, do best in Florida conditions (from sunny and sandy to shady and moist). Ultimately the right place at the right time will reduce or eliminate lawn fertilizers, pesticides and the need for irrigation (which all puts stress on the aquifer and contaminates our water supply). Saving the planet and money?? Sign me up. On May 20, 2023 at the Colonialtown Park we will be showcasing our community garden with an event that will feature exhibitors such as Orange Audubon Society, the Florida Native Plant Society, Orlando Native Plants, City of Orlando, Orange County FL, Grounded Solutions, Zen Living Reality and more! Food and beverage proudly served by Framework Craft Coffee Bar's Foodtruck. Newly added partners include Regenerative Designs, Finca Azul and She Builds With Love. We are GIVING AWAY NATIVE PLANTS. Door prizes include gift cards to native plant nurseries, raised beds (plants, soil, compost included!), books about native gardening, garden equipment, and once again... more native plants. Thank you to the City of Orlando for awarding the neighborhood with the Mayor’s Matching Grant, we are using the funds to purchase plants and provide neighbors with the knowledge and resources to start turning their backyard into a homegrown national park.