University of North Florida Botanical Gardens

1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville FL

Description

The University of North Florida Botanical Garden has recently received five gold-level Florida Yards and Neighborhoods (FYN) Commercial Certifications from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. These achievements were accomplished, despite staffing shortages with the help of garden volunteers, which include Duval Master Gardeners and Tree Stewards. To receive this distinction: a garden must exhibit and follow nine “Florida-friendly landscaping principles” using low maintenance, low impact, environmentally sustainable practices. The gold level award signifies the highest possible excellence implementation of landscaping standards: these designations exemplify UNF’s continual commitment to designing, planting, and maintaining landscapes that preserve water quality, wildlife habitats, and sustainable initiatives. The gardens that have received this award include Healing, Bamboo, Bioswale, Climate Change, and Peace Plaza. A specific point of pride for the botanical garden is its sustainable practices which serve as a learning experience on native and Florida Friendly plants. The various beautiful garden displays provide calming experiences supported by the arts program amid eye-catching sculptures accentuating the artistic spaces. The UNF Botanical Garden’s mission is to foster environmental conservation, sustainability, biodiversity, and stewardship of healthy ecosystems for education, research, and community outreach through natural and unique living garden displays. University grounds department and volunteers have worked to create and maintain a wide diversity of garden styles and plant collections. The Botanical Garden is free and open daily from dawn to dusk. A parking permit fee is required Monday through Thursday from 7 am to 6 pm and Friday from 7 am to 5 pm. Guided Garden tours occur on the 2nd Saturday at 10 am, starting in front of the library. Please bring water and stay to enjoy lunch after your visit. Volunteers have helped Rhonda Gracie, Horticulturist, and the grounds team to maintain and expand the gardens. Mrs. Gracie talks about the garden tasks, and then volunteers pitch into weed, water, install new plants, and many other activities. Volunteers meet early, work for a few hours and then enjoy lunch in the lovely gardens. Volunteers have fun, learn a lot, and contribute to a beautiful public university garden. Also, Duval County Master Gardeners and Tree Stewards can receive CEU credits when volunteering. If you would like to volunteer or tour, contact either: Mrs. Gracie or Joyce Buscaglia, UNF Volunteer Coordinator for more information.