Brevard Indian River Lagoon Coalition: Native Plants Are Good for the Lagoon
By Space Coast Daily // July 17, 2024
Native plants provide essential habitats, food sources for local wildlife
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Native plants are growing in popularity because they require little maintenance, almost no watering, no fertilizer, and very little trimming and pruning. And they are good for the Indian River Lagoon.
According to landscapers, many Brevard homeowners say being lagoon-friendly was an important factor in their decision to go native.
Here’s why native plants are so important for the lagoon:
■ Biodiversity Boost: Native plants provide essential habitats and food sources for our local wildlife, from butterflies and bees to birds and fish. By planting them, we can help maintain a diverse and thriving ecosystem.
■ Water Quality: Native plants have deep roots that help prevent erosion and absorb excess nutrients, which can improve water quality in the lagoon. This leads to clearer waters and healthier aquatic life.
■ Low Maintenance: Once established, native plants generally require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides than non-native species. They are well-adapted to our climate and soil conditions, making them easier to care for.
■ Resilience to Climate: With unpredictable weather patterns, native plants are better equipped to withstand droughts, floods, and other extreme conditions, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Brevard landscape architect, Susan Hall, says there is huge interest from her customers in using native plants in both residential and commercial settings. “We’ve had 100% native projects.”
Sally Scalera is the horticulture agent and master gardener at the University of Florida agriculture branch, IFAS, in Cocoa. She says interest in native plants is booming.
“People are concerned about the lagoon,” she observes. Because native plants don’t require fertilizer means they help reduce the amount of phosphates that drain into the lagoon and cause algae blooms.
Let’s come together to positively impact the Indian River Lagoon! Whether in your garden, school, or community space, every native plant counts. Let’s plant for a greener, healthier future!
Native plants are so popular across Florida there is a statewide organization on the subject, Florida Native Plant Society. There are two chapters in Brevard County.
For more information, contact the native plant experts:
Click here to read more information at Florida Native Plant Society>>>
North Brevard
■ Sea Rocket Native Plant Chapter meets monthly at the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary on 444 Columbia Boulevard in Titusville
South Brevard
■ Conradina Native Plant Chapter meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Melbourne Library on 540 East Fee Avenue in Melbourne.
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