Residents of Florida seeking to enhance their gardening practices are in for a treat this fall as Dr. Heather Kalaman, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Agent with UF/IFAS Extension Orange County, teams up with the local Tar Flower Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society to offer an insightful workshop series. The upcoming classes will focus on incorporating native plants into residential landscapes, highlighting their numerous ecological benefits for Florida’s unique environment. As water conservation becomes increasingly important in the Sunshine State, these sessions aim to educate homeowners on sustainable alternatives to traditional water-intensive landscaping practices.
The workshops represent a significant push toward changing how Floridians approach their yards and gardens. Rather than continuing with non-native species that often require excessive watering and maintenance, attendees will learn how to utilize Florida’s rich native flora to create beautiful, sustainable landscapes. These native plants have naturally adapted to Florida’s climate and soil conditions, making them not only more resilient during varying weather patterns but also beneficial for local wildlife and pollinators that have evolved alongside these plant species over thousands of years. The classes promise to spotlight several underappreciated native species that offer both aesthetic appeal and ecological advantages.
The native plant gardening workshop series will be held on three dates this fall: September 23, October 7, and November 4, 2025, with each session running from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Recognizing the diverse needs of community members, organizers have thoughtfully arranged for both in-person attendance and webinar participation options, ensuring that interested gardeners can access this valuable information regardless of their schedule or mobility constraints. Registration is currently open for all dates, with separate sign-up links available for those who prefer either attendance format.
During these interactive sessions, participants will gain practical expertise from Dr. Kalaman and members of the Tar Flower Chapter, who bring years of specialized knowledge about Florida’s native ecosystems. The workshops will cover essential aspects of incorporating native plants into existing landscapes, including selection criteria, proper planting techniques, and ongoing maintenance requirements. Attendees will leave equipped with actionable strategies for creating sustainable outdoor spaces that not only reduce water consumption and eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides but also provide crucial habitat for butterflies, bees, birds, and other local wildlife. This knowledge comes at a crucial time as Florida faces increasing pressure on its water resources and natural habitats.
