1. Agricultural and Horticultural Enterprises

3. Natural Resources and Environmental Quality

Annuals

Plantas anuales en Florida 

Native Plants

Indigenous Plants

Trees

Árboles

Shrubs

Arbustos

Groundcovers

Plantas cubresuelos

Ground cover plants

Nursery Production

Producción de viveros 

Aquatic and Wetland Plants

Here in northwest Florida, salt marshes ring the bays. Common in brackish and salty water, these grassy meadows form a protective ring around the shorelines where rivers and bayous empty out into larger bodies of water. While there are numerous species present in salt marsh ecosystems, the two most common are saltmarsh cordgrass and black [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_40549" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-40549" style="width: 225px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/10/25-inch-tall-mangrove-11-2-16.jpg"><img decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" class="size-medium wp-image-40549 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="225" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/10/25-inch-tall-mangrove-11-2-16-225x300.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-40549" class="wp-caption-text">This 25&#8243; tall red mangrove lived among the salt marsh vegetation at Big Lagoon State Park for two years. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension</figcaption></figure>
Here in northwest Florida, salt marshes ring the bays. Common in brackish and salty water, these grassy meadows form a protective ring around the shorelines where rivers and bayous empty out into larger bodies of water. While there are numerous species present in salt marsh ecosystems, the two most common are <a href="https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SPAL">saltmarsh cordgrass</a> and <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/2020/12/09/weekly-what-is-it-black-needlerush/">black needlerush</a>. These tough salt and flood-tolerant species are the basis for native and restored “living shorelines,” absorbing wave energy and storm surge, processing upstream pollutants, and providing habitat for juvenile fish and invertebrates. They’re great hunting grounds for larger species like birds and mammals, as well. Salt marshes are common along the northern Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic coasts, tolerant of a wide range of hot and cold temperature extremes.
<figure id="attachment_40551" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-40551" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/10/Indian-River-Lagoon-mangrove.jpg"><img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-40551 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="200" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/10/Indian-River-Lagoon-mangrove-300x200.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-40551" class="wp-caption-text">A healthy stand of red mangroves along the Indian River Lagoon. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension</figcaption></figure>
In the same niche to our south, mangrove species dominate the tidally influenced coastlines. Taller shrubs and trees, these sturdy and multidimensional plants cannot handle the cold of a north Florida winter, but thrive in tropical and subtropical ecosystems. From the lower Big Bend and Tampa south, all the way to the equator, mangroves are kings of the salty shoreline. They provide the same benefits as salt marshes, protecting the coast from erosion, providing habitat for wildlife, and metabolizing nutrients.
<figure id="attachment_40553" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-40553" style="width: 225px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/10/Largest-red-mangrove-Feb-5-2018-after-freeze.png"><img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-40553 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="225" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/10/Largest-red-mangrove-Feb-5-2018-after-freeze-225x300.png"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-40553" class="wp-caption-text">A mangrove that did not survive a hard freeze in north Florida in February 2018. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension</figcaption></figure>
Over the last decade, however, the zones where one might expect salt marsh vs mangrove has started changing. Worldwide, ecologists and botanists have observed a steady march of mangroves growing <a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/fewer-freezes-let-floridas-mangroves-move-north-180948075/">beyond their usual range, both north and south of the equator</a>.
<figure id="attachment_40557" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-40557" style="width: 225px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/10/Key-deer-in-mangroves.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-40557 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="225" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/10/Key-deer-in-mangroves-225x300.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-40557" class="wp-caption-text">In extreme south Florida, Key deer live and feed among the mangrove habitats. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension</figcaption></figure>
We are not exempt from this phenomenon in Pensacola. <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/2023/07/12/weekly-what-is-it-big-lagoon-state-park/">Big Lagoon State Park</a> has some of the healthiest stands of salt marsh in the county, but every few years we see <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/2021/08/25/weekly-what-is-it-red-mangrove/">red mangroves</a> take root and grow among the grasses. Between 2016-2018, eight of them survived two milder winters, and grew to about 2’ tall. While they died off, we recently observed a new propagule rooted and growing at the park.
<a href="https://thewaterinstitute.org/projects/impact-of-black-mangrove-expansion-in-coastal-louisiana">South Louisiana</a> and the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&amp;v=TdCiz3yiFNs">Apalachicola region</a> have long had a steady population of the more temperate black mangroves. Over the last two decades, these populations have grown. But now with even warmer winters, biologists are finding growing stands of tropical red mangroves.
What does this mean for our salt marshes? Because they’re more treelike plants, evidence shows that mangroves moving into an area previously dominated by grasses and rushes will <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0210144">eventually shade out and replace them</a>.
<figure id="attachment_40555" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-40555" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/10/Mangrove.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-40555 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="300" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/escambiaco/files/2024/10/Mangrove-300x300.jpg"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-40555" class="wp-caption-text">The author poses with one of the longest-lived Pensacola mangroves, which grew at Big Sabine on Pensacola Beach. Photo credit: Rick O&#8217;Connor, UF IFAS Extension</figcaption></figure>
While mangroves essentially play the same role in the coastal ecosystem as salt marshes, there could be local repercussions if they outcompete the marshes. Animals like the periwinkle snail, blue crab, and diamondback terrapin that depend on salt marshes for survival may not be able to utilize mangroves the same way.
The movement of mangroves toward the north and south poles will continue to be a slow and gradual process, and researchers are monitoring it worldwide. The <a href="https://serc.si.edu/research/laboratories/animal-plant-interaction/projects/mangrove-expansion-response-climate-change">Smithsonian Institution</a> has been coordinating a major study for several years, along with many Gulf-based universities and Estuarine Research Reserves.

This 25″ tall red mangrove lived among the salt marsh vegetation at Big Lagoon State Park for two years. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension
Here in northwest Florida, salt marshes ring the bays. Common in brackish and salty water, these grassy meadows form a protective ring around the shorelines where rivers and bayous empty out into larger bodies of water. While there are numerous species present in salt marsh ecosystems, the two most common are saltmarsh cordgrass and black needlerush. These tough salt and flood-tolerant species are the basis for native and restored “living shorelines,” absorbing wave energy and storm surge, processing upstream pollutants, and providing habitat for juvenile fish and invertebrates. They’re great hunting grounds for larger species like birds and mammals, as well. Salt marshes are common along the northern Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic coasts, tolerant of a wide range of hot and cold temperature extremes.
A healthy stand of red mangroves along the Indian River Lagoon. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension
In the same niche to our south, mangrove species dominate the tidally influenced coastlines. Taller shrubs and trees, these sturdy and multidimensional plants cannot handle the cold of a north Florida winter, but thrive in tropical and subtropical ecosystems. From the lower Big Bend and Tampa south, all the way to the equator, mangroves are kings of the salty shoreline. They provide the same benefits as salt marshes, protecting the coast from erosion, providing habitat for wildlife, and metabolizing nutrients.
A mangrove that did not survive a hard freeze in north Florida in February 2018. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension
Over the last decade, however, the zones where one might expect salt marsh vs mangrove has started changing. Worldwide, ecologists and botanists have observed a steady march of mangroves growing beyond their usual range, both north and south of the equator.
In extreme south Florida, Key deer live and feed among the mangrove habitats. Photo credit: Carrie Stevenson, UF IFAS Extension
We are not exempt from this phenomenon in Pensacola. Big Lagoon State Park has some of the healthiest stands of salt marsh in the county, but every few years we see red mangroves take root and grow among the grasses. Between 2016-2018, eight of them survived two milder winters, and grew to about 2’ tall. While they died off, we recently observed a new propagule rooted and growing at the park.
South Louisiana and the Apalachicola region have long had a steady population of the more temperate black mangroves. Over the last two decades, these populations have grown. But now with even warmer winters, biologists are finding growing stands of tropical red mangroves.
What does this mean for our salt marshes? Because they’re more treelike plants, evidence shows that mangroves moving into an area previously dominated by grasses and rushes will eventually shade out and replace them.
The author poses with one of the longest-lived Pensacola mangroves, which grew at Big Sabine on Pensacola Beach. Photo credit: Rick O’Connor, UF IFAS Extension
While mangroves essentially play the same role in the coastal ecosystem as salt marshes, there could be local repercussions if they outcompete the marshes. Animals like the periwinkle snail, blue crab, and diamondback terrapin that depend on salt marshes for survival may not be able to utilize mangroves the same way.
The movement of mangroves toward the north and south poles will continue to be a slow and gradual process, and researchers are monitoring it worldwide. The Smithsonian Institution has been coordinating a major study for several years, along with many Gulf-based universities and Estuarine Research Reserves.

Here in northwest Florida, salt marshes ring the bays. Common in brackish and salty water, these grassy meadows form a protective ring around the shorelines where rivers and bayous empty out into larger bodies of water. While there are numerous species present in salt marsh ecosystems, the two most common are saltmarsh cordgrass and black […]

Weekly “What is it?”: Migrating Mangroves

Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) have long been beloved for their rich coloring and ability to suppress plant &#8211; parasitic nematodes. This is true, however, simply planting marigolds in your garden or landscape, or intercropping, will not reduce nematode populations. Let’s explore the origins and growing conditions of the marigold. Origins of the Marigold Marigolds are native [&#8230;]

Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) have long been beloved for their rich coloring and ability to suppress plant &#8211; parasitic nematodes. This is true, however, simply planting marigolds in your garden or landscape, or intercropping, will not reduce nematode populations. Let’s explore the origins and growing conditions of the marigold.
<figure id="attachment_6151" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6151" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-6151 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="200" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/files/2024/09/030381-300x200.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6151" class="wp-caption-text">Marigolds. Photo taken 10-19-23.</figcaption></figure>
<h3>Origins of the Marigold</h3>
Marigolds are native to the Americas, with species originating from both North and South America. In their natural habitats, they grow in open, sunny fields and meadows. Read more about the cultural significance of marigolds <a href="http://Marigolds: Blooms of Cultural Significance">here.</a>
<figure id="attachment_6157" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-6157" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://Marigolds: Blooms of Cultural Significance"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-6157 size-medium lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="197" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/files/2024/09/2-300x197.png"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-6157" class="wp-caption-text">Mature marigolds. Tagetes erecta &#8216;Perfection Yellow&#8217;: &#8216;Perfection Yellow&#8217; marigold. Credit: Edward F. Gilman, UF/IFAS</figcaption></figure>
&nbsp;
<h3>Growing Conditions and Characteristics</h3>
Marigolds thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 2 to 11, making them an excellent choice for the diverse climates of Central Florida. They typically reach a height of 1 &#8211; 3 feet tall, depending on the variety, and have a spread of 6 to 12 inches. This annual plant is a great option for the summer season and prefers well-drained soil and requires a minimum of 6 hours of full sun. For best results, place them a foot apart and plant them in large numbers.
These hardy flowers are known to withstand the heat, making them well suited to Florida’s climate. Marigolds are generally low maintenance, requiring only moderate watering and occasional deadheading to prolong their blooming period. They can be used in several garden settings, including flower beds, borders, and container gardens. Their bright yellow, orange, or golden flowers can add a pop of color and attract pollinators and beneficial insects to your garden. Learn more about marigolds <a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP570">here</a>.
<a href="http://Marigolds: Blooms of Cultural Significance"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-6155 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="300" height="224" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/files/2024/09/1-1-300x224.png"></a>
Read more about how to use marigolds to deter nematodes <a href="https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/home/care/florida-friendly/garden-myths-one/">here</a>.
<h3>Why Plant Native Species?</h3>
While native and non-invasive exotic plants can enhance local ecosystems, invasive exotic species pose a threat to native flora and disrupt ecological balance. In Florida, invasive species like the Mexican petunia and Brazilian peppertree jeopardize native habitats, making it crucial to select appropriate plants for your landscape. Choosing native plants like the marigold supports Central Florida’s local ecology by providing food and habitat for native wildlife while requiring minimal maintenance.
To learn more about invasive plants, <a href="https://livinggreen.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/landscaping/invasive-exotic-plants/">click here</a>.
<h3>Have a question?</h3>
If you have any questions about gardening in Central Florida, please contact UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County at 352-518-0156. For more information on UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens, and how you can join one, visit <a href="http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/">http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/</a>. Supervising Agent: Dr. Whitney Elmore.
<h3>Follow us!</h3>
We have several ways to connect. Visit our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PascoExt/">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/uf_ifas/?hl=en">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/o/ufifas-pasco-county-cooperative-extension-7831617239">Eventbrite</a>, <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/about/">Blogs</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/uf.ffl/">Florida-Friendly Facebook</a>, &amp; <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/">Website.</a>
<a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/"><button class="uf-partial-border-button large button expanded default-style845909" type="submit">Read our other blogs</button></a>
Other Blogs in the Series
<ul>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/2024/06/04/native-series-black-eyed-susan/">Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: The Black-Eyed Susan</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/2024/06/18/exploring-floridas-native-gems-beautyberry/">Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: Beautyberry</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/2024/07/02/exploring-floridas-native-gems-carolina-jessamine/">Exploring Florida&#8217;s Native Gems: Carolina Jessamine</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/2024/07/16/floridas-native-gems-the-coontie/">Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: The Coontie</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/2024/07/09/chickasaw-plum/">Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: Chickasaw Plum</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/2024/07/30/exploring-floridas-native-gems-the-coreopsis/">Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: The Coreopsis</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/2024/07/23/exploring-floridas-native-gems-coral-honeysuckle/">Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: Coral Honeysuckle</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/2024/08/27/exploring-floridas-native-gems-the-florida-maple/">Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: The Florida Maple</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/2024/08/20/exploring-floridas-native-gems-the-firebush/">Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: The Firebush</a></li>
</ul>
More resources
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/PascoExt/">UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County</a></li>
<li><a href="https://rootedinflorida.podbean.com/">Dr. Whitney Elmore’s Podcast: Rooted in Florida</a></li>
<li><a href="https://youtu.be/iQHgzcwzvHM">Extension Connection: Florida Friendly Landscaping</a></li>
</ul>

Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) have long been beloved for their rich coloring and ability to suppress plant – parasitic nematodes. This is true, however, simply planting marigolds in your garden or landscape, or intercropping, will not reduce nematode populations. Let’s explore the origins and growing conditions of the marigold.
Marigolds. Photo taken 10-19-23.
Origins of the Marigold
Marigolds are native to the Americas, with species originating from both North and South America. In their natural habitats, they grow in open, sunny fields and meadows. Read more about the cultural significance of marigolds here.
Mature marigolds. Tagetes erecta ‘Perfection Yellow’: ‘Perfection Yellow’ marigold. Credit: Edward F. Gilman, UF/IFAS
 
Growing Conditions and Characteristics
Marigolds thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 2 to 11, making them an excellent choice for the diverse climates of Central Florida. They typically reach a height of 1 – 3 feet tall, depending on the variety, and have a spread of 6 to 12 inches. This annual plant is a great option for the summer season and prefers well-drained soil and requires a minimum of 6 hours of full sun. For best results, place them a foot apart and plant them in large numbers.
These hardy flowers are known to withstand the heat, making them well suited to Florida’s climate. Marigolds are generally low maintenance, requiring only moderate watering and occasional deadheading to prolong their blooming period. They can be used in several garden settings, including flower beds, borders, and container gardens. Their bright yellow, orange, or golden flowers can add a pop of color and attract pollinators and beneficial insects to your garden. Learn more about marigolds here.

Read more about how to use marigolds to deter nematodes here.
Why Plant Native Species?
While native and non-invasive exotic plants can enhance local ecosystems, invasive exotic species pose a threat to native flora and disrupt ecological balance. In Florida, invasive species like the Mexican petunia and Brazilian peppertree jeopardize native habitats, making it crucial to select appropriate plants for your landscape. Choosing native plants like the marigold supports Central Florida’s local ecology by providing food and habitat for native wildlife while requiring minimal maintenance.
To learn more about invasive plants, click here.
Have a question?
If you have any questions about gardening in Central Florida, please contact UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County at 352-518-0156. For more information on UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens, and how you can join one, visit http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/. Supervising Agent: Dr. Whitney Elmore.
Follow us!
We have several ways to connect. Visit our Facebook, Instagram, Eventbrite, Blogs, Florida-Friendly Facebook, & Website.
Read our other blogs
Other Blogs in the Series
Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: The Black-Eyed Susan
Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: Beautyberry
Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: Carolina Jessamine
Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: The Coontie
Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: Chickasaw Plum
Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: The Coreopsis
Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: Coral Honeysuckle
Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: The Florida Maple
Exploring Florida’s Native Gems: The Firebush
More resources
UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County
Dr. Whitney Elmore’s Podcast: Rooted in Florida
Extension Connection: Florida Friendly Landscaping

Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) have long been beloved for their rich coloring and ability to suppress plant – parasitic nematodes. This is true, however, simply planting marigolds in your garden or landscape, or intercropping, will not reduce nematode populations. Let’s explore the origins and growing conditions of the marigold. Origins of the Marigold Marigolds are native […]

Exploring Florida’s Natives: Marigold

Are summer storms dropping dead branches and twigs onto your yard? Recycle them and create a &#8220;wattle&#8221; fence!  Wattles, or hurdles, have been in use since the Middle Ages; originally used as portable fencing for grazing sheep. Over time, designs have evolved and many examples of beautiful woven fencing can be found worldwide. Back to [&#8230;]

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-8837 alignleft lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="photo shows a wattle which is a short decorative fence made from fallen branches that have been woven together" width="300" height="149" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/files/2024/09/wattle-300x149.jpg">Are summer storms dropping dead branches and twigs onto your yard? Recycle them and create a &#8220;wattle&#8221; fence!  Wattles, or hurdles, have been in use since the Middle Ages; originally used as portable fencing for grazing sheep. Over time, designs have evolved and many examples of beautiful woven fencing can be found worldwide.
Back to our summer storms.  A clever and sustainable method of dealing with these fallen branches is to create a rustic wattle in your own yard.
Benefits include providing homes and nesting sites for beneficial insects, including native bees, as well as adding a fun and rustic element to a natural garden.
They are easy to construct: drive vertical supports into the ground (bamboo is ideal) and weave branches and twigs between these supports.  As summer storms &#8220;gift&#8221; you with additional branches, don&#8217;t send them to the landfill- simply add to your wattle!
Stay safe and happy &#8220;wattling&#8221;!
For more information, contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at (863) 519-1041 or visit us online at <a href="http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk">http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk</a>. The Plant Clinic is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. Give us a call or email us at <a href="mailto:polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu">polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu</a>.
If you are not in Polk County, Contact your<a href="http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office/"> local UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Clinic</a>.
The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program is a volunteer-driven program that benefits UF/IFAS Extension and the citizens of Florida. The program extends the vision of the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, all the while protecting and sustaining natural resources and environmental systems, enhancing the development of human resources, and improving the quality of human life through the development of knowledge in agricultural, human and natural resources and making that knowledge accessible.
This article was written by Master Gardener Volunteer Molly Griner under supervision of the Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator and Residential Horticulture Extension Agent Anne Yasalonis.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.

Are summer storms dropping dead branches and twigs onto your yard? Recycle them and create a “wattle” fence!  Wattles, or hurdles, have been in use since the Middle Ages; originally used as portable fencing for grazing sheep. Over time, designs have evolved and many examples of beautiful woven fencing can be found worldwide.
Back to our summer storms.  A clever and sustainable method of dealing with these fallen branches is to create a rustic wattle in your own yard.
Benefits include providing homes and nesting sites for beneficial insects, including native bees, as well as adding a fun and rustic element to a natural garden.
They are easy to construct: drive vertical supports into the ground (bamboo is ideal) and weave branches and twigs between these supports.  As summer storms “gift” you with additional branches, don’t send them to the landfill- simply add to your wattle!
Stay safe and happy “wattling”!
For more information, contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at (863) 519-1041 or visit us online at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk. The Plant Clinic is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. Give us a call or email us at polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu.
If you are not in Polk County, Contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Clinic.
The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program is a volunteer-driven program that benefits UF/IFAS Extension and the citizens of Florida. The program extends the vision of the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, all the while protecting and sustaining natural resources and environmental systems, enhancing the development of human resources, and improving the quality of human life through the development of knowledge in agricultural, human and natural resources and making that knowledge accessible.
This article was written by Master Gardener Volunteer Molly Griner under supervision of the Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator and Residential Horticulture Extension Agent Anne Yasalonis.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.

Are summer storms dropping dead branches and twigs onto your yard? Recycle them and create a “wattle” fence!  Wattles, or hurdles, have been in use since the Middle Ages; originally used as portable fencing for grazing sheep. Over time, designs have evolved and many examples of beautiful woven fencing can be found worldwide. Back to […]

Create a Wattle in Your Yard

Native Species

Organismos nativos 

Plants

Plantas

Leyton Naranjo , Leynar Leyton

Dogfennel

Yaupon Holly

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Species that are native or naturally belonging to a particular geographic area or environment. Note: In the context of Ask IFAS, "native" is typical understood to mean "native to Florida".&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Dogfennel

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Yaupon Holly

Publications

Conservation Subdivision: Construction Phase—Native Landscaping Palette

Getting Into the “weeds:” An Introduction to Common Lawn Plants and Their Ecological Benefits in North Central Florida

Identification of Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, Poison Sumac, and Poisonwood

Native Pitcherplants of Florida

Native Plants: An Overview

Recommended Native Landscape Plants for Florida's Treasure Coast

Salvaging Native Plants from Sites Slated for Development: Stop Wasting Resources

Related IFAS Blog Posts

Weekly “What is it?”: Migrating Mangroves

Exploring Florida’s Natives: Marigold

Create a Wattle in Your Yard

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