Holly Giles, an Environmental Specialist in Volusia County, leads monthly workshops titled “Plant Like a Floridian,” focusing on the importance of native plants and environmentally friendly landscaping. With Florida experiencing a daily influx of over 1,200 new residents, Giles’ workshops provide essential guidance for newcomers.
“I love helping people get excited about living in Florida,” Giles said.
As the Volunteer Specialist for the Be Floridian Now and Green Volusia programs, Giles, a fourth-generation Floridian, draws from her upbringing near the Indian River Lagoon. Her deep appreciation for Florida’s unique environment drives her mission to educate others.
Giles emphasizes the benefits of using native plants in landscaping. Native plants, such as Florida’s mangrove species, saw palmetto, Southern magnolia, and railroad vine, play crucial roles in protecting shorelines and supporting local wildlife, including pollinators like birds, bees, and butterflies.
“We have hundreds of native pollinators in Florida that depend on specific native plants,” Giles noted. “Without these plants, we risk losing these pollinators, which affects our food supply.”
The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that one-third of our food relies on pollinators. Giles stresses the importance of distinguishing native plants from non-native ones, citing Mexican petunia as an example of a problematic species.
“This plant is often sold as Florida-friendly but is actually a Category One invasive,” Giles explained. “It competes with and suppresses native plants, so it’s crucial to avoid it.”
Giles recommends replacing invasive species with native alternatives, such as Beautyberry, which produces attractive purple berries that serve as winter food for wildlife and birds. Beautyberry is also drought-tolerant and can be used to make a natural bug repellent from its leaves, a method used by Native Americans.
Additionally, Giles advises on proper fertilization practices. From June 1 to September 30, Volusia County restricts the use of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers to prevent runoff into waterways. From October to May, she suggests using fertilizers with 50% slow-release nitrogen.
“In Volusia County, it’s essential to choose fertilizers that meet this requirement,” Giles said. “We aim to inform residents about the best practices for Florida.”
Giles believes that adopting these practices can significantly benefit the environment. “You don’t have to make huge changes all at once. Even replacing one non-native plant with a native one can make a big difference,” she said.
Giles’ next “Plant Like a Floridian” workshop will be held on Thursday, September 12, at the Edgewater Public Library from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Interested individuals can register online. Giles’ workshops are held monthly; for details on upcoming events, visit Green Volusia’s Eventbrite page.
Reagan Ryan, a Report for America Corps Member, covers environmental and climate issues in Central Florida for Spectrum News 13. Report for America is a nonprofit program that places journalists in local newsrooms to address under-covered topics.