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June 3, 2024Transition to Ecological Based Landscapes
In Florida, the move towards integrating ecological or native plants into traditional landscapes isn't just a trend; it's a necessary shift. As much as we would like to believe it’s about pollinators and protecting wildlife, the underlying factor is the allocation of water resources for landscape irrigation within communities. This situation presents us with an opportunity to positively impact the environment. At Cherrylake, extensive efforts have been invested in plant trials, both in fields and greenhouses, to meet the growing demand for this style of landscaping. Additionally, our Construction and Maintenance Teams are being educated on how to nurture these plants effectively in urban settings.
A significant challenge has been adapting native plants to urban soils, which vary greatly due to construction processes. These soils range from those extracted from deep layers during lake excavation to imported sands for building foundations. None of these have the natural soil profile or nutrients native plants are accustomed to. Partnering with a compost company for soil amendments has proven to help buffer soil and add vital water-holding capacity. Composting also starts the process of rebuilding a humus layer which most plants need to thrive. This approach not only broadens our plant selection for varied color and texture in landscapes but also supports pollinators by providing larval host plants and nectar sources.
Through all of these opportunities that we have learned and worked through, our primary goal remains water conservation. By repairing soils and using regionally native plants that thrive on natural rainfall, the beauty happens. Once established, most of these plants only require irrigation during periods of drought or for species with slightly higher water needs. Our strategic hydrozoning and irrigation management have significantly exceeded goals. The properties under our care use half the water typically allowed by water authorities. For instance, while the Toho Water Authority sets a yearly water usage goal of no more than 28 inches per property, the properties we manage use between 10.33 and 19.4 inches, depending on lot size. In contrast, adjacent properties not under our management often use over 200 inches annually, a common figure for conventionally maintained landscapes. Our managing program is being benchmarked for development now as the program to follow.
Another benefit to the use of and understanding of native plants in the landscape is the drastic reduction of synthetic chemicals. This is a huge win for the environment but also allows us to reduce the cost of maintenance and the growing of these plant materials.
There are still numerous opportunities ahead for Cherrylake and the industry as a whole. We are steadfast in our commitment to spearheading the transition toward ecologically responsible and sustainable landscapes, paving the way for a promising future.
This article was written with contributions from Jimmy Rogers, Sustainable Landscape Leader
