GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – What’s the latest buzz in Gainesville? A new flower garden for pollinators is coming to local nonprofit nursery Grow Hub.
Next Saturday morning, Oct. 21, the City of Gainesville will be teaming up with two other nonprofits, the Florida Wildflower Foundation (FWF) and Bee City USA, to plant native wildflowers at Grow Hub in a garden designed by local landscaping firm Zamia Design.
The goal is to attract more pollinators to the area. That includes several species of bees as well as birds and other insects. Shrubs will also provide habitats for native wildlife.
Additionally, using native species means fewer pesticides and less water will be necessary to maintain the garden. The plants will even contribute to lowering the city’s carbon footprint, according to the City of Gainesville. All of these eco-friendly benefits could become even more widespread if citizens decide to follow in the city’s footsteps.
“This is a great opportunity for all neighbors to learn how they, themselves, can support bee populations with native wildflowers, and flowering trees and shrubs in their own lawns and gardens across our city,” said Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward.
Gainesville earned a Bee City USA designation in November 2022. That’s why the city is now installing its first Bee City USA garden, just a year later.
“We are thrilled to see the first Bee City USA Gainesville native plant garden take root at Grow Hub,” said FWF Executive Director Stacey Matrazzo. “These gardens will not only provide a haven for our beleaguered pollinators, but will also bring an abundance of beauty, biodiversity and educational opportunities to the community.”
Additional gardens are planned in the future, according to the City of Gainesville.
The Grow Hub planting event on Oct. 21 will be volunteer-run. Interested parties can attend at 2900 NE Eighth Ave. from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.