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Native Trees
Native Trees
North Central Florida is home to a diverse range of native trees that contribute to the region’s rich biodiversity and provide numerous benefits to the environment and local communities. Whether you’re planting trees for shade, wildlife habitat, or aesthetic appeal, choosing native species ensures they’ll thrive in the local climate and soil while supporting the ecosystem.
WHY CHOOSE NATIVE TREES?
Native trees are adapted to the unique conditions of North Central Florida, including its sandy soils, humid climate, and periodic droughts. These trees can require less maintenance, are often more resistant to pests and diseases, and support native wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and pollinators. Planting native species also reduces the risk of introducing invasive plants that can disrupt local ecosystems.
STEPS FOR SELECTING AND PLANTING
Assess Your Site
Consider factors like soil type, sunlight, drainage, and available space. Consider getting your soil tested to help determine the best trees for your property.
Choose the Right Tree for the Right Place
Match tree species to the conditions of your site. For example, longleaf pines thrive in sandy uplands, while bald cypress trees are ideal for wetter areas. Check out the table below for recommended native trees for Alachua County.
Plant Properly
The best time to plant trees in North Central Florida is during the cooler months, from late fall to early spring. Plant trees at the correct depth to ensure that the root ball is adequately hydrated. Only 2-3 inches of root ball needs to be above the soil. See UF IFAS Planting & Establishing Trees for instructions to set your trees up for success.
Provide Proper Care
Water new trees regularly until they’re established and apply 2-3 inches of mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Avoid over-fertilizing, as native trees typically do not require high nutrient inputs. If pruning is necessary, prune during the dormant season to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the tree.
TABLE 1. RECOMMENDED NATIVE TREES FOR ALACHUA COUNTY
TREES WITH BENEFITS
Native trees provide numerous benefits, including improving air quality, reducing soil erosion, and supporting local wildlife. They are an integral part of Florida's natural landscape and contribute to the overall health of the environment. Planting native trees is an investment in the beauty, sustainability, and ecological health of Alachua County.
By choosing the right native tree species and following these best practices, you can create a sustainable and beautiful landscape that benefits both you and the environment.
REFERENCES
UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions. Native Florida Trees https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/native-trees/
UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions. Florida Native Plants https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/native-plants/
UF/IFAS Environmental Horticulture. Landscape Plants: Native Trees https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/woody/native-trees.shtml
UF/IFAS Environmental Horticulture. 680 Tree Fact Sheets. https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/database/trees/trees_scientific.shtml
UF/IFAS Extension. Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Guide to Plant Selection & Landscape Design https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/media/fflifasufledu/docs/FFL-Plant-Guide_v030624_web.pdf
Authored by: Dr. Cynthia Nazario-Leary, Environmental Horticulture Agent and Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator, UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County.
Photo credits: UF/IFAS
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