A Native Florida Landscape

Using Native Landscaping to Enhance the Local Environement...

Using native landscaping in historic setting to help demonstrate how to incorporate native plants into a residential environment.

The Anna Maria Island Historical Society is attempting to set an axample for the residence of Anna Maria Island when it comes to incorporating the use of native plants when landscaping residential lots in the citiy.

According to Historical Society members, There is a lack of awareness and aesthetic appreciation for native plants relative to their water conservation, wildlife food source benefits, habitat creation, and replacement value for lawns that consume water, are treated with chemicals that run into the surrounding water, and create grass clippings that add negative nutrients to these waters.

At the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Complex, property owned by Anna Maria City, there is currently a public works buildings with a maintenance yard and the Historical Society Museum. Also on the site is the recently moved and restored historic Belle Haven Cottage.

To enhance the authenticity of the Belle Haven Cottage display and location, the society has created a native garden, using local plants and incorporated shell and sand pathways, that surrounds the Cottage.

The historic Belle Haven Cottage site is open to the public. It fronts on the main thoroughfare, Pine Street, and backs up to a natural mangrove lined canal.

The Belle Haven Cottage project is a work in progress, and continues to build upon previous efforts by planting more palms native to the island in place of removed exotics. This most recent phase of the project will help buffer the maintenance site from the mangrove walk and canal.

The unique and historic site is a focal point for community gatherings, fund raising, and educational activities regarding history, native plants, and the arts. The park is always open and has no gates.

The project will help to enhance the local environment and set an example for residents in the effective use of native landscaping in a historical setting that will hopefully be replicated on residential lots in the city, which is sorely needed.