Join us! Life Explorers Speaker Series: Florida Native Landscaping!

Interested in incorporating more native plants into your landscape, but not sure where to begin? This class will highlight the ecological and aesthetic advantages of using native species, with a focus on several often-overlooked natives that are low-maintenance and will attract pollinators and other wildlife. By using these plants, homeowners and landscapers can create more sustainable, resilient environments while conserving water and reducing the need for excessive inputs. Let’s shift the landscape paradigm from non-native, water-intensive landscaping practices and promote the use of Florida’s rich native flora!

Dr. Heather Kalaman is Extension Faculty with UF/IFAS, specializing in sustainable landscaping and urban biodiversity. She is a graduate of the University of Florida’s Doctor of Plant Medicine Program, which emphasizes plant diagnostics and integrated pest management strategies to promote effective, environmentally responsible plant care. Heather also holds a master’s degree in environmental horticulture, where her thesis research explored pollinator-plant interactions. With experience in research, diagnostics, teaching, and managing over four acres of demonstration gardens throughout Orange County, she works closely with residents, green industry professionals, policy makers, and researchers to promote landscapes that are practical, resource-efficient, and wildlife-friendly.

Topic: Florida Native Landscaping

Speaker: Dr. Heather Kalaman, Exploration Gardens Manager UF/IFAS Extension Orange County

Date: Thursday, November 20, 2025

Doors open: 9:45 A.M.

Program Time: 10:00 – 11:30 A.M.

Location: Azaela Lodge, Mead Botanical Garden, 1300 S. Denning Drive Winter Park, FL

Cost: Free – Join us for refreshments and conversation

The Life Explorers Speakers Series is held in the Azalea Lodge of Mead Botanical Garden from 10-11:30 a.m. The program is free of charge with light refreshments and coffee served.

To reserve a spot, please visit eventbrite.com. For additional informationon Mead Botanical Garden and the Life Explorer’s Series, please visit www.meadgarden.org