About Us
Rooted in Florida. Growing Together.
We believe that every Floridian can grow food, restore native ecosystems, and fall in love with gardening — right in their own yard.
The Story
Grow Native Florida started with a simple observation: most people in Florida don't know what native plants can do. They don't realize that the plants that evolved here over millennia are perfectly suited to our climate, our soil, our sun, and our pests. They don't understand that growing native isn't just an environmental choice—it's the easiest way to garden in Florida.
Michael Bonanno, founder of Grow Native Florida and coordinator of the Om Grown Community Garden in Spring Hill, has been living this truth for years. What started as a personal passion for native plants, organic gardening, and community connection became a mission: to inspire and equip Florida residents to grow native, eat local, and restore the natural beauty of the Sunshine State—one yard at a time.
This website is Michael's toolkit for that mission. Here you'll find everything you need to start growing: guides to native plants, step-by-step gardening tutorials, resources for Florida-friendly landscaping, and stories from the growing community of people who are falling in love with gardening in Florida.
What We Cover
Native Plants & Pollinators
Discover which native plants thrive in Florida and how to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees to your garden.
Organic Gardening
Learn how to grow vegetables, herbs, and food crops without synthetic chemicals using time-tested Florida methods.
Florida-Friendly Landscaping
Transform your yard into a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape that works with Florida's climate instead of against it.
Advanced Growing Methods
Explore hydroponics, aquaponics, propagation, and advanced irrigation techniques for ambitious growers.
Plant Databases & Tools
Access searchable databases of native plants, vegetable guides, pest identifiers, and ready-to-print resources.
Community & Connection
Join a growing community of growers, share stories, connect with local events, and learn from each other.
Our Mission
To inspire and equip Florida residents to grow native plants, eat local, and restore the natural beauty of the Sunshine State—one yard at a time. We believe that gardening is an act of hope, that native plants are the foundation of a thriving ecosystem, and that community grows from shared soil.
Join Us
Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced gardener, there's a place for you in this community. Start with our guides, browse our resources, read our blog, and connect with other growers in your area.