Butterflies and bees abound in the hidden gem known as the Brevard Discovery Garden.
In this area, hobbyist gardeners work to not only maintain, but to create a beautiful space that exhibits not only native Florida plants, but other Florida-friendly greenery that helps support the ecosystem.
Brevard Discovery Garden has a dedicated butterfly garden that attracts a wide array of pollinators. SENIOR LIFE Nicole Yuan.
In this place filled with colorful and fragrant florals, people can visit to admire the natural beauty as well as ask questions about particular plants, starting their own garden or even to address concerns.
“Our goal is to educate the community. Not just to show them pretty flowers, “said master gardener John Haase. “(And) everything we use (to educate) comes from the University of Florida.”
Haase explained the importance of learning not just how much sunlight and water a plant needs, but also the type of soil, nutrients, compatibility with other plants and even pruning needs. All of this he learned by completing the master gardener program through the University of Florida.
“I always wanted to do it, to be a master gardener,” Haase said of his hobby. “I think I got the gardening kick from my dad because he liked to be outside. And he liked to plant and weed and mess around, you know, with different kinds of plants and vegetables and flowers, and I think I got that gene from him.”
Haase joys the hands-on experience of gardening as well as the social aspect. Whether it’s attending the monthly potluck meeting, engaging in conversations with his like-minded peers or helping someone with their horticulture questions, it’s evident that his hobby is much more of a passion.
John Haase stresses the importance of native and Florida-friendly greenery to help preserve the local ecosystems. SENIOR LIFE Nicole Yuan.
For individuals interested in learning about the art of gardening, Haase suggests stopping by the Brevard Discovery Garden on Wednesdays when it’s open to the public or attending a plant clinic at one of the county’s libraries. Even better, check out its upcoming event, the Autumn in Bloom Festival, on Oct. 11, to learn about the native flora of Florida, purchase one of many plants grown at the Brevard Discovery Garden or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery.
And for those wanting to volunteer, simply fill out a volunteer form and bring your driver’s license to the help desk. You may just discover your next new hobby.
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