LA LOOKS Native Flowers of Central Florida By Lynn Davis Florida’ s state wildflower is the coreopsis, better known as the tickseed. There are about 15 different species. The species lance-leaf grows naturally. Though it’s a short-lived perennial (returns every year), it often reseeds. It’s primarily a spring bloomer, but with some deadheading will bloom into summer. The tickseed bought at local home improvement stores and some nurseries often are non-native. To find native species google: Florida Native Flower/Plants or visit thenectarylkld.com, located in Lakeland. Why plant tickseed in your yard? Tickseed is drought tolerant, attracts pollinators, may be used in tea, has been known to be used for medical ailments and is easy to maintain. Enjoy and reap the benefits of planting native flowers! LAKE ASHTON WETLANDS AND CONSERVATION AREAS Many residents live near a wetland or conservation area. A wetland has many positive roles that serve the ecosystem. They improve water quality by cleaning out the pollutants before they reach our beautiful lake and protect residents from flooding, acting as giant sponge. Lake Ashton CDD has a contract with an aquatics vendor to maintain certain wetlands and conservation areas. These areas are governed by the Southwest Florida Water Management District. We ask that residents refrain from entering these areas or planting plants as it is prohibited. If there are any questions or concerns, email Matt Fisher at MFisher@lakeashtoncdd.com. SAFEGUARD STORM DRAINS FRIENDLY REMINDER: Please remember to put umbrellas down after use when visiting the Pool, Bocce Courts, or Pet Play Parks. Leaving them up can potentially cause them to be damaged by wind and rain. 16 Never place loose vegetation on top of storm drains, as it can fall or blow into the storm drain and clog the stormwater system. Yard waste and bulk trash or items that will not fit into the containers should be placed at the curb no more than 48 hours prior to pick-up. In no event shall any items for pickup be placed in the street. Call the City of Lake Wales, Customer Service (863-678-4182, ext.226) or City of Winter Haven (863-291-5756) Trash and Garbage Office for information about scheduled pickup or to arrange for an unscheduled pickup.
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