We returned to Roosevelt Wetland for another impactful planting, this time sponsored by Sila Realty. With the help of 17 dedicated volunteers, we planted 40 trees and 25 blanket flowers, continuing to restore and enhance this unique natural space. It was a beautiful, overcast day, ideal conditions for planting. The site is currently very exposed to the elements, but these newly planted shade trees will one day provide much-needed canopy for future park visitors. Our team planted a diverse mix of native species, including bald cypress, American elm, South Florida slash pine, and red maple. Each of these trees plays an important role in supporting wildlife, improving water quality, and strengthening the resilience of the ecosystem. Roosevelt Wetland is a dynamic environment. It experiences periods of standing water, fluctuating moisture levels, and full sun exposure. The species selected for this planting were chosen specifically because they can handle these conditions while contributing real ecological value over time.
Species Planted at Roosevelt Wetland
Bald Cypress
Bald cypress thrives in wet, low-lying areas and is one of the best trees you can plant in a wetland. It can tolerate flooding for long periods and actually helps stabilize soil and reduce erosion. Over time, it will create structure in the landscape, provide habitat for birds and amphibians, and improve water quality by filtering runoff.
American Elm
American elm is highly adaptable and can tolerate both wet and moderately dry conditions, which makes it a strong fit for a transitional wetland site like Roosevelt. It grows into a large canopy tree, meaning it will eventually provide significant shade and cooling. Its branching structure also offers excellent habitat for birds.
South Florida Slash Pine
South Florida slash pine is native to flatwoods and can handle seasonal flooding as well as drought once established. This makes it ideal for a site that isn’t consistently wet year-round. It grows relatively quickly and helps establish an early canopy, while also supporting wildlife like birds and insects that rely on pine ecosystems.
Red Maple
Red maple is well-suited for wet soils and can thrive along the edges of wetlands. It grows quickly and helps establish canopy cover in a shorter time frame. Beyond that, it adds seasonal diversity and supports pollinators, especially early in the year when few other trees are flowering.
Blanket Flower
Blanket flower is a hardy, sun-loving native wildflower that does well in sandy or disturbed soils. At Roosevelt, it plays a different but equally important role. While the trees establish, blanket flowers provide immediate ground cover, help prevent erosion, and support pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Ongoing Care and Partnership with WiseHands
One of the biggest challenges at Roosevelt Wetland is the lack of on-site water access. Without irrigation or spigots, ensuring the trees survive beyond planting day requires a thoughtful plan. That is where WiseHands stepped in as a key partner.
WiseHands is supporting this project by providing watering services using a dedicated watering truck. This allows us to consistently deliver water directly to the trees during their critical establishment period. Their involvement is essential to the long-term success of this planting, helping bridge the gap between installation and survival in a site where natural conditions alone are not always enough.
We encourage everyone to visit Roosevelt Wetland. It offers a short, immersive walk through a Florida ecosystem and is an excellent spot for birdwatching. During our time on site, we spotted hawks, ospreys, fish crows, great blue herons, and even several Moorhens.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this day a success.
If you’d like to take part in future restoration efforts like this one, we’d love to have you join us. Follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming volunteer opportunities!
Event Photos
