Planting Seeds for Students

Lake Nona celebrates Earth Day and Arbor Day by planting more than 6,000 tress – one for every student

April 22, 2020

One of the fastest growing and most innovative communities in America, also happens to be one of the most sustainable and environmentally responsible.

Lake Nona has reserved more 40 percent of the land as green space, launched an all-electric, autonomous shuttle service, piloted new energy-saving programs and smart window technology, installed electric vehicle charging stations, and encouraged green building principles for residential, office, and commercial projects.

Furthering this mission, Lake Nona recently embarked on a significant project in celebration of Arbor Day to make the community greener and healthier. 

In honor of each student at Lake Nona’s four Orange County Public School schools (NorthLake Park Community School, Laureate Park Elementary, Lake Nona Middle, and Lake Nona High), Tavistock is planting a new tree. During a multi-day process, more than 6,000 slash pine tree seedlings were planted throughout Lake Nona to commemorate Arbor Day and celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day.

Many of the newly planted trees were intentionally rooted across the southern portion of Lake Nona set along the community’s 40 miles of trails, numerous lakes, and winding waterways.

“We want to have a meaningful impact on a significant scale,” said Nick Beucher, senior vice president with Tavistock Development Company. “When you talk about the environment and long-term impacts, you naturally think of the next generation. So, what better idea than to dedicate our efforts to the kids of Lake Nona.”

The slash pine seedlings were donated by Hathaway’s Tree Farm & Landscaping and available through the Florida Forest Service seedling program. In addition to Tavistock, local partners including CEPRA Landscape, Down to Earth, and Landcare Group all contributed time and talents to facilitate the multi-day planting project.

While initially small in size (6-8” on average), the seedlings are expected to grow quickly in the summer climate and could reach heights of 18-24” by the end of the season with expectations to double in height in the next year. Lake Nona’s horticulture team implements a comprehensive maintenance program to ensure the seedlings thrive in their new home.

While ambitious in scale for one week, Lake ­­­Nona’s robust landscaping program will continue to enhance the neighborhood with regular plantings across a wide range of trees, shrubs, and even wildflowers throughout the year across the 17-square-mile community.

“We hope these enhancements will continue to encourage our residents and visitors to get outside, enjoy nature and stay active,” said Beucher.