When it comes to protecting our shoreline during storms, we can thank the mighty mangroves. Florida is home to about 10 species of mangroves of which three are most common. They are the red, black and white mangrove trees. Red mangroves are typically found along the coastline and are identified by their reddish, aerial root system which reaches deep into the water below. These arching roots give the red mangrove the appearance of walking in the water which has led to it being known as the “Walking Tree.” It is the tallest of the three species growing anywhere from 20 to 75 feet tall.

The black mangrove is typically found in swamps and hammocks with heights 40 to 60 feet. Interestingly, the leaves of the black mangrove secrete salt from the marsh which was harvested by early settlers.

The smallest of the three, the white mangrove, can grow as a shrub or can range from 20 to 40 feet tall. It is found at higher elevations than the red or black mangrove and has peg roots or no visible aerial roots.

Not only do all three play a vital role in protecting our wetlands by filtering salt water, preventing erosion and providing a valuable habitat for many shore and aquatic life, but a recent study found that mangroves are a frontline defense to flooding and storm surge during hurricanes. In fact, it was estimated that during Hurricane Irma, over 500,000 Floridians were protected by mangroves and over $1.5 billion of loses were prevented. In Lee County alone, mangroves prevented $802 million in losses. (Valuing The Flood Risk Reduction Benefits of Florida’s Mangroves)

Given the value of mangroves, it is no wonder that the mangrove forests are protected by law. As homeowners we can help protect this essential resource by remembering that there are legal ramifications for disrupting the vital mangrove ecosystem. Specifically, it is illegal to remove mangroves; however, there are exemptions related to pruning them depending on their location and size. For detailed legal requirements, please see: floridadep.gov or hire a certified professional mangrove trimmer, PMT.

In addition, homeowners can prevent the loss of the mangrove forests by removing any invasive plants from their yard. In this case, the carrotwood tree is a particularly destructive threat to our mangroves. Unfortunately, this Australian native tree is highly prevalent in residential neighborhoods. I can count at least a dozen of them in my neighborhood alone.

They were first identified in Florida in 1955, but became popular in 1968 when they were advertised as a fast growing, attractive shade tree. By the 1990s it had invaded both coasts and in 1995 was classified as “one of Florida’s most invasive plant species.” (Florida Noxious Weed List (5b-57.007 FAC)

The carrotwood tree is an evergreen tree with a single trunk that grows to about 35 feet tall. It gets its name from the orange colored inner bark which is covered by a dark gray bark. In January and February, it develops white to yellow-green flowers, but is more easily identified in April and May when it is covered in conspicuous yellow, orange fruit.

Unfortunately, the fish crow and other birds relish the carrotwood fruit. After enjoying this meal, they fly to their coastal habitat where they deposit the seeds. This fertile environment nourishes the seeds, allowing the carrotwood to invade the mangrove forests, threatening the natural protections of our shoreline.

There are many alternatives to this invasive tree. Consider removing this threat and replacing it with a native, fast growing, wildlife friendly, shade tree such as a Simpson’s stopper, a geiger tree or one of the many trees listed on the University of Florida-IFAS website. With storm season upon us, homeowners can do their part to protect our coastal areas, preserve our natural defenses, prevent economic losses, and most importantly save lives.

Happy gardening and stay Florida friendly!

Deborah Haggett is a member of the Garden Club of Cape Coral and a Lee County Master Gardener Volunteer.

Sources:

gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees /mangroves.html

www.conservationgateway.org/SiteAssets/Pages/floridamangroves/Mangrove_Report_digital_FINAL.pdf

www.nhmi.org/mangroves/id.htm

jrscience.wcp.muohio.edu/fieldcourses04/PapersMarineEcologyArticles/EcologyofMangroves.html

edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ag111z