Planta Nativa Month in McAllen

By Colleen Hook, Executive Director, Quinta Mazatlán

Walking through one of the City of McAllen’s Tiny Forests might reveal a Great Kiskadee, bright yellow against a dense thicket of green, foraging in a tree. A variety of insects may also be observed — more visible the slower one moves — living among the over 30 native plant species included in the planted forest: native solitary bees buzzing from flower to flower; beetles clambering over leaves; a mantis waiting for its prey. With all that life, it is easy to assume the forest has always existed, even though it was planted in early 2023.

That is the power of native plants. In just over two years, a typical Rio Grande Valley urban roadside — a regularly mowed mix of invasive grasses and small patches of seasonal wildflowers — transformed into a forested network of life, full of species interacting within less than an acre of habitat. Temperatures in the forest can be up to 10 degrees cooler than the surrounding heat (or warmer during brief cold snaps).

This transformation is the focus of Planta Nativa Month in the City of McAllen—the ability to modify landscapes for the benefit of both people and wildlife. Throughout October, Quinta Mazatlan will host a diverse array of events, family programs, plant giveaways, and more to raise awareness about native plants and encourage their use at homes, businesses, schools, and other community spaces.

Weekly programs will include Thursday evening presentations by native plant experts. Attendees can take home a free native mix of perennial wildflowers, butterfly-friendly shrubs, and small trees.

Quinta Mazatlan staff will also offer weekly activities, including Forest Tots on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Walk with a Naturalist on Wednesdays, and STEM Stops on Saturdays. Each session will focus on native plants, from seed development to their ecological benefits.

On Oct. 16, Quinta Mazatlan will welcome Pam Penick — author and advocate for climate-resilient gardens — for a keynote presentation and book signing during the Planta Nativa VIP (Very Important Plants) Night. With nearly two decades of experience designing waterwise and wildlife-friendly landscapes, Penick will share practical strategies for creating gardens that endure challenges and grow stronger. Her presentation draws from her latest book, Gardens of Texas: Visions of Resilience from the Lone Star State, and aims to inspire resilience in local landscapes.

The VIP Night will also feature native plant sales, seed giveaways, a marketplace with food and wine vendors, educational booths and research posters, plus live music — all in the historical setting of Quinta Mazatlan.

Whether providing joy to gardeners or delivering ecosystem services such as temperature regulation, habitat for wildlife, and pollution mitigation, native plants in the Rio Grande Valley offer lasting value. Planta Nativa Month at Quinta Mazatlan celebrates its power. More information is available at quintamazatlan.com.