ABOUT MAY NURSERY
May Nursery has agricultural roots dating back to the 19th century when the senior May’s great-grandfather settled in North Florida in the 1820’s growing tobacco. In 1971, Fount H. May, Sr. and Don F. May, Sr., completely converted the family's tobacco farm to a nursery that concentrated on Azaleas, I-Lexes and Junipers. What they began has been nurtured and expanded upon by their sons, Fount Jr., Don Jr., Fred and Brad, who have assumed operation of the nursery. Now, third generation growers, Ashley, Richard, John Bradford & Joel May are continuing the tradition in Gadsden County. Farm Manager, Lawson Taylor, has led a career with May Nursery helping manage day-to day operations including their Best Management Practices program (BMPs).
The implementation of BMPs has helped the business become more sustainable and protect local water quality throughout each property. Some of the most effective BMPs implemented include drip and over-head irrigation to reduce water use by more than 30%.
With the slope of the land, all irrigation water drains through a system of ditches into a series of ponds. Surface water is pumped out of those ponds and used again for irrigation purposes. By recycling surface water, the May family is able to reduce overall water use. Ground cover used also prevents soil erosion and nutrient runoff. The natural buffers are maintained around the fields to protect wildlife habitats as well.
It is important to the May family to care for their family’s legacy and continue to innovate growing practices, in order to sustain the land they plan to provide to future generations.
Florida Farm Bureau Federation is honored to present the May Family and Lawson Taylor, of May Nursery, with a 2019 CARES designation and sign for their continued efforts to protect our precious natural resources.
