2025 Peggy Lantz Writing Contest

Submissions are now open!

ABOUT THE CONTEST

This inaugural writing contest celebrates creative voices inspired by Florida's wild flora. Established in honor of Peggy Lantz, an esteemed nature writer and tireless advocate for Florida's native plants, the contest embodies her legacy of blending scientific rigor with practical wisdom. We invite writers, artists, and storytellers of all ages to submit original work exploring their personal connection to Florida's native plants.

 

ABOUT PEGGY LANTZ

Peggy Sias Lantz is a prolific nature writer whose work has shaped how Floridians understand and appreciate native plants. As former editor of The Palmetto, the member publication of the Florida Native Plant Society, and author of several books including Florida's Edible Wild Plants, Lantz has inspired countless readers to identify, forage, and conserve the Florida's wild flora. Her writing exemplifies the powerful combination of scientific insight and practical advice.
 

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

We're seeking writers, artists, creative thinkers, and native plant enthusiasts of all ages! Whether you're a seasoned storyteller or exploring your voice for the first time, share your passion for Florida's incredible native plants through original work that resonates with you. Selected submissions will be featured in a future issue of The Palmetto, our member publication, and winners will receive recognition and prizes.

CONTEST DIVISIONS & CATEGORIES

Participants may submit original work in any one of the following categories for either the Youth Division (ages 6-17) or the Adult Division (ages 18+):

• Short Story (1,000 words maximum)
• Essay (1,500 words maximum)
• Poetry / Song Lyrics (any length)
  
• Comics / Illustrated Stories (6 page maximum)

THEME & GUIDELINES

Your submission should explore your connection to Florida native plants. This might include:

• A memorable encounter with a native plant or natural area
• The role of native plants in your community or life
• Why native plants matter to you and Florida's ecosystems
• Conservation stories or observations
• Indigenous relationships with native flora
• The beauty, resilience, or importance of Florida's botanical heritage

All submissions must:

• Be original, unpublished work created entirely by the author without AI assistance
• Focus on Florida native plants or ecosystems

PARTICIPATION FEE

FNPS Members: FREE

Non-Members: $5 per entry

Funds will go toward our Internship program. Learn more here. 

JUDGING, AWARDS, & RECOGNITION

Judging will be conducted by a team of FNPS members, who will evaluate submissions based on a standardized scoring rubric.

Exclusive FNPS gifts will be awarded for first, second, and third place in each category and division.

First place winners will be featured on the FNPS website and in the quarterly publication, The Palmetto. All winners will be featured on social media platforms and at the 2027 FNPS Conference.

All applicants will receive an FNPS sticker.

IMPORTANT DATES

• Submission Deadline: January 30, 2026
• Winners Announced: Early March, 2026

SUBMITTAL INSTRUCTIONS

Please submit your piece through by clicking here to access the Google Form.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

By entering, participants grant FNPS a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use submitted content for promotional and educational purposes, with proper credit.

QUESTIONS?

Email info@fnps.org