Evolving systems of pro-environmental behavior among wildscape gardeners

•Multi-scalar, temporal social-ecological system (SES) factors shape wildscape action.•Feedback loops and adaptiveness sustain and enhance dynamic behavioral engagement.•Wildscaping boosts wellbeing and nature connectedness, which then guides behavior.•Greater gardening involvement can foster more and varied advocacy aimed at others.•Future studies could use SES approaches to better understand behavioral transitions.