Florida Friendly Landscaping

What is Florida-Friendly Landscaping?

Florida's increasing urbanization, coastal development, and population growth continue to tax water resources.  Per capita water use ranges from 124 to 150 gallons per day with more than 50% of residential water used outside.  

Florida-Friendly Landscaping is the application of science-based landscape practices to help design and maintain attractive and sustainable landscapes.  Using the right plant in the right place minimizes the need for supplemental water, fertilizer, and pesticides. 

A typical Florida-Friendly Landscape provides a diversity of vegetation appropriate to the conditions of a yard or site and may include turfgrass, shrubs, grasses, and groundcovers.  Almost any landscape can be Florida-Friendly if it's designed and cared for according to the nine Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles. 

The main goals of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program are to conserve water, preserve natural resources, and reduce water pollution.  

Nine Principles

1. Right Plant, Right Place

2. Water Efficiently

3. Fertilize Appropriately

4. Mulch

5. Attract Wildlife

6. Manage Yard Pests Responsibly

7. Recycle Yard Waste

8. Reduce Storm-Water Runoff

9. Protect the Waterfront

Landscaping the Florida-Friendly Way means having a beautiful landscape that could save you time, energy, and money while protecting Florida's future. 

For more information on Florida-Friendly Landscaping, visit The Florida-Friendly Landscaping website or contact your local Extension Agricultural Agent.