Gardening and landscaping are essential parts of life in Florida, where our unique environment requires special care and attention. Thankfully, the University of Florida's Florida-Friendly Landscaping (FFL) program has paved the way for homeowners to create sustainable, beautiful landscapes while conserving our vital natural resources. Let's explore the history, the nine guiding principles of FFL, and other supportive gardening initiatives provided by the University of Florida.

History of Florida-Friendly Landscaping

The roots of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping program can be traced back to 1991 with the launch of the ECO-Neighborhoods program by the Marine Resources Council (MRC). This initiative emerged as a multi-county effort aimed at addressing the pressing water quality issues in the Indian River Lagoon. The principles and outreach methods from ECO-Neighborhoods quickly gained traction, leading to the formation of the Florida-Neighborhoods program by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program in 1992.

By the mid-1990s, these concepts evolved into the Florida Yards & Neighborhoods (FYN) program, managed by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Thanks to continuous funding from DEP, FYN expanded statewide to reach many of Florida's 67 counties.

In the early 2000s, a collaborative effort brought together local governments, regulatory bodies, and landscaping industry leaders to develop the Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) program. This was integrated into the FYN program in 2008, establishing the Florida-Friendly Landscaping program as we know it today. In 2019, the initiative expanded further with the introduction of the Florida-Friendly Communities (FFC) program, aiming to encourage sustainable landscaping within neighborhoods and community developments.

The Nine Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping

At the heart of the FFL program are nine principles that guide homeowners in creating sustainable and beautiful landscapes. Here’s a brief overview:

1. Right Plant, Right Place: Choose plants that are well-suited to your specific location and conditions. This means considering factors like sunlight, soil type, and drainage to minimize the need for additional water and fertilizer.

2. Water Efficiently: Understand your plants' water needs and avoid overwatering, which can lead to pest issues and increased runoff. Use techniques like drip irrigation and rain sensors to manage water usage effectively.

3. Fertilize Appropriately: Apply fertilizers based on soil tests and the specific needs of your plants. This prevents nutrient runoff that can harm water quality.

4. Mulch: Using mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and even improve soil quality as it breaks down over time.

5. Attract Wildlife: Incorporate native plants that attract local wildlife, including beneficial insects, birds, and pollinators, which enhance the health of your garden.

6. Manage Yard Pests Responsibly: Use integrated pest management (IPM) techniques to control pests in a way that's safe for people, pets, and the environment.

7. Reduce Lawn Area: Consider reducing the size of grass lawns in favor of native plants and landscaping features that require less maintenance and water.

8. Recycle Green Waste: Compost organic waste to enrich your soil and reduce landfill contributions.

9. Protect the Waterfront: Maintain vegetated buffers along waterways to filter pollutants and provide habitat.

Additional Gardening Programs by the University of Florida

The University of Florida offers a wealth of gardening resources and programs aimed at promoting sustainable practices and educating the public. Among these are:

- Florida Yards & Neighborhoods (FYN) Program: A comprehensive education initiative that provides homeowners with the tools and knowledge to design environmentally sustainable landscapes.

- Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP): This program is designed for landscaping professionals, ensuring they understand sustainable practices and comply with regulations to protect Florida’s water resources.

- Master Gardener Program: Volunteers receive training in various gardening topics and then provide educational outreach to the community, sharing knowledge about plant care, propagation, landscaping, and more.

- Homeowner and Community Engagement Programs: UF also organizes workshops, classes, and community events designed to engage the public in environmentally-friendly gardening practices.

Florida-Friendly Landscaping is not just about aesthetics; it's about cultivating a sustainable relationship with our environment. By understanding the principles and utilizing the resources made available by the University of Florida, we can all contribute to a healthier, more vibrant Florida while enjoying beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re a novice gardener or a seasoned pro, the FFL program opens up a world of possibilities for every outdoor space.rida's environment, starting in your own yard. 

https://www.youtube.com/@FloridaFriendlyLandscapingTMPr

Homeowner Webinar Series

Discover the science behind the FFL program's nine principles in the program's free Homeowner's Webinar Series. Enjoy a new live webinar given by a different UF expert on the third Tuesday of each month. Recordings of all past webinars are also available to view.

UF/IFAS Center for Land Use Efficiency also offers their Gardening Solutions website with seasonal tips for all the USDA hardiness zones in Florida.