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Florida-friendly lawns
Irrigation of laws and landscaping in Florida represents the largest use of water from the state's municipal water supplies, according to the Florida Department of Environment Protection. In recent years, the levels in Florida's aquifer have dropped as more and more people move into the state.
The impact of landscaping isn't limited to water use. The pesticides and fertilizers used to keep lawns green are a major source of pollution in Florida's numerous lakes, rivers and bays. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers have been linked to algal blooms, which in turn lead to "dead zones," where no plant or animal life can live.
Florida-friendly landscaping seeks to combat these dual environmental problems. By following nine basic principles, homeowners can make some - or even all - of their lawns more environmentally friendly.
Planning and maintaining a Florida-friendly lawn
1. Right plant, right place. Selecting plants that are well suited for the soil, sunlight and water conditions of your land is essential. Many plants require extra water and fertilizer because they are put in places that they are not capable of living.
2. Water efficiently. Water only when your lawn needs it.
3. Fertilize appropriately. Many people apply too much fertilizer when smaller amounts of slow-release fertilizers will do just fine. In addition, fertilizer is often used to make plants grow in places they are not well-suited for (see #1).
4. Mulch. Mulch can serve as a natural weed-deterrent. Keep mulch two inches from the base of plants, and keep it at a level of two to three inches deep by applying it once or twice a year.
5. Attract wildlife. Well-chosen plants will attract beneficial insects that can serve as a natural pesticide. If you must use pesticide, spot-treat only the areas that need attention. Provide shelter and water for wildlife like butterflies and birds.
6. Manage yard pests responsibly. Learn to identify beneficial insects (see #5) and let them do the work for you. Use pesticides to spot-treat affected plants, and choose the least-toxic pesticides available. Make sure to dispose of them properly.
7. Recycle. Leave grass clippings on the lawn to recycle nitrogen. Use fallen leaves and pine needles as mulch. Create and maintain a compost pile with yard waste and kitchen scraps (but not meat) to create an effective natural fertilizer.
8. Reduce stormwater runoff. Point downspouts and gutters onto lawns and plant beds or into rain cisterns. Use porous surfaces for walkways, patios and driveways. Use cat litter to clean up oil spills. Pick up pet waste to reduce bacterial and nutrient pollution.
9. Protect the waterfront. Don't prune mangroves without seeking guidelines. Keep a maintenance-free buffer of at least 10 feet between your landscaping and the water.
Florida Yards and Neighborhoods
Florida Yards and Neighborhoods is an extension program sponsored by the University of Florida. The program's goal is to help professionals and homeowners create and maintain Florida-friendly landscaping.
To find out more about workshops in your area, contact the extension office located in your county.
Pinellas County Extension Office
12520 Ulmerton Road
Largo, FL 33774
Hillsborough County Extension Office
5339 County Road 579 South
Seffner, FL 33584
Pasco County Extension Office
36702 State Road 52
Dade City, FL 33525-5198
Hernando County Extension Office
19490 Oliver Street
Brooksville, FL 34601
Citrus County Extension Office
3650 W Sovereign Path Suite 1
Lecanto, FL 34461
Polk County Extension Office
1702 Highway 17-98 South, PO Box 9005, Drawer HS03
Bartow, FL 33831-9005
Manatee County Extension Office
1303 17th Street West
Palmetto, FL 34221
More resources
Recycling in the Bay area
Green Homes on TBOD
Want your home to be a bit kinder to Mother Earth? Trying to save energy? Follow Virginia Johnson and the rest of the TBOD crew as they explore green home construction.
Tune to Tampa Bay On Demand on channel 340 and look in the Special Coverage section. Only on Bright House Networks.
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