Growing a Garden with Purpose: Creating a Space to Enjoy and Relax
Join us as we share real stories from local gardeners and homeowners who are transforming their yards into Florida-Friendly landscapes. Discover useful tips, successes, and challenges on the journey to gardening that’s good for the environment, beautiful, and easy to care for in Florida.
When Steven and Olivia first moved to South Florida, their yard was simple—mostly grass, a few palm trees, and some plants around the edges. They wanted a tropical garden that attracted bees and butterflies, so they bought plants from big-box stores. However, it didn’t quite work as they had hoped.
Discovery & Challenge
After joining the Master Gardener Volunteer Program, Steven and Olivia learned the importance of using native Florida plants and avoiding invasive species. They found that some plants in their landscape—such as coconut palms (UF/IFAS Assessment: Cocos nucifera) and tropical milkweed (UF/IFAS Assessment: Asclepias curassavica)—were not ideal choices. As a result, they began replacing these with Florida-Friendly and native alternatives that better support the local environment.
Learning and Applying Florida-Friendly Principles
One challenge was discovering the Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles later in the process. Gradually, by following the “Right Plant, Right Place” guideline, they reduced turf grass and created planting beds with native groundcovers like frog fruit and hedges such as wild coffee and firebush. Butterflies and bees began visiting almost immediately.
Following the Florida-Friendly Landscaping principle #4, Mulching, they replaced rocks with organic melaleuca mulch. Mulch improves soil health, retains moisture, cools roots in warm climates, and reduces watering needs—saving time and resources.
They also added bird feeders and a water feature near cover for wildlife. To save water, they installed three rain barrels and use a rain gauge to monitor rainfall. These measures help water plants during dry periods and reduce stormwater runoff.
A New Lively Landscape
In about seven months, their yard transformed into a lively, wildlife-friendly space. In October 2025, their landscape received Florida-Friendly Landscape Gold Recognition. Though it took effort and learning, Steven and Olivia are proud to support native plants and local wildlife. They shared, “We wish we had known about Florida-Friendly Landscaping earlier, but we’re already seeing healthier plants and more wildlife every day.
Our Garden Inspiration—Our Why
Master Gardener Volunteer Steven and his wife Olivia want their garden to be more than just a yard—it’s a natural space full of life, a place to relax and enjoy nature daily.
Watch their video: https://youtu.be/Nql3Km_baLo
Take the Next Step: Join the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Pledge
Ready to improve your yard and help Florida’s environment? Join gardeners statewide by taking the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Pledge. Pledge to use one or more Florida-Friendly practices, helping save water, protect wildlife, and reduce pollution.
Whether you’re new or experienced in Florida-Friendly gardening, the pledge is a way to show your commitment and join a community working for a greener Florida.
Hear from MGV Steven about starting your Florida-Friendly Landscaping journey: https://youtu.be/2jSN05wiEuo
Resources
For more on Florida-Friendly principles and maintenance, visit:
https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/broward/urban-horticulture/florida-friendly-landscaping/
Interested in becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer? Learn more at:
https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/broward/urban-horticulture/broward-master-gardener/
Learn from Broward County MGV Steven T: https://youtu.be/GUtv6e72I0g
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