Florida-Friendly Landscaping™: Simple Practices, Big Impact!
FFL protects the state’s natural resources while allowing individual expression and encouraging beautiful landscapes! Developed by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ follows nine-principles, which overtime help reduce water consumption, minimize pollution, support wildlife, and lower maintenance requirements.
What Is Florida-Friendly Landscaping™?
FFL is based on nine science-backed principles that encourage homeowners, businesses, and communities to create landscapes that work with Florida’s natural environment rather than against it.
The Nine Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™
- Right Plant, Right Place
Matching plants that are well-suited to a site’s conditions is one of the most important steps in sustainable landscaping. Consider factors such as sunlight, soil type, drainage, salt and wind tolerance, and mature plant size before planting. The FFL plant list can help you find plants suitable for your landscape. Home – FFL Plant Guide
- Water Efficiently
Overwatering is a common issue in Florida landscapes. It not only depletes your water supply, but also increases your water bill, and makes the landscape more prone to pest infestation. Water only when plants need it and follow local watering restrictions. Do not water if it has rained in the past 24 hours, or if rain is forecasted in the next 24 hours. Using irrigation systems correctly and incorporating drought-tolerant plants can significantly reduce water use while maintaining healthy landscapes.
- Fertilize Appropriately
Excessive fertilizer applications can contribute to nutrient runoff and leaching that can get into our water supply. Follow UF/IFAS recommendations, use fertilizers responsibly, and apply only when necessary to support plant health while protecting the environment.
- Mulch
Mulch provides numerous benefits, including reducing soil erosion, moisture retention, weed suppression, temperature regulation, and improved soil quality. Proper mulching will also decrease your need for pesticide use. More information on proper mulch application can be found at: Principle 4 Mulch – Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program – University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences – UF/IFAS.
- Attract Wildlife
Landscaping can provide valuable habitat for birds, butterflies, bees, and other beneficial wildlife. Incorporating native flowering plants, trees, and shrubs creates food sources, shelter, and nesting opportunities that support local ecosystems.
- Manage Yard Pests Responsibly
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) focuses on preventing pest problems through monitoring, proper plant selection, and cultural practices before considering chemical controls. This approach reduces pesticide use while maintaining healthy plants.
- Recycle
Grass clippings, leaves, and plant trimmings can often be recycled within the landscape rather than sent to landfills. Composting and leaving grass clippings on the lawn helps return valuable nutrients to the soil and reduce waste.
- Reduce Stormwater Runoff
Reducing the amount of runoff and the chance for rainwater to rush into storm drains- carrying yard clippings, fertilizer, pesticides, or more- is the goal of managing storm water runoff. Florida Friendly landscapes implement pavers, rain barrels, rain gardens, and berms to keep rainwater on site. This rainwater can slowly percolate into the ground or be used later.
- Protect the Waterfront
For properties near lakes, ponds, rivers, or coastal areas, maintaining a protective buffer of vegetation helps filter pollutants, stabilize shorelines, and improve water quality. A 10-foot buffer zone should always be implemented between a landscape and the water. Waterfront-friendly landscaping plays a critical role in protecting Florida’s aquatic ecosystems.
Benefits of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™
Implementing Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles offers numerous advantages:
- Conserves water and lowers irrigation costs
- Reduces fertilizer and pesticide use
- Supports pollinators and wildlife
- Improves water quality
- Reduces landscape maintenance requirements
- Enhances curb appeal and property value
- Promotes environmental stewardship
Getting Started
Transitioning your landscape doesn’t have to happen all at once and will take several years to be implemented correctly. Begin by evaluating your current landscape and identifying opportunities to improve. Even small changes can have a meaningful impact on both your property and the environment. You can even join our official yard recognition program!
Resources:
UF/IFAS FFL Plant Guide. (2026). Home – FFL Plant Guide
UF/IFAS Principle 4 Mulch. (2026). The University of Florida Extension Service, IFAS. Principle 4 Mulch – Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program – University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences – UF/IFAS
UF/IFAS Florida- Friendly Landscaping ™ Guide to Plant Selection & Landscape Design. (2022). FFL Guide to Plant Selection and Landscape Design
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