Last week, I was the invited speaker for a Lunch & Learn event, hosted in collaboration with Love Your Block by the City of Port St. Lucie, where I shared the Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles to help homeowners create sustainable, resilient yards.
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL)
It’s more than gardening, it’s a science-based approach that guides homeowners to create landscapes that conserve resources, support biodiversity, and are resilient to Florida’s climate. Here’s what the nine principles teach us:
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Right Plant, Right Place – Select plants suited to the local soil, light, water, and climate. This reduces maintenance and resource use.
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Water Efficiently – Conserve water through proper irrigation and drought-tolerant plant choices.
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Fertilize Appropriately – Apply fertilizers carefully to reduce pollution and support plant health.
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Mulch – Retain soil moisture, reduce weeds, and improve soil structure naturally.
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Attract Wildlife – Plant native species and provide habitats to support pollinators and other beneficial animals.
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Manage Yard Pests Responsibly – Use integrated pest management to address problems efficiently while minimizing chemicals.
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Recycle Yard Waste – Compost or mulch organic waste to return nutrients to the soil.
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Reduce Stormwater Runoff – Capture and filter rainwater in your landscape to protect water quality.
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Protect the Waterfront – Maintain vegetative buffers near water to prevent erosion and reduce pollution.
During the event, it was inspiring to see homeowners engage with these principles, asking questions, sharing experiences, and leaving motivated to make positive changes in their yards.
Why collaboration matters
Working with the City of Port St. Lucie amplified the event’s reach and impact. Collaboration allows Extension professionals to connect with communities more effectively, gain local insights, and reinforce that sustainable landscaping benefits everyone.
Science alone isn’t enough; partnerships turn knowledge into action. Each small change, multiplied across a neighborhood, can lead to healthier landscapes, stronger communities, and a more sustainable Florida.
If you want to learn more about FFL, please visit Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program – University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences – UF/IFAS
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