Replanting After the Freeze? Choose Florida-Friendly Plants

We’ve all seen the damage a freeze can do in our yards. Broken branches, browned leaves, or even entire plants are gone. It’s natural to want to fill those empty spots quickly, but before you pick up new plants, there’s a smart step to take: choose Florida-Friendly plants that thrive here and help the environment.

Some plants don’t just stay in your yard, they can spread and affect our local ecosystems. The good news? UF/IFAS has tools and resources to help you pick plants that are safe, resilient, and beautiful.

Right Plant, Right Place

One of the key principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) is “Right Plant, Right Place.” That means choosing plants that:

Grow well in your yard’s sunlight and soil
Needs less water and fertilizer
Resist pests and disease naturally
Are safe for Florida’s environment

When you follow this principle, your yard stays healthy, easier to care for, and more attractive year-round.

Use the UF/IFAS Assessment

The UF/IFAS Assessment is a free, science-based tool that evaluates the invasion risk of plants in Florida. It can tell you if a plant is:

Recommended
Use with caution
Not recommended

Before planting, it’s a good idea to check the database here: http://assessment.ifas.ufl.edu/. Since new research may change recommendations, checking regularly is smart.

Why This Matters

By choosing Florida-Friendly plants, you help:

Protect local wildlife and natural areas
Support pollinators like bees and butterflies
Save water and reduce yard maintenance
Build a more resilient landscape that can handle Florida’s weather

After a freeze, it’s not just about replacing plants, it’s a chance to make your yard stronger, more sustainable, and better for the environment.

Not sure where to start? Your local UF/IFAS Extension office is a great resource, ready to help you find the best plants for your yard. For more resources and guidance, contact the St. Lucie County Master Gardener Volunteer Help Desk at the Morningside Library, 2410 SE Morningside Blvd., Port St. Lucie. Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:00–3:00 p.m. Phone: 772-337-5654. Email: sl-mg@ifas.ufl.edu.