The UF/IFAS Florida Landscaping (FFL) program helps homeowners find more sustainable alternatives for their landscapes. The changes reduce overall water use and pollutants that can enter Florida's waterways, but the added effect is long-term cost savings.
- said program director Esen Momol. FFL: "Florida landscaping can be designed to look just the way you want it to fit your community's aesthetic and lifestyle while being environmentally friendly." "If you're not sure where to start, it's always easy and free to make a phone call or remote visit to your local UF/IFAS office and Florida Volunteer Master Gardener for advice."
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Learn about Florida's 9 Landscaping Principles at ffl.ifas.ufl.edu or be inspired by success stories on the program's website. For more information on the benefits of FFLs, visit Ask.IFAS.ufl.edu, including articles such as "Twenty-Two Low-Cost Landscaping Ideas" and "Estimated Water Saving Potential for Florida's Friendly Landscaping Activities."
Below, FFL program leaders share some strategies for reducing farm costs.
Plant selection and installation
Dwarf plants that require less pruning.
Choose plants that have few pest problems to save on pesticides.
Use perennials instead of annuals so you don't have to repot as often.
Use drought tolerant plants that require less water once established.
Buying smaller systems for installation reduces the initial investment. Give them space and time to grow.
Planting the right trees near the east and west sides of your home will shade your home and lower your air conditioning bill in the summer.
irrigation
Calibrate the irrigation system.
Adapt watering times to the seasons.
Use intelligent controls and irrigation components.
Install and maintain your rain barrier.
Check the sprinkler system for broken or bent heads.
Other good management practices
Use pine leaves and straw from your property as mulch.
To reduce the amount of pesticides, use complex plant protection.
Leave the grass clippings on the lawn.
Through the Find Your Thrift Series.
Rising costs have led to growing concerns. The cascading effects of the ongoing COVID pandemic continue to be felt in economies around the world, from grocery shelves to gas stations.
To help people, from farmers to consumers, weather the storm, the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is providing research-based information to help everyone get through these trying times.
Homeowners looking to save money on water and pesticide use in their landscaping may want to consider Florida landscaping.
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This article originally appeared in the Tallahassee Democrat: Find Your Frugal: Adopting a Friendly Florida Landscape Saves You Money
