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Radiant Roots Landscaping
Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program: What It Means for Your Lawn
At Radiant Roots Landscaping, we believe great lawns should look good and respect Florida’s natural environment. That’s why we follow Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) principles—science-based practices designed to protect water resources, support native ecosystems, and create healthier, more resilient landscapes.
These methods help your lawn thrive in Florida’s unique climate while reducing unnecessary environmental impact and long-term maintenance issues.
What is the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program?
The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) Program was developed by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) in partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
The program provides science-based guidelines that help homeowners and professionals maintain attractive landscapes while conserving water and protecting Florida’s natural resources. These practices are designed specifically for Florida’s soils, climate, and waterways—making them both practical and effective for long-term lawn health.
The 9 Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping
1. Right Plant, Right Place – Choose plants suited to your soil, light, and moisture conditions.
2. Water Efficiently – Irrigate only when needed and use efficient watering methods.
3. Fertilize Appropriately – Apply fertilizer sparingly and only when plants need it.
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4. Mulch – Maintain a 2–3 inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
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5. Attract Wildlife – Include plants that provide food and shelter for birds and pollinators.
6.Manage Yard Pests Responsibly – Use integrated pest management to reduce chemical treatments.
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7. Recycle Yard Waste – Compost grass clippings and plant debris to enrich soil naturally.
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8. Reduce Stormwater Runoff – Direct rainwater into landscaped areas to prevent erosion
and pollution.
9. Protect the Waterfront – Maintain buffer zones near water bodies to reduce runoff and
protect shorelines.
Why It Matters
Following Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles helps create a lawn that is healthier, easier to maintain, and better suited to Florida’s environment. These practices conserve water, reduce pollution, and support local ecosystems—while still delivering a clean, attractive outdoor space.
Many Florida communities actively encourage Florida-Friendly Landscaping to protect water quality and preserve natural resources for future generations.