Florida-Friendly Landscaping: Beautiful Gardens that suit Southwest Florida
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ is based on nine principles: right plant, right place; water efficiently; fertilize appropriately; mulch; attract wildlife; manage pests responsibly; recycle yard waste; reduce stormwater runoff; and protect waterfronts. It is not one garden style. A residential landscape can be structured, elegant and Florida-Friendly.
What does Florida-Friendly Landscaping mean?
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ is based on nine principles: right plant, right place; water efficiently; fertilize appropriately; mulch; attract wildlife; manage pests responsibly; recycle yard waste; reduce stormwater runoff; and protect waterfronts. It is not one garden style. A residential landscape can be structured, elegant and Florida-Friendly.
Choose plants that suit the property
Selection should reflect light, soil, drainage, wind and salt exposure, available space and mature size. Plants suited to their location are generally easier to care for than varieties needing constant correction.
Use water efficiently
New plantings need appropriate establishment watering, but established landscapes should not automatically receive the same schedule year-round. Group plants with similar water requirements. Micro-irrigation may be useful in garden beds; specialist irrigation work should be performed by a qualified provider.
Use mulch thoughtfully
Mulch can suppress weeds, moderate soil temperature and conserve moisture. Maintain an appropriate layer and keep it away from direct contact with trunks and stems. Choose a material suited to the landscape.
Fertilize only when appropriate
More fertilizer does not automatically mean healthier plants. Excess nutrients can contribute to unwanted growth and runoff. Identify plant needs, follow labels and local ordinances, and avoid applying before heavy rainfall.
Support wildlife and protect water
A diverse landscape can provide food and shelter for wildlife. Choose regionally appropriate plants and avoid invasive species. Waterfront and drainage-sensitive properties need particular attention to runoff and erosion.
Florida-Friendly can still look refined
A Florida-Friendly garden can be tropical, modern, formal or naturalistic. The principles guide plant selection and care, not a single appearance. A Naples or Bonita Springs garden can combine palms, architectural plants, groundcovers and flowering accents.
Design with local knowledge
The Plant Lady is a Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Certified Professional and provides residential landscape design and installation in Naples, Bonita Springs and Southwest Florida.
(c) 2026 The Plant Lady. All rights reserved.
