South Florida’s tropical climate and drought-prone tendencies can make landscaping a challenge. The challenge is not which landscape architect to choose, but which plant species to select and how to spatially arrange the plantings to minimize groundwater runoff and increase shading on the lot.

The Florida Yards and Neighborhoods Program (FY& N)  was developed by the University of Florida Cooperative Extension Service the to address serious problems of pollution and disappearing habitats. This program provides special educational and outreach activities directed at the community to help residents reduce pollution and enhance their environment by improving landscape management. A goal of the program is to help residents create and maintain Florida-friendly yards.

Florida-friendly landscaping emphasizes nine major principles:

• Right plant, right place
• Water efficiently
• Fertilize appropriately
• Mulch
• Attract wildlife
• Control yard pests responsibly
• Recycle
• Reduce stormwater runoff
• Protect the waterfront

Homeowners who employ enough criteria may have their yards certified by a team of FY&N inspectors. Properties that pass the inspection receive a sign to post that reads “Certified Florida Yard”. Contact the Broward County Extension Education Division at (954) 370-3725 to schedule an inspection.