The Florida Yards & Neighborhoods Homeowners Program was developed by the University of Florida IFAS Extension in an effort to teach homeowners how to create a beautiful landscape that conserves water and reduces pollutant runoffs, while saving time, energy and money. Sounds like a great program, and it is!The program, in a nutshell, consists of 9 major principles:
* Right Plant, Right Place
* Water Efficiently
* Fertilize appropriately
* Mulch
* Attract Wildlife
* Control Yard Pests Responsibly
* Recycle
* Reduce Stormwater Runoff
* Protect the Waterfront
The program provides educational information, including workbook, articles, newsletters and workshops geared to educate and enlist homeowners in the ongoing battle to preserve our natural resources, and work in tandem with nature in our Florida yards.
Florida Friendly Yard certifications are available for homeowners who use environmentally-friendly practices. By meeting the minimum requirements of the program, homeowners are recognized for their contribution to the state and awarded a sign for their yard and a certificate.
Most people think that Florida-Friendly landscapes are not attractive, but that is not true. Check out these photos to gather ideas for your own yard.
For more information, visit your county's web page for additional information on the program that is suitable for your area.
