Learning to Landscape the FFL Way
Whether you want to take a class, read a book, or research online, there's a way to learn about Florida-Friendly landscaping. Our Urban Forester and Environmental Services Manager recommend the following resources.
Florida-Friendly Landscaping - University of Florida - Department of Environmental Horticulture
This University of Florida website offers easy to follow presentations on each of the nine FFL principles. They also have a detailed Frequently Asked Questions document, as well as a special section of tips for Community Associations and Property Managers. From here, you can also download their plant-finder app. This site, in combination with the two below, are meant to provide a comprehensive resource on FFL.
FloridaYards.org is a project of the Florida Springs Initiative of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and is presented by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the University of Florida, the South Florida Water Management District, and Fusionspark Media. This website offers interactive tools, a gallery of ideas, a plants database, as well as the opportunity to ask an expert.
Gardening Solutions is a program of the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). It is a website geared towards the homeowner and gardener, but the advice is applicable in a variety of landscapes. According to the site, "From blooming natives to heat-friendly vegetables, we'll share what works where in Florida's unique environment." Master Gardeners are community volunteers who work through the Gardening Solutions outreach program and within local Counties and cities. The whole program is run by the University of Florida Center for Landscape Conservation and Ecology (CLCE) and is sponsored by a great variety of individuals and organizations. Check the website for details.
Broward County Extension Education - Urban Horticulture - Florida-friendly Landscaping Presentations
This is a collection of four presentations which can be viewed online or downloaded. They can be used for your own learning, or to educate others. You can even insert slides to customize the presentation to your business or neighborhood. The first presentation is a general overview, and the next three provide depth on the nine principles. Each is packed full of helpful photos, diagrams, examples and even recommendations.
This is a program managed by the Environmental Planning and Community Resilience Division of Broward County. Naturescape Broward is a full-scale education and outreach program which offers support to residents, business and schools through educational materials, workshops and certification. You can volunteer or take classes through Naturescape Broward. Their webpage also houses a helpful plant directory.
South Florida Water Management District - Florida-Friendly Landscaping
The SFWMD offers a website rich with information for the home gardener. Ten practical tips are backed up with lots of "how to" information and links to other resources. You can also download "Waterwise" the district's best practices guide, or order brochures.
Gardening in a Minute Podcasts
Though they are no longer being produced, these podcasts by the UF-IFAS Extension and Gardening Solutions are a wealth of information. Some cover specific plants, others technique, and still others provide generalized gardening information. They are short, free and useful. Access all seven years by clicking on the link above. Once you are on the archives webpage, you can choose to search for a show by date or go to the topic index.
When you are ready to devote yourself, the Master Gardener Program is ready to teach you everything you need to know. Whether you would like to volunteer in your community, have a landscaping business you would like to focus on FFL, or dream of starting your own business, this program offers the learning modules, training, research, updates, events and connections you will need.