Swiftmud earns Florida-friendly yard certification

The Southwest Florida Water Management District's Brooksville office has been certified by the Hernando County Florida Yards and Neighborhoods (FYN) Program as a Florida-friendly yard. The certification recognizes landscapes that save water, reduce the use of fertilizer and pesticides, as well as reduce runoff and provide native habitat for birds, butterflies and other wildlife. John Korycki, Hernando County FYN coordinator, conducted the certification.

Work to obtain the certification began about two years ago when Jeff Toth and Roger Rutter, District tradesworkers, developed a plan to transform the landscaping at the Brooksville office. Many of the areas were filled with old plants that were at the end of their growing cycle. The tradesworkers selected a variety of attractive plants appropriate for each location and created more mulched planting beds where turf used to grow.

Only a small portion of the turf at the Brooksville headquarters is irrigated. The irrigation system is routinely maintained using the same practices homeowners should use to care for their systems. Because the District's landscape did not need an entire overhaul, Korycki says it is a good example for homeowners to see how easy Florida-friendly changes can be incorporated into existing landscapes.

Florida-friendly landscaping emphasizes easy-to-accomplish principles that, when practiced, can have a significant positive impact on yards and the environment. By following Florida-friendly lawn and garden practices, homeowners use a low-maintenance approach to landscaping that conserves water. To learn more about Florida-friendly landscaping, visit www.WaterMatters.org/yards or www.FloridaYards.org.

Florida-friendly Landscaping principles

Right Plant, Right Place

Plants selected to suit a specific site will require minimal amounts of water, fertilizers and pesticides. Group plants according to their maintenance needs.

Water Efficiently

Irrigate only when your lawn and landscape need water. Efficient water is the key to a healthy Florida yard and conservation of limited resources.

Fertilize Appropriately

Less is often best. Over-using fertilizers can be hazardous to your yard and the environment. Use a slow-release product to avoid washing away of nutrients.

Mulch

Maintaining an approximate 3-inch layer of mulch will help maintain soil moisture, prevent erosion and suppress weeds.

Attract Wildlife

Plants in your yard that provide food, water and shelter can conserve Florida's diverse wildlife.

Manage Yard Pests Responsibly

Unwise use of pesticides can harm people, pets, beneficial organisms and the environment.

Recycle

Grass clippings, leaves and yard trimmings recycled on-site provide nutrients to the soil and reduce waste disposal.