About Florida Yards & Neighborhoods
Florida Yards & Neighborhoods is a University of Florida Extension program that encourages homeowners and professionals to create and maintain Florida-friendly landscapes that protect the natural environment around us for future generations to enjoy.
Rain and excess irrigation water flowing off yards, roads and parking lots enters storm drains and washes into tributaries and lakes or bays, carrying pollutants like fertilizers, pesticides, soil, petroleum products and other pollutants. Scientists have discovered that fertilizers and pesticides from residential areas are serious threats to the health of Florida's water and ecosystems. The Florida Yards & Neighborhoods program was developed in the early 1990s to address the serious problems of water pollution, water shortages and disappearing natural environments. Throughout its history, Florida Yards & Neighborhoods and UF Extension have partnered with many organizations to provide Florida friendly landscaping education.
Florida Yards & Neighborhoods is helping Floridians to have:- More yards that are sustainable because they
- reduce stormwater runoff
- decrease water pollution
- conserve water
- enhance wildlife habitat
- conserve the state’s plant and animal diversity
- maintain soil health
- More new communities that offer Florida friendly yards to homebuyers
- Lower water bills and less time spent on yard maintenance
- Enjoyable, healthy landscapes
Florida Friendly Landscaping Principles
- Right Plant, Right Place
- Water Efficiently
- Fertilize Appropriately
- Mulch
- Attract Wildlife
- Manage Yard Pests Responsibly
- Recycle
- Reduce Stormwater Runoff
- Protect the Waterfront
Florida Yards & Neighborhood Services
- Workshops and seminars on Florida-friendly landscaping
- Consultations with homeowners and homeowner associations
- Yard evaluations and recognition for Florida Friendly Yards
- Awards for new Florida friendly communities
- Publications and web materials
- Florida Friendly Demonstration Gardens
Services offered vary by county. Contact your county’s
FYN program to find out what FYN can do for you.
What is Extension?
Extension is a partnership between state, federal, and county governments to provide scientific knowledge and expertise to the public. University of Florida’s Extension Service offers programs in all 67 counties as well as on-line resources at Solutions For Your Life.
