Water-efficient landscaping helps save water resources
Florida is known for its beautiful greenery, abundant sunshine and the many lakes, rivers and streams that dot the peninsula’s interior.
The long periods of wet weather followed by long periods of dry weather means that the water to sustain the state’s plants is not always available when needed.
Often, the biggest use of water by people is outdoors for lawn and landscape irrigation. To find a balance in our uses of water and the needs of nature, water conservation must be a part of people’s everyday practices. Using water wisely in our landscapes is one way to find that balance.
Waterwise is a common sense way to landscape that conserves water and protects the environment. The main objective is to establish and maintain a healthy landscape by matching the right plants with existing site conditions so that the use of additional resources — such as water, fertilizer, pesticides and labor — is minimized.
In addition, waterwise landscaping practices reduce the amount of pollutants reaching water bodies because fewer yard chemicals are used.
The University of Florida’s Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program provides lots of resources to help homeowners improve water efficiency and water quality.
Another helpful resource to guide you is the New Yard Pattern Book.