Mar 10, 2010

Florida Friendly Landscaping

A group of 30 Waters Edge Homeowners met with representatives of Pasco Cooperative Services re: Florida Friendly Landscaping (FFL). The discussion soon turned to questions on a) whether HOA (Ryland) has the ability to dictate how a Homeowner deploys the FFL principles and b) what are recommended approaches to establish and maintain a quality lawn in Florida.

No clear answer was provided re: using FFL at Waters Edge, but the speaker shared that informal discussion has been initiated County Services and Ryland. Some suggestions and insight was shared:


  • new sod installations require soil prep - 3" compost tilled to 8" deep
  • on existing lawn, it is recommended 1/2" of compost be spread evenly over 1-2 times a year to 'build up' the soil
  • one testimonial shared - lawn bald spots 'self heal' when area rebuilt with compost
  • over watering and fertilizing are prime reasons for failed lawns - one inch a week is sufficient
  • before insect control applications be used - validate what is causing failed lawn
  • if cinch bugs are found - spread control products 5' outside affected area
  • compost can provide the added nutrients for the lawn instead of fertilizer
  • if fertilizer is used, it is critical to select time released products
  • grass should be cut to 3-4 inches - do not scalp

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