Free information on strawberries & other ideal plants for Florida yards

Plenty of useful free information is readily available for residents who want tips on selecting Florida Friendly plants for their yards.

Some information is online. Or landscaping experts are available via phone & email.

The information includes recommendations for selecting perfect plants for South Florida, and allows for factoring in such specifications as shape and light requirements.

Florida-friendly landscaping emphasizes low-maintenance foliage and environmentally sustainable practices.

Photo/Patti Roth

Lettuce at home

“Lettuce in Small Hydroponic Systems” from UF/IFAS

Strawberries

South Florida is a little hot for strawberries. “The variety most likely to take the heat well is Sensation® ‘Florida127’. It will maintain fruit size better in the heat and will not become too dark in color — overripe appearance,” says Vance M. Whitaker associate professor of Horticultural Sciences at UF/IFAS at Gulf Coast Research and Education Center. He recommends planting toward the later days of October, & strawberries start to yield in December. Tips & information from UF/IFAS Extension

Other Resources include

University of Florida Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences

Suggestions for your fall garden
Florida-friendly Plant Database interactive website for recommendations on perfect plants using such factors as region, sunlight and soil, includes trees, palms, shrubs, flowers, vines & other plants
Vegetable gardening in South Florida features information on when to plant different fruits & vegetables

NatureScape Broward website includes

Questions for Broward master gardeners