Florida Yards and Neighborhoods

The Polk County Florida Yards and Neighborhoods (FYN) program is a partnership of the University of Florida/Institute of Flood ana Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), the the Alafia River, Hillsborough River and Peace River Basin Boards of the Southwest Florida Water Management District, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners, the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), the Florida Sea Grant College Program, concerned citizens, members of private industry and numerous other nongovermental agencies. FYN addresses the serious problems of pollution in stormwater runoff, water shortages and disappearing habitats by enlisting Floridians in the battle to save our natural resources. The program, which is implemented through the Polk County UF/IFAS Cooperative Extension Service, provides education and outreach activities in the community to help residents reduce pollution, conserve water and enhance their environment by improving home and landscape management. This integrated approach to landscaping emphasizes nine interrelated principles: 1. Right plant, right place 2. Water efficiently 3. Fertilize appropriately 4. Mulch 5. Attract wildlife 6. Manage yard pests responsibly 7. Recycle yard wast 8. Reduce stormwater runoff 9. Protect the waterfront

Recent Posts

What Does a Florida-Friendly Yard Look Like?

Posted August 22, 2008 12:00:00 AM
A Florida-friendly yard should be easy to maintain and use minimal irrigation, fertilizer and pesticides. You can create a Florida-friendly yard by following the tips provided by the Florida Yards and Neighborhoods Program at the UF/IFAS Polk County Extension Service.
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Pervious Pavement Options to Prevent Stormwater Runoff

Posted August 20, 2008 1:44:57 PM
Pervious pavement allows rainwater to seep into the ground, helping to filter pollutants and the amount of runoff from your yard. In some cases pervious paving materials can cost less and be easier to install than typical paving materials.
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Sign Up for Master Gardener Training

Posted July 28, 2008 2:01:06 PM

Master Gardener Training is offered once a year at the Polk County Extension Service in Bartow. Master Gardener classes will be held from 9 -3 Tuesdays from Sept. 16-Dec. 9 (except Thanksgiving week).

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Backyard Gardener Festival and Plant Sale

Posted July 21, 2008 1:45:27 PM
Backyard Gardener Festival and Plant Sale
Saturday Nov. 8, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
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Florida-Friendly Perennials

Posted July 16, 2008 8:39:20 AM

There are many choices at the nurseries and garden centers when it comes to summer perennials. When choosing a plant for your landscape it is always important to follow the "right plant, right place" principle. Know your site conditions so that you know what to look for in a plant. The following plants are available at local nurseries and garden centers that will make it through the hot summer months with minimal care.

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Plant Selection for a Florida-Friendly Yard

Posted July 15, 2008 4:16:59 PM
Choosing plants can be a fun part of landscaping. There are so many plants at the nursery that would make great additions to any landscape. But how can you make sure that you are choosing the right plant for your yard? Use the following guidelines to ensure that you have low maintenance and beautiful yard.
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