AWWA ACE59880

This paper discusses a new landscaping program called "Florida Friendly Gardening - Easy as ABC", established by the Orange County Utilities Water Division. The purpose of this program is to educate students, teachers and parents about the importance of utilizing the right plants in the right place when landscaping to help conserve water. The Orange County Utilities Water Division and the St. Johns River Water Management District provides funding for gardens through a cost share program. Two schools in Orange County, Pinar Elementary and Lockhart Middle, participated in this successful program during the 2002 - 2003 school year. Deerwood and Sunrise Elementary schools were selected for the 2003 - 2004 school year. Students learn about Florida Friendly (FF) landscaping, the specific types of plants that should be utilized, how to install drip irrigation for efficient watering, and how to maintain the garden. Participants also help design the layout of the garden. The paper lists the criteria necessary for a school to participate in the program, and discusses the seven principles of Florida Friendly landscaping that were followed to create the gardens, which include: plan and design; obtain a soil analysis; choose proper plants; use turf wisely; irrigate efficiently; use mulches; and, perform proper maintenance.