Overwatering threatens lake levels and your lawn.

4) Don’t waste water—Landscape irrigation is a big waster of groundwater in Florida. Properly managing your irrigation system can save thousands of gallons of water annually and help reduce stormwater runoff. Florida law requires that all irrigation systems installed after May 1, 1991 include an automatic rain sensor shut-off device. Many areas have also enacted watering rules that mandate how often and what hours of the days you can water. Whether you use an in-ground irrigation system or a manual system, you should use a rain gauge to calibrate how much water you are using. Horticultural experts at the University of Florida recommend that you water no more than 1⁄2- to 3⁄4-inch twice a week. Over-watering can cause more problems then under-watering, such as dollar weed and fungal growth. Watering less often and more deeply allows a plant to develop deeper, healthier root systems, rather than shallow surface roots.

5) Follow the principle of Right Plant, Right Place—Properly selected plants not only reduce runoff but they also minimize the need for fertilizer, pesticides and irrigation. Native plants are often excellent choices, but following the principles of “right plant, right place” is more important than just choosing native species. For example, if you have dry, sandy soil, choosing plants such as Walter’s viburnum or wax myrtle, even though they are Florida natives, would not be a good choice. Since these plants require wet soil, they will either always be unhealthy or you will have to constantly water them. Your local County Extension Agents will be able to help you make the right choices. Also, check out the Florida Native Plant Society; www.fnps.org.

6) Provide wildlife habitat—Landscape your yard with plants that provide food (berries, nuts, etc.) and shelter for birds and other wildlife. The birds, in turn, help control insect populations on your property, eliminating the need for chemical pesticides. Good examples of wildlife-friendly plants are holly trees, oaks, palmettos and southern red cedar. Creating a mini-corridor of thicker, native plants along your property line can provide safe passage for deer, bobcats or other wildlife displaced from natural habitats.

7) Mow right for a healthy lawn—A healthy lawn protects local waterways by acting as a filter to trap sediment and pollutants. Think less work, not more. Over-watering, over-mowing and over-fertilization weaken a lawn by not forcing it to develop a strong, healthy root system. As with other plants, the best type of grass depends on your site conditions. Keep mower blades sharpened to avoid damaging the grass blades and mow only enough to keep the lawn at a height of 3 1⁄2 or 4 inches. Never remove more than one third of the grass blade when you mow.

Here are just a few attractive plants requiring little water. In back is canna; in front is scarlet sage, a Florida native. Variegated yellow and green is shell giner; blue flowers are spiderwort (both native). Yellows that predominate are beach sunflower, also native.

8) Conserve energy—In Florida, automobiles and electrical utilities are major sources of air pollution and mercury deposition. Coastal power plants also kill billions of fish eggs and larvae in their cooling systems. We can lessen these impacts by conserving energy where possible. One thing to do is keep boats, cars and other combustion engines properly maintained and tuned-up. Cut energy use by easing back on your boat throttle, the gas pedal in your car and the thermostat in your home.