On average, a lawn in South Florida will need mowing once a week if it’s getting enough water
and nutrients for proper growth. However, that schedule may not be the healthiest option for
your lawn if there’s been a significant length of time with no rain or you don’t have irrigation.
Mowing frequency will also depend on the type of grass that’s planted in the lawn.
South Florida is known for its generous rainfall totals. You may need to mow twice a week if
rainfall has been plentiful. Conversely, mowing every 2 weeks during a dry spell could be
sufficient. The seasons also play an important role in mowing. You’ll mow more often during
the spring and summer months. Your mowing frequency will be radically reduced, or
eliminated, during the autumn and winter months when grass goes dormant.
Much will depend on the species of grass that’s planted. The University of Florida recommends
the following as the optimal grass heights:
 Bahia grass – 3 to 4 in.
 Bermuda grass – 5 to 5.5 in.
 Carpet grass – 1.5 to 2 in.
 Centipede grass – 1.5 to 2 in.
 St. Augustine grass – 2.5 to 4 in.
 Zoysia grass – 1 to 3 in.
Dwarf varieties of St. Augustine grass, Seville, Jade, and Palmetto (Delmar) are the only cultivars
that should be mowed at less than 3 inches.
Mowers
To keep grass healthy and looking attractive, make sure lawn mower blades are sharp. Dull
blades don’t cut – they tear. Dull blades are detrimental to your lawn – signs of dull blades can
include:
 Grass looks ragged
 White tips on grass
 A brownish hue
Mowing with dull blades makes grass more susceptible to disease. Blades should be replaced –
or at least sharpened – once a year, and more frequently if you notice tearing rather than a
smooth cut. Use caution over uneven terrain. It’s easy to scalp high spots.

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Many cities throughout the U.S. have water restrictions. They’re designed to make the most
efficient use of the natural resource within the landscape. The South Florida Water
Management District has set forth specific days and times for watering, leading many
individuals to wonder about their landscaping. Residents can have a beautiful landscape, even
with watering restrictions.
Know the Rules
There may be exceptions for edible gardens or newly installed landscapes. Residents need to
read and understand the watering rules that apply to them.
Prioritize
Prioritize what gets watered. Plants that are drought sensitive should be watered first, along
with those that are high maintenance. Lawns will necessarily be a low priority.
Drought Resistant Plants
Consider planting species that require less water – or replacing existing plantings. That can
include grass, vines, bushes and trees. It will help conserve water and will cost far less to keep
the landscape hydrated. Native plants tend to require less water.
Mulch
Virtually any planting will benefit from mulch. It keeps soil cooler and helps in retaining
moisture. Mulch also aids in weed control
Irrigation Systems
Turn off automatic irrigation systems and only water plants when they really need it. Look for
signs of drooping leaves or leaf color changes to help determine when the plant requires water.
Many types of plants will survive droughts and low moisture if they were healthy and
established before water restrictions are in place.
Consider a drip irrigation system that uses far less water than traditional irrigation systems and
offers savings on water bills. Micro-irrigation systems may be allowed with no restrictions.
Water Reclamation
People across the nation use an estimated 7 billion gallons of clean drinking water every day for
watering plants. Consider collecting rainwater for use during a drought or having a water
reclamation system installed.

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Landscaping represents a considerable monetary investment for any business. Plantings
provide a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing entry to the property for customers. Trees,
bushes and flowers add value and interest to any property. In South Florida, storms can develop
at any time, creating chaos and damage to landscaping. The good news is that there are some
precautions you can take to minimize the potential for damage before it occurs.
Create Some Distance
Trees play an integral role in any landscaping project. They provide welcome shade that can
assist in reducing cooling costs, but they need to occupy the correct locations in the landscape.
Trees are one of the primary sources of damage during a storm. Keep large species away from
buildings to minimize damage from falling trees, breaking limbs and lightning strikes. Always
consider the size of the tree when it matures. Plant bushes and smaller trees near structures.
Wind Resistance
Some tree species are more prone to disease, breakage and limb loss. You’re going to want
trees in your landscape that are resistant to wind, less likely to blow over in a storm, and lose
limbs. It helps to plant trees in groups of at least 5 to maximize wind resistance. Each tree helps
protect the others.
Pruning
Trees need regular maintenance and pruning is part of that. When young, shrubs and trees
should be pruned for optimal growth, shaping and strength. New trees should be cabled and
braced to ensure they’re growing straight and establishing a strong root system. As they
mature, weak limbs should be removed, along with any that may have become damaged. If a
tree becomes diseased, its better to remove it for safety’s sake.
Drainage
Be sure your property has proper drainage. Trees can easily topple when soil becomes
saturated. Remedy any areas of the landscape where puddling or ponding are evident.

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Even though the weather may be warm in South Florida, many plantings take a break before
bursting forth for the spring season. You can help give your landscape a boost and prepare for
spring with a few simple actions. If you’re unable to perform the tasks or don’t feel comfortable
doing so, call a professional.
Irrigation
If you have an irrigation system, now is the time to have it inspected to ensure its in proper
working order, with no broken pipes or sprinkler heads. Part of the inspection should include
the timer to make sure the setting is accurate in terms of run times and duration. If you don’t
have an irrigation system, consider installing one if possible.
Mulch
Apply mulch to the appropriate areas in the landscape. It will help retain moisture, aid in
minimizing weed growth, help cool the soil, and enrich the soil as it breaks down.
Trim and Prune
Now is the time to have hedges, bushes and trees trimmed and pruned to remove diseased,
damaged or weak limbs. Doing so will promote growth, minimize the potential for broken
limbs, and improve the appearance of the entire landscape. Trimming and pruning also aids in
maintaining the shape and controlling growth of plantings. Have any diseased trees or plantings
removed.
Lawns
De-thatching and aerating a lawn isn’t something that must be done every year, but spring is the
proper time to do so if needed. It helps prevent disease, aids in creating strong root growth,
and allows nutrients to enter the soil for use by the grass. Lawns should be fertilized the second
week after new growth appears, generally in February or March.
Weeding
Physically remove any weeds that may have taken root. It’s best to pull them up by hand. Doing
so also has the benefits of getting you some fresh air and exercise.

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While droughts don’t occur that often in Florida, they do happen. Weather records since 1900
shows that at least once in every decade, a severe drought develops somewhere within the
state. Even for those fortunate enough to have an irrigation system, it may not be enough to
keep lawns green as water use restrictions may go into effect.
It’s important to remember that a drought afflicted lawn isn’t necessarily a dead lawn. Grass
can survive a drought, recover, and return to its lush, green appearance. Individuals shouldn’t
be surprised if they notice an increase in weed growth.
Dead or Dormant
The first step is to look at the lawn and determine if grass is really dead or dormant. If the
entire grass blades are brown, including the tips, the grass is dead and you’ll need to start from
scratch to grow a new lawn.
Grass that easily pulls out of the ground is dead, not dormant. Grass blades that are whitish in
color where the roots and grass shoots meet or if green shoots are present, the lawn survived
the drought.
Water
Be careful not to over water following a drought. Plying the lawn with too much moisture
results in shallow roots and encourages disease, insect and weed infestations. Water may not
soak into soil easily, leading to erosion. It’s better to underwater after a drought than to
over water.
Mowing
It’s going to take some time for the grass to recover. When it’s eventually time to begin
mowing, set the mower to a higher setting. Once the lawn has fully recovered, individuals can
begin mowing at the usual height.
Aerate
Aeration allows the soil to breathe and absorb more nutrients Moisture will be absorbed
deeper into the soil, encouraging deeper root growth.
Fertilize

Be careful not to over fertilize to avoid “burning” the grass and use a slow release type that will
last for several months. Nutrients are released over time to keep grass nourished. Those
nutrients will also fuel weed growth – pull weeds out by the roots.

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South Florida is an ideal location for flowers that bloom year-round, providing vibrant color and
interest when other areas won’t support blossoms. There are a number of flowering plants and
shrubs that gardeners can grow for enticing color and beauty year-round.
Bougainvillea
Available in red, yellow, orange, purple, pink and white, it’s offered as a fast-growing vine and
low-growing shrub that will bloom off and on throughout the year.
Dwarf Morning Glory
When grown in South Florida, the non-vining plant can bloom year-round with brilliant blue
blossoms. It’s drought tolerant, deer resistant, attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, and
works great in rock gardens.
Gaillardia
Also known as blanket flower, it resembles a daisy. The brilliant red and yellow blossoms are a
cheerful addition to the landscape. Flowers are profuse and long-lasting. It can be a skin irritant
to some people.
Firespike
The plant has tubular, unconventional looking blooms, purple stems, and dark green foliage
with leaves that can attain 8 inches in length. Blossoms attract multiple butterfly species and
hummingbirds. It can grow several feet tall.
Gerbera Daisy
Bright, cheerful and welcoming, the flowers are available in red, yellow, orange, purple, pink,
white, and bi-colors. The centers can be light brown or yellowish to black. They’re a staple in
the cut flower industry and can last up to 10 days.
Hibiscus
Available in single and double blossoms, each flower blooms for a single day, but the shrub is a
profuse bloom producer. Colors run the gamut and includes red, yellow, pink, and multicolor,
with contrasting centers. They’re also offered in white and purple, but are less common.
Ixora

Also known as West Indian Jasmine, it’s noted for its ability to bloom year-round. Its flower
clusters can last 6 to 8 weeks. The shrub’s blossoms are available in red, yellow, orange, pink
and white.
Petunias
Highly diverse, the flowers are available in single and double blooms, in erect and cascading
varieties, and in an almost unlimited range of single and bi-color blossoms.

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A deck provides an excellent platform for spending time with family and friends. It’s a place to
relax, get closer to nature, entertain, or have a quiet cup of coffee before beginning the day.
The variations in deck design are endless and can be customized in extensive ways. They can
include a roof or roll-out awning, a bench or swing, or outdoor kitchen.
Decks can be placed in the front, back or side of the home, depending on the available space
and access points to the dwelling. They can even be located next to a garage. They’re an
excellent idea for slopes close to a home that that would otherwise be an unusable area and
adds considerably to the value of a home.
Attached Deck
This is the choice that most individuals select for their deck. It’s attached to the home and
provides an easy way to add square footage, while providing an inviting environment. It can
feature built-in seating space and offers an excellent environment for flowering plants and
greenery.
Detached Deck
When an attached deck is out of the question, choose a detached, freestanding one. It can be
positioned almost anywhere and essentially acts like an island in the landscape. Access can be
by way of a footpath or stairway, depending on the chosen height.
Rooftop Deck
This is an excellent solution for city dwellers and in urban areas for structures with a flat roof.
Individuals will attain an extra level of privacy and space, along with a cooling breeze. Railings
are essential and the space can even accommodate a rooftop garden if desires.
Wrap Around
A wrap around deck will extend around the entire home – or most of it. This type of deck has
the unique ability to facilitate air flow throughout the home when access doors are open. The
deck design opens up uninterrupted views of an entire property. It can be customized with
built-in tables, seating, and roofed areas.
Multi-Level
It will encompass one or more levels at different heights, each of which can be customized for
specific activities such as stargazing. Connected by a stairway or ramp, the style is an ideal

solution for larger properties and those with slopes or rocky terrain. Tiered decks offer a unique
and elaborate option.

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Mosquitos are a food source for multiple species, but they’re a nuisance for people. They
deliver itchy bites, spread disease and parasites, and are attracted to sweet scents. There are a
number of flowers and plants that provide a natural repellant to the irritating insects that
should have a place in every outdoor space.
Basil
The herb attracts pollinators, repels mosquitos and can even kill mosquito larvae before they
hatch to reduce the insect’s population.
Citronella
Also known as mosquito grass, it’s an ingredient in insect repellents ranging from sprays to
candles. The grass can be planted in the yard, but be aware that it can grow up to 6 ft. tall and
just as wide.
Garlic
The aroma of this herb is a powerful and effective repellent for insects that crawl or fly.
Geraniums
Lemon-scented geraniums have a scent similar to citronella, making them a great repellent.
They have cheery flowers, but the lemon scented leaves are the advantage for repelling
multiple types of insects.
Lavender
The power of lavender is twofold. It deters mosquitos and attracts pollinators. The plant
produces fragrant flowers and requires little attention.
Lemongrass
The herb grows on woody stalks, resembles green onions, and has a citrus scent that’s effective
in keeping mosquitos at bay.
Marigolds
The plant produces brightly colored flowers and repels mosquitos and other types of insects.
It’s available in multiple colors and heights.
Mint

Spearmint, peppermint, patchouli, and catnip are all excellent repellents for mosquitos and
other types of insects. Grow mint plants in a pot to contain its growth.
Nasturtiums
A vining plant, it has colorful blooms and instead of repelling mosquitos, it works to attract
them to where its planted and away from people.
Rosemary
It not only repels the biting bugs, it’s a versatile herb used in a variety of dishes. Plant it in the
yard or garden.

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An irrigation system makes watering lawns and the entire landscape easier and more cost
effective. A balanced system applies the correct amount of water to different areas of the
property to meet the individual needs of specific plantings. The key to lovely looking landscapes
is establishing a balanced system.
Watering schedule
With modern, programmable irrigation systems, it’s easy for the installer to program the
system to facilitate the most efficient and effective watering schedule. Summer rains provide
natural moisture and irrigation systems can be equipped with sensors to detect the moisture
level in the soil. Plants also have different seasonal watering requirements. Modern irrigation
systems can also be set to deliver the correct amount of moisture according to the season.
Hand Watering
Many homeowners choose to water their lawn with a hose and detachable sprinkler head,
while watering flower beds by hand or drip irrigation hoses, depending on the size of the
property. When performed in this way, it’s less efficient and often results in run off or puddling
that does little to meet the needs of plantings or lawns.
It can be extremely difficult to gauge how much water to apply and when. A hose and sprinkler
system will deliver, on average, ½ an inch of water over 30 minutes. A watering schedule of 20
minutes, 3 times per week, will deliver about 1 inch of water to a lawn. The property will need
to be watered at dusk or later to maximize water retention and minimize evaporation.
Variables
The watering by hand method works ideally for healthy lawns. It’s a good idea to use a rain
gauge to determine how much rain is received during a storm. An inch of rainfall can disrupt
the most carefully planned watering schedule. Avoid daily watering as it will result in a shallow
root system. During winter months, lawns can be watered as little as twice a week.

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Perhaps one of the most overlooked and underestimated landscape enhancements is rocks. They provide a variety of benefits for plants and people. However, there are also some disadvantages to adding rocks to the landscape. It’s best to consult with a professional landscaper that can provide expert advice.

Low Maintenance

Rocks are very low maintenance. They don’t need to be watered or fertilized and they’re not attractive to insects.

Mulch Alternative

Rocks can be used in the same manner as traditional wood mulch. It’s available in a wide variety of sizes and types that includes lava rock, granite, marble, terra cotta, river rock, gravel, crushed stone, pebbles, quartz, and even crushed concrete. They are effective for enhancing water drainage in soil, reducing weed growth, and they can also help retain soil by reducing erosion.

Decorative

Stones can be used to line walkways and similar spaces. Flat stones are an ideal addition to create walkways and similar areas around pools or freestanding statuary.

Adds Interest & Contrast

Light-colored rock chips and stones are an excellent way to lighten up dark areas of the landscape. Different sizes are available, allowing individuals to customize different areas of their environment.

Colorful Options

The color variations in rocks and stones are almost endless, making them highly versatile elements in the landscape.

Durable Ground Cover

Rocks are a highly durable ground cover with a long lifespan. Depending on the landscape, individuals may need to add some rock from time to time, but they have an extensive lifespan since they don’t deteriorate like mulch. It’s an excellent choice for high foot traffic areas.

Relatively Inexpensive

Using rock is a relatively inexpensive way to highlight flower beds and it’s a quick and easy way to create a backyard makeover. The cost will largely depend on the type of rock that’s chosen and the amount required for a particular project, but the wide range of benefits offset the initial investment.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

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