Water-Conserving Landscaping

Photo by F. Galdo

Landscape Bed - Lantana Butterfly

Additional tips for a water-conserving landscape

  • A thick layer of mulch helps keep soil cooler and holds moisture in. It also helps control weeds that compete with landscape plants for water.
    • Use this helpful calculator tool to find out how much mulch you'll need. Enter the size of bed and desired depth, and it will calculate how much mulch you will need (in cubic yards or number of bags.)
    • NOTE: Do not use cypress mulch. Using cypress mulch can encourage destruction of cypress trees, which are important native wetland trees. For more information about choosing the right mulch, please visit: the IFAS Extension website
  • Use the "Florida-Friendly Landscaping" (FFL) principles - These principles were developed by the University of Florida-IFAS to show how an attractive landscape can be maintained without excessive usage of water, fertilizer, and pesticides. The main FFL page serves as a clearinghouse of information. For further information or assistance on Florida-Friendly landscaping, contact the Pasco County Cooperative Extension Service Website
  • Consider planting native and/or drought-tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs and trees to replace non-useful turf. Once established, they do not need water as frequently and usually will survive a dry period without watering.
  • Put the right plant in the right place! Grouping plants together based on similar water needs can allow for better management of water in landscaped beds.Turn down or turn off zones with drought tolerant plants.
  • Use a rain barrel or cistern to harvest rainwater for your houseplants, garden or planter beds. The Pasco County Cooperative Extension Service periodically holds rain barrel workshops - check their website for scheduling

The Tampa Bay Community Water Wise Award Program

- Step 2: The Selection Process and On-site Evaluation -

Each year, The Tampa Bay Community Water Wise Awards Program recognizes a selection of outstanding examples of Florida-Friendly Landscapes from across the Tampa Bay Region. Visit TampaBayWaterWise.org to learn more about the program and this year's evaluation of entries received for 2017.

Water Wise Logo

If your landscape meets the basic criteria for the awards based on your application (Deadline: June 30, 2017), a local Florida-friendly landscaping representative will contact you to schedule an on-site evaluation of your landscape and irrigation.

On-site evaluations typically take place during July, August and September and award recipients are notified shortly thereafter.

Judges look for landscapes that balance attractive design with water-efficient irrigation, creating a positive impact on our water resources, native wildlife and aquatic environments.

For More Information

For more information or to ask questions, email the Utilities Department or call at (727) 847-8131. Or return to the main Water Conservation page for more ways to save water.