Landscape Tree Selection -- South Florida

A. W. Meerow, T. K. Broschat, and H. M. Donselman

In recent years, the subject of native plants has taken on new significance in Florida horticulture. Many counties are considering landscape ordinances that require that a percentage of native plant materials be used in all future developments. Several have already implemented such ordinances. This will result in a need for wider availability of native plant materials. Woody landscape plant producers, landscape architects, and home gardeners in Florida need to become informed about and prepared for the production and cultural needs of native plants.

Timothy K. Broschat, Alan W. Meerow, and Robert J. Black

Landscape plants can improve the appearance of our surroundings and modify the extremes of local climate (microclimate modification). Plants provide shade, insulate the home from heat loss or gain, and cool the air that surrounds their leaves through transpiration (release of water from plant pores). Trees are the main types of landscape plants used around the home for passive energy conservation. They provide shade, influence air movement around the house and, once established, require little maintenance. The energy-conserving impact of a particular tree species depends on 1) whether it keeps its leaves during the winter and 2) the shape of a tree and density of its foliage. This document is about choosing the right species of trees to plant in Florida, the sites to plant them, and how to properly maintain them.