Your lawn and landscape are an investment. A healthy yard can increase your home&#8217;s value, save water, and make your property more enjoyable. But choosing the right company is important. The lowest price is not always the best value. A trained professional can help keep your plants healthy while protecting Florida&#8217;s water and wildlife. UF/IFAS [&#8230;]

Your lawn and landscape are an investment. A healthy yard can increase your home&#8217;s value, save water, and make your property more enjoyable. But choosing the right company is important. The lowest price is not always the best value. A trained professional can help keep your plants healthy while protecting Florida&#8217;s water and wildlife. UF/IFAS and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) recommend asking a few simple questions before hiring anyone.
Know What You Need
Before calling a company, decide what services you want. You may need:
<ul>
<li>Lawn mowing</li>
<li>Shrub pruning</li>
<li>Fertilization</li>
<li>Weed control</li>
<li>Insect or disease treatment</li>
<li>Irrigation repair</li>
<li>Landscape design</li>
</ul>
Some companies do everything, while others specialize in only a few services.
Make Sure They Are Licensed
In Florida, some lawn and landscape work requires a state license.
If a company applies fertilizers for hire, the applicator should have the proper FDACS fertilizer certification. If pesticides are used, the applicator must have the correct pesticide license for the work being performed. Always ask to see proof of licensing if fertilizer or pesticide applications are included in the service.
Ask About Insurance
Professional companies should carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Insurance helps protect both you and the workers if an accident happens on your property.
Look for Extra Training
Good professionals continue learning throughout their careers. Ask if they have completed programs such as:
<ul>
<li>Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP)</li>
<li>Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Certified Professional (FFLCP)</li>
<li>International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certification for tree work</li>
<li>Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) certifications</li>
</ul>
These certifications show the company has invested in education and follows current science-based recommendations.
Ask Questions
A good company should be happy to answer your questions. Ask:
<ul>
<li>How long have you been in business?</li>
<li>Can you provide references?</li>
<li>Can I see photos of similar work?</li>
<li>Will you give me a written estimate?</li>
<li>Who will actually perform the work?</li>
</ul>
If someone pressures you to sign a contract immediately, consider getting another estimate. UF/IFAS recommends comparing several companies before making a decision.
Choose Florida-Friendly Practices
Ask if the company follows Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles. These practices help:
<ul>
<li>Save water</li>
<li>Reduce fertilizer waste</li>
<li>Protect rivers, bays, and springs</li>
<li>Reduce unnecessary pesticide use</li>
<li>Improve plant health</li>
</ul>
A Florida-Friendly landscape is better for your yard and Florida&#8217;s environment.
Beware of Red Flags
Be cautious if a company:
<ul>
<li>Cannot provide proof of licenses or insurance.</li>
<li>Recommends spraying pesticides without first identifying the problem.</li>
<li>Promises every insect or weed can be eliminated.</li>
<li>Wants payment before work begins.</li>
<li>Cannot explain why a treatment is needed.</li>
</ul>
Professional recommendations should always be based on an inspection of your property—not just a quick guess.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right lawn and landscape professional takes a little time, but it is worth the effort. Look for someone who is properly licensed, insured, well-trained, and willing to answer your questions. Companies that follow UF/IFAS recommendations and FDACS regulations help protect your investment while keeping Florida&#8217;s natural resources healthy for future generations.
For more information, contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Office or visit the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program for homeowner <a href="https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/resources/resource-links/">resources</a> and <a href="https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/resources/hire-florida-friendly/">hiring checklists</a>.

Your lawn and landscape are an investment. A healthy yard can increase your home’s value, save water, and make your property more enjoyable. But choosing the right company is important. The lowest price is not always the best value. A trained professional can help keep your plants healthy while protecting Florida’s water and wildlife. UF/IFAS and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) recommend asking a few simple questions before hiring anyone.
Know What You Need
Before calling a company, decide what services you want. You may need:
Lawn mowing
Shrub pruning
Fertilization
Weed control
Insect or disease treatment
Irrigation repair
Landscape design
Some companies do everything, while others specialize in only a few services.
Make Sure They Are Licensed
In Florida, some lawn and landscape work requires a state license.
If a company applies fertilizers for hire, the applicator should have the proper FDACS fertilizer certification. If pesticides are used, the applicator must have the correct pesticide license for the work being performed. Always ask to see proof of licensing if fertilizer or pesticide applications are included in the service.
Ask About Insurance
Professional companies should carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Insurance helps protect both you and the workers if an accident happens on your property.
Look for Extra Training
Good professionals continue learning throughout their careers. Ask if they have completed programs such as:
Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP)
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Certified Professional (FFLCP)
International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certification for tree work
Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) certifications
These certifications show the company has invested in education and follows current science-based recommendations.
Ask Questions
A good company should be happy to answer your questions. Ask:
How long have you been in business?
Can you provide references?
Can I see photos of similar work?
Will you give me a written estimate?
Who will actually perform the work?
If someone pressures you to sign a contract immediately, consider getting another estimate. UF/IFAS recommends comparing several companies before making a decision.
Choose Florida-Friendly Practices
Ask if the company follows Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles. These practices help:
Save water
Reduce fertilizer waste
Protect rivers, bays, and springs
Reduce unnecessary pesticide use
Improve plant health
A Florida-Friendly landscape is better for your yard and Florida’s environment.
Beware of Red Flags
Be cautious if a company:
Cannot provide proof of licenses or insurance.
Recommends spraying pesticides without first identifying the problem.
Promises every insect or weed can be eliminated.
Wants payment before work begins.
Cannot explain why a treatment is needed.
Professional recommendations should always be based on an inspection of your property—not just a quick guess.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right lawn and landscape professional takes a little time, but it is worth the effort. Look for someone who is properly licensed, insured, well-trained, and willing to answer your questions. Companies that follow UF/IFAS recommendations and FDACS regulations help protect your investment while keeping Florida’s natural resources healthy for future generations.
For more information, contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Office or visit the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program for homeowner resources and hiring checklists.

Your lawn and landscape are an investment. A healthy yard can increase your home’s value, save water, and make your property more enjoyable. But choosing the right company is important. The lowest price is not always the best value. A trained professional can help keep your plants healthy while protecting Florida’s water and wildlife. UF/IFAS […]

How to Choose the Right Green Industry Professional for Your Lawn and Landscape

From artificial intelligence that can diagnose palm diseases to drone technology tracking tree health from above, the Palm Quest 2026 Conference will spotlight the future of palm science when it returns to Fort Lauderdale April 21 to 22. Hosted by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) in collaboration with the [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_8443" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-8443" style="width: 360px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-8443" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/flrec/wp-content/blogs.dir/241/files/2026/03/McMillan-at-greenhouse-Cat-Wofford-300x214.jpg" alt="Mica McMillan assistant professor of environmental horticulture at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center. UF/IFAS Photo by Cat Wofford." width="360" height="257" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-8443" class="wp-caption-text">Mica McMillan assistant professor of environmental horticulture at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center. UF/IFAS Photo by Cat Wofford.</figcaption></figure>
From artificial intelligence that can diagnose palm diseases to drone technology tracking tree health from above, the <a href="https://fngla.regfox.com/2026-palm-quest-conference">Palm Quest 2026 Conference</a> will spotlight the future of palm science when it returns to Fort Lauderdale April 21 to 22.
Hosted by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) in collaboration with the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA), the biennial conference brings an expanded format showcasing innovation and education designed to maximize networking.
“Palm Quest is where the industry comes together to exchange ideas, explore innovations and strengthen connections that move palm science and production forward,” said <a href="https://flrec.ifas.ufl.edu/faculty/dr-mica-mcmillan/">Mica McMillan</a>, assistant professor of environmental horticulture at the <a href="https://flrec.ifas.ufl.edu/">UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center</a> (FLREC). “This program reflects both the challenges and exciting opportunities facing the palm industry in Florida and beyond.”
Registration is required <a href="https://fngla.regfox.com/2026-palm-quest-conference">online</a>.
Palm Quest 2026 is designed for all audiences of the nursery and landscape industry, including growers, propagators, landscape contractors, plant brokers, suppliers, landscape architects, arborists, foresters, planners, water management professionals, educators and researchers.
<figure id="attachment_8441" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-8441" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-8441 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="Brian Bahder, assistant professor of vector entomology and a member of the FLREC palm team will present background and basic information on palm lethal decline phytoplasmas in Florida primarily, but also across the tropics. UF/IFAS Photo by Cat Wofford." width="300" height="200" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/flrec/wp-content/blogs.dir/241/files/2026/03/BrianBahder-Cat-Wofford-300x200.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-8441" class="wp-caption-text">Brian Bahder, associate professor of vector entomology ecology and a member of the FLREC palm team will present on palm lethal decline phytoplasmas in Florida and across the tropics. UF/IFAS Photo by Cat Wofford.</figcaption></figure>
Organizers are committed to supporting ongoing professional development for attendees by providing continuing education opportunities and the credits needed to help maintain credentials and remain current in the industry. Details are listed on the registration link.
The conference will start at the <a href="https://fngla.regfox.com/2026-palm-quest-conference#hotel">Riverside Hotel</a>, located at 620 East Las Olas Boulevard. The setting offers attendees a blend of conference learning by day and opportunities to connect and unwind in downtown Fort Lauderdale by night. Programming will include sessions on emerging disease-resilient palm varieties, cold-hardy palms and cycads and a look at the world’s largest coconuts and the remote Pacific island where they originate.
For landscape professionals, experts will cover common palm disorders and diseases, environmental stressors and best practices for successful transplanting. A grower roundtable will provide practical, experience-based insights on palm support and establishment, while design-focused sessions will explore installing and acclimating palms in urban environments.
Join industry colleagues for an engaging two-hour guided boat tour led by Patrick of Montgomery Botanical Center
<figure id="attachment_8439" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-8439" style="width: 300px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-8439 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="Braham Dhillon, assistant professor and FLREC palm team member, will explore the diagnosis and management of major fungal diseases of palms in Florida. UF/IFAS photo by Cat Wofford." width="300" height="200" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/flrec/wp-content/blogs.dir/241/files/2026/03/BrahamDhillon-Cat-Wofford-300x200.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-8439" class="wp-caption-text">Braham Dhillon, assistant professor and FLREC palm team member, will explore the diagnosis and management of major fungal diseases of palms in Florida. UF/IFAS photo by Cat Wofford.</figcaption></figure>
and gain an insider’s perspective on how palms are being thoughtfully integrated into high-end residential landscapes, all while cruising Fort Lauderdale’s scenic waterways.
The second day shifts to the FLREC where attendees will engage directly with scientists and research in action. Led by McMillan, the program will feature advances in AI-driven palm diagnostics, drone-based monitoring of tree health and the latest strategies for managing key insect pests and fungal diseases. Sessions will also highlight the role of native palms in supporting Florida’s ecosystems.
“Today’s growers are looking for tools that go beyond tradition. They want data-driven insights into soil and plant health,” said McMillan. “Technologies that analyze microbial communities are opening new doors for improving palm performance and sustainability in real-world weather conditions.”
The conference will also include an evening reception with partners, creating dedicated time for one-on-one networking among attendees, speakers and industry leaders.
&nbsp;
###
&nbsp;
By Lourdes Mederos, <a href="mailto:rodriguezl@ufl.edu">rodriguezl@ufl.edu</a>
&nbsp;
ABOUT UF/IFAS 
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. 
<a href="http://www.ifas.ufl.edu">ifas.ufl.edu</a>  |  <a href="https://twitter.com/UF_IFAS">@UF_IFAS</a>

Mica McMillan assistant professor of environmental horticulture at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center. UF/IFAS Photo by Cat Wofford.
From artificial intelligence that can diagnose palm diseases to drone technology tracking tree health from above, the Palm Quest 2026 Conference will spotlight the future of palm science when it returns to Fort Lauderdale April 21 to 22.
Hosted by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) in collaboration with the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA), the biennial conference brings an expanded format showcasing innovation and education designed to maximize networking.
“Palm Quest is where the industry comes together to exchange ideas, explore innovations and strengthen connections that move palm science and production forward,” said Mica McMillan, assistant professor of environmental horticulture at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center (FLREC). “This program reflects both the challenges and exciting opportunities facing the palm industry in Florida and beyond.”
Registration is required online.
Palm Quest 2026 is designed for all audiences of the nursery and landscape industry, including growers, propagators, landscape contractors, plant brokers, suppliers, landscape architects, arborists, foresters, planners, water management professionals, educators and researchers.
Brian Bahder, associate professor of vector entomology ecology and a member of the FLREC palm team will present on palm lethal decline phytoplasmas in Florida and across the tropics. UF/IFAS Photo by Cat Wofford.
Organizers are committed to supporting ongoing professional development for attendees by providing continuing education opportunities and the credits needed to help maintain credentials and remain current in the industry. Details are listed on the registration link.
The conference will start at the Riverside Hotel, located at 620 East Las Olas Boulevard. The setting offers attendees a blend of conference learning by day and opportunities to connect and unwind in downtown Fort Lauderdale by night. Programming will include sessions on emerging disease-resilient palm varieties, cold-hardy palms and cycads and a look at the world’s largest coconuts and the remote Pacific island where they originate.
For landscape professionals, experts will cover common palm disorders and diseases, environmental stressors and best practices for successful transplanting. A grower roundtable will provide practical, experience-based insights on palm support and establishment, while design-focused sessions will explore installing and acclimating palms in urban environments.
Join industry colleagues for an engaging two-hour guided boat tour led by Patrick of Montgomery Botanical Center
Braham Dhillon, assistant professor and FLREC palm team member, will explore the diagnosis and management of major fungal diseases of palms in Florida. UF/IFAS photo by Cat Wofford.
and gain an insider’s perspective on how palms are being thoughtfully integrated into high-end residential landscapes, all while cruising Fort Lauderdale’s scenic waterways.
The second day shifts to the FLREC where attendees will engage directly with scientists and research in action. Led by McMillan, the program will feature advances in AI-driven palm diagnostics, drone-based monitoring of tree health and the latest strategies for managing key insect pests and fungal diseases. Sessions will also highlight the role of native palms in supporting Florida’s ecosystems.
“Today’s growers are looking for tools that go beyond tradition. They want data-driven insights into soil and plant health,” said McMillan. “Technologies that analyze microbial communities are opening new doors for improving palm performance and sustainability in real-world weather conditions.”
The conference will also include an evening reception with partners, creating dedicated time for one-on-one networking among attendees, speakers and industry leaders.
 
###
 
By Lourdes Mederos, rodriguezl@ufl.edu
 
ABOUT UF/IFAS
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. 
ifas.ufl.edu  |  @UF_IFAS

From artificial intelligence that can diagnose palm diseases to drone technology tracking tree health from above, the Palm Quest 2026 Conference will spotlight the future of palm science when it returns to Fort Lauderdale April 21 to 22. Hosted by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) in collaboration with the […]

UF/IFAS FNGLA Palm Quest 2026 to unveil next generation AI drone research tools for a changing industry on April 21-22

Florida’s ornamental nursery industry is one of the largest in the nation, supplying colorful plants to homes, businesses, and landscapes. Along with that success comes a challenge: keeping crops healthy while protecting them from pests and diseases that can quickly affect both quality and value.  That’s where the new Commercial Ornamental Nursery Scouting Manual comes [&#8230;]

<a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/ifascomm/files/2025/09/Commercial-Ornamental-Nursery-Scouting-Manual-Cover.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-13879" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/ifascomm/files/2025/09/Commercial-Ornamental-Nursery-Scouting-Manual-Cover.jpg" alt="Commercial Ornamental Nursery Scouting Manual-Cover" width="442" height="572" /></a>
Florida’s ornamental nursery industry is one of the largest in the nation, supplying colorful plants to homes, businesses, and landscapes. Along with that success comes a challenge: keeping crops healthy while protecting them from pests and diseases that can quickly affect both quality and value. 
That’s where the new <a href="https://ifasbooks.ifas.ufl.edu/p-1833-commercial-ornamental-nursery-scouting-manual.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Commercial Ornamental Nursery Scouting Manual</a> comes in. Written by <a href="https://ifas.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UF/IFAS</a> experts, this guide gives nursery professionals practical tools to improve scouting programs and make confident decisions about pest management. It’s a must-have resource for nursery managers, growers, and anyone working in Florida’s ornamental plant industry.
<h4>Why Scouting Matters</h4>
Scouting isn’t just about noticing problems—it’s a system. By regularly checking plants, recording observations, and acting quickly, growers can spot threats early and prevent costly damage.
The manual provides step-by-step instructions for starting a program, training staff, and staying organized with good recordkeeping. It also offers detailed identification tips for common pests and diseases. Photos, checklists, and examples make the process clear, whether you’re new to the field or have years of experience.
<h4>Training and Prevention Made Simple</h4>
This manual also doubles as a training resource. Supervisors can use it to teach employees how to scout effectively, building a stronger and more knowledgeable team.
Prevention is another key theme. By following the recommendations, nurseries can reduce losses, cut down on unnecessary pesticide use, and still meet customer expectations for top-quality plants.
<h4>Get Your Copy</h4>
With its practical guidance, this manual helps professionals strengthen scouting practices, protect valuable crops, and support the future of one of Florida’s most important agricultural sectors.
The Commercial Ornamental Nursery Scouting Manual is available now through the <a href="https://ifasbooks.ifas.ufl.edu/p-1833-commercial-ornamental-nursery-scouting-manual.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UF/IFAS Bookstore</a>. Order your copy today.

Florida’s ornamental nursery industry is one of the largest in the nation, supplying colorful plants to homes, businesses, and landscapes. Along with that success comes a challenge: keeping crops healthy while protecting them from pests and diseases that can quickly affect both quality and value. 

That’s where the new Commercial Ornamental Nursery Scouting Manual comes in. Written by UF/IFAS experts, this guide gives nursery professionals practical tools to improve scouting programs and make confident decisions about pest management. It’s a must-have resource for nursery managers, growers, and anyone working in Florida’s ornamental plant industry.

Why Scouting Matters

Scouting isn’t just about noticing problems—it’s a system. By regularly checking plants, recording observations, and acting quickly, growers can spot threats early and prevent costly damage.

The manual provides step-by-step instructions for starting a program, training staff, and staying organized with good recordkeeping. It also offers detailed identification tips for common pests and diseases. Photos, checklists, and examples make the process clear, whether you’re new to the field or have years of experience.

Training and Prevention Made Simple

This manual also doubles as a training resource. Supervisors can use it to teach employees how to scout effectively, building a stronger and more knowledgeable team.

Prevention is another key theme. By following the recommendations, nurseries can reduce losses, cut down on unnecessary pesticide use, and still meet customer expectations for top-quality plants.

Get Your Copy

With its practical guidance, this manual helps professionals strengthen scouting practices, protect valuable crops, and support the future of one of Florida’s most important agricultural sectors.

The Commercial Ornamental Nursery Scouting Manual is available now through the UF/IFAS Bookstore. Order your copy today.

Florida’s ornamental nursery industry is one of the largest in the nation, supplying colorful plants to homes, businesses, and landscapes. Along with that success comes a challenge: keeping crops healthy while protecting them from pests and diseases that can quickly affect both quality and value.  That’s where the new Commercial Ornamental Nursery Scouting Manual comes […]

New at the UF/IFAS Bookstore: Commercial Ornamental Nursery Scouting Manual

Plants

Plantas

Health

Salud

The physical health of plants for food production, including the presence, risk and control of diseases. [AGROVOC]

Plant Health

Plant Disease

Enfermedades de plantas

Plant Nutrient Management

Plant ID and Diagnostics

Diagnóstico e identificación de plantas

1980-thumbnail

(Pictures were plant samples submitted to the Plant Clinic at UF TREC) source: Qingchun Liu https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/miamidadeco/2025/01/17/what-to-consider-when-submitting-a-plant-sample-to-the-plant-clinic-for-diagnosis/

Plant Damage

1347-thumbnail

By Thares2020 via Adobe Stock. Generated with AI.