9 Gardening Tips

Protect the Waterfront

9 Gardening Tips Right Plant, Right Place Yard Pests Water Efficiently Fertilize Appropriately Mulch Recycle Stormwater Runoff Protect the Waterfront Wildlife Habitats Nutrients in Coastal Waters On the Waterfront

Waterfront property owners have an important responsibility to keep fertilizers and pesticides out of the water body. Polluted water with toxic chemicals has a harmful effect on aquatic animals and can bring down the value of the waterfront property.

1. Remove invasive exotic aquatic plants by cutting, pulling or raking. Remove excess dead plant material from water to keep it from adding excess nutrients

2. Decrease wave action and increase wildlife habitats by placing clean native limestone in front of seawalls

3. When feasible, plant native aquatic plants in front of your seawall.

4. Avoid pruning mangroves and other native vegetation without first checking on proper guidelines and permits

5. If possible, plant a border of low maintenance plants between your lawn and the water’s edge to absorb nutrients and provide habitat for animals.

6. Establish a 10-30 foot no fertilizer, no pesticide zone along the shoreline