Florida’s environment isn’t an obstacle. It’s an opportunity. At Pridgen, we understand the value of developing office parks and communities with a focus on environmental sustainability. No matter the scope of a project, we embrace the principles of Florida-friendly landscaping. Find out why landscaping matters to your business.

Non-native plants don’t play well with others

Plants may look like they’re sitting still, but they’re very sneaky. A single non-native plant in your landscaping has the ability to spread thanks to birds, wind and animals. Even trimmings can encourage plants to spread. When a non-native plant spreads, it has the potential to overtake local plants and damage the environment. You may think of weeds as ugly little invaders that sprout up in your lawn, but the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) considers any undesirable plant to be a weed. Non-native invasive plants cause serious problems for the environment and land owners. Even beautiful trees like Australian pine are considered weeds. These non-native plants overtake shoreline vegetation and create excessive shade.

Native plants thrive naturally

Linda Osborne is vice-president of Commercial Lawn Care Services, a trusted provider of Florida-friendly landscaping. We asked her about the benefits of using native plants in commercial landscaping. “Native plants have stood the test of time and are best suited for our climate and living conditions. The use of native plants in landscape design is the most responsible choice we can make in terms of land use and conservation of our natural areas,” she says. “Native plants work in harmony with the existing community of wildlife and microorganisms that help keep each other in balance.” In short, native plants are the best choice for residential and commercial landscaping in Florida.

Native plants work for you

Consider your native, Florida-friendly landscaping a partner in your business. This partner shows up seven days a week, rain or shine. “As with all plants, the right plant in the right place makes all the difference in the world,” says Osborne.

  • Pest reduction. Professional native landscaping helps reduce pests naturally by attracting the right bugs and wildlife. Birds, butterflies, and bats eat pests and help your landscaping thrive. Florida’s bug-friendly climate makes natural insect control especially appealing.
  • Water conservation. Native Florida plants require less irrigation and help keep stormwater runoff from damaging our ecosystem. When your native landscaping requires less water, you save money while knowing that you’re making a positive impact on the local environment.
  • Pollution reduction. With the right Florida-friendly landscaping, the need for fertilizer and pesticides is greatly reduced. Because native plants thrive naturally, they require fewer chemicals that can damage the environment.

Native plants keep our bodies of water healthier

In Florida, every body of water is important. From beautiful beaches to underground springs, water systems are crucial to Florida’s industry and image. At Pridgen, we strive for native Florida landscaping that complements local bodies of water. Even small lakes and watersheds are served best by native plant life, both in and around the water. Native Florida plants benefit bodies of water by fostering wildlife, reducing water pollution and encouraging proper drainage.

Native plants and your bottom line

Sustainability has a positive impact on the local economy and the local environment, helping create a healthier, more thriving community for your business. Low-maintenance landscaping reduces operating costs and helps you focus on your bottom line. Pridgen believes in developing communities and office parks that foster growth, not only for your business but for the future of Florida. By working with the native ecosystem instead of working against it, we encourage a healthier environment for your business.

To learn more about Pridgen Real Estate Services’ commitment to Florida-friendly commercial real estate development, call (727) 577-5390.