July 21, 2020
By: Jim Frankowiak
LUTZ, Fla. – Florida grade school children can now learn the nine principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping ™ (FFL) – guidelines that help yards thrive and protect Florida’s waterways – from a new book written and illustrated by two Florida Master Gardener Volunteers.
“Growing Up Florida-Friendly” was written by Kim Pepitone Cottrell and illustrated by Evelyn Lavaughn Davis. Readers follow Flory, an orange blossom, on a journey through the nine FFL principles – Right Plant, Right Place; Water Efficiently; Fertilize Appropriately; Mulch; Attract Wildlife, Manager Yard Pests Responsibly; Recycle, Reduce Storm Water Runoff and Protect the Waterfront.
Readers are asked to become an “FFL kid,” which provides goals along the way with the book’s overall mission to let kids know that they can play a role in saving our waterfront.
“All roads lead to the aquifer and we have to protect our natural resources,” said Cottrell. “Taking responsibility for behavior from the beginning forms good habits that children will carry into the future. Everything you do can have a positive or negative impact on our environment. This book helps kids see the positive outcomes they can have.” This is the first book of its kind created exclusively for grade school students.
The 58-page, fully illustrated book provides an interactive opportunity between teachers and students or can be used as a stand-alone resource. Individual copies may be purchased via ifasbooks.ifas.ufl.edu/p-1538-growing-up-florida-friendly.aspx. Those seeking to purchase more than 25 copies of the book are directed to call 800-226-1764 or visit ifasbooks@ifas.ufl.edu for discount information.
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