The City of Melbourne is hosting a free seminar on Florida-Friendly Landscaping at 10 a.m. on March 21 at the Melbourne Civic Center. The event will teach residents how to design landscapes that thrive in the local climate while reducing water use and supporting native wildlife. City officials say the seminar is part of broader efforts to promote environmental sustainability in Brevard County.
Homeowners, gardeners, and anyone interested in eco-friendly practices are encouraged to attend. Topics will include soil preparation, plant selection, and irrigation techniques tailored to Florida’s weather patterns. Presenters will emphasize the benefits of using native plants, which require less maintenance and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
The seminar will also cover practical steps for reducing fertilizer runoff, a common issue in coastal areas. Attendees will receive a guidebook with tips on creating landscapes that are both visually appealing and environmentally responsible. City staff will be on hand to answer questions about local regulations and incentives for sustainable landscaping.
Registration is required for the event, which is limited to 150 participants. Interested residents can sign up online at melbourne.gov or by calling the city’s sustainability office at 321-754-4455. The seminar is the first in a series of community workshops planned for 2024 under the city’s Green Spaces Initiative.