Garden Club of Cape Coral | Part 2: Gardening do’s and don’ts for canal-front homes
By JAN BARGMANN
news@breezenewspapers.com
In Part 1, we explored how Cape Coral’s canal-front landscapes present unique gardening opportunities and challenges. But selecting the right plant is only part of the equation. Everyday maintenance practices, such as fertilizing, watering and disposing of grass clippings, can have a direct impact on the health of the city’s canal system.
With more than 400 miles of canals woven throughout the city, what happens in one yard can ultimately affect water quality far beyond the property line.
Did you know?
• The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) recommends maintaining a 10-foot low-maintenance zone along waterways.
• Grass clippings contain nitrogen and phosphorus, the same nutrients found in fertilizers.
• Overwatering can carry fertilizers and sediment into nearby waterways.
• Much of the Cape’s stormwater system ultimately drains into the canal network.
A few simple landscaping practices can help protect water quality year-round.
Don’t fertilize right up to canal edge
One of the most common mistakes waterfront homeowners make is treating the shoreline like the rest of the yard.
The UF/IFAS recommends maintaining a 10-foot low-maintenance zone adjacent to waterways where fertilizers and pesticides are not applied. This simple buffer helps reduce the amount of nutrients that can wash into canals during rainstorms.
Apply fertilizer only when needed and always follow label directions. Proper timing and application rates help plants absorb nutrients before they can be carried away by heavy rain or excessive irrigation.
Know local fertilizer rules
Cape homeowners should also be aware of local fertilizer regulations.
The city generally prohibits the application of nitrogen-containing fertilizer from June 1 through Sept. 30. Restrictions also apply during periods of heavy rain and when tropical storm, hurricane or flood watches and warnings are in effect.
These seasonal restrictions are designed to reduce nutrient runoff during periods when fertilizers are most likely to be washed into waterways.
Keep clippings out of canals, drains
Grass clippings may seem harmless, but they can contribute to water-quality problems.
As clippings decompose, they release nitrogen and phosphorus that can fuel algae growth. Large amounts of organic material entering waterways can also reduce oxygen levels and contribute to the buildup of muck on canal bottoms.
A single pile of grass clippings may seem insignificant, but multiplied across thousands of properties, the cumulative effect can be substantial.
Instead of blowing clippings into the street, storm drain or canal, leave them on the lawn where they can decompose naturally or add them to a compost pile.
Don’t overwater
Water is essential for a healthy landscape, but too much can create problems.
Excess irrigation can wash fertilizer, soil and other materials into nearby canals. Overwatering also wastes water and can encourage shallow root systems, making plants less resilient during dry periods.
The goal is to water deeply but only as needed. Choosing Florida-Friendly plants adapted to local conditions can further reduce irrigation requirements.
Every yard matters
The Cape’s canals do more than provide scenic views. They support wildlife, store stormwater and help define the character of the community.
For canal-front homeowners, protecting water quality does not require major changes. Small steps, such as maintaining a buffer zone, following fertilizer regulations, managing irrigation wisely and keeping grass clippings out of waterways, can make a meaningful difference.
The city’s canals are one of its most valuable assets. By adopting Florida-Friendly Landscaping practices, homeowners can help ensure these waterways remain healthy for future generations while continuing to enjoy beautiful landscapes today.
Jan Bargmann is a member of the Garden Club of Cape Coral and a Master Gardener volunteer with the UF/IFAS Extension Lee County. She also owns a canal home. For more information, visit gardenclubofcapecoral.com or follow on Facebook and Instagram.