You just closed on a home in Central Florida and the yard is either bare dirt, dead grass, or someone else’s neglected landscaping. Where do you even start? Here is a practical step-by-step guide for new Florida homeowners.

Step 1: Assess What You Have

Before you spend a dollar, walk your property and note:

• Sun and shade patterns throughout the day
• Soil type (most of Central Florida is sandy)
• Existing trees and plants worth keeping
• Drainage issues (low spots, standing water after rain)
• Irrigation system condition (if one exists)
• HOA rules for landscaping, fencing, and tree removal

Step 2: Start With the Lawn

Your lawn is the biggest visual element. In Central Florida, sod installation is the fastest way to get a green yard. St. Augustine is the most popular choice for our area. Zoysia works well in partial shade. Bahia is the budget option for large lots.

Step 3: Plan Your Garden Beds

Define your garden bed areas before planting anything. Use aluminum edging or stone borders to create clean lines between lawn and beds. Fill beds with 2 to 3 inches of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Stick with native and Florida-friendly plants that handle our heat, humidity, and sandy soil without constant attention.

Step 4: Address Drainage

Florida’s flat terrain and heavy rains mean drainage matters. If water pools near your foundation or sits in your yard for days, fix it now before it becomes a bigger problem. A French drain or simple regrading can solve most residential drainage issues.

Step 5: Consider Hardscaping

Patios, walkways, and retaining walls add structure and usability to your outdoor space. A paver walkway from the driveway to the front door is one of the highest-impact curb appeal upgrades you can make.

Get Professional Help

DeAngelos Land Services is a full-service landscape contractor serving Lake Mary, Sanford, Orlando, and Central Florida. Whether you need sod, garden beds, irrigation, or a complete landscape installation, we handle it all.

We are BBB A+ rated, Google Guaranteed, and backed by 164+ five-star reviews. Veterans receive a 10% discount.

Call (386) 675-2303 or request a free estimate today.