Geography

• Florida has a diverse geography, and outdoor plants vary widely because of the differences in altitude as well as proximity to the ocean. It is situated between the Gulf of Mexico on the West Coast and the Atlantic Ocean on the East Coast, and most of the soil in Florida was influenced by deposits from fluctuations in the sea level, according to the UF/IFAS.
  
  

Location

• Outdoor plants growing closer to the ocean may experience differing extremes of salt in the soil due to the ocean spray and prior deposits from the changing sea level. Depending on the elevation of the land, outdoor plants might suffer if they are too bogged down in runoff water, which leads to an overabundance of rotting organic matter as well as water-logged soil.
  
  

Food deficiencies

• Fertilizing your outdoor plants can address issues such as the appearance, growth habits and nutrient deficiencies in the soil around your home. Certain nutrient deficiencies may be characterized by browning leaves, faded color, slow growth and yellowing. Starting with good quality soil is ideal but not always the case when planting outdoor landscaping in Florida. The Master Gardener recommends using time release pellets to address a variety of nutrient issues. To determine soil deficiencies, bring a sample of your soil to a gardening center or to the UF/IFAS Extension office for testing.
  
  

When fertilizer is not necessary

• The growth cycle in Florida can be continuous, meaning plants do not have a dormant phase in which to rest and absorb nutrients before flowering or producing fruit once again. This can be problematic, but not always. You may not need to fertilize your outdoor plants if they do not appear to be tiring, or if they are flowering or producing fruit. Fertilizing during a fertile stage may hinder the growth of your plants.
  
  

Ordinances

• There are ordinances in Florida that specify the amount and type of fertilizer that is allowed to be placed on your lawn and landscape. These ordinances are generally set by each township and usually are in place to prevent leaching of fertilizer and other chemicals into the water supply. Check with your local township for the local ordinances concerning fertilization before undertaking any steps to alter your landscape.