In the past on a visit to Busch Gardens, celebrating 50 years of gardens, you would have seen ten thousand thirsty azaleas in magnificent displays of color. Most prominently in the spring but there were fall and winter blooming azaleas too. Flash forward to today and we have millions of residents and visitors competing for a limited amount of springtime dry season water in our coastal communities. The amazing gardeners and planners at Busch Gardens have transformed this theme park into a paradise of color using Florida Friendly Landscaping techniques and Florida Friendly Plants. Gone are the big brass rainbird sprinklers going clack-clack-clack as they sprayed millions of gallons of water into the air with only 50% hitting targeted thirsty azaleas. Today you see drip and micro irrigation. Well targeted sprays and extensive areas that rely on only rainfall. Annuals are used judiciously for color impact. Containers are planted and placed where they use less water and put on spectacular displays of color. Rain water is collected and reused. Busch Gardens recycles and follows the 9 principles of Florida Friendly Landscaping. Enjoy this slideshow and see if you can get any ideas to help you beautify your own garden with long lasting and efficient colorful plants.

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