Sanibel • Lee County
Plant & Shrub Installation in Sanibel, FL
Sanibel has its own vegetation standards, and they are stricter than most of Lee County. For new development, the city expects at least 75 percent of trees, shrubs and groundcovers to be native, counted within each category, with the rest limited to non-competing exotics. In the Gulf Beach Zone the code goes further and calls for native species only, with coconut palms allowed. The city also bans planting eight invasive exotics it lists by name, including Brazilian pepper, melaleuca, scaevola and mother-in-law's tongue, along with other species the state flags as invasive. The city publishes a list of natives that nurseries actually carry, which is the practical starting point. Hurricane Ian's surge, which reached 9 to 13 feet above ground on the island's east end, killed the roots of many plants, and SCCF has noted that some natives such as buttonwood and gumbo limbo declined from lingering salt. Hodges plants from the native list and favors salt-hardy species for exposed spots.
or call (239) 301-9455
Where it comes up in Sanibel
Gulf Pines
Beachview
Sanibel Estates
Shell Harbor
Plants and materials that suit it in Sanibel
Questions
Do my new plants have to be native on Sanibel?
For new development, the city's standards call for at least 75 percent native trees, shrubs and groundcovers, and the Gulf Beach Zone allows only natives plus coconut palms. Existing landscapes are encouraged to go native. The city's Natural Resources Department can confirm what applies to your lot.
Which plants am I not allowed to plant?
Sanibel lists eight: Brazilian pepper, melaleuca, earleaf acacia, Java plum, scaevola, lead tree, mother-in-law's tongue and air potato. It also bars species flagged by the state, such as carrotwood, seaside mahoe and Mexican petunia, and Australian pine cannot be planted anywhere in Florida.
Does my landscaper need any city credential?
The city requires vegetation contractors and fertilizer applicators to complete its Vegetation Competency and Fertilizer Endorsement course and exam, and it keeps a public list of certified contractors. The Vegetation Committee suggests asking any contractor whether those credentials are current.