GREEN SPACE MOWING
The green spaces include all the ground along the ditches, swales, and the four triangles, such as at the end of Ligustrum. Mowing contracts typically begin at the end of April or the beginning of May, depending on the height and appearance of the grass in these areas. We may start sooner than we did in 2025 if conditions warrant. If spring is warmer and the rainy season begins earlier, the grass will grow more quickly. There is an extra charge if an earlier mowing is needed. As a general guideline, mowing is triggered when the grass reaches a height of nine inches or more. Our goal is for the green spaces to look well-maintained but not manicured like a golf course. It is important to keep in mind that the cost to mow these areas is a large portion of the POA budget.
CUL-DU-SAC MAINTENANCE
The city owns the cul-du-sacs but does not plan extensive beautification. Residents are permitted to plant and maintain these areas within reasonable guidelines. The city will provide up to three trees and five shrubs for each cul-du-sac. For a full list of available tree and shrub species, visit the city’s website at Cul-De-Sac Maintenance Policy | City of Punta Gorda, FL. Examples include Foxtail Palms, Christmas Palms, and several native shrubs. A few years ago, we collaborated with the city to plant and enhance all the cul-du-sacs. Many sites have existing queen palms; if these palms were originally planted by the city, city crews will manage trimming and will remove dead trees as needed. Replacement trees will always be self-pruning palms, such as Foxtail or Christmas Palms. Each year, as requested by the board, the city supplies bagged mulch for the cul-du-sacs, but it is our responsibility to spread it. Many cul-du-sacs are maintained by neighbors, and their efforts are greatly appreciated. Our contracted weed control service avoids spraying areas with healthy plantings to prevent accidental damage; this decision is made by the contractor based on their assessment. We are pursuing hiring a contractor to trim shrubs and perform other necessary maintenance tasks.
