Vegetable Microirrigation Workshop on ZOOM
2023-12-06 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | ZOOM, United States
Get some help for a successful vegetable garden.
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
Learn how to grow vegetables with the convenience of a microirrigation kit. It will conserve water and save time. Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees will receive a vegetable microirrigation kit after attending this workshop. (Limit 1 kit per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.) Participants can schedule a time/date to pick up the kit.
This workshop will be offered remotely through Zoom. You do not need additional software or more than basic computer skills to attend.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
Closed captioned for the hearing impaired.

Botany Walk
2023-12-08 08:00 - 09:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
We will identify wildflowers, ferns, epiphytes, trees and more. The ecology of various plant communities will also be examined. Best suited for adult participants. Registration is required.
This is a free hike, however space is limited. Please be courteous and do not register unless you plan to attend and cancel your reservation if you can no longer attend.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Guided Hike Information

Guided hikes are under a mile in length, much of which is on unimproved, uneven sandy trails.
Hikes take about two (2) hours to complete.
Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers or boots.
Insect repellent (bug spray) is strongly recommended in summer months.
Bring plenty of drinking water.
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.
Pets are not permitted.
No smoking is allowed.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.

UF/IFAS Extension provides practical edu

Pollinator Garden Workday!
2023-12-09 08:00 - 21:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Pollinator Garden Workday at Moccasin Lake Nature Park!
2nd Saturdays of the month at 8am!
Hello beautiful plant people!
I recommend water, sunscreen, and a hat. It will be quite hot and humid. The park provides gloves, but if you have your own, it may be a good idea to bring them.
Meet by Garden Lodge (brown building). We will be doing general weeding, pruning, and clean-up in anticipation for planting new native plants in the fall. I hope to see everyone there! Let us know you are coming at 727-562-4315, ext. 1.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Pinellas’ Native Epiphytes
2023-12-20 14:00 - 15:00 | ZOOM, United States
“Air Plants” grow in a variety of surprising habitats in Pinellas County. Learn the life history, biology and ecology of these special plants and lichens from a Pinellas County Extension Specialist. Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Hukyu Bonsai Society Meeting
2023-12-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Learn the art and techniques of bonsai. Meets 2nd & 4th Saturdays of each month from 10am to 2pm.
No meetings in May.
Learn more at facebook.com/hukyubonsaisociety

Butterfly and Bird-Attracting Native Plants & Trees
2024-01-04 10:00 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn how to attract birds & butterflies with natives!
Bird and butterfly populations are in decline worldwide and their fates are intertwined. Join us for an informative class about what we each can do in our own backyards and neighborhoods by adding appropriate plants and changing practices to support these beautiful creatures and bring life back into our communities.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Special Accommodations:
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact our office at (941) 722-4524 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Botany Walk
2024-01-12 09:30 - 11:00, 2024-03-08 09:30 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join James Stevenson to explore the fascinating plants found at Brooker Creek Preserve!
We will identify wildflowers, ferns, epiphytes, trees and more. The ecology of various plant communities will also be examined. Best suited for adult participants. Registration is required.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
This is a free hike, however space is limited. Please be courteous and do not register unless you plan to attend and cancel your reservation if you can no longer attend.
Guided Hike Information

Guided hikes are under a mile in length, much of which is on unimproved, uneven sandy trails.
Hikes take about two (2) hours to complete.
Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers or boots.
Insect repellent (bug spray) is strongly recommended in summer months.
Bring plenty of drinking water.
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.
Pets are not permitted.
No smoking is allowed.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.

Wildlife & Plant Identification
2024-01-13 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
This program invites adults and children to develop various camping skills together. Some of the topics covered include: wildlife and plant identification, foil wrapped foods, backpacking basics, and much more! All ages welcome with a registered adult. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Nine Principles
2024-01-16 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Join us for a presentation on the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Nine Principles! Let’s create sustainable landscapes together!
This presentation is for Hillsborough County residents/employees only.
Join us for a presentation on the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Nine Principles! Explore the essential benchmarks for recognition and acquire valuable insights into crafting an attractive, environmentally conscious landscape that aligns with the program’s guidelines. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just beginning, this event is customized for you. Our presentation will walk you through the steps to meet the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ criteria for recognition, providing valuable knowledge about the Nine Principles that support environmentally mindful landscaping in Florida. Be part of a community of like-minded individuals committed to developing resilient and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces.
This workshop will be offered online via ZOOM. No additional software is required and only basic computer skills are necessary.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
**Registrants will receive an emailed Zoom link to access the Webinar the day before the program. *If you do not receive the Zoom link, please check your spam folder for an email from Angie Maki (makia@hillsboroughcounty.org). If no link is received, please contact Angie at 813-744-5519 Ext. 54127 for assistance.
Closed captioned for the hearing impaired.
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact Lynn Barber, barberl@hillsboroughcounty.org or 813-744-5519 ext. 54105 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
For questions contact: Michael Masucci at: 813-744-5519 ext. 54146 or MasucciM@ufl.edu.
The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.

The Gift of Trees
2024-01-18 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join us for a crash course in trees. We will cover the value of trees in our communities, tree selection and planting, maintenance, pruning and long term care considerations.

Youth Florida Forest Hike
2024-01-19 09:00 - 10:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Venture out on the trails with Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan to learn all about her most favorite thing…TREES!
In honor of Florida Arbor Day, we are celebrating TREES! Join Lara on a hike to learn about all of the amazing things these giant plants can do! Targeted for elementary and middle school aged youth.
Meet in the Education Center. Registration is required. Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
In case you missed it, we have a whole line-up of activities for Florida Arbor Day:
9am – THIS Youth Florida Forest Hike
11am – Youth Papermaking Class!
All Day – Hands-on Exploration Stations in the Education Center

Introduction to Tree Identification
2024-01-20 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Celebrate Florida Arbor Day!
In honor of Florida Arbor Day, we are celebrating TREES!
There are hundreds of tree species in Florida and identification can be overwhelming, but we have to start somewhere! Join your local Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan as she walks you through the basics you need to know to begin your tree identification journey. This will include a 45-minute presentation targeted for adults. Come ready to take notes!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
Additional Notes: This program will be held in our auditorium. It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot, and there is a 2-5 minute walk from the parking lot to the auditorium.

Basic Irrigation Operations & Maintenance
2024-01-23 14:00 - 16:00 | Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217, United States
Learn about the basic operations and maintenance of your in-ground irrigation system.
This class will satisfy the irrigation educational class requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Rebate Program. For further information on the Outdoor Water Rebate Program, contact: Manatee County Utility Department – Tina (941) 792-8811 X 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Salt Tolerant Plants
2024-01-24 10:00 | Manatee County Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217-1516, United States
‘Learn which plants are Salt tolerant and other choices to consider for your landscape’
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Community Tree Care for HOA's
2024-02-07 09:00 - 12:00 | FL
Beneath the Canopy:
Community Tree Care for HOA’s
Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry experts, local professional arborists and county staff to learn the ins and outs of managing the trees in your community. Walk away from this workshop with workable templates, examples and a knowledge of tree care best management practices.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Special Accommodations:
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact our office at (941) 722-4524 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
Schedule:
Wednesday, February 7 at Braden River Library
Tuesday, April 2 at Palma Sola Botanical Garden
Wednesday, August 21 at TBD (Lakewood Ranch)
Wednesday, October 9 at Palma Sola Botanical Garden

Native Plant Hike
2024-02-10 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Immerse yourself in the world of native Florida plant species on this ranger-led hike.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

CEUs2U
2024-02-15 08:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
This webinar is packed with valuable insights and information that will help you stay current in landscape and pest management.

There is a lot to learn about horticulture! This webinar is packed with valuable insights and information that will help you stay at the top of your game in landscape maintenance.
8 am – 10 am Core Topics TBA
1 0 am – 12 noon Dr. Phil Harmon discussing Sugarcane Mosaic Virus/Lethal Viral Necrosis in turf. SCMV leads to Lethal Viral Necrosis (LVN), resulting in the demise of Floratam lawns typically within three years of being infected. The virus is now confirmed in counties in North, Central, and South Florida. Recent lab reports confirm the disease is present in Hillsborough and Sarasota Counties. Learn how to recognize and manage this disease – there is no cure.
CEUs (4 total):
Core – 2 in Chapter 487 or 482
Landscape/Fertilizer Track – 2 in LUF, L&O, LLO, LCLM, CLO, O&T or ROW
Webinar Information:
You will receive a Zoom link from Eventbrite to your email given in registration to attend the event the day before the event starts. If you have any questions, contact Susan Haddock at szcrmchz@ufl.edu or (813)744-5519 Ext. 54103. CEUs will be provided within 3 days following the event via email.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Intro to Plant Identification
2024-02-17 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Explore the major plant groups!
Join a local Extension specialist and examine the basics of plant identification, from using simple keys to identifying critical characteristics that will help any would-be botanist in the field. An emphasis will be placed on flowering plants.
This class will provide a basic introduction to plant identification. This class is recommended as a precursor for anyone interested in taking our Advanced Plant Identification series in March.
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Branching Out: Your Voice, Our Trees
2024-02-17 13:00 - 15:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
A community conversation on urban trees in public spaces.
Talk About Trees
Join us for a world cafe where we will talk about trees and their role in our communities!
Pinellas County is embarking on the development of their first-ever Urban Forestry Master Plan for unincorporated and they are seeking YOUR input to help guide this plan. Urban trees play a critical role in our daily lives and the County wants to ensure they are managed in a resilient and sustainable manner. It’s very important to the County to get your input about trees in our public spaces so they can better understand the benefits and challenges about urban trees.
What is a world cafe?
We will create a comfortable environment where you will feel encouraged to talk to fellow participants at roundtables about trees! Different tables will have different questions. You will get a chance to hear from your community members on their thoughts while also expressing your own. You will rotate around to different tables with different questions where your thoughts will be documented. Following the forum, all of the input provided will be summarized and provided to the County to identify common themes that will help guide their Urban Forestry Master Plan.
Who can participate?
Anyone that lives in unincorporated areas of Pinellas County. Unsure? Check out this map.
This is a unique opportunity for you to share your feedback!
Refreshments will be provided. We want to hear from you. Don’t delay and register today!

Silent Sentinels
2024-02-20 11:30 - 13:00 | Online Event
Learn about long-lived trees!
Join UF/IFAS Extension to learn about long lived trees, their history, cultural significance and how we can manage for their care in urban environments.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
Special Accommodations:
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact our office at (941) 722-4524 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Healthy Landscapes
2024-02-22 09:30 - 11:00 | Rocky Bluff Library, 6750 US Highway 301 North, Ellenton, FL, 34222, United States
Part of the Water Conservation collection will focus on Florida-Friendly Landscape tips such as Right Plant-Right Place, Watering efficiently and Mulch benefits.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Gardening From the Ground Up
2024-02-22 10:30 - 15:30 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn the secrets, Gardening From the Ground Up.
This workshop is for Hillsborough County residents/employees only.
Kick off the new year on a journey to transform your landscape by attending our upcoming event at Extension. Learn from five compelling presentations covering a range of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ topics.
Topics include, Landscape Design tips, the efficiency of Patio Microirrigation, the significance of Healthy Soil for Urban Gardeners, insights about the weeds in your landscape, and the criteria for FFL Home Landscape Recognition.
These presentations offer a wealth of knowledge to enhance your gardening skills and contribute to a more sustainable and attractive community.
Join us for informative sessions and enjoy lunch as you connect with fellow residents passionate about creating environmentally friendly landscapes.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Florida Forests Hike
2024-03-01 09:00 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Venture out along the Flatwoods Trail loop with Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan to learn all about her most favorite thing…TREES!
Get ready to look up and explore the world of trees. Lara tends to throw in some surprises on her hikes, so be ready when she asks for volunteers!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Microirrigation Workshop on Zoom
2024-03-02 08:30 - 10:00 | ZOOM, United States
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
Learn how you can have healthy and attractive landscape beds while conserving water. This irrigation method not only conserves water, but is not limited by current water restrictions as is traditional in-ground irrigation. Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees will receive a microirrigation kit after attending the workshop. (Limit 1 kit per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.)
NOTE: You will need to make an appointment with our receptionist at 813-744-5519 to come in and pick up your items after May 16th. All items must be picked up within 30 days of the date of the workshop. No exceptions.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Pollinator Hike
2024-03-03 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
This family hike combines the outdoor experience with the educational aspects of discovering the various species of pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, that keep our planet growing.
All ages welcome with a registered adult. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Grafting & Air Layering
2024-03-05 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Grafting & air layering techniques!
Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry Agent, Alyssa Vinson for an interactive skill building workshop all about grafting and air layering. Be prepared to practice.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact: VinsonA@HCFL.gov, 813-744-5519 Ext. 54106, at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Bugs, Bugs, Bugs - Spring Vegetable Gardening Series
2024-03-06 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Let us answer all of your insect and pest questions!
Do you want to learn more about pests and beneficial insects? During this 2-hour class we’ll cover insect life cycles, management, identification, and more. For more information, please contact Mack Lessig at (941) 722-4524 ext. 1821 or mlessig@ufl.edu.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Vegetable Microirrigation Workshop on ZOOM
2024-03-08 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Get some help for a successful vegetable garden.
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
Learn how to grow vegetables with the convenience of a microirrigation kit. It will conserve water and save time. Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees will receive a vegetable microirrigation kit after attending this workshop. (Limit 1 kit per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.) Participants can schedule a time/date to pick up the kit.
This workshop will be offered remotely through Zoom. You do not need additional software or more than basic computer skills to attend.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Advanced Plant Identification - 4-Part Series
2024-03-09 08:00 - 17:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
This four-part plant identification series will introduce participants to the steps required to positively identify plants.
Plant identification is based on close observation of morphological characteristics, contextual clues and lots of practice. This four–part advanced plant identification series will introduce participants to these concepts and the associated vocabulary of the plant scientist.
The class follows the contents of Harrington’s “How to Identify Plants” (1957); a copy of which is provided to each registrant. This concise text contains a comprehensive vocabulary of terms and illustrations to help clarify concepts.
A packet of supplemental educational materials will also be provided to each registrant.
About this Event
During each 4-hour classroom event, participants will engage in a participatory lecture, and have plenty of time for Q & A. The final session will be a hands-on workshop that will include graduates from previous courses. Each session will build on the previous; attending the entire series is recommended.
Classes are four consecutive Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bio-breaks are factored into the schedule for each day! Bring a bag-lunch (refrigeration and a microwave are available).
Class dates and syllabus:
Week 1, March 9
Plant Classification

Parts of a Flower
Inflorescence Types
Non-Flowering Plant Identification
Read Harrington Chapter I – V

Week 2, March 16

Roots-n-Shoots
Leaves
Surfaces
Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae
Read Harrington Chapters VI – XI

Week 3, March 23

General Terms
Fruits and Seeds
Using a Dichotomous Key

Week 4, March 30

Review, general questions
Hands-on Workshop with former graduates
Graduation!

Upon completion of the entire course, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion from the University of Florida.
Graduates will have access to several hands-on workshops and additional information throughout the year to help stay engaged with the practice of plant identification.
Class fee includes all materials and textbook. Registration will CLOSE on March 6.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
