Plantapalooza III !
2025-01-11 10:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Sunken Gardens, 1825 4th St N, St Petersburg, FL, 33704, United States
Sunken Gardens is proud to host the third annual PLANTAPOLOOZA, a local botanical event dedicated exclusively to Florida native plants.
Originated by The Community Wildlife Corridor, this event seeks to connect the wildlife populations in our largest parks with backyard native gardens. Join us as we celebrate the importance and beauty of Florida’s native plants!
🌱 Browse unique native plants, garden décor, & more for sale by Tampa Bay area vendors.
🌱 Learn from local organizations who are working hard to protect Florida’s plants & pollinators.
🌱 Attend themed lectures by native plant experts.
🌱 Enjoy youth workshops and activities.
🌱 Take home free Florida native plant seedlings (while supplies last).
🌱 Enter for a chance to win a rain barrel from the City of St. Petersburg Water Resources Department (limited quantity).
🌿 Themed lectures:
“The Importance of Home Landscapes in Conservation” by Craig Huegel (Lead curator at USF Botanical Gardens, Author)
“Salt-Tolerant Native Plants” by Amanda Streets (Owner of Living Roots Eco Design & Native Nursery)
🪴 Featured vendors & organizations:
– Living Roots Eco Design & Plant Nursery
– Pinellas Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society
– Art Stone Co.
– Tampa Bay Butterfly Foundation
– Little Red Wagon Native Nursery
– Wise Hands Native Plant Landscaping
– Carnivorous Plants by Kenny Coogan
– All Along the Treeline natural soaps
– JP Charisma native plant grower
– Rock Creations by Christine
– Louise’s Healing Calendula Salve
– Florida Wildflower Foundation
– Take MAR
– UF-IFAS Extension
– Pinellas County Farm Bureau
– Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association
– City of St. Pete Water Resources
Beer, wine, and Italian fare by Carrabba’s will be available to purchase.
❗️Important details:
PLANTAPOLOOZA III is free with Gardens admission or membership.
NOTE: We will not be processing new memberships during this special event. This helps us expedite admissions in a timely manner. We appreciate your understanding.
***Parking is extremely limited due to our shared parking lot. We encourage guests to carpool, ride share, bike, or walk to this special event!***

Farming at Boyd Hill Garden
2025-01-16 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-01-23 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-01-30 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-02-06 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-02-13 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-02-20 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-02-27 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-03-06 15:30 - 17:00 | Pinellas Pioneer Settlement, 3130 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
Fun, hands-on education on organic gardening, raising chickens, and fun activities from 4-H curricula.
Ages 7 yrs – 11 yrs
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Florida Arbor Day Activities & Hike
2025-01-17 09:30 - 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!
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! Get ready to look up and explore the world of trees while exploring a 1.5 mile trail. Geared towards adults.
In case you missed it, we have a whole line-up of activities for Florida Arbor Day:
Ongoing activities all day:

Free Trees (while supplies last)
Hands-on Exploration Stations in the Education Center
Tree Quest (an outdoor scavenger hunt to enhance your hike)

Scheduled activities:

9:30am – THIS Florida Arbor Day Hike (registration required)
10-10:30am- Meet Smokey the Bear with Florida Forestry
10am to noon- Touch-A-Truck with Florida Forestry
1pm- Youth Papermaking (registration required)

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Owls, Hawks, Falcons, Oh My!
2025-01-17 15:30 - 17:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Ages 8 yrs – 12 yrs
Join the St. Petersburg Audubon in exploring our apex predators: RAPTORS!
Participants will have the opportunity to dissect an owl pellet, and with the assistance of charts, identify the prey species the owl dined on.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Third Saturdays at Pinewood Cultural Park
2025-01-18 07:00 - 17:00, 2025-02-15 07:00 - 17:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
Three for one fun at the Florida Botanical Gardens, Creative Pinellas and Heritage Village!
Celebrate at Pinewood (Florida Botanical Gardens, Creative Pinellas, Heritage Village) every Third Saturday of the month.
At the Florida Botanical Gardens (Open 7 AM-5 PM):
Visit the new Majeed Discovery Garden, a 2+ acre addition, connecting children to nature. Our Children’s Garden Educator is hosting a variety of preschool and family programs in the Majeed Discovery Garden on topics like sustainability, sensory exploration, and more. Visit the Event Calendar on our website at www.flbgfoundation.org/events to view all of the programs offered in our Majeed Discovery Garden. For more information, visit www.flbgfoundation.org/childrensgarden.
At Creative Pinellas (Open 10 AM-5 PM):
Visit the Gallery at Creative Pinellas for two must-see exhibitions! Catch the 2024 Emerging Artist Exhibition before it ends on July 21st. Also on display is Threads of Nature: Art Inspired by the Florida Botanical Gardens, featuring works by the Tampa Bay Surface Design Guild that capture nature’s beauty. Feeling inspired? Stop by our drawing room to unleash your inner artist. Free admission and fun for the whole family! For more information: www.creativepinellas.org.
At Heritage Village (Open 10 AM – 4 PM):
Explore the past at Pinellas County’s 21-acre living history museum! Step back in time and take a docent tour of select historic buildings, visit Pinellas County’s oldest structure, and peruse locally-made artisan gifts and souvenirs at the gift shop. Interested in learning more? The Heritage Village app features self-guided walking tours and archival photographs and information about your favorite Heritage Village buildings, historic figures, and artifacts! Download the app for free in your preferred mobile app store by searching “Heritage Village”. Heritage Village is free to visit, pet-friendly, and perfect for all ages! For more information: www.heritagevillagefl.org/

Wildflower Walk
2025-01-18 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of native Florida flowers on this ranger-led hike.
Join us monthly to discover which flowers are in bloom and learn about their unique beauty and ecological importance in our area.
All ages welcome with a registered adult.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

The Life of a Dead Tree
2025-01-18 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
It has been said that a dead tree supports more biodiversity than a live tree! Let’s explore what happens when a tree meets its end. From initial decomposers to larger opportunists, a dead tree becomes a “hive” of activity until it is reduced to dust.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor.
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Nature Riders Adult Bike
2025-01-18 13:00 - 14:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Get ready to pedal your way through nature in our brand new bike hike!
Ages 12 yrs +
This guided bike hike combines the thrill of biking with the beauty of the great outdoors, providing participants with a unique opportunity to explore our trails, enjoy fresh air, and learn about nature along the way.
Please note: only 5 adult bikes and 5 child bikes available.
MUST bring own helmet.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Nature Riders Child Bike
2025-01-18 13:00 - 14:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Get ready to pedal your way through nature in our brand new bike hike!
Ages 7 yrs – 11 yrs
This guided bike hike combines the thrill of biking with the beauty of the great outdoors, providing participants with a unique opportunity to explore our trails, enjoy fresh air, and learn about nature along the way.
Please note: only 5 adult bikes and 5 child bikes available.
MUST bring own helmet.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Taking The Mystery Out Of Micro-irrigation
2025-01-23 13:00 - 15:00 | South Manatee Library, 6081 26th St W, Bradenton, FL, 34207, United States
Learn how to select, install, and operate your own water saving irrigation system.
Join Brian J Rigney, Program Assistant, to discuss an introduction to micro-irrigation. This includes learning to select, install, and operate your own water-saving irrigation system. The discussion will include information regarding the components, and how to assemble and maintain. Come hear the benefits and why it is important to water plants, shrubs and other landscape plants separate from your turfgrass.
This class satisfies the irrigation educational requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Additional Information:
Contact Mr. Rigney (941) 722-4524 X 1828 or BrianRigney@ufl.edu for further class information. Minimum class size required or class will be cancelled and registered attendees will be notified.
For further information on the Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program, contact: Manatee County Utility Department (941) 792-8811 X 5327 or water.conservation@mymanatee.org
Book your FREE irrigation and landscape evaluation with the Mobile Irrigation Lab [MIL]. Call (941) 722-4524 X 1827 and sign up today.
Special Accommodations:
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact Brian Rigney at BrianRigney@ufl.edu or (941) 722-4524 x 1828 at least one week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Marvelous Mangroves
2025-01-24 09:00 - 12:00 | Upper Tampa Bay Park, 8001 Double Branch Road, Tampa, FL, 33635, United States
Marvelous Mangroves:
Ecology, Protection and Maintenance
Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry Agent, Alyssa Vinson and UF/IFAS Sea Grant Agent Armando Ubeda for an in depth look at mangroves.
We will cover their ecology, identification, protection and shoreline maintenance best practices including recommended trimming best practices. This class will be located in the classroom as well as outdoors. Be prepared to walk.
This class has associated ISA approved CEU’s. Contact Alyssa for more information.
There is no cost to attend.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
***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.

In Your Backyard: Build a Bat Box!
2025-01-25 13:00 - 16:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Discover the amazing world of bats and help support local wildlife by building your very own bat box!
Ages 7 yrs +
In this engaging workshop, participants will learn about the importance of bats in our ecosystem, their unique characteristics, and how bat boxes provide essential roosting habitats.
Through hands-on activities, kids (and their adults) will gain practical skills while fostering a love for nature.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Healthy Landscapes
2025-01-30 13:00 - 15:00 | South Manatee Library, 6081 26th St W, Bradenton, FL, 34207, United States
Learn how to have a healthy landscape while saving water.
Will focus on Florida-Friendly Landscape™ tips such as Right Plant vs. Right Place, Watering efficiently, and Mulch benefits.
Presented by Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant with the Mobile Irrigation Lab working with Manatee County Ag Extension, University of Florida, Manatee County Utilities department and Water Conservation.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Communi-Trees: Grant Workshop
2025-01-31 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry Agent, Alyssa Vinson for an introduction to the Hillsborough County community tree grants program.
We will cover the details of the CommuniTrees: Community Tree Grant program offered by Hillsborough County. We will discuss the application process and recommended best practices for trees in communities. Tree planting grants are for established neighborhood groups or associations, not individual property owners.
There is no cost to attend.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
***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.

Nature's Teamwork
2025-02-15 15:30 - 17:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join the St. Petersburg Audubon to discover the intricate relationships in nature, such as parasitism and competition. We’ll examine how these interactions shape ecosystems, often providing benefits but at times devastating host populations in both plants and animal.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

FFL HC Webinar Series: Intro to Nine Principles
2025-02-20 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Join us for the “FFL HC Webinar Series: Intro to Nine Principles,” a comprehensive introduction to the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) principles. This webinar is designed to provide homeowners, community association managers, and landscape professionals with essential knowledge to create sustainable and eco-friendly landscapes.
Why Attend?

Gain science-based insights from UF/IFAS experts.
Learn practical tips for a sustainable and beautiful landscape.
Network with other professionals and enthusiasts in the field.

We will conduct this Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ workshop online, via Zoom. No additional software or extra computer skills are necessary – just click to join!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
NOTE: Registrants will receive an emailed Zoom link to access the Webinar the day before the program. *If you do not receive the Z00M link, please check your SPAM folder for an email with the link. If no link is received, please contact Michael Masucci, masuccim@ufl.edu or at 813-744-5519 Ext. 54142 for assistance.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
This webinar will be 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@HCFL.gov, 813-744-5519 Ext. 54105, at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Pollinator Pots
2025-02-22 14:00 - 15:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Support local pollinators such as butterflies and birds by making a pollinator pot to put on your porch or balcony!
Bring a 12″ – 18″ pot and we will provide the native plants and soil!
All ages welcome with a registered adult. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Salt Tolerant Plants & Irrigating with Reclaimed Water
2025-02-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Lakewood Ranch Library, 16410 Rangeland Parkway, Bradenton, FL, 34211, United States
Part of the Water Conservation collection

Learn about the Benefits of Salt Tolerant Plants and other considerations when Irrigating with Reclaimed Water.
Presented by Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant with the Mobile Irrigation Lab working with Manatee County Ag Extension, University of Florida, Manatee County Utilities department and Water Conservation.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Composting Workshop
2025-03-01 08:30 - 09:30 | Hillsborough County Extension, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
This workshop will be offered IN PERSON in the Extension Service Conference Center. Our address is: 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584.
COMPOSTING: Learn how to put your everyday food waste and organic materials to work for you! Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees will receive a compost bin, compost bucket and thermometer after attending the workshop. (Limit 1 per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.) Please arrive 15 minutes before the program starts.
REGISTER HERE

Microirrigation Workshop
2025-03-01 09:30 - 11:00 | Hillsborough County Extension, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn how to save water when watering your garden.
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
MICROIRRIGATION: 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.) Please arrive 15 minutes before the program starts.
REGISTER HERE

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop
2025-03-01 11:00 - 12:00 | Hillsborough County Extension, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Harvest some of that rain to help in your garden!
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
This workshop will be held in the Conference Center at our office, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584.
RAINWATER HARVESTING: Learn how to collect rainwater for ornamental plant irrigation while reducing erosion and stormwater runoff, and the use of non-potable water for irrigation. Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees will receive one 45-55 gallon plastic food-grade barrel after attending the workshop. (Limit 1 per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.) Please arrive15 minutes before the program starts.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Backyard Composting on Zoom
2025-03-05 11:00 - 12:00 | ZOOM, United States
Composting – learn how to turn trash into treasure!
This workshop is for Hillsborough County residents/employees only.
BACKYARD COMPOSTING: Learn to turn trash into treasure! Hillsborough County residents/employees will receive a compost bin, compost bucket and thermometer after attending the workshop. (1 per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.)
Since you are attending this workshop on Zoom, you will need to make an appointment with our receptionist at 813-744-5519 to come in and pick up your items. All items must be picked up within 30 days of the date of the workshop. No exceptions.

>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
