Advanced Plant Identification - 4-Part Series
2025-12-27 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-01-03 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-01-10 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-01-17 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-01-24 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-01-31 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-02-07 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-02-14 10:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) and 6 more dates | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, 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).
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Class dates and syllabus:
Week 1, March 8
Plant Classification

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

Week 2, March 15

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

Week 3, March 22

General Terms
Fruits and Seeds
Using a Dichotomous Key

Week 4, March 29

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.

Florida-Friendly Landscaping: Fertilize Appropriately
2026-01-07 19:00 - 20:00 | FL
FFL Principle Number 3, “Fertilize Appropriately,” provides guidance on how to best give your landscape plants the nutrients they need.

This is the fourth in a series of Florida-Friendly Landscaping webinars for residents of Pasco County! (Please register for each individual webinar presentation of the series, as the corresponding Zoom link will be sent out via email two days prior to the event. The Zoom link will only apply to the individual presentation.)
Plants have varying nutrient needs, depending on the species, the age of the plant, and its location. It’s not always necessary to fertilize your plants or lawns, and too much fertilizer can weaken a plant, promote disease, and invite pests, in addition to wasting money and harming the environment. Before you fertilize, you should always determine if it’s really needed, and if there are any local restrictions. If you do fertilize, always follow the fertilizer label directions and UF/IFAS recommended rates and application timings to prevent nutrient runoff and leaching which can pollute Florida’s waters.
Benefits of Fertilizing Appropriately:

Ground and surface waters are protected from pollution
Plant material has the correct color and appearance
Plants flower and fruit appropriately
Fertilizing only when necessary (not overfertilizing) saves money, reduces pest problems, and promotes healthy plant growth
You may be more satisfied with the performance of the landscape plants and turfgrass

What you do in your landscape matters. From the fertilizers you apply to the water you use, your gardening choices can have an impact on land, water, wildlife, and the overall well-being of Florida’s residents.

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The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) Program is here to help you learn how to have healthy and beautiful landscapes that protect Florida’s natural resources by following nine science-based principles:

Right Plant, Right Place
Water Efficiently
Fertilize Appropriately
Mulch
Attract Wildlife
Manage Yard Pests Responsibly
Recycle Yard Waste
Reduce Stormwater Runoff
Protect the Waterfront

A Florida-Friendly landscape can be designed to look the way you want, fit the aesthetics of your community, and suit your lifestyle, while being environmentally sustainable. Join us to learn how!
After registering for this webinar presentation, you will be emailed the Zoom link 2 days prior to the event.
This lecture is presented by Kate Kaste, UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County, FFL Program Manager.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Meet a Master Gardener
2026-01-08 10:30 - 12:30, 2026-01-10 10:30 - 12:30, 2026-02-12 10:30 - 12:30, 2026-02-14 10:30 - 12:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Stop in to talk all things plant-related, like attracting butterflies and birds to your garden and growing vegetables and herbs.
Feel free to bring samples or photos for plant identification or problem solving.
