Advanced Plant Identification - 4-Part Series
2025-03-08 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-03-15 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-03-22 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-03-29 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-05 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-12 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-19 10:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-26 10:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | 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).
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
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.

Introduction to Beekeeping
2025-03-09 11:00 - 13:00, 2025-03-23 11:00 - 13:00, 2025-03-30 11:00 - 13:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Introduction to Beekeeping:
A Hobby with Sweet Rewards
~ 3 Sessions ~
This program will introduce you to the basics of honey bees, their behavior, biology and the guiding principles of beekeeping.
Instructor: Robert Burkard, President of the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve’s Beekeepers Club
Why honey bees? In addition to the personal satisfaction of harvesting your own pure natural honey, many of our food staples would disappear without honey bees for pollination. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, these under-appreciated workers pollinate 80 percent of our flowering crops, which constitute one-third of everything we eat. Hobbyist beekeepers play a vital role in keeping our honey bee population healthy.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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. Follow signs to the auditorium.
Want to take the entire series?
Register for Part 2 on Sunday March 23 here!
Register for Part 3 on Sunday March 30 here!

Farming at Boyd Hill Garden
2025-03-13 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-03-20 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-03-27 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-04-03 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-04-10 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-04-17 15:30 - 17:00, 2025-04-24 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 <<<

FFL HC Webinar Series: Right Plant, Right Place
2025-03-20 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Discover the secret to a thriving, low-maintenance landscape that’s perfect for our Florida climate. Learn how to choose plants that not only survive but thrive in your specific yard conditions.
What You’ll Learn:

How to match plants to your yard’s unique environment
Tips for reducing water use and pest problems
Tricks to create a stunning, sustainable landscape

The mission is to educate Floridians about environmentally friendly landscaping practices and to encourage them to conserve and protect our water resources by applying Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Principles in their landscapes.
Register now and take the first step towards a smarter, greener landscape. Your plants (and water bill) will thank you!
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.

Military Agriculture Tour (MAT X)
2025-03-28 08:00 - 16:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
To introduce active duty and transitioning personnel, veterans, and their spouses to the diversity of agriculture within Hillsborough County and the diversity of career opportunities in a modern agricultural operation.
The tour will start and end at UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County, 5339 CR 579, Seffner, FL 33584
The bus will leave HC Extension at 0830, prior to that coffee and donuts will be available. Lunch will be provided and we will return to HC Extension by 1600.
Highlights of the tour will include a visit to a tropical aquaculture farm, Astin Farms, a tour of the UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, and other Hillsborough County farms.
Cost is $5 which includes lunch. Seating is limited.
Please be sure to wear appropriate clothing and closed-toed shoes.
Please be advised NO REFUNDS
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
For more information contact: Simon Bollin, Hillsborough County Agribusiness Development Manager, 813-853-1086 or bollins@HCFLGov.net.

Micro-Irrigation Hands On Workshop
2025-03-29 10:00 - 11:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
Here’s the link to sign up:
https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/microirrigation-hands-on-workshops-4095803

What Should You Be Planting Right Now?
2025-03-30 13:00 - 14:00 | ZOOM, United States
Spring is here—are you planting the right things at the right time?
On March 30th, I’m hosting a free webinar where we’ll go over the best crops to plant this time of year, key timing strategies, and simple ways to get a stronger, healthier garden.
Whether you’re just starting or have been gardening for years, this will help you plant with confidence.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

No Foolin'! Myths & Misconceptions about Tree Care
2025-04-01 12:00 - 13:00 | ZOOM, United States
Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry Agents, Alyssa and Jaime while we discuss common misconceptions about tree care. We will cover everything from normal abnormalities, to pruning cuts, mushrooms and more!
We will conduct this Webinar 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 upon registration and a reminder email with the link the day prior. *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 Angie Maki at 813-744-5519 Ext. 54127 for assistance.
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.
The University of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Institution.

Microirrigation Workshop
2025-04-05 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
2025-04-05 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
2025-04-09 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 <<<

FFL HC Webinar Series: Water Efficiently
2025-04-17 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Dive into the world of smart water use with our upcoming Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ webinar!
The mission is to educate Floridians about environmentally friendly landscaping practices and to encourage them to conserve and protect our water resources by applying Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Principles in their landscapes.
Don’t let your garden become a water hog! Learn how to create a water-wise oasis that’s both beautiful and environmentally friendly. Bring your questions for our live Q&A session with UF/IFAS experts
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.

Soil Building Workshop
2025-04-22 10:00 - 11:30 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn how to build soil fertility to grow healthy vegetables, fruit trees, ornamentals, palms and turf in your home landscape.
Learn how to use organic matter and fertilizer to create healthy soils. Florida soil is sandy, and most plants benefit from some soil amendments. Learn about the special fertility needs of different types of plants including vegetables, fruit trees, ornamentals, palms and turf. This class will cover types of fertilizer, timing of application, methods of applying fertilizer, soil building strategies, mulch and compost. This class will be held in person and attendees will receive a free sample of worm castings. This class will be taught by Tia Silvasy, Residential Horticulture Agent with UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County and Mark Robinson of Revival Gardening.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.

Edible Landscaping
2025-04-24 11:00 - 12:30 | Hillsborough County Extension, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™
Learn how to grow vegetables, herbs, fruits, and other foods in a Florida-Friendly way!
Learn to select varieties of edibles to plant in your landscape that grow well in Florida in a way that conserves water, builds soil, and reduces pesticide use. This class is for gardeners interested in expanding their own edible landscapes, with information about creating a backyard garden that delivers fresh food in an affordable, sustainable way. Participants who attend will receive plant starts and seeds of a variety of plants that may include dragonfruit, papaya, pigeon peas, sweet potato, tropical spinach and turmeric.
>>> 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: Tia Silvasy, tsilvasy@ufl.edu, 813-744-5519 Ext. 54145, at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Green Thumb Festival
2025-04-26 09:00 - 16:00 | Walter Fuller Park, 7891 26th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL, 33710, United States
St. Petersburg’s annual Arbor Day Celebration, the Green Thumb Festival, brings together plant and flower lovers, as well as, individuals and families looking for a fun weekend activity. With more than 120 garden, plant and flower vendors and exhibitors, the annual event brings the community together for a weekend of fun.
Parking is available at Azalea Middle School and behind Walter Fuller Recreation Center. Handicap parking is located at the Walter Fuller Recreation Center’s main parking lot and the Walter Fuller Pool parking lot.

Youth Activities & Adult Workshops

All workshops are free and open to the public. Spots are limited. Preregistration is encouraged.
REGISTER HERE

Saturday, April 26 Program Schedule
9:30 AM | Herb Planters (Adult Workshop)
UF/IFAS Master Gardeners will discuss container herb gardening and assist with planter creation. Sponsored by Pinellas County Farm Bureau.
11:00 AM | Attracting Animals to Your Yards (All Ages Interactive Presentation)
Learn which native plants attract wildlife and pollinators. Participants will plant a native species in a takeaway container to grow at home.
12:00 PM | From Seed to Slice: Creating a Pizza Garden with Kids (Family Interactive Presentation)
Create a pizza garden in a self-watering container or bucket! Youth will learn about plant growth, self-watering systems, and the benefits of homegrown food.
1:00 PM | Botanical Printmaking with Gelli Prints (All Ages Workshop)
Create and take home beautiful, one-of-a-kind artwork with amazing colors and textures using natural materials.
2:00 PM | All About Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (Adult Presentation)
Learn how to apply the Nine Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) for a beautiful, low-maintenance, and water-saving yard. Discover easy, eco-friendly techniques that conserve resources and reduce costs.

Sunday, April 27 Program Schedule
9:30 AM | Mixed Flower Garden: Fillers, Spillers, and Thrillers (Adult Workshop)
UF/IFAS Master Gardeners will guide attendees in designing flower planters. Plant and container selection will vary. Sponsored by Pinellas County Farm Bureau.
11:00 AM | Nature’s Team Work (All Ages Presentation)
Discover how plants and animals interact in ecosystems through food, shelter, and camouflage.
1:00 PM | Skulls and Tracks (All Ages Interactive Presentation)
Learn to identify animal tracks and skulls in your yard or nature areas. Discover how skulls reveal an animal’s diet and create your own track ID guide.
2:00 PM | Orchids 101 (Adult Presentation)
Mike Pollen will demonstrate how to repot an orchid and provide care tips.

Flower Show

The Garden Club of St. Petersburg displays their creativity through juried floral designs and crafts representing gardens from around the world. Exhibits are designed with a new theme each year.
The public is invited to vote for the best of show in both the horticulture and floral design category.
Judging occurs the Friday before the festival and awards are given to the winners at the festival on Sunday at 3 p.m. inside Walter Fuller Recreation Center. All judges are from clubs within the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs District VIII and use standards set by the National Garden Clubs, Inc. and use standards set by the National Garden Clubs, Inc. For more information on the Garden Club, visit www.gardenclubstpetersburg.org.
