Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Groundbreaking Groundcovers!
2025-03-20 11:00 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | Palma Sola Botanical Garden, 9800 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Learn about the many different beautiful groundcover options for trouble spots in your yard where it is difficult to grow grass!

Farming at Boyd Hill Garden
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 | 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 <<<

Youth Spring Break Pollinator Party
2025-03-21 13:00 - 14:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Learn about our native pollinators!
Take a pollinator walk, safely catch and study some insect friends, complete a scavenger hunt, then create seed-balls to take home so you can create a pollinator habitat of your own!
Recommended for youth ages 7 & up. Registration is required.
Space is limited and this program will cap at 20 participants. Please register just your child (children). This is not a drop-off program. Meet in front of the auditorium.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Advanced Plant Identification - 4-Part Series
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 | 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
2025-03-23 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!

Design Your Landscape to Your Site Conditions
2025-03-27 13:30 - 15:30 | Palmetto Library, 923 6th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn about the many facets to consider for designing your landscape & plant selection.
Co-presented by:
Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant with the Manatee County Mobile Irrigation Lab and the University of Florida, Manatee County Ag Extension.
Susan Griffith, Florida Friendly Landscape Coordinator, working with the University of Florida, Manatee County Ag Extension.
Manatee County’s Mobile Irrigation Lab program is supported by the Manatee County Utilities department, celebrated 20 years in 2023. The focus of the program is to educate homeowners on how to use the least amount of water and still have a healthy landscape.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Special Butterfly Walk!
2025-03-29 09:00 - 11:00 | Folly Farms Nature Preserve, 1538 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street North, Safety Harbor, FL, 34695, United States
Field Trip Leader: Ron Smith
Location: Folly Farms Nature Preserve
1538 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street North, Safety Harbor, Florida 34695
Meet at the parking lot. This walk and butterfly introduction day should feature several species of hairstreaks and other early season butterflies. Spectacular native plants display.
What to Bring:
Hat, Binoculars, Water, Insect repellent, Sunscreen

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

Wildflower Walk
2025-03-29 13:00 - 14:30 | 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 <<<

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.

Native Garden Tour - Extension Office
2025-04-04 10:00 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Tour the native gardens at the UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County Office in Palmetto, FL.
Are you interested in learning more about Florida native plants, and how you can incorporate more native plants into your existing landscape? Join us for an informative, one hour walking tour of our mostly native plant landscape at UF IFAS Extension Manatee County where you can see a wide variety of native plants and learn about caring for them from the folks who maintain them.
You will have the opportunity to ask questions as we go. We’ll be walking about the grounds, so please bring sun protection.
>>> 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.

Composting Workshop
2025-04-05 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
2025-04-05 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

Im(press)ive Flowers
2025-04-05 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join the Rangers for a flower resin program! Learn the art of preserving flowers and create beautiful botanical keepsakes to take home.
Perfect combination for nature lovers and craft enthusiasts. We will have flowers, but feel free to also bring your own !

All ages welcome with a registered adult. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> 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 <<<

Microirrigation Workshop on Zoom
2025-04-10 12:00 - 13:00 | 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. All items must be picked up within 30 days of the date of the workshop. No exceptions.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Botany Walk
2025-04-11 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. Led by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Specialist.
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. Meet in the Exhibit Hall.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Communi-Trees: Grant Workshop
2025-04-11 11:00 - 12:00 | Carrollwood Village Park, 4680 West Village Drive, Tampa, 33624, United States
Part of the Urban Forestry Programs collection

Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry Agent, Alyssa Vinson for an introduction to the Hillsborough County community tree grants program.
Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry Agent, Alyssa Vinson for a community focused conversation all about trees. 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.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
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 Screech Owl Nest Boxes
2025-04-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
WHOOOO’s Home? Discover the amazing world of Screech Owls and help support local wildlife by building your very own owl nest box! In this engaging workshop, participants will learn about the importance of owls in our ecosystem, their unique characteristics, and how these nest boxes provide essential housing. Through hands-on building, kids and their adults will gain practical skills while fostering a love for nature. Each family (up to four people) will get one nest box.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Nest Box Building Workshop
2025-04-12 10:30 - 12:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join us for an in-person workshop to “make and take” a nest box for your yard!
Want to help our local cavity nesters?
Learn how to build your very own nest box for an Eastern Bluebird!
In this workshop you will learn about proper nest box placement and mounting, additional information specific to the nesting habits of Eastern Bluebirds, and other fun facts about this species!
We will be building a nest box for an Eastern Bluebird, which is a year-round resident in Pinellas County.
Registration is required. Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
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.
Refunds will not be granted if you cannot install the nest box in your desired location.
If you are attending with friends or family and would like to team up and build one nest box between the group, please only purchase ONE ticket.
Interested in learning about how you can help our local cavity nesters before the workshop? Check out this webinar.

Create Clearwater Green Mixer
2025-04-15 18:00 - 19:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
The purpose of this group is to offer a space for those who want to create all the things about city living that we would most love to live with. That would include access to fresh, healthy food, clean water, clean air, educational opportunities, lots of art, music, dance and theatre, parks and nature, community gathering places, community gardens, decent mass transit, and healthy neighborhoods. What is your vision of what Clearwater could be?
We currently have “Green Mixers” every third Tuesday at Moccasin Lake Nature Park at 6 PM. Every month, we meet more great people at these.
A few of us are working on some projects to revitalize the downtown area. We have some great ideas in the works, and are looking for more people to play with. What would you like to see happen downtown?
We are interested in getting community gardens going and there is some great news on that front too. We’ll keep you updated here.
We want to know what is important to you and what you would like to see happen in this city, so please, let us know!
