Defend Yourself! How Bugs and Bloomers Survive
2023-01-14 10:30 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Insects and plants have evolved often astonishing and sometimes bizarre ways to survive when everything is out to eat them. For more than a decade, John Lampkin has been photo-documenting thorns and thistles and chemical cocktails, as bugs and bloomers battle it out. The result is a visually delightful, fun, and educational exploration of a 450-million-year-old “arms race.”
Presented by John Lampkin: John Lampkin’s photographs grace the pages of field guides, websites and magazines and he won the “American Butterflies” magazine 2020 photo contest. As a neo-classical composer, he won international prizes for his “Piano Concerto” and woodwind quintets. He has constructed many crossword puzzles, often with Nature themes, for the NY Times, LA Times and Wall Street Journal. At heart, he is just a guy with a camera who enjoys thinking and sharing what he discovers.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Youth Program: Trees!
2023-01-20 10:00 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Celebrate Florida Arbor Day!
Explore the inside and outside of trees with hands-on activities and more as we celebrate Florida Arbor Day!
Registration is required. Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension. Targeted for upper elementary and middle school aged youth.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Easy Plant Identification: The Big 4
2023-01-22 13:00 - 14:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Explore the major plant groups!

If you can remember four plant groups (that you’ve already heard of) you have made a big step in plant ID! Let’s explore the Big Four and what makes a plant belong to one particular group. Hopefully you will be shocked and amazed at how much you already know!
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> REGISTER HERE

Basic Irrigation Operations and Maintenance
2023-01-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Want to learn more about irrigation, how it operates, and the basics of maintaining it?
Presented by Brian J Rigney, Irrigation Program Assistant. Learn about the basic operations and maintenance of your in-ground irrigation system.
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. Registered attendees will be notified.
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 at (941) 792-8811 X 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org
Book your FREE irrigation and landscape evaluation with the Mobile Irrigation Lab (MIL). Call Maggie Gaughan (941) 722-4524 X 1827 to sign up today.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Landscape Tips for Water Conservation
2023-01-26 10:00 - 12:00 | Online Event
Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant, will focus on Florida-Friendly Landscape tips such as right plant vs. right place, watering efficiently, and mulch benefits. We will have a brief discussion on your in-ground sprinkler system and the benefits of installing smart irrigation devices.
This class satisfies the landscape educational requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program.
Contact: Valrie (941) 722-4524 ext 1829 or vmassey@ufl.edu for further class information. Minimum class size required or class will be cancelled. Registered attendees will be notified.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Florida-Friendly Friday- Ask an Agent: Winter Gardening Tips
2023-01-27 11:00 - 12:30 | Online Event
Join us as to learn about good winter gardening practices and the does and don’ts before, during and after cold spells. Bob Albanese, Extension Horticulturist will provide information on timely gardening activities and recommendations for central Florida’s cooler season. We will discuss proper pruning practices, selecting the right plants and trees for your cold hardiness zone and how to prepare your vegetable garden. You will also learn about how to conserve water during Florida’s winter. Please bring your questions.
Free class, but advance registration required.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Aquaculture's Role in the Global Food Security Agenda
2023-01-30 18:00 - 19:30 | Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy., Sarasota, FL, 34236, United States
Farming the Future:
Aquaculture’s Role in the Global Food Security Agenda
Dr. Nicole Rhody will lead the last lecture of the series on Jan. 30. With over 20 years of experience in the field of aquaculture and based at the 200-acre Mote Aquaculture Research Park, she aids in leading a team of scientists focused on conservation and cultivation of marine finfish, bivalves, crustaceans and aquatic plants.
On Monday, Jan. 30, attendees can discover the new and innovative ways Mote’s aquaculture research scientists are working to ensure global access to healthy and sustainable protein options. The lecture focuses on aquaculture, currently the fastest-growing food production sector globally and a sustainable option for attaining food security. Guests will learn how sustainable aquaculture methods can protect our oceans and help meet the increasing demand for seafood. By expanding our ability to cultivate aquatic animals and plants we can ensure sustainable human food production in the future.
Mote Members also receive discounted admission to the event.
Tickets are on sale now at mote.org/lecture.

Composting Workshop
2023-02-04 08:30 - 09:30 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
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.
>>> IN PERSON REGISTRATION WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Microirrigation Workshop
2023-02-04 09:30 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn how to save water watering your garden.
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.)
>>> IN PERSON REGISTRATION WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop
2023-02-04 11:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
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. (1 per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.).
>>> IN PERSON REGISTRATION WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Talk Plants with Me
2023-02-09 11:30 - 12:30 | Online Event
Ask a Horticulture Agent Webinar!
Submit your questions to our Horticulture Agent for live Q&A. We will talk about hot topics in the plant world and may have a few guests join us along the way.
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 Katie Granberg, katiebg@ufl.edu, (941) 722-4524 x 1815 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Rainwater Harvesting
2023-02-11 09:30 - 11:00 | Chester Ochs 4-H Educational Center, 14644 113th Ave N, Largo, FL, 33774, United States
Water Wise Workshop:
Rainwater Harvesting
Did you know Tampa Bay and the surrounding counties average 50- 60 inches of rain annually? Florida- Friendly Landscaping™ Educator Melissa West will explore practical, low-cost approaches to harness our most precious resources rainwater and at the same time reduce stormwater runoff and pollution. Tune in to learn more about rainwater harvesting, rain gardens and how to make use of your rainwater.
Barrels available for purchase by class participants. for $45.
Register Here

HUKYU BONSAI SOCIETY MEETING
2022-10-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Learn the art and techniques of Bonsai.
www.facebook.com/hukyubonsaisociety.

Rain Barrel Decorating Workshop
2023-02-11 11:30 - 13:00 | Chester Ochs 4-H Educational Center, 14644 113th Ave N, Largo, FL, 33774, United States
Let the fun begin. Join us for this creative hands-on workshop where you will learn how to make your rain barrel look fabulous and also help protect it from Florida’s intense sun. Instructors will teach and demonstrate barrel preparation and multiple creative painting techniques. This workshop will include materials and provide inspiring decorating ideas.
You have the option to either bring your own rain barrel to decorate, or use one of our test barrels (these stay with us)
Register Here

Spring Vegetable Gardening
2023-02-16 10:00 - 11:30 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn about what to plant when to get your spring vegetable garden started.
Learn about what to plant when to get your spring vegetable garden started.
If you would like to grow your own vegetables, this class is for you! Learn to grow “warm season” vegetables including soil preparation, garden bed types, and seed starting techniques. Gardens may be grown year-round in Florida, but spring is the preferred season by most homeowners. Participants will receive some seeds, vegetable transplants and a copy of the Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide after attending the workshop. (Limit 1 kit per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.)
>>> IN PERSON REGISTRATION WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Taking The Mystery Out of Micro-irrigation
2023-02-21 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, 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.
Contact: Mr. Rigney (941) 722-4524 X 1828 or BrianRigney@ufl.edu for further class information. Class size required or class will be cancelled and registered attendees will be notified.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Introduction to Plant Identification
2023-02-22 10:30 - 11:30 | Online Event
Join James Stevenson 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.
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Drought Tolerant Plants 101
2023-02-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Keep your landscape looking beautiful with the right plants.
Learn how to choose beautiful drought tolerant plants for your landscape and know what to put back on the shelf! Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant, will show samples of Florida friendly plants suitable for Manatee County residents and discuss the difference between the good and the bad plant!
Minimum class size is required or class will be postponed. All those that register will be notified if postponed.
Contact: Valrie (941) 722-4524 Ext 1829 or vmassey@ufl.edu for further class information.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Re-sodding Your Florida Lawn
2023-03-01 09:00 - 10:30 | Online Event
Learn how to prepare your yard to re-sod, how to lay the sod and take care of it for success.

WEDNESDAY, March 1, 2023- 9 am – 10:15 am – Hiring a contractor to re-sod your lawn is expensive and doing it yourself can be expensive and time consuming. Learn how yards should be prepared prior to re-sodding and how to properly lay the sod. Learn what amendments are recommended, how to irrigate new sod, when to fertilize new sod, and other tips for success. We will also introduce you to new water conservation irrigation technology.
Attending a workshop on behalf of another person is not permitted.
We will conduct this workshop online, via Zoom. No additional software or extra computer skills are necessary – just click to join! ***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 us. If no link is received, please contact Paula Staples at 813-744-5519 Ext 54142 for assistance.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Microirrigation Workshop
2023-03-04 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.
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.)
>>> REGISTRATION

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop
2023-03-04 11:00 - 12:00 | 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.
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. (1 per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.).
>>> IN PERSON REGISTRATION WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Gardening with Mushrooms
2023-03-07 10:30 - 11:30 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County for a conversation about using mushrooms to enhance your gardens!
Not always nefarious, fungi in the garden can be used to help build soil, process compost and support plant health.
>>> REGISTER HERE

The Seed
2023-03-08 14:00 - 15:00 | Online Event
One of plants most innovative reproductive strategies was the development of the seed. Not all plants produce seeds; this belongs only to the conifers and flowering plants. We will examine the history of the seed and its myriad of forms.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
Recommended for adults and youth over 12
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Butterfly Gardening
2023-03-09 10:00 - 11:30 | Hillsborough County Extension, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
This class will teach you how to attract and keep butterflies in your garden year round along with other pollinators and beneficial insects important to a healthy garden. We will talk about key nectar and host plants for Central Florida that you should plant in your yard. Participants will receive some seeds and a butterfly ID brochure after attending the workshop. (Limit 1 kit per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.)
>>> IN PERSON REGISTRATION WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Plant ID for Beginners
2023-03-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Palma Sola Botanical Garden, 9800 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
If you’ve ever wondered how to figure out what plant is which, join this beginner plant ID class!
Not sure what that plant is in your backyard? New to Florida and unfamiliar with the new species? If you’ve ever wondered how to figure out what plant is which, join this beginner plant ID class!
>>> REGISTER HERE

Precious Pollinators
2023-03-16 18:30 - 20:00 | Palma Sola Botanical Garden, 9800 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Learn about pollinators, their favorite plants, and make your own bee box!
This program is offered in partnership between UF/IFAS Extension Manatee County, Palma Sola Botanical Park and the Manatee County Agricultural Museum Inc. This event is family friendly and open to all.
AGENDA:
6:30PM Garden Walk and Talk: Focus on pollinator friendly plants and how to incorporate pollinator friendly practices in your home garden. Led by Master Gardener Volunteers.
7:00PM Break
7:10PM State of Pollinators Presentation: Learn about our native pollinators from Residential Horticulture Agent, Alyssa Vinson.
7:40PM Make and Take Bee Boxes: Build and take home your very own bee box to provide safe habitat to our native bees.
8:00PM Adjourn
>>> REGISTER HERE

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ for Newcomers
2023-03-24 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join us for an introduction to Florida-Friendly Landscaping™!
New to Florida? Or just baffled by the plants and conditions here? This class aims to help you get to know us better. We’ll introduce you to the 9 Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™, why it is so important and how to get the right plant in the right place for future gardening success. There will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions and we’ll take a tour of our demonstration gardens at the end. In-person class.
>>> REGISTER HERE
