Healthy Landscapes
2024-02-22 09:30 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Rocky Bluff Library, 6750 US Highway 301 North, Ellenton, FL, 34222, United States
Part of the Water Conservation collection will focus on Florida-Friendly Landscape tips such as Right Plant-Right Place, Watering efficiently and Mulch benefits.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Gardening From the Ground Up
2024-02-22 10:30 - 15:30 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn the secrets, Gardening From the Ground Up.
This workshop is for Hillsborough County residents/employees only.
Kick off the new year on a journey to transform your landscape by attending our upcoming event at Extension. Learn from five compelling presentations covering a range of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ topics.
Topics include, Landscape Design tips, the efficiency of Patio Microirrigation, the significance of Healthy Soil for Urban Gardeners, insights about the weeds in your landscape, and the criteria for FFL Home Landscape Recognition.
These presentations offer a wealth of knowledge to enhance your gardening skills and contribute to a more sustainable and attractive community.
Join us for informative sessions and enjoy lunch as you connect with fellow residents passionate about creating environmentally friendly landscapes.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Story Time
2024-02-26 10:00 - 11:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
Listen to a couple of fun stories while playing with musical instruments and bubbles in our Majeed Discovery Garden.
Story Time is recommended for kids 5 and under.
Contact our Children’s Garden Educator, Jessie Wingar, at jessieflbgfoundation@gmail.com if you have any questions.

Native Planting
2024-03-02 08:00 - 11:00 | Tom Bennett Park, 280 Kay Road, Bradenton, FL, 34208, United States
Tampa Bay Watch in partnership with Manatee County is recruiting volunteers for a community planting at Tom Bennett Park (280 Kay Rd, Bradenton, FL 34208). Volunteers are needed to transplant various native plants along the shoreline areas of a brackish pond to provide beneficial habitat, improve water quality, and stabilize the shoreline.
Click here to register to volunteer.

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop
2024-03-02 08:00 - 17:00, 2024-03-02 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.
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.)
NOTE: Pick-up of workshop items/giveaways for on-site attendees will be on the date of the workshop or by rescheduling with the workshop presenter. All items must be picked up within 30 days of the date of the workshop. No exceptions.
>>> REGISTRATION <<<

Microirrigation Workshop on Zoom
2024-03-02 08:30 - 10:00 | 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 after May 16th. All items must be picked up within 30 days of the date of the workshop. No exceptions.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Pollinator Hike
2024-03-03 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
This family hike combines the outdoor experience with the educational aspects of discovering the various species of pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, that keep our planet growing.
All ages welcome with a registered adult. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Grafting & Air Layering
2024-03-05 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Grafting & air layering techniques!
Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry Agent, Alyssa Vinson for an interactive skill building workshop all about grafting and air layering. Be prepared to practice.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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.

Bugs, Bugs, Bugs - Spring Vegetable Gardening Series
2024-03-06 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Let us answer all of your insect and pest questions!
Do you want to learn more about pests and beneficial insects? During this 2-hour class we’ll cover insect life cycles, management, identification, and more. For more information, please contact Mack Lessig at (941) 722-4524 ext. 1821 or mlessig@ufl.edu.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Turf Therapy: Managing your Turf & Expectations
2024-03-07 10:30 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join UF/IFAS Extension for a turf therapy session!
Is your turfgrass getting you down? We might have the solution. We will cover the main types of turfgrass appropriate for our area, appropriate care and management of not only our lawn, but also of our expectations of what a lawn can be in SW Florida.

>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

This presentation will be available virtually on March 8th
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Botany Walk
2024-03-08 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.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
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.
Guided Hike Information

Guided hikes are under a mile in length, much of which is on unimproved, uneven sandy trails.
Hikes take about two (2) hours to complete.
Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers or boots.
Insect repellent (bug spray) is strongly recommended in summer months.
Bring plenty of drinking water.
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.
Pets are not permitted.
No smoking is allowed.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.

Vegetable Microirrigation Workshop on ZOOM
2024-03-08 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Get some help for a successful vegetable garden.
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
Learn how to grow vegetables with the convenience of a microirrigation kit. It will conserve water and save time. Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees will receive a vegetable microirrigation kit after attending this workshop. (Limit 1 kit per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.) Participants can schedule a time/date to pick up the kit.
This workshop will be offered remotely through Zoom. You do not need additional software or more than basic computer skills to attend.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Advanced Plant Identification - 4-Part Series
2024-03-09 08:00 - 17:00, 2024-03-09 10:00 - 14:00, 2024-03-16 10:00 - 14:00, 2024-03-23 10:00 - 14:00, 2024-03-30 10:00 - 14:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, 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).
Class dates and syllabus:
Week 1, March 9
Plant Classification

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

Week 2, March 16

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

Week 3, March 23

General Terms
Fruits and Seeds
Using a Dichotomous Key

Week 4, March 30

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.
Graduates will have access to several hands-on workshops and additional information throughout the year to help stay engaged with the practice of plant identification.
Class fee includes all materials and textbook. Registration will CLOSE on March 6.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Botanical Bash
2024-03-10 13:00 - 16:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Join us on March 10th at Tampa Bay Watch for the inaugural Botanical Bash. This unique event is designed to immerse you in the beauty and versatility of native gardens, offering a series of engaging activities and educational experiences.

What To Expect:

Native Plant Swap and Sale: Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning your botanical journey, our native plant swap is the perfect opportunity to exchange propagated plants, clippings, and seeds. Enhance your garden with unique finds from local nursery vendors, and dive deep into the world of Florida natives.
Educational Resources and Exhibits: Discover the latest in sustainable gardening practices and learn how to incorporate native plants into your own garden landscape. Our exhibits are packed with information to help you grow your green thumb.
Plant Scavenger Hunt: Embark on an adventure across the Tampa Bay Watch property with our plant scavenger hunt. Identify native species, capture their beauty with your camera, and win unique prizes.
DIY Native Wildflower Seed Bombs: Get your hands dirty at our activity table by crafting your own Florida native wildflower seed bombs. A fun, eco-friendly way to spread beauty in your garden with minimal effort.
Refreshments and Mingling: Enjoy delicious refreshments while connecting with local garden experts and fellow plant enthusiasts. It’s the perfect setting to share tips, stories, and celebrate our community’s love for gardening.

*Tampa Bay Watch members enjoy FREE admission. Cost is $10 for non-members

Registration

Pruning Shrubs and Trees
2024-03-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Learn how to prune your shrubs and trees!
Join UF/IFAS Extension for a hands-on workshop all about pruning. We will cover plant biology and response to pruning as well as appropriate pruning methods. Be prepared to stand and walk in the outdoors. Located at Palma Sola Botanical Park.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Veggie Influenza - Spring Vegetable Gardening Series
2024-03-13 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Be prepared for veggie flu season by getting a shot of information!
This workshop is designed to educate the casual gardener about some of the most common vegetable diseases in Florida and in Manatee County. In this roughly two hour class, participants will learn the basic biology of pathogenic organisms, how to identify common disease symptoms, and acquire some basic disease management skills. This workshop is not designed for professional landscapers or pesticide applicators.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Seed Saving Strategies - Spring Vegetable Gardening Series
2024-03-20 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn how to save seeds from your favorite vegetables!
Have you ever thought about saving seeds from your favorite vegetables? Join us for this two-hour workshop about seed saving strategies. Topics will include plant mating systems, isolation techniques, seed processing, and more!
For more information, please contact, Mack Lessig, at 941-722-4524 ext. 1821 or mlessig@ufl.edu.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Gardening with Native Plants
2024-03-21 10:00 - 11:30 | Hillsborough County Extension, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Learn about native plants for your landscape and their benefits to our ecosystem.
L earn how to garden with native plants and select species that are native to Florida that match your site conditions. Natives provide ecological benefits important to a healthy garden such as habitat for wildlife and food for pollinators. We will talk about native wildflowers, perennials, shrubs and trees suitable for planting in Central Florida home landscapes. This class will be held in person and attendees will receive seeds and a list of native plants for our region.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

2024 Spring Plant Sale
2024-03-23 08:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Sale featuring plants grown by our Master Gardener Volunteers!

Blooming plants & natives!

Eventbrite tickets required
Bring your own garden cart or wagon & load up
Cash or personal check only
Restrooms will be closed
Please only choose one ticket type. If you have early entry, you do NOT have to leave before 9.

Ticket Pricing:
8-9am entry: $10 (+ Eventbrite fee) >>> BUY TICKETS <<<
9am-12pm entry: Free
Keep in mind the earlier you attend, the more selection of plants you’ll have!
All proceeds from this event go to the operation and maintenance of the Master Gardeners’ Educational Gardens and Greenhouse, and to support Master Gardener educational and outreach programs.
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.

Insect Gall Walk
2024-03-23 11:00 - 12:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Let us introduce you to the intriguing world of galls!
These alien-looking growths are found on plants around the world and are hiding tiny secrets: bugs! We will explore the common species of galling insects in Florida and the Tampa Bay area on a gall hunt together. Join Local expert, Christine Leonard to learn about the native galls of Brooker Creek and how they contribute to local biodiversity!
Presented by Christine Leonard. Recommended for adults. This walk caps at 20 participants.

>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Native Plant Garden Maintenance
2024-03-26 08:00 - 10:00 | Lettuce Lake Conservation Park, 6920 East Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33637, United States
This program is led by the Suncoast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society’s Joel Jackson and Tina Patterson and supported by Tampa Audubon.

Garden work includes planting, weeding and trimming, as needed.
There is a $2 admission to the park which Suncoast can cover if you request ahead of time. Park in the lot by the Visitor Center and the garden is behind the building.
Bring water, gloves and personal tools.
Garden Wish List: donations accepted:
swamp milkweed, tropical sage, goldenrod, wild petunia, silkgrass or other small(er) flowering plants.
Contact Tina Patterson for more information and to let her know that you will be coming. mablepatterson@hotmail.com or call or text 305-298-6381 and leave a name and message.

Plant Food 101 - Spring Vegetable Gardening Series
2024-03-27 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join us for Plant Food 101! Come find out what plants need to grow.
Join us for Plant Food 101! In this two-hour workshop, we will cover basic plant nutrition. Learn about the role that nitrogen, potassium, and other elements play within a plant.
For more information, please contact, Mack Lessig, at (941) 722-4524 ext.1821 or mlessig@ufl.edu.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ on ZOOM
2024-03-28 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™
Home Landscape Recognition Checklist
Get your home landscape recognized as Florida-Friendly with our online checklist — the ultimate guide to creating FFL landscapes.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this online event is perfect for anyone looking to create a beautiful and sustainable landscape. Our checklist covers everything from water conservation to wildlife habitat, helping you transform your outdoor space into a Florida-friendly oasis.
During this event, you’ll learn valuable tips and tricks from our expert speaker, who will guide you through each step of the checklist. Discover how to choose the right plants, reduce water usage, and create a welcoming environment for local wildlife. By the end of the event, you’ll have all the tools you need to achieve recognition for your home landscape.
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to enhance your gardening skills and make a positive impact on the environment. Join us for the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Home Landscape Recognition Checklist event and take the first step towards creating a sustainable and beautiful outdoor space!
This workshop will be offered online via ZOOM. No additional software is required and only basic computer skills are necessary.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
**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 Angie Maki (makia@hillsboroughcounty.org). If no link is received, please contact Angie at 813-744-5519 Ext. 54127 for assistance.
Closed captioned for the hearing impaired.

Irrigation with Water Conservation in Mind
2024-03-28 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn how to conserve water with your irrigation system!
Brian J Rigney, Program Assistant, will focus on how to adjust your in-ground irrigation system for water conservation, how to repair parts, and the benefits of installing water-saving irrigation devices. We will have a brief discussion on Florida-Friendly Landscape tips.
Contact Mr. Rigney (941) 722-4524 X 1828 or BrianRigney@ufl.edu for further class information.
This class satisfies the irrigation education requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
For information and eligibility on the Manatee County Outdoor Rebate Program, please call: Manatee County Utility Department – Water Conservation; Tina (941) 792-8811 X 5327 or water.conservation@mymanatee.org
Book your FREE irrigation and landscape evaluation today. Call Brian J Rigney (941) 722-4524 X 1828 to sign up.
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 J Rigney at (941) 722-4524 x 1828 or BrianRigney@ufl.edu at least one week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Design Your Landscape to Your Site Conditions
2024-03-28 13:00 - 15:00 | Braden River Library, 4915 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton, FL, 34203, United States
Learn how to select the right plant for the right place in your landscape!
Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant with the Mobile Irrigation Lab will speak about the many important aspects to consider when designing your landscape.
Susan Griffith, Florida Friendly Landscape Coordinator will show you a wide variety of plants to consider and the importance of selecting the Right Plant, Right Place on your site.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
