Drought Tolerant Plants 101
2023-12-07 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | 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 <<<
This class satisfies the landscape educational class requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program. For further information on the program, please contact: Tina 941-792-8811, Ext 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org

Botany Walk
2023-12-08 08:00 - 09:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
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.
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.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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.

UF/IFAS Extension provides practical edu

Pollinator Garden Workday!
2023-12-09 08:00 - 21:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Pollinator Garden Workday at Moccasin Lake Nature Park!
2nd Saturdays of the month at 8am!
Hello beautiful plant people!
I recommend water, sunscreen, and a hat. It will be quite hot and humid. The park provides gloves, but if you have your own, it may be a good idea to bring them.
Meet by Garden Lodge (brown building). We will be doing general weeding, pruning, and clean-up in anticipation for planting new native plants in the fall. I hope to see everyone there! Let us know you are coming at 727-562-4315, ext. 1.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Nest Box Building Workshop
2023-12-16 10:30 - 12:00 | 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 a Great Crested Flycatcher! Not familiar with this cavity nester? Learn more here!
In this workshop you will learn about proper nest box placement and mounting, additional information specific to the nesting habits of Great Crested Flycatchers, and other fun facts about this species!
We will be building a nest box for a Great Crested Flycatcher. This nest box should be mounted at your home or that of a friend or family member.
Registration is required. Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Learn more about cavity nesters from Lara’s “Naturally Florida” podcast episode, Birds and Their Houses: Cavity Nesters in Florida: HERE

Pinellas’ Native Epiphytes
2023-12-20 14:00 - 15:00 | ZOOM, United States
“Air Plants” grow in a variety of surprising habitats in Pinellas County. Learn the life history, biology and ecology of these special plants and lichens from a Pinellas County Extension Specialist. Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Hukyu Bonsai Society Meeting
2023-12-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Learn the art and techniques of bonsai. Meets 2nd & 4th Saturdays of each month from 10am to 2pm.
No meetings in May.
Learn more at facebook.com/hukyubonsaisociety

Butterfly and Bird-Attracting Native Plants & Trees
2024-01-04 10:00 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn how to attract birds & butterflies with natives!
Bird and butterfly populations are in decline worldwide and their fates are intertwined. Join us for an informative class about what we each can do in our own backyards and neighborhoods by adding appropriate plants and changing practices to support these beautiful creatures and bring life back into our communities.
>>> 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.

Patio Microirrigation Workshop on Zoom
2024-01-08 12:00 - 13:00 | ZOOM, United States
Learn how to grow plants with the convenience of a patio microirrigation kit.
This workshop is for Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees only.
Learn how to grow plants with the convenience of a patio microirrigation kit. It will conserve water and save time. Hillsborough County and City of Tampa residents/employees will receive one patio microirrigation kit after attending the workshop. (Limit 1 kit per household and the representative of the household must be an adult.)
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
NOTE: If you attend 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.

Botany Walk
2024-01-12 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.

Florida-Friendly: Landscape Maintenance 101
2024-01-13 12:00 - 13:30 | Online Event
Join us to learn how to maintain your landscape.
Good landscape design should be followed by appropriate maintenance practices. Join us to learn about Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ practices and how they, when applied, can protect our precious water resources. Topics of discussion are proper plant selection, planting and plant establishment, sprinkler system efficiency and watering schedule. We will also touch on microirrigation and keeping your landscape healthy with proper pruning techniques.
Register Here

Cultivating Biodiversity with a Rain Garden
2024-01-13 14:00 - 15:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join the rangers for a tour of the Boyd Hill Rain Garden and learn about how to implement one to enjoy the benefits of water filtration, flood control, and enhanced biodiversity in your own yard!
Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Build a Bird House
2024-01-13 14:00 - 16:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join us for a family nature program, immerse yourself in the beauty of winter as we explore the fascinating world of Florida’s winter birds and get creative by building bird houses together!
Ages 10 yrs +
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Nine Principles
2024-01-16 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Join us for a presentation on the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Nine Principles! Let’s create sustainable landscapes together!
This presentation is for Hillsborough County residents/employees only.
Join us for a presentation on the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Nine Principles! Explore the essential benchmarks for recognition and acquire valuable insights into crafting an attractive, environmentally conscious landscape that aligns with the program’s guidelines. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just beginning, this event is customized for you. Our presentation will walk you through the steps to meet the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ criteria for recognition, providing valuable knowledge about the Nine Principles that support environmentally mindful landscaping in Florida. Be part of a community of like-minded individuals committed to developing resilient and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces.
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.
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@hillsboroughcounty.org or 813-744-5519 ext. 54105 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
For questions contact: Michael Masucci at: 813-744-5519 ext. 54146 or MasucciM@ufl.edu.
The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.

The Gift of Trees
2024-01-18 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join us for a crash course in trees. We will cover the value of trees in our communities, tree selection and planting, maintenance, pruning and long term care considerations.

Youth Florida Forest Hike
2024-01-19 09:00 - 10:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Venture out on the trails with Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan to learn all about her most favorite thing…TREES!
In honor of Florida Arbor Day, we are celebrating TREES! Join Lara on a hike to learn about all of the amazing things these giant plants can do! Targeted for elementary and middle school aged youth.
Meet in the Education Center. Registration is required. Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
In case you missed it, we have a whole line-up of activities for Florida Arbor Day:
9am – THIS Youth Florida Forest Hike
11am – Youth Papermaking Class!
All Day – Hands-on Exploration Stations in the Education Center

Introduction to Tree Identification
2024-01-20 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Celebrate Florida Arbor Day!
In honor of Florida Arbor Day, we are celebrating TREES!
There are hundreds of tree species in Florida and identification can be overwhelming, but we have to start somewhere! Join your local Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan as she walks you through the basics you need to know to begin your tree identification journey. This will include a 45-minute presentation targeted for adults. Come ready to take notes!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
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.

Basic Irrigation Operations & Maintenance
2024-01-23 14:00 - 16:00 | Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217, United States
Learn about the basic operations and maintenance of your in-ground irrigation system.
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 (941) 792-8811 X 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Salt Tolerant Plants
2024-01-24 10:00 | Manatee County Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217-1516, United States
‘Learn which plants are Salt tolerant and other choices to consider for your landscape’
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Native Bees and Me!
2024-01-27 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Learn about our native bees!
Florida is home to over 300 species of native bees. The honeybee is not one of them. We will explore our oft-overlooked native bees, their critical role in healthy ecosystems and how we can provide a welcoming habitat for these harmless insects. Participants will have the opportunity to take home a bee-friendly project that will benefit native bees. Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Story Time
2024-01-30 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-02-07 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.

Microirrigation Workshop
2024-02-03 09:30 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, 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.) Please arrive 15 minutes before the program starts.
>>> REGISTRATION <<<

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop on ZOOM
2024-02-03 11:00 - 12:00 | ZOOM, 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: To pick-up workshop items/giveaways you will need to make an appointment with our receptionist at 813-744-5519 after June 5th 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 <<<

Community Tree Care for HOA's
2024-02-07 09:00 - 12:00 | FL
Beneath the Canopy:
Community Tree Care for HOA’s
Join UF/IFAS Extension Urban Forestry experts, local professional arborists and county staff to learn the ins and outs of managing the trees in your community. Walk away from this workshop with workable templates, examples and a knowledge of tree care best management practices.
>>> 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.
Schedule:
Wednesday, February 7 at Braden River Library
Tuesday, April 2 at Palma Sola Botanical Garden
Wednesday, August 21 at TBD (Lakewood Ranch)
Wednesday, October 9 at Palma Sola Botanical Garden

Native Plant Hike
2024-02-10 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Immerse yourself in the world of native Florida plant species on this ranger-led hike.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

CEUs2U
2024-02-15 08:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
This webinar is packed with valuable insights and information that will help you stay current in landscape and pest management.

There is a lot to learn about horticulture! This webinar is packed with valuable insights and information that will help you stay at the top of your game in landscape maintenance.
8 am – 10 am Core Topics TBA
1 0 am – 12 noon Dr. Phil Harmon discussing Sugarcane Mosaic Virus/Lethal Viral Necrosis in turf. SCMV leads to Lethal Viral Necrosis (LVN), resulting in the demise of Floratam lawns typically within three years of being infected. The virus is now confirmed in counties in North, Central, and South Florida. Recent lab reports confirm the disease is present in Hillsborough and Sarasota Counties. Learn how to recognize and manage this disease – there is no cure.
CEUs (4 total):
Core – 2 in Chapter 487 or 482
Landscape/Fertilizer Track – 2 in LUF, L&O, LLO, LCLM, CLO, O&T or ROW
Webinar Information:
You will receive a Zoom link from Eventbrite to your email given in registration to attend the event the day before the event starts. If you have any questions, contact Susan Haddock at szcrmchz@ufl.edu or (813)744-5519 Ext. 54103. CEUs will be provided within 3 days following the event via email.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<

Intro to Plant Identification
2024-02-17 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Explore the major plant groups!
Join a local Extension specialist 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.
This class will provide a basic introduction to plant identification. This class is recommended as a precursor for anyone interested in taking our Advanced Plant Identification series in March.
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Silent Sentinels
2024-02-20 11:30 - 13:00 | Online Event
Learn about long-lived trees!
Join UF/IFAS Extension to learn about long lived trees, their history, cultural significance and how we can manage for their care in urban environments.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION <<<
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.

Healthy Landscapes
2024-02-22 09:30 - 11:00 | 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 <<<
