Extension Launches New UF/IFAS Blog

The University of Florida/IFAS Extension has developed a new blog that will provide information through our on-line newsletters. In the next week, we will be launching the new site which will provide the same selection of topics for your use, plus the Extension Timely Topics. Extension Agents in Pinellas County strive to bring you the most up-to-date science on topics important to you.

Pinellas County Extension offers several newsletters in a blog format: Timely Topics, Thinking Green, Planting Pinellas, 4-H Youth Development Blog and Commercial Connection. You can sign up for blogs on the new site and access all the previous articles. If you have been receiving Extension newsletters, there should be no interruption and you will receive a notification through e-mail. Extension is the doorway to the University of Florida and provides practical education you can trust, to help people, businesses and communities solve problems, develop skills and build a better future.

September Programs & Events

Presented by 
Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. (727) 582-2108
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800 
Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500

September 5
Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.  http://brookercreekpreserve.org/

September 5
Managing Your Money: Join the Florida Master Money Mentors for a workshop that will cover evaluating wants and needs, setting financial goals, steps to building a spending and savings plan, and using a money management calendar as a tracking and planning tool. Participants in the class can request a Florida Master Money Mentor, a personal money coach, to help with money questions. 1 to 3 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave. Palm Harbor. (727) 582-2104; http://www.eventbrite.com/event/7431976241/eorg

September 7, 21, 28
Brooker Creek Guided Hike: See how the land has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes on this 0.75-mile walk. Closed-toe shoes, water and hat recommended. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.org/

September 7, 14, 21, 28
Weedon Island Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.  http://weedonislandpreserve.org/

September 7
Citizen Scientist Workshop: Free training to engage volunteers in the collection of local ecological information and an introduction to Nature’s Notebook, a project of the USA National Phenology Network. Class will include both indoor and outdoor components so come prepared to make some observations outside. Free; advance registration required. 9 a.m. to noon. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center. http://brookercreekpreserve.org/

September 7
Archaeology Works: Learn to identify different prehistoric pottery types from around Florida and the ways archaeologists use them to learn about people in the past. 10 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required.. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org/

September 12
Roundup License Training: LCLM Training & LLO Review: This class provides training and testing necessary to obtain a limited commercial landscape maintenance (LCLM) license or as a review and testing for the limited lawn and ornamental (LLO) license. This class is NOT for renewal CEUs. $60. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pinellas County Extension. Register at http://pce-commercialhort.eventbrite.com

September 11
Sustainable Floridians^SM: Learn how citizens can make a difference in the community by attending this 8-week discussion to action training program. Participants will meet each Wednesday through Oct. 30, to explore a range of topics including energy, food systems, and water. 6 to 8:30 p.m. Free, seating is limited. Pinellas County Extension. Advance registration required at http://pcsf2013oct.eventbrite.com

September 12
Fertilizer/Pesticide BMPs: Training to obtain limited certification for urban landscape commercial fertilizer (LCULCF). BMP certification awarded upon passing the exam. Four FDACS pesticide CEUs provided. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $15; free to employees of Pinellas County and the Pinellas County School Board and Pinellas County Master Gardener volunteers (must present ID on day of class). Advance registration required. Pinellas County Extension. Register at http://pce-commercialhort.eventbrite.com

September 12, 26
Wee-Time at Weedon: Every second and fourth Thursday of each month, children are treated to a variety of stories and hands-on activities that connect them to their environment. This activity is recommended for ages 3 to 5. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration requested. Weedon Island Preserve.  http://weedonislandpreserve.org/

September 12
Micro-Irrigation Basics: Participants will learn about the design, installation and maintenance of the systems and how to retrofit from a traditional irrigation zone to micro. Incorporating micro-irrigation in your landscape can contribute to water conservation and reduced stormwater runoff. Two opportunities to attend this presentation, 2 to 3:30 p.m. and 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor. Advance registration required. (727) 582-2630; www.eventbrite.com/event/7706942673/eorg

September 13
Great Weedon Bird Quest: Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of our feathered year-round residents and seasonal visitors while assisting in compiling an annual checklist of the preserve’s birds. This hike is designed to take advantage of all levels of birding experience. Binoculars and bird guides are available. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.  http://weedonislandpreserve.org

September 14
Pinellas Home Energy Symposium: From irrigation to photovoltaic panels, here’s the opportunity to get information from expert panelists to help in making water and energy improvements both inside and outside homes. This three-hour symposium features a keynote address by Dr. Jennifer Languell. 9 a.m. to noon. Free; Pinellas County Extension, advance registration required at http://pcsymposium13.eventbrite.com

September 14
Birds of Brooker Hike: Join this hike to identify common birds of Brooker Creek Preserve. Meander along the one-mile trail to gather information on the birds seen and heard. Binoculars will be helpful. Bring water. 8 to 10:30 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve.  http://brookercreekpreserve.org

September 14
Wetland 101: Learn how to interpret the characteristics that define wetlands. This class is helpful for those wanting to extend their knowledge of wetland systems and for those who want to learn how to identify some common wetland plants. 1 to 2 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.  http://weedonislandpreserve.org

September 19
Vegetable, Herb and Tropical Fruit Garden Tour: Explore the vegetable garden and compost demonstration areas at Pinellas County Extension/Florida Botanical Gardens to learn more about growing your own food. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; tours limited to group of 4 to 16 people; advance registration required. Pinellas County Extension, www.eventbrite.com/event/6241882639/eorg

September 19
Archaeology Lecture Series: “You Have Guns and So Have We”, an Ethnohistoric Perspective on Seminole Combat Behaviors: Warfare is a topic that has received a high level of attention in the anthropological literature since the inception of the discipline. Much of the literature, however, has focused on the origins and causes of warfare rather than the behaviors associated with it. By tracing the combat behaviors of the Seminoles back through time to those of their ancestors, we are able to see the evolution of the combat behaviors used by the warriors during the apex of their militancy – the infamous Second Seminole War. 7 to 8 p.m. Free; advance registration required.. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org

September 21
Weedon Photography Hike: Hike the preserve in search of that perfect photo. This program provides great opportunities for photographers of all levels to hone their skills. After a brief classroom session, preserve volunteers highlight seasonal features of the preserve, as well as specific wildlife behaviors that help participants capture the natural beauty of Weedon Island Preserve. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org

September 21
Birds of Prey: Several live birds of prey will be used to illustrate aspects of predator-prey relationships, adaptations that ensure success as predators, and their role in maintaining healthy, balanced ecosystems. The basic natural history of each species is also discussed along with the impact of humans on their habitats and populations. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org

September 25
Creatures of the Night: Pinellas County’s Natural Resource Extension Agent, Lara Miller, will discuss the creatures of the night. All of our nocturnal critters form a vital part of our natural environment but are largely ignored. Come learn more about these fascinating creatures. Recommended for adults. 2 to 3 p.m. Garden Club of St. Petersburg, 500 Sunset Dr., S, St. Petersburg. (727) 582-2630; www.eventbrite.com/event/5260325776/eorg

September 27
Wildlife Hike: Join an experienced naturalist as you hike along boardwalks and natural trails at Brooker Creek Preserve. This will be a learning experience for everyone! Come prepared with your binoculars, cameras, and questions! Any questions your hike guide cannot answer will be researched in the resource room upon return to the Education Center. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

September 28
Guided Photography Hike: In a brief classroom session, local photographers and master naturalists Karl and Kathleen Nichter highlight the seasonal features that help participants capture the natural beauty of the Brooker Creek Preserve, then hike the boardwalk and trails looking for those shots that reflect the season. Recommended for adults and children 12 and older. 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.org

September 28
Paddling Coastal Clean Up: Be a part of the nation’s largest single-day volunteer event for public lands. Public lands and estuaries provide benefits that are critical to ecosystem health, and the health and well-being of people who recreate on them and live in close proximity to them. Please volunteer to give back to Tampa Bay and the lands of Weedon Island Preserve. Volunteers will use canoes and kayaks to help clean up the difficult-toreach shorelines of Weedon Island Preserve. The cleanup will help to protect wildlife from
entanglement and increase the aesthetic value of our natural surroundings. 9 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration requested. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.org

September 28
Wildflower Garden Club: Join the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve to get gardening hands dirty in the preserve’s wildflower garden. Bring garden gloves and hat. Morning snacks are usually provided. Free; advance registration required. 8 to 10 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center. http://brookercreekpreserve.org

Coming in October: Energy Action Month: "Energy Vampires in Your Home"–8% of the average home's electricity bill is wasted through devices like TVs and chargers which are using power even when they are switched off. Learn easy ways to lower your energy bill. October 2, 12, 15, 19 and 22. Free; advance registration requested.  Call (727) 582-2097 for information.

Extension programs are open to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, age, disability, religion or national origin.

Celebrate September–It’s Healthy Aging Month

Nan Jensen,
UF/IFAS Pinellas County
Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent

September is Healthy Aging Month an annual celebration designed to focus attention on the positive aspects of growing older and encourage Americans over the age of 50 to take personal responsibility for their health. Get started by taking these few simple and important steps.

Stay physically active. Regular exercise can help the risk of disease and maintain mobility. Look for daily opportunities to exercise in work and play. Walk by parking your car several parking aisles away from the store or office entrance and walk briskly! Choose an exercise you like and stick with it. Enjoy exercising with a friend.

Choose healthy foods. Eat nutrient rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain foods. Learn about building a healthy plate at http://www.choosemyplate.gov/. SuperTracker one of the features on the website can help you plan, analyze, and track your diet and physical activity. Find out what and how much to eat; track foods, physical activities, and weight; and personalize with goal setting, virtual coaching, and journaling.

Take care of your financial health. It is important to be educated about budgeting, insurance, and retirement accounts as well as savings and investments. The University of Florida/IFAS offers fact sheets filled with helpful information on various financial topics. Click on Money topics to access or join one of the free monthly classes offered by the University of Florida Master Money Mentors. Register at http://pinellassustainableliving.eventbrite.com/.

Connect with people regularly. Spend time with those who make you feel upbeat and you enjoy spending time with and try to do it daily. Even if you are not close by, call or email frequently to keep relationships fresh.

Give of Yourself. Be generous with your time and volunteer. You can help out at the local food pantry, teach a child how to read or become a Pinellas County Extension Master Food and Nutrition Volunteer. This training will equip you with the knowledge and skills to help others improve their lives through healthy eating and physical activity. Register at http://pinellassustainableliving.eventbrite.com/.

There are many resources to help you learn about healthy aging. Go to http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_elder_health to find out more.

Meet Brian Niemann

Brian Niemann,
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Extension Agent 

I cannot tell you how excited I am to be returning to my home county to fill the role of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) Extension Agent. I welcome the challenge and can’t wait to get started. In fact, you can join me for my first Rainwater Harvesting Workshop on August 31st at Weedon Island Preserve. Register online at 2013rainwaterharvesting.eventbrite.com.

My family originally hails from the suburbs of Chicago, but the warm weather and sandy beaches of the Florida Gulf Coast attracted them in the late ‘70s. When I was growing up, my parents owned a landscape material yard and land clearing business, which meant I spent my summers picking up trash before dad came through with the tractor to make short work of the knee high weeds I had just waded through. By the time I was 13, I graduated to operating the tractor and Bobcat loaders under his watchful eye. I continued to work for them through high school and when college rolled around, I decided I wanted a career within the landscape industry.

I chose the Landscape Architecture path. I wanted to work with the landscape, but I didn’t want to be outside in the Florida heat every day. I spent some wonderful years at the University of Florida and graduated with a Bachelor’s of Landscape Architecture degree in 2006. After graduation, I accepted a landscape architecture position with Phil Graham & Company in St. Petersburg. During my time with Mr. Graham, I was blessed with the opportunity to work on many high-profile projects. Some of these projects include 400 Beach Drive, Museum of Fine Arts, and Ovation in downtown St. Pete.

In late 2007, a position opened up with the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program State Office in Gainesville. I had recently learned about the FFL Program and was intrigued by this very different style of landscaping than what I was currently designing. I got the job, and worked my way up through the ranks during my nearly six years of service with the state office. I wasn’t actively looking to leave Gainesville, but the opportunity to move back to my home county to run an Extension program based on Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ was a chance I couldn’t pass up.

The FFL program provides residents with information on using low-maintenance plants and environmentally sustainable practices. I'll be teaching you how you can have a beautiful landscape that could save you time, energy and money while protecting our future.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or with ideas for programs you would like to see offered in the future.


Brian Niemann
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Extension Agent
Pinellas County Extension 
727-453-6524
bniemann@pinellascounty.org

Fall Vegetable Gardening in Florida: We’re Just Getting Started Here!

Theresa Badurek,

Urban Horticulture Extension Agent
and Master Gardener Coordinator

If you come to us from up north, fall is the time of year you would normally be finishing your harvest and putting your vegetable garden to bed. That’s not the case here in Florida. Fall is a great time to garden and August is the time to get started. So, prepare before the kids go back to school and by the time the snowbirds flock south again, you can have a beautiful vegetable garden to brag about!

What to Grow Now

There are lots of crops for fall in Central Florida. Things like bush and pole beans, corn, eggplant, peppers, squash, and tomatoes are great to plant in August and September. In October and November we can plant crops such as beets, Brussels sprouts, carrots, cauliflower, spinach, and strawberries. If you have not yet started your garden, it’s time to get diggin’!

Soil Preparation

We have very sandy soils throughout most of central Florida, so organic matter should be worked into your soil at least three weeks ahead of planting. If you are using compost and mulches be sure that there are no large clumps of unrotted organic material. These can harbor disease problems as well as hinder seedlings or their growth. When your conditions are right, these organic materials will be processed by microorganisms like fungi, algae, bacteria, molds, and earthworms. As they do this they make important nutrients available to your plants. For detailed information on various soil amendments, please visit: http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/giam/maintenance_and_care/soil_fertilizer_and_nutrients/soil_amendments.html .

Seeds and Transplants

The most important thing you can do is select the right crops and varieties for our area and plant them at the right time. We are often tempted to plant crops or varieties that we know and love from some other geographic location, but these are often not suited to our unique subtropical climate. How do you know what and when to plant? Refer to the following publication, “Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide” whose link is found at the end of this article. Use this to plan your garden layout and bring it with you when shopping for seeds and plants. Pay special attention to Table 4, “Suggested Varieties for Florida Gardens” and Table 3 “Planting Guide for Florida Vegetables”.

Pests and Diseases

So, how do you keep uninvited guests from eating all of your hard work in the garden? Well, you must have a regular scouting routine for pests. At every step of your gardening adventure you should be looking for signs of pests. Hopefully you selected resistant varieties from the “Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide” publication (see link above) and inspected your plants for pests and diseases before purchase and planting. Learn to recognize the beneficial insects that help control the “bad guys” that cause damage. Not using pesticides will help preserve the “army” of beneficial insects in your garden. A great guide to start learning about beneficial insects is “Natural Enemies and Biological Control”: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/IN/IN12000.pdf .

There are more things you can do to help prevent and control pests and diseases, though:

• Use mulch; vegetables touching the soil may rot.
• Good garden mulch tends to reduce damage caused by nematodes. 
• Keep out weeds which harbor insects and diseases. 
• Water in morning so plants are not wet at night. 
• Dispose of severely diseased plants before they contaminate others. 
• Hand-pick insects. 
• Clean up crop refuse early. 
• Rotate garden areas.

All of the usual tips and techniques apply when gardening in fall. Things like mulching to keep down weeds and scouting for pests regularly to avoid infestation are always great advice. Keep an eye on plants to make sure they are getting enough water. We usually get plenty of water from rain in the summer, but the rains usually taper off around October. Be sure to avoid letting your garden wilt in the drier weather- check the soil a few inches down near the plant roots to make sure it’s damp but not overly wet. Plants grown in containers will need more frequent watering to avoid wilting.

For even more about vegetable gardening in Florida- at any time of year- please visit the “Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide” at http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/VH/VH02100.pdf . This handy link will give you the tools to succeed in your Florida garden any time of year, including planting dates, best varieties for Florida, and times to harvest. Once you get your fall vegetable garden in the ground you can start looking for recipes that showcase the fruits and vegetables of your gardening efforts. Enjoy!

August is National Water Quality Month

Lara Miller,
Natural Resource Agent 

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of water quality? Is it drinking water, the brown water in a nearby pond, litter scattered along the bank of a creek or stream? Chances are, if you live in Pinellas County, the body of water closest to you is impaired. This means the water body is not meeting water quality standards set by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. At this time, nearly all water bodies in Pinellas County are considered impaired.

The details behind the impairment standards are complex, but what is clear is the top three causes of impairment in Florida’s waters are: nutrients, dirt and bacteria. The main way these elements enter our waterways is by stormwater runoff which occurs when water from a rain event “runs off” across the land instead of seeping into the ground. As the water moves across the land, it is capable of picking up these elements (nutrients, dirt and bacteria) along the way.

Nutrients

Typically nutrients have a positive association, but when it comes to water quality, that is not always the case. When nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus accumulate to unnaturally high levels in a water body they can promote the growth of algae to an undesirable level, resulting in discolored water. An overgrowth of algae can act in the same way as too much soil in the water, blocking sunlight from penetrating through the water. As the algae die they become food for bacteria and this process of decomposition reduces the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water which may lead to the suffocation of aquatic life such as fish.

The major sources of these excess nutrients are fertilizers, animal waste, sewage treatment plants, and failing septic systems. You can help to reduce the over abundance of nutrients by: having your soil tested to determine if there is a need for fertilizer applications and making sure to apply as directed by bag labels (if recommended), picking up after your pets, installing rain gardens, and ensuring your septic system (if you have one) is working effectively.

Dirt

We are all familiar with dirt (scientifically known as soil). When natural systems are disturbed during land use changes such as development or agricultural production, soil can become exposed to wind and rain, allowing it to runoff into a nearby body of water. When soil enters a body of water it may become murky, preventing under water plants from receiving the sunlight they need to make food through the process of photosynthesis.

While soil is naturally occurring, excess amounts of soil entering our waterways can be harmful. There are some ways we can help prevent this from occurring. Construction workers may put up silt fences to contain the dirt and debris created as they build, and developers can design communities to leave more natural areas in place and install fewer pavements to preserve the existing vegetation. Protecting established ecosystems promotes soil stabilization because the developed root systems help to hold the soil in place and slow the flow of rainwater runoff containing soil particles.

Bacteria

Bacteria can be good and bad, but certain bacteria serve as an indicator that other germs and virus might be present that can make us sick. In rare cases, extreme rainstorm events may cause sewage treatment systems to reach a maximum load, forcing cities to divert overflows into nearby bodies of water. Bacteria can also come from domestic and wild animal waste of urban and rural lands.

You can help prevent bacteria from impacting our waterways by: keeping an eye out for news reports during periods of high rain, urging citizens to reduce the pressure on the sewage system; farmers can implement best management practices (BMPs) to better manage livestock manure; and domestic pet owners can pick up after their pets.

It is important to remember that water connects us all; if you live in Pinellas County, you live in a watershed. Watersheds are important to consider because they represent a larger system and emphasize how peoples’ actions “upstream” may have negative affects to communities “downstream” regardless of county lines. You can find out more from the sources below.

You CAN make a difference! Register today for Joe’s Creek Neighborhood Greenway Clean Up on Saturday, September 28, 2013. The event is sponsored by Pinellas County, Tampa Bay Estuary Program and Keep Pinellas Beautiful. If you are interested, please e-mail Keep Pinellas Beautiful at: Stoplitter@tampabay.rr.com.

Sources:
http://water.epa.gov/learn/resources/bigpollutants.cfm
http://www.pinellascounty.org/environment/watershed/default.htm
http://www.sciencedaily.com/articles/a/algal_bloom.htm
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ae431
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fr239

2013 Energy Symposium hosted by Pinellas Energy Efficiency Project

This FREE 3 hour symposium will feature a keynote address by Dr. Jennifer Languell, award-winning green building engineer with 15 years experience. 

Expert panel discussions will focus on water and energy efficiencies and improvements inside and outside the home.  From irrigation to PV panels, appliances to native plants, you'll get information first-hand from Duke Energy, Florida Yards and Neighborhoods, Tampa Bay Water, and much more!

Each registered participant will receive an insulated tote bag with manual powered LED flashlight, solar calculator, and educational information from UF/IFAS and our partners.

Please arrive early for check-in.  Refreshments will be provided.

Saturday September 14, 9a.m.–Noon. Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Rd., Largo
Seating is limited and pre-registration is required at  www.pinellascountyextension.org.

Call 727-582-2097 for more information.

Extension programs are open to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, age. Disability, religion or national origin.

Florida’s Balance

Mary Campbell, Extension Director
and Community Resource Agent

Florida is still on track to break the 20 million mark by the end of 2015, becoming the third most populous state sometime before then—surpassing New York. Florida’s population has grown rapidly in recent decades, but growth rates have fluctuated considerably from one year to the next. For example, the state’s population grew by more than 400,000 between 2004 and 2005 but by less than 100,000 between 2008 and 2009.

Availability of jobs and economic opportunities play a big role in population growth. The last few years have seen a bit of a recovery. Florida’s population grew by 169,000 between 2011 and 2012, well below its historical average but more than twice the increase occurring between 2008 and 2009. With promising signs in the housing market and improving employment opportunities, growth will continue to accelerate over the next few years. Although it is unlikely that the state will return to the large annual increases seen in the middle of the last decade, it is expected that population growth will average around 278,000 per year by the end of the current decade (UF- Bureau of Economic and Business Research).

Between 1970 and 1990 Florida's urban areas sprawled over one million acres of formerly rural land. Natural habitats, farmland, and scenic open spaces were often converted to strip malls, housing developments, and low-density commercial development. Uncontrolled growth created environmental, social, and economic problems that threaten to destroy the very attractions that made many move to the state.

Water resources provide a good example. Florida has the highest domestic per capita water use in the country and ranks second nationally in water use for mining, fourth in use for public supply, and eleventh in use for irrigation. Due mostly to population growth, projections show that water supplies will not meet projected demands by 2020. Restrictions on water use are frequently implemented in urban areas for irrigating lawns. In addition, urban storm water contributes to water pollution and fertilizer ordinances have been implemented in several areas of the state. In Pinellas County, a fertilizer ban from June through September was implemented to decrease pollutants flowing into surrounding waters.

Sustainable communities recognize that their economic and social structures and the health of the local environment are intertwined. They understand that programs and policies that foster only one aspect of development, be it economic growth, social gain, or environmental protection, to the exclusion of the other two aspects will not promote sustained progress for the community. Each community must develop its own vision and plan of action. There is no single definition of sustainable community development because every community has its own unique characteristics and challenges. Yet sustainable communities share common themes and concerns: economic security, environmental protection, social justice, and a commitment to the welfare of future generations.

Imagine a community where the air and water are clean, water supplies fully meet demand and everyone enjoys access to locally supplied safe and healthy foods, wildlife flourishes and the landscape is pleasing to the eye. Within this community, full participation and a spirit of cooperation pervade decision-making. People have an impact over their community's future. The community revitalizes the city center, reduces sprawl and promotes regional identity and pride. Public transportation effectively reduces congestion and pollution from cars, reduces transportation costs, and improves access to jobs and services. A strong emphasis on education and training for all promotes an improved quality of life today and fosters future opportunities for the community's youth.

If you are interested in learning more about sustainable practices and becoming involved in local action, join us for the next Sustainable Floridian Training Program. For more information: http://pcsf2013oct-eorg.eventbrite.com/.

Resource:
UF EDIS Sustainable Community Development

Savor the Flavor…Enjoying the fruits of summer

Nan Jensen,
UF/IFAS Pinellas County
Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent

Whether it’s cantaloupes, peaches, mangos or watermelons you are craving, summer brings an abundance of choices for you to enjoy. Not only does it taste good but eating fruit provides some real health benefits. People who eat healthy diets rich in fruits and vegetables are likely to have a reduced risk of some chronic diseases, like certain types of cancer, and heart disease. Fruits are a great source of potassium, dietary fiber, vitamin C, and folate (folic acid). Most are naturally low in fat, sodium, and calories and none of them have cholesterol. Fruits are also a great way to keep us hydrated during hot summer months since they contain 80% or more water.

Before preparing or eating, rub fruits briskly under clean running water to remove dirt and surface microorganisms. Then dry with a clean towel.

Since most fruits have a short shelf life ( a week or less) plan your trip to the grocery store, produce stand or farmer's market accordingly so you're not throwing away food that's gone bad before you get a chance to use it. Consider freezing fruits if you want to keep it longer. Properly frozen fruits retain much of their fresh flavor and nutritive value. Their texture may be somewhat softer, however, than fresh fruit. If you are looking for information on freezing or any other method home food preservation, the National Center for Home Food Preservation is your source for current research-based recommendations. Check the site out at the link below.

http://nchfp.uga.edu/

Sustainable Floridians(SM) – A Unique Learning Opportunity

Ramona Madhosingh-Hector, 
Urban Sustainability Agent 

Knowledge is power and the Sustainable Floridians^SM training program is a discussion-to-action program that aims to develop leaders for a sustainable future. Participants will learn about wise use of resources, household and community resiliency, and the impacts of lifestyle choices. The program educates participants about Florida specific actions for conserving energy, water, and vehicle miles travelled while creating and promoting opportunities for community leadership. 

The 2013 edition of Sustainable Floridians^SM will be offered September 11 through October 30 at the Pinellas County Extension office in Largo. Classes will be held on Wednesdays only from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. and the program fee of $65 includes registration, light meal and program materials. The 8-week program will include six core classes with specific focus on Energy, Water, and Food, and an elective class on Transportation and Land Use. Participants are eligible for a Certificate of Completion by attending five of the six core classes. 

The classroom style training utilizes multimedia presentations and discussion groups to provide a participatory structure that promotes networking and idea sharing. UF/IFAS Extension faculty teach all sessions and participants receive valuable sustainable living devices (e.g. energy devices) to promote behavior change. Although this is a non-credit adult education program, UF faculty provide opportunities for ongoing learning through the UF/IFAS Extension network and monthly mentoring meetings. 

Join us for this exciting program and become a part of the Sustainable Floridians^SM graduate network. 

Resources: 

Sustainable Floridians^SM

UF Sustainable Living 

UF Office of Sustainability 

From an Intern's Perspective

Alexis Black, a recent intern at Pinellas County Extension’s Satellite Extension Office at Brooker Creek Preserve reflects on her summer internship experience…

Photo of Alexis Black, Intern (left) and 

Lara Miller, Natural Resources Agent (right)

I discovered my passion for the environment after I read An Inconvenient Truth by Al Gore and after studying environmentalism in an American History class. Every sentence I read in Gore’s book and every idea I studied in history class made something spark within me and drove me on a crusade to learn all that I can about the environment and to join the effort of improving it. While deciding where I wanted to intern, Brooker Creek Preserve became an option. I chose to intern there because I felt that I could learn about the environment. I was really excited to intern at the preserve because I would be engulfed by the Florida wilderness and meet others with the same passion as me.

Before I began my internship, I had no idea what expect except for the pretense that I would be learning about the environment. I visualized what I would learn about and what I would work on, and I thought of these scenarios where I would be outdoors all day hiking on trails and exploring the wilderness. In reality, I hiked with my sponsor and her co-workers almost every day I interned and they helped me learn the plants and animals of the preserve. I was also indoors a lot organizing and developing materials for the preserve’s Environmental Education Center, a center dedicated to educating the public about the environment and how to protect it. The reality I worked in was so much better than the visualizations I had prior to my internship. 

Over the course of my internship at Brooker Creek Preserve, I learned so much information regarding the preserve itself and the efforts to improve it. I researched the six ecosystems of the preserve along with the plants and animals that live in them. I developed a presentation about these ecosystems and their wildlife for my sponsor’s future use. I additionally completed and submitted two grant applications for a project my sponsor and I planned. I learned how to write responses for these applications and I learned what is necessary for a successful grant application. I also attend a meeting regarding stormwater with my sponsor and learned what stormwater is and what is being done to keep it free of pollutants. Along with the information I learned during my time at Brooker Creek Preserve, interning there has improved my responsibility, time-management skills and helped me grow more mature. These improvements make me feel more prepared for the stressful senior year ahead of me and make me feel more prepared for the workplace.

I am very grateful to have interned at Brooker Creek Preserve because it has taught me so many skills that will be useful to me in the future and it has made me feel more prepared for the adult world. Interning at Brooker Creek Preserve has been both a wonderful and extraordinary experience.

“These past few weeks have literally changed my life…You have changed me more than you could ever know.” –Alexis Black

Programs & Events in July

Presented by 
Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. (727) 582-2108
Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800 
Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500

July 6
Brooker Book Club: Hosted by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve, the Brooker Book Club meets the first Saturday of each month. The book selected for discussion in June is Star Island by Carl Hiaasen. 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration is required as seating is limited, Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

June 6, 13, 20, 27
Weedon Island Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 6, 20, 27
Brooker Creek Guided Hike: See how the land has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes on this 0.75-mile walk. Closed-toe shoes, water and hat recommended. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.   http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 6
Weedon the Beautiful: Join the family fun at Weedon Island Preserve for a Photo Adventure Scavenger Hunt this holiday weekend. Bring digital cameras and pick up the list of clues at the front desk at the center. Complete the list and share photos with one of the volunteers to collect a prize. Remember to bring water, snacks and sunscreen for this outdoors event. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 11, 18, 25
Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 11, 25
Wee-Time at Weedon: Every second and fourth Thursday of each month, children are treated to a variety of stories and hands-on activities that connect them to their environment. This activity is recommended for ages 3 to 5. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration requested. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 11
Green Invaders: Over 300 aliens live in Florida, from walking catfish, boa constrictors to Brazilian Pepper, all native species that are being pushed out of their homes. Why worry? Almost every species of animal, from butterflies to bears, evolve alongside the plants that grow here. For the public’s convenience, Pinellas County Extension Master Gardener Sandy Huff and community activist Joe Casse will present what to look for and how to make a difference in helping our natives survive in two programs, the first from 2 to 3:30 p.m. and the second from 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave, Palm Harbor. (727) 582-2603; www.eventbrite.com/event/6045435059/eorg

July 12
Great Weedon Bird Quest: Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of our feathered year-round residents and seasonal visitors while assisting in compiling an annual checklist of the preserve’s birds. This hike is designed to take advantage of all levels of birding experience. Binoculars and bird guides are available. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.  http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 12
Botany Hike: Join a Brooker Creek naturalist to explore the fascinating plants found on the preserve while identifying wildflowers, ferns, epiphytes, trees and more. The ecology of various plant communities will also be examined. Best suited for adults. Come prepared with your camera and questions. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 13
Birds of Brooker Hike: Join this hike to identify common birds of Brooker Creek Preserve. Meander along the one-mile trail to gather information on the birds seen and heard. Binoculars will be helpful. Bring water. 8 to 10:30 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 13, 31
4-H Brooker Creek Explorers Club is a newly formed club seeking new members ages 5 to 18. Meetings are twice a month to learn about and explore a new environmental topic from trees to bees and everything in between. Members receive an age-specific booklet of their choice which enables them to continue their work outside of the meeting times. The club aims to teach them things they may not have learned in school and will get them outdoors as much as possible. 2 to 3:30 p.m. Advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center, www.brookercreekexplorers-eorg.eventbrite.com

July 13
Archaeology Works - Pottery: Shells: Archaeologists study ancient shells to not only learn about the diets and tools of prehistoric Floridians, but also the environments in which they lived. Learn to identify different shell types from around the Tampa Bay area and the ways archaeologists use them to learn about the past. 10 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 18
Vegetable, Herb and Tropical Fruit Garden Tour: Explore the vegetable garden and compost demonstration areas at Pinellas County Extension/Florida Botanical Gardens to learn more about growing your own food. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; tours limited to group of 4 to 16 people; advance registration required. Pinellas County Extension, www.eventbrite.com/event/6241882639/eorg

July 19
Forestry Hike:  Join a local natural resources agent and hike along two miles of boardwalks and natural trails at Brooker Creek Preserve. Come prepared with binoculars, cameras and questions. Questions can also be researched in the resource room upon return to the education center. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 20
Weedon Photography Hike: Hike the preserve in search of that perfect photo. This program provides great opportunities for photographers of all levels to hone their skills. After a brief classroom session, preserve volunteers highlight seasonal features of the preserve, as well as specific wildlife behaviors that help participants capture the natural beauty of Weedon Island Preserve. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 20
Tree ID: Join your local natural resource agent as she discusses the basics on how to identify trees in your area. The presentation includes a guided tree identification walk. 10:30 to noon. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.  http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 20
Going Coastal–Discover the World of Plankton:  Discover the hidden world of the estuary with some of the smallest critters that live in Tampa Bay. Plankton is a diverse group of organisms suspended in the water of estuaries, oceans and all other bodies of water. Microscopes will help reveal these fascinating live creatures. Just stop by for this self guided activity for ages 8 and older. 1 to 3 p.m.. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 22
Teacher Training Summer Camp:  The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences and Extension Service are teaming up with St. Petersburg College to offer a fun and informative week-long workshop for pre-service elementary education students and elementary teachers with a focus on environmental education. Each day will feature different environmental subjects and professional speakers will provide background knowledge to participants. 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 24
Fertilizer/Pesticide BMPs: Training to obtain limited certification for urban landscape commercial fertilizer (LCULCF). BMP certification awarded upon passing the exam. Four FDACS pesticide CEUs provided. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $15; free to employees of Pinellas County and the Pinellas County School Board and Pinellas County Master Gardener volunteers (must present ID on day of class). Advance registration required. Pinellas County Extension. Register at http://pce-commercialhort.eventbrite.com

July 24
Pinellas Energy Efficiency Project–at Dunedin Public Library: Learn how much energy is wasted in the home every day, around the clock. Participants receive free equipment and materials to help cut energy costs, and save money each month. 6 to 7 p.m. Free; advance registration at http://dunlib2013peep.eventbrite.com

July 24
Creatures of the Night: Pinellas County’s Natural Resource Extension Agent, Lara Miller, will discuss the creatures of the night. All of our nocturnal critters form a vital part of our natural environment but are largely ignored. Come learn more about these fascinating creatures. Recommended for adults. 2 to 3 p.m. Garden Club of St. Petersburg, 500 Sunset Dr., S, St. Petersburg. (727) 582-2109; www.eventbrite.com/event/5260325776/eorg

July 26
Wildlife Hike: Join an experienced naturalist as you hike along boardwalks and natural trails at Brooker Creek Preserve. This will be a learning experience for everyone! Come prepared with your binoculars, cameras, and questions! Any questions your hike guide cannot answer will be researched in the resource room upon return to the Education Center. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

July 27
Pinellas Energy Efficiency Project–at County Extension: Learn how much energy is wasted in the home every day, around the clock. Participants receive free equipment and materials to help cut energy costs, and save money each month. 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Free; advance registration. Pinellas County Extension. http://peep2013ext.eventbrite.com/

July 27
Wildflower Garden Club: Join the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve to get gardening hands dirty in the preserve’s wildflower garden. Bring garden gloves and hat. Morning snacks are usually provided. Free; advance registration required. 8 to 10 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

Extension programs are open to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, age, disability, religion or national origin.

Vegetable Gardening Proves Beneficial for Youth and Their Families

Jean Rogalsky, Pinellas County 4-H Extension Agent 
Keri Hannekeinen, 4-H Youth Mentor

Interest in food safety and quality, couples with an increased interest in vegetable gardening has resulted in a wide range of gardening throughout Pinellas County. These projects range from community and school gardens to small home garden plots. Some gardens are traditional in the ground plots, while some gardeners are content with a few container grown vegetables. What these gardens have in common are fresh, delicious, and nutritious vegetables. Also, the gardener can control the use of pesticides used in the garden.

There are additional benefits for children and families who garden. Researchers from the American Dietetic Association, the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, the University of Florida, and the University of Colorado, all found similar results. Research has shown three main areas of these benefits: enhanced social skills, healthy habits, and academic progress.

Social Skills 

• When third to fifth grade students, participating in a one-year gardening program filled out a survey of life skills, they showed a significant increase in self-understanding, interpersonal relationship skills, and ability to work in groups compared to nonparticipating students (Robinson & Zajicek, 2005)
• Surveys of 52 second and third grade students working in a community garden classroom program in San Antonio revealed that participants were likely to have positive bonding experiences with their parents and other adults (Alexander, North, & Hendren , 1995).
• Children who garden are more accepting of others who are different from themselves (Dyment & Bell, 2006 ) a finding consistent with research that shows community gardening projects “grow” community (Glover, 2004).

Healthy Habits 

• Children are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables. Many children will say they do not like a vegetable because they have never tasted it. 
• Students are more likely to try eating vegetables they have grown themselves and to ask for them at home. 
• After participating in a school garden program, children were more likely to consume vegetables at home, more willing to ask a family member to purchase vegetables, and more willing to include vegetables as a snack. They are also more likely to continue healthy eating habits throughout their lives. Higher fruit and vegetable consumption in adulthood can help prevent or delay chronic disease conditions over a lifetime.
• According to the Green Institute in Minneapolis, eating locally produced food reduces asthma rates, because children are able to consume manageable amounts of local pollen and develop immunities. 
• According to the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, access to places for physical activity with educational resources produced a 48.4 percent increase in frequency of physical activity in addition to a 5.1 percent median increase in aerobic capacity, reduced body fat, weight loss, improved flexibility and an increase in perceived energy. School gardens fit this description. 

Academic Progress 

• Students who are actively engaged in garden projects tend to enjoy learning and show improved attitudes towards education. Third, fourth and fifth grade students who participated in school gardening activities scored significantly higher on science achievement tests than students who did not experience any garden-based learning activities. Parent involvement, shown to enhance student achievement, increases at schools with garden programs 

Without a doubt, creating a vegetable garden at your home or at school is one of the best, long-lasting investments one can make for the children and adults in the community.

(For a complete list of sources, please contact jrogalsk@pinellascounty.org)

Energy Information Seminar –at Green Expo

Want to learn more about natural gas?  Interested in weatherizing your home?

This Saturday, join Pinellas Energy Efficiency Project with City of Clearwater’s Gas and Planning & Development Departments for a free class about energy efficiency, alternative energy, and an update on Clearwater Greenprint, the City of Clearwater’s “green” strategies.

Each participant at the free 1-hour session will receive an insulated tote bag. 

The seminar will be held in conjunction with a Green Expo hosted by the City of Clearwater at Moccasin Lake Nature Park. 

Green Expo hours are 9:30 am to 12 noon. Energy Information Seminar is at 10:30 am.

Come out and learn about natural gas, energy efficient behaviors, and alternative energy.  Door prizes and informational give-a-ways will be available!

Register at http://energyinfo2013.eventbrite.com/

Humans to the rescue

Lara Miller,
Natural Resource Agent

When someone or something is in distress, we tend to have an instinctual reaction to help. Often times providing assistance is an extremely beneficial action, but that’s not always the case with nature. During this time of year, many baby birds are exploring the exciting new world around them. A chance to watch eggs hatch, down turn into feathers, closed eyes begin to open and weak bodies begin to build strength is spectacular, but we have to be careful not to get involved.

Baby birds are extremely dependent upon their parents for survival. Birds often appear helpless during the nestling stage of development, unable to walk or fly. Should you come across a young bird that has fallen out of its nest, look for a nest nearby. If you find one, check to see if the baby bird you found matches others in the nest. If it does, gently place the bird back in the nest and leave the area. If you are unable to find a matching nest site or unable to reach a nest, you can make a temporary nest site for the bird. To do this, you can use a hanging pot plant with drain holes and line the pot with pine straw up to the lip, then place as close to the original nest site as possible. Young chicks should not be separated from their parents for a long time, so it is important to complete these processes as quickly as possible.

During the fledgling stage of development, young birds leave the nest, hopping among shrubs and bushes learning to gather food and building up the stamina to fly. At this stage, birds are vulnerable prey to predators including dogs and cats. Should a pet pose a serious threat, you can gently pick up the bird and place it on a high branch of dense vegetation.

If parents do not return to these young birds within an hour or two, it is advised to contact a wildlife rehabilitator. You can find licensed rehabilitators by contacting the local Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at (863) 648-3200. Citizens without federal permits are not legally allowed to care for wildlife. Orphans need around-the-clock care and species-specific housing, nutrition and handling.

In cases like this, humans can come to the rescue if aware of the proper procedures. If you find a baby bird away from its parents, try to get it back to its nest where its parents can care for it appropriately. As much as we would love to care for these small creatures, we are not capable of meeting their needs without appropriate certification.

Hurricane Preparedness

Libby Carnahan, UF/IFAS Pinellas County
Sea Grant Extension Agent

Nan Jensen, UF/IFAS Pinellas County
Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent

June kicks off hurricane season and five days into the month Tropical Storm Andrea formed in the Gulf of Mexico, proving that it is never too early to review your hurricane plans. Below are some helpful tips.

Review your Disaster Plan
A predetermined hurricane plan takes the guesswork out of an already stressful situation. It is important to know your evacuation zone and designated shelter (In Pinellas County- http://www.pinellascounty.org/emergency/knowyourzone.htm). Meet with your family and discuss what you will do if advised to evacuate. It is a good idea to designate an out-of-state friend as a contact for your family. Be aware of local resources including telephone numbers and websites; a useful list of local resources can be found at http://pinellas.ifas.ufl.edu/marine/pdf/HurricanePrep_StayingConnected.pdf. It is recommended that you talk with your neighbors about how you could work together after a tropical storm or hurricane-identify tools and skills of each neighbor, identify elderly neighbors with special needs, and make plans for childcare in case parents cannot get home. Keep the items that you would most likely need during an evacuation in an easy-to carry container such as a large, covered trash container, a camping backpack, or a duffle bag.

Stock your Supply Kit
To be ready for a disaster, you need to stock six basics in your home: water, food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and emergency supplies, and special items.

A five to seven day supply of nonperishable foods and water is recommended. Also include items like a non-electric can opener, utility knife, plastic utensils and dishware, plastic wrap or tin foil to keep foods covered and hand sanitizer to lessen the risk of food contamination in your hurricane preparation kit. Before the storm, turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings. After a power outage, refrigerated food will stay cold longer if you keep the refrigerator door closed. Food in the refrigerator should generally be eaten within 4 hours; food in the freezer may remain safe for 1-2 days. But when in doubt if food is safe to eat, throw it out.

• Ideal foods do not need refrigeration, are low in salt, and do not require cooking. Some examples are canned fruits, peanut butter, jam, low-salt crackers, cereals, dried fruit, canned soups or meats, juices, and non-fat dry milk. 
• Clean drinking water may be unavailable for days. Aim to have one to two gallons of water per person per day for at least 5 to 7 days. 
• Include any special foods for those with dietary restrictions, and baby food and formula if you have infants in the household. 
• Include medications and special needs for babies or elderly. 
• Don’t forget pet food and water.

It is also important to have key documents in order. Even if you do not need family records during an evacuation, you must prevent them from being destroyed by a disaster. Such records are difficult to replace and may delay an insurance claim or other important matters. Keep these records in a waterproof, fireproof, portable container:

• Copies of will, insurance policies, contracts, deeds, stocks and bonds • Passports, social security cards and immunization records 
• Bank account numbers 
• Credit card account numbers and companies 
• Inventory of valuable household goods 
• Important telephone numbers 
• Family records (birth, marriage, death certificates)

The University of Florida IFAS offers many great resources to help you prepare including the new Gulf of Mexico Alliance funded “Florida Homeowners Handbook to Prepare for Natural Hazards,” and the “Disaster Handbook”, available online.

Florida Summer Gardening 101

Theresa Badurek,

Urban Horticulture Extension Agent 
and Master Gardener Coordinator

It’s almost June and the weather is still pleasant… for now.  Soon we will be battling hot summer sun, bugs, humidity, and torrential rains every afternoon.  These conditions present several challenges for the home gardener, but there are things you can do now to prepare your garden (and yourself) for the heat.

If you use annuals in your landscape you probably know by now that many of them don’t tolerate the Florida heat very well.  Just because a plant is being sold in local garden centers does not necessarily mean it’s the right time to plant them here in Florida.  However, there are several annual plants that take our temps in stride.  They include salvia, torenia, wax begonia, coleus, and ornamental peppers. When shopping for annuals choose compact plants with healthy leaves, good color, and lots of flower buds (they don’t have to be in bloom at the time of purchase).  For more information about gardening with annuals in Florida, click here.

Since annuals are seasonal they should make up focal areas in the garden, but not too much space, as they require a lot of energy and resources for such a short life-span.   Right now is also a great time to plan new perennial plantings, including trees, palms, shrubs, and groundcovers.  If you have a plan at the ready you can be prepared to install once the rainy season starts- then you won’t need to water as often yourself.  Just remember that if you plant something before you go on vacation you should ask a friend or neighbor to care for it while you are gone.  For more information on establishing new trees and shrubs, click here. 

But that’s not all you can do this time of the year.  You can also plant some herbs that like the heat such as basil, Mexican tarragon, and rosemary.  Since some herbs are annuals and some are perennials remember to group them accordingly so you won’t be disturbing the perennials when replanting the annuals.  Many herbs are also suited to planting in containers- but you must remember that those plants in containers will dry out faster than those in the ground and will need more irrigation attention.  For more information about growing herbs in your Florida garden, click here.

If you think your new herbs might get lonely out there, don’t hesitate to try your hand at vegetable gardening.  But (and this is a biggie) you can’t plant the same veggies in the summer that you can up north.  Our hot temps just won’t work with many of the usual veggies, but there are several crops you can grow here in the heat including okra, southern pea, and sweet potato.  For more information about vegetable gardening in Florida, including suggested crops and their planting dates, click here.

Summer (June, July and August are great) is also a good time to solarize your vegetable garden, so you can add this to your summer gardening plan.  What does that mean?  Well, this one prep can help reduce soil pests and even kill weed seeds, making your garden more successful throughout the fall gardening season.  Solarizing involves harnessing the heat of the sun by covering the soil with clear plastic and is most effective in the summer months.  To solarize, you want to prepare your soil with any amendments such as compost or manures before you begin.  Make sure your garden is clear of rocks, twigs, weeds, and other debris.  Till the soil to at least 6 inches to make sure the heat will penetrate deeply enough to be effective.   The day after a good rain or irrigation is best for applying the clear plastic sheeting over the soil.  Lay sheets of clear plastic over the soil and bury the edges to keep it in place.  Clear plastic is the only kind that will be effective- do not use black.  Finally, leave plastic in place for at least 6 weeks.  For more info on solarizing your garden, visit “Introduction to Soil Solarization”.

A discussion of summer garden preps wouldn’t be complete without a mention of hurricane season.  Now is your last chance to prepare for hurricane season by checking trees for damaged or weak branches and prune if needed.  Be sure to hire an ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certified arborist to do this work- they are trained to care for trees and continually participate in ongoing education to maintain this certification.  This can help lengthen the life of your trees and minimize the chance of property damage.  To find a certified arborist near you, visit the ISA website tool to locate a tree professional.

Last, but definitely not least, make sure to watch out for your own health in the heat.  Slow down, dress for summer, do not get too much sun, drink water, do not drink alcoholic beverages, and spend more time in air-conditioned places.  The University of Florida Extension has a great webpage for heat safety that everyone should read before it gets too hot.  Be safe and have a great summer!