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!

Programs & Events for June 2013

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

June 1, 15, 22, 29
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/

June 1
Introduction to Plant Identification: 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. Registration is required and all materials will be provided. Wear comfortable shoes, as part of the class will be outdoors. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.  http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

June 1
Rain Harvesting: Learn how to save rainwater in a recycled plastic barrel. The collected water may be used for plant beds, potted plants and vegetable and herb gardens. 9 to 10:30 a.m. In this free class you will learn how to make and set up a rain barrel. There is an option to purchase a rain barrel for $25 with advance registration. Pinellas County Extension. www.eventbrite.com/event/5724598428/eorg

June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
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/

June 1
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 Sunshine Paradise: A History of Florida Tourism by Tracy J. Revels. 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration is required as seating is limited, Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

June 1
Archaeology Works - Pottery: 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.eventbrite.com/

June 6, 13, 20, 27
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/

June 8
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/

June 8
Rain Harvesting: Learn how to make and set up a rain barrel and save rainwater in a recycled plastic barrel. The collected water may be used for plant beds, potted plants and vegetable and herb gardens. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; there is an option to purchase a rain barrel for $25 with advance registration. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com/

June 13, 27
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/

June 14
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/

June 14
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/

June 15
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/

June 15
Scatology - Discovering the Secrets of Scat: Ever seen scat (animal droppings) while on the preserve's trails and wondered which species left it behind? Perhaps it was from a gopher tortoise, coyote or alligator. Wildlife biologists and naturalists use scat to determine species presence, habitat use, diet, health, and even population estimates. This presentation will allow participants to view a variety of preserved specimens. 10 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com/

June 15
Advanced Plant Identification: This six-part plant identification series introduces participants to the basics and not-so-basic steps required to positively identify plants. Participants will receive a notebook and a copy of How to Identify Plants by H.D. Harrington. Upon completion of the entire course, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion from the University of Florida. 10 a.m. to noon. Wear comfortable shoes as part of the class will be outdoors. $15 for this series; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

June 18
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

June 19
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 to pce-commercialhort.eventbrite.com

June 21
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/

June 22
Birds in Florida Gardens: Join Lynn Sumerson for a program for those interested in attracting birds to their Florida gardens using Florida-native plants and identifying the birds to expect in the garden. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

June 22
Going Coastal - Saltwater Seining: Participants will learn in the classroom and out in the field about invertebrates and fish that make the waters of Weedon Island Preserve their home. We will use dip nets and seine nets to collect and categorize local critters. Participants must be able to walk a mile round trip to the field sampling site. You must bring closed-toed wading shoes (keens, scuba botties, old tennis shoes). It is also suggested to bring a water bottle, hat, sun protection and clothes you don't mind getting wet. 1 to 4 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com/

June 26
Orchids and Epiphytes of Brooker Creek Preserve: James Stevenson, Pinellas County Extension Specialist, will discuss native orchids and epiphytes located in Brooker Creek Preserve. 2 to 3 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Garden Club of St. Petersburg, 500 Sunset Drive, St. Petersburg. (727) 582-2603; register at www.eventbrite.com/event/5260299698/eorg.org

June 29
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/

June 29
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 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve. http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com/

June 29
Featured Creature – The Coyote: Join University of Florida/Extension natural resources agent Lara Miller as she discusses a relatively new resident to Pinellas County, the coyote. Lara will explore the life history of the coyote as well as its ability to adapt and survive in urban environments. Come and learn about this nocturnal creature and its presence in our area. 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve. http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com/

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

This or That?

Lara Miller,
Natural Resources Agent


Is it a turkey vulture or a black vulture? A slash pine or a longleaf pine? A saw palmetto or a cabbage palm? Identifying things in nature is not easy, but there are many ways you can learn and remember what is what. Each person remembers the name of certain species in different ways. For example, my trick to remembering a black vulture versus a turkey vulture is by the color variation of their wings when in flight. The black vulture has lighter colored feathers at the tip of its wings (Figure 1) and I remembered this by associating it with a “black-tip” shark. For the turkey vulture, the lighter color of the underside of their wings highlights a “T” shape which can easily be associated with a “t” for turkey vulture (Figure 2).

Okay, so now you’re a pro at telling the difference between a turkey vulture and a black vulture, right? What about all of the plants? Could you tell the difference between a young cabbage palm and a saw palmetto? One way cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto), our state tree, can be distinguished from the saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is by its leaf structure. The cabbage palm has a costa which is a long, narrow, triangular extension of the petiole or what some might refer to as the “stem” (Figure 1) whereas the saw palmettos lack a costa (Figure 2). There are many other ways to tell the two apart, but remembering some key distinguishing features is very helpful in identification.

With the wide diversity of plants and animals found in Florida, confident identification only comes with practice. The benefit of learning to identify plants versus animals is they don’t move! It is not to say plant identification is easy, but it’s not a bad place to start. The good news is we can help! James Stevenson, Extension Specialist, is hosting an Intro to Plant ID class at Brooker Creek Preserve on Saturday, June 1st from 10:30-noon. If you attend his class and want to take your skills to the next level, he is also offering a six-session summer course all focused on how to identify plants.

To stay up to date on upcoming environmental programs offered through UF/IFAS Extension Natural Resources you can sign up for the Brooker Creek Connection, follow the Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center or UF/IFAS Natural Resources on facebook.

Online registration for these courses and more is available through Brooker Creek Preserve’s website, www.brookercreekpreserve.org. Simply click on the “CALENDAR” link and register. We look forward to seeing you!

Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference

Informing and Inspiring Agricultural Innovators

Join UF/IFAS Extension August 2-4 at the

5th Annual Florida Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises Conference 

in Kissimmee, Florida for farm tours, a trade show, networking opportunities, live animal exhibits, hands-on workshops, and delicious locally-grown food! Don’t miss this chance to learn more about farming as well as alternative enterprises such as beekeeping, hydroponics, grass-fed beef and more.  You will have the opportunity to interact with other farmers and industry professionals and get all of your questions answered.  Early bird registration discount is available.  

Register today at: http://www.conference.ifas.ufl.edu/smallfarms/registration.html

Innovations in Agriculture

Mary Campbell,
Director and Community Resource Agent

Did you know that the average dairy cow produces seven gallons of milk a day, 2,100 pounds of milk a month, and 46,000 glasses of milk a year? In urbanized Pinellas County, we are removed from the daily reminders of where our food comes from and the importance of all types of agriculture to sustain our lives. Constant innovations in agriculture provide the ability to feed an ever growing population. In forty years, it is estimated that there will be an additional 2 billion people on the earth to feed. More people are moving to urban areas that traditionally did not provide space for farming – but that is changing.

Urban agriculture is of great interest for many reasons. It provides fresh, local produce which reduces miles traveled and can create more green space in an otherwise harsh city center. Urban farming can provide additional income, fresh vegetables for a family or be a recreational activity. Roof top gardens, vertical wall gardens, hydroponic gardens, backyard poultry, beekeeping, home vegetable gardens and community gardens are just the beginning of urban style farming. The urban farm usually grows a wider variety of produce than conventional types of agriculture and items can be grown for a specific market. Local farmers markets are adding an ever expanding array of fresh and organic produce and can be a location to sell locally produced fruits and vegetables. If you are selling only fresh fruits and vegetables that you produce, you do not need a license or permit from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. (Check with your the local tax collector for the occupational licenses and permits required in your county). Growers of fresh produce need to keep food safety considerations in mind for their operations.

If the right combinations of new technology, community support, and economic incentives align, urban farms could add to the food security of cities and reduce food deserts. Food deserts are defined as urban neighborhoods and rural towns without ready access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food within walking distance. Instead of supermarkets and grocery stores, these communities may have no food access or are served only by fast food restaurants and convenience stores that offer few healthy, affordable food options. The lack of access contributes to a poor diet and can lead to higher levels of obesity and other diet-related diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease.

New methods of production such as hydroponic and greenhouse grown crops (could be simple hoop house) can extend growing seasons, increase production and utilize small spaces. Innovations and urban agriculture go hand in hand. Join Extension on June 12 for an Aquaculture Workshop –another innovation in agriculture. (http://aquacultureworkshop.eventbrite.com/#)

Resources:

Small Farms and Alternative Enterprises: http://smallfarms.ifas.ufl.edu/

Alternative Greenhouse Crops: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/cv272 

Hydroponic Vegetable Production in Florida: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs405#FIGURE%204

Principles and Practices of Food Safety for Vegetable Production in Florida: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/cv288

Keeping the Pressure Down

Ashley Benedick,    
Dietetic Intern    

Bay Pines VA Healthcare System

May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services about 68 million Americans or 1 out of every 3 adults are living with high blood pressure, otherwise known as hypertension. High blood pressure is classified as 140/90 or higher. High blood pressure is often known as the “silent killer” because there are often no symptoms. However, in time high blood pressure can lead to numerous health conditions including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. High blood pressure can be controlled with proper diet and exercise. It is important to know how to achieve a healthy blood pressure to decrease the risks of chronic health problems.

Following the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet has been shown to reduce blood pressure. This dietary approach emphasizes eating low sodium foods, increasing fruits and vegetables, low fat or non-fat dairy, and incorporating whole grains. The healthy eating plan is high in fiber, low to moderate in fat, and rich in calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Here's a look at the recommended servings from each food group for the 2,000-calorie-a-day DASH diet.

Grains (6 to 8 servings a day)
Grains include bread, cereal, rice and pasta. One serving of grains would include 1 slice whole-wheat bread, 1 ounce (oz.) dry cereal, or 1/2 cup cooked cereal, rice or pasta. Focus on whole grains because they have more fiber and nutrients than do refined grains. Look for products labeled "100 percent whole grain" or "100 percent whole wheat."

Vegetables (4 to 5 servings a day)
Carrots, broccoli, sweet potatoes, greens, tomatoes and other vegetables are good sources of fiber, vitamins, and such minerals as potassium and magnesium. A serving would be 1 cup raw leafy green vegetables or 1/2 cup cut-up raw or cooked vegetables.

Fruits (4 to 5 servings a day)
Fruits are a great choice since they need little preparation to become a healthy part of a meal or snack. They too are packed with fiber, potassium and magnesium and are typically low in fat. Avocados and coconuts are two exceptions. One serving would include 1 medium fruit or 1/2 cup fresh, frozen or canned fruit.

Dairy (2 to 3 servings a day)
Milk, yogurt, cheese and other dairy products are major sources of calcium, vitamin D and protein. Make sure those choices are low-fat or fat-free because otherwise they can be a major source of fat. Examples of one serving include 1 cup fat free (skim) or 1% milk, 1 cup yogurt or 1 1/2 oz. cheese.

Lean meat, poultry and fish (6 or fewer servings a day)
Meat is a rich source of protein, B vitamins, iron and zinc. Even lean varieties contain fat and cholesterol, so keep an eye on how much you eat. A serving would include 1 oz. cooked skinless poultry, seafood or lean meat, 1 egg, or 1 oz. water-packed, no-salt-added canned tuna.

Nuts, seeds and legumes (4 to 5 servings a week)
Another rich source of fiber, potassium, magnesium, and protein include foods like almonds, sunflower seeds, kidney beans, peas, lentils and other foods in this family. Serving sizes are small and to be consumed weekly because these foods are high in calories. Examples of one serving include 1/3 cup (1 1/2 oz.) nuts, 2 tablespoons seeds or 1/2 cup cooked beans or peas.

Fats and oils (2 to 3 servings a day)
The DASH diet strives for a healthy balance of fats. While fat helps your body absorb essential vitamins and helps your body's immune system, too much fat increases your risk of heart disease, diabetes and obesity. To help you moderate the amount of fat you consume, choose small portions. Examples of a serving include 1 teaspoon soft margarine, 1 tablespoon low-fat mayonnaise or 2 tablespoons light salad dressing.

Sweets (5 or fewer a week)
You don't have to give up sweets entirely while following the DASH diet. Enjoy them in small amounts. Examples of one serving include 1 tablespoon sugar, jelly or jam, 1/2 cup sorbet or 1 cup (8 oz.) lemonade.

In addition to a healthy diet, physical activity and achieving a healthy body weight can help decrease blood pressure. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderately intense aerobic physical activity per week and muscle strengthening activity at least 2 times a week. Aerobic exercise could be done for 30 minutes, 5 days a week. There are a wide variety of aerobic exercises to try: biking, jogging, aerobic class, swimming, or brisk walking.

Achieving a healthy diet and healthy body weight can help reduce blood pressure and prevent hypertension. By reducing sodium intake, eating a healthy diet, and increasing physical activity, many health complications can be avoided.

Pinellas County Extension has information and programs to help people manage their blood pressure. Call us at 727-582-2100 to arrange a program for your group.

References:
http://www.cdc.gov/features/highbloodpressure/
http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/HighBloodPressure/PreventionTreatmentofHighBloodPressure/Physical-Activity-and-Blood-Pressure_UCM_301882_Article.jsp
http://dashdiet.org/
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/hbp/dash/new_dash.pdf

Programs & Events for May 2013

Presented by Pinellas County Extension, Brooker Creek Preserve, and Weedon Island Preserve

May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
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://www.eventbrite.com/event/5757240060/eac2

May 2
Salty Topics – Sea Turtle Migrations: The Marine Science Speaker Series continues with an exploration of the sea turtle research of Dr. Peter Meylan, Eckerd College. Refreshments donated by Friends of Weedon Island. 6:45 to 8 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve  http://seaturtlemigrations2013-eac2.eventbrite.com/

May 4
Brooker Book Club: The book selected for discussion in May is Rose Cottage Chronicles – Civil War Letters of the Bryant-Stephens Families of Northern Florida. Advance registration is required as seating is limited. 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Free. Brooker Creek Preserve http://www.eventbrite.com/event/4035520350

May 4, 18, 25
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. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5757067544/es2005/?rank=2

May 4, 11, 18, 25
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. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5143077082/eac2

May 9, 23
Wee-Time at Weedon: This program is designed to introduce preschool children to the wonders of the natural and cultural world. This activity is recommended for ages 3 to 5. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration requested. Weedon Island Preserve  http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5453024142/eac2

May 9, 23
Vegetable, Herb and Tropical Fruit Garden Tours at Florida Botanical Gardens: Learn about growing food and marvel at the eye-catching array of culinary, medicinal and aromatic herbs, trees and flowers. 9 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required.  http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5280496106/eorg

May 10
Great Weedon Bird Quest: 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://www.eventbrite.com/event/5202470730/eac2

May 10
Botany Hike: Join a Brooker Creek naturalist to explore the fascinating plants found on the preserve.  10 to 11:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5757067544/eac2

May 11
Birds of Brooker Hike: Join us for a Beginning Bird Hike to learn how to identify common birds as we meander along a one-mile trail.   8 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5757151796/eac2

May 11
Exotic Species Day: Environmental scientist Cynthia Grizzle and natural resource manager Brian Pavlina will discuss plant and animal species that have invaded the Tampa Bay area.  9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center  http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5683778334/eac2

May 11
Bright Futures Ranger Naturalist Program Overview: The mission of the program is to provide a learning service opportunity fulfilling the Bright Futures requirements for youth ages 15 to 18 to build leadership skills and provide environmental awareness. 10 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,  http://rangernaturalist-es2005.eventbrite.com/?rank=1

May 11
Pinellas Energy Efficiency Project–at Gulfport 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. 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Free; advance registration at http://peep2013gulf.eventbrite.com

May 11
Orchids and Epiphytes of Brooker Creek Preserve: Explore the fascinating world of orchids and “air plants” found on Pinellas County’s largest nature preserve.:30 to noon. Free; advance registration required.  Presentation to be held at Pinellas County Extension Services in Largo. www.eventbrite.com/event/5221946984.eorg

May 11
Going Coastal – Introduction to Fishing for Youth: Fishing poles, tackle, and bait will be provided during the program, but participants are welcome to bring their own fishing poles. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, http://youthfishing-eac2.eventbrite.com/

May 11
Rain Harvesting: Learn how to save rainwater in a recycled plastic barrel. 2 to 3 p.m. In this free class you will learn how to make and set up a rain barrel. A rain barrel will be given away at the class as a door prize. Oldsmar Public Library. (727) 582-2108; http://oldsmarclass.eventbrite.com

May 14, 28
Florida-Friendly Garden Tours: Enjoy a stroll through our garden of Florida-native and Florida-friendly plants.  9:00 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Pinellas County Extension, Largo. (727) 582-2109; www.eventbrite.com/event/5280297512/eorg    


May 15
Pinellas Energy Efficiency Project–at Mirror Lake Library, St. Petersburg: 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. 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Free; advance registration at http://mirror2013peep-es2005.eventbrite.com/?rank=2


May 15
Marine Compliance Assistance Workshop: The Clean Marina Program of the State of Florida, in cooperation with Pinellas County and Pinellas County Sea Grant partners, features this Clean Marina workshop. Marine scientists and environmental resource managers will present relevant topics, including coastal habitats, hurricanes and Tampa Bay through the years. 9 a.m. to noon. Free.  Weedon Island Preserve, http://cleanmarina2013-eac2.eventbrite.com/

May 17
Forestry Hike: Join a local natural resources agent and hike along two miles of boardwalks and natural trails at Brooker Creek Preserve. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve,  http://www.eventbrite.com/event/4982942114/es2005/?rank=1

May 18
Weedon Photography Hike: Hike the preserve in search of that perfect photo. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,  http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5202306238/eac2

May 18
Celebrate Forest Day: University of Florida’s School of Forest and Resource Conservation specialists will present a wide variety of forest-related topics at Brooker Creek Preserve.  9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve,  http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5685122354/eac2


May 20
Pinellas Energy Efficiency Project–at Sanderlin Community Center: 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. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Free; advance registration at http://peep2013sanderlin.eventbrite.com


May 22
Fertilizer/Pesticide BMPs (English): 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.; lunch included. Advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve; www.eventbrite.com/event/4788300937&

May 22
The Wonderful World of Brooker Creek Preserve: Join Lara Miller, University of Florida/Extension natural resources agent, to learn about the fascinating plants, animals and ecosystems of the  approximately 9,000 acres of preserve in the heart of Pinellas County.  Recommended for adults. 2 to 3 p.m. Free; registration required. Garden Club of St. Petersburg, 500 Sunset Drive S., St. Petersburg. (727) 582-2603; www.eventbrite.com/event/5260233500/eorg 

May 23
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. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; lunch included. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 582-2562; www.eventbrite.com/event/4782692161&
 
May 25
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://www.eventbrite.com/event/5691956796
 
May 25
Guided Photography Hike: Following a brief classroom session, local photographers and master naturalists Karl and Kathleen Nichter will highlight the seasonal features that help participants capture the natural beauty of the preserve, participants will 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 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve,  http://www.eventbrite.com/event/4944911363

May 25
Flipping for Dolphins: Join Clearwater Marine Aquarium staff at Weedon Island Preserve to learn about their work with their four resident Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. The program includes dolphin behavior, animal care and training techniques, and the biography of each of CMA’s resident dolphins. Recommended for all ages. 10 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,  http://flipppingdolphins-eac2.eventbrite.com/

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