Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The Alachua County Cooperative Extension Office is pleased to announce the following Environmental Horticulture Programs for September, 2013. These programs are being offered by Wendy Wilber, Environmental Horticulture Agent, at the Alachua County Cooperative Extensi0on Office (2800 NE 39th Avenue, Gainesville).

Raised Bed Vegetable Gardening – September 11, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Learn what crops to grow in fall gardens and about the efficient technique of growing vegetables in raised beds.

Growing Tomatoes – September 12, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

This class will cover growing tomatoes in the garden and containers. Participants will learn the basics of how to grow tomatoes in Florida’s challenging environment. In addition the class will include tomato pest control options, including non-chemical choices of combating the scores of tomato insect and disease problems.

Growing Citrus – September 25, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Learn to grow oranges, tangerines, lemons and grapefruit in the backyard. This class will also cover variety selection and freeze protection.

Growing Greens & Lettuces – September 26, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Lettuces and greens are fast and easy to grow in the garden. Learn about proper timing and variety selection for success. Includes collard, turnip, mustard and unusual Asian greens.

There is no cost to attend these classes, but space is limited. Pre-register at least 3 days prior to class by calling 352-337-6209 (voice mail).

Florida-Friendly™ Landscape Tour – September 28, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., beginning at the Senior Recreation Center (5701 NW 34th Street, Gainesville). Parking is limited, carpooling is encouraged.

The Alachua County Master Gardeners will be offering a tour of Florida-Friendly Landscapes™ in the Gainesville area. These yards exemplify water conservation and environmentally friendly landscaping practices.

Participants will leave for tours of local landscapes (map will be provided). These landscape sites will have Alachua County Master Gardener volunteers as guides.

View the program brochure.

The tour is free.  Pre-register at least 3 days prior to the tour by calling 352-337-6209 (voice mail).

For more information about these programs, call 352-955-2402. Visit the Extension Office calendar for additional programs offered by the Extension Office.

An Equal Opportunity Institution. Extension Service, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Nick T. Place, Dean. Single copies of Extension publications (excluding 4-H and youth publications) are available free to Florida residents from county Extension offices. Information about alternate formats is available from IFAS Communications, University of Florida, PO Box 110810, Gainesville, FL 32611-0810.