Media Release

​ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County Office is pleased to announce the following Environmental and Community Horticulture Programs for April 2016. These programs are being offered by Denise DeBusk, Environmental & Community Horticulture Agent, at the UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County Office (2800 NE 39 Avenue, Gainesville) unless otherwise indicated.

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ - Save Water, Save Money – April 7, from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Rain barrels and ways to improve their efficiency, as well as irrigation systems, rain gardens, and other money saving techniques will be discussed. Rain barrels will be available for purchase.

Growing and Using Herbs (with Brenda Williams, Family and Consumer Sciences Agent) – April 12, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
This workshop includes how to grow herbs and a demonstration of techniques and tips for using herbs to enhance foods. Taste samples provided. Directions for making flavored vinegars that are ideal for gift-giving will also be demonstrated. The cost is $5.00 payable at the door. Please pre-register one week before class.

Elements & Principles of Design – Designing with the Florida Friendly Landscaping™ Program – April 13, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

This workshop teaches how to create an aesthetically pleasing, functional, and Florida-Friendly landscape using the elements and principles of landscape design. Participants learn how to combine the elements of design such as line, color, form, and texture, and use the principles of design to create balance, harmony, and rhythm in the garden. Guest speakers include Dr. Gail Hansen, UF/IFAS Center for Landscape Conservation and Ecology, and her graduate student, Taylor Clem.

What Creepy Crawlies are in My Garden Soil? – April 14, from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the Alachua County Senior Recreation Center (5701 NW 34th Street, Gainesville)

The soil is full of organisms that can either help or harm plants. Workshop participants learn about the beneficial organisms in the soil and how to increase them in a landscape.

Growing Blueberries – April 21, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Alachua County is one of the top blueberry producing counties in the state. Rabbiteye blueberries are easily grown in this area. This class covers planting, fertilizing, and pruning.

There is no cost to attend these classes unless indicated, and space is limited. Pre-register at least three days before class 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.