The UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County Office is pleased to announce the following Environmental Horticulture programs for May 2025. These programs are being offered by Cynthia Nazario-Leary, an Environmental Horticulture agent, and Master Gardener volunteers.
Master Gardener Volunteer Program – now accepting applications
The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program is a volunteer-driven program that benefits UF/IFAS Extension and the citizens of Florida. It relies on dedicated volunteers interested in gardening and giving back to their communities. With training from UF/IFAS Extension, Master Gardener Volunteers are active in their communities, offering leadership and education in gardening, landscaping, and water conservation projects.
This year’s training course will begin on Aug. 20 and run through Nov. 5, 2025. The class meets every Wednesday from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., at the Alachua County Ag Auditorium (22716 W. Newberry Road, Newberry). The cost of the training is $200, which includes a student manual and handbook, soil test, and other educational materials and resources. Seating for this program is limited, and placement is selective. Typically, more people apply than can be accepted.
After successfully completing the training, interns must volunteer for at least 75 hours in the first year to achieve their Master Gardener volunteer certification. In subsequent years, they must complete 35 volunteer hours and ten continuing education units to maintain an active status within the program.
To apply for the 2025 Master Gardener Volunteer Training Course, fill out the Master Gardener volunteer application. Applicants will be directed to create an account in the volunteer management system. The deadline for submitting your application is May 9.
2025 Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Sale – May 3, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Alachua County Agriculture & Equestrian Center (23100 W. Newberry Road, Newberry)
The Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Sale will offer exceptional prices on herbs, annuals, perennials, spring vegetables, natives, and more. While supplies last, an assortment of citrus and other fruit trees, blueberries, house plants, and patio plants will also be available. Master Gardener volunteers will be on-site to offer plant selection and care advice. In addition, there will be a container gardening demonstration and information booths, including the UF/IFAS Bookstore.
Admission and parking are free. Cash, checks, or credit cards are accepted for purchases. Wagons or carts to carry plants are permitted. Please do not bring pets.
This annual plant sale is a fundraiser for the Alachua County Master Gardener Volunteer Program. The proceeds support school and community gardens, youth summer camp scholarships, and other educational workshops for the Alachua County community.
All About Fertilizer – May 13, from 2:30 to 4 p.m., at the Alachua County Ag Auditorium (22716 W. Newberry Road, Newberry)
This class will focus on understanding fertilizer labels, identifying the correct application methods and timing, and recognizing which plants require those vital nutrients.
There is no registration fee, but participants must register online. It is limited to 100 participants.
For more information about these programs, call 352-955-2402. For additional programs offered, visit the extension office website.
