From UF/IFAS
In Summary:
Orange County Extension's July schedule includes classes designed to help residents improve their finances, health, gardening skills, and homeownership knowledge. Highlights include free workshops for renters and first-time homebuyers, a year-long diabetes prevention program, free tree giveaways, and hands-on gardening events. Several professional development opportunities are also available for landscape professionals, educators, and aspiring cottage food entrepreneurs.
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Take Control of Your Money for Renters (Online)
This practical online class helps renters strengthen their finances and better understand their rights. Topics include money management strategies, eviction prevention resources, renters’ rights, and income-based assistance programs. Led by Extension Agents, including Orange County Extension Agent Jenny Rodriguez.
Wednesday, July 1, 2026, 2:00pm–5:00pm.
FREE. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
Diabetes Prevention Program (Online)
Take charge of your life and register for this year-long, research-based lifestyle change program for preventing diabetes. Presented virtually by Hillary MacMichael, Orange County Extension Agent.
Thursdays, July 8, 2026 - June 2, 2027, 3:00pm-4:00pm.
FREE! Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200
Adopt-A-Tree (In Person)
Orange County residents may receive up to two free trees per household at Ft. Christmas Historical Park, 1300 N. Fort Christmas Rd., Christmas, FL 32709. This event is offered in partnership with Orange County. Trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Due to high demand, trees are often claimed early, and attendees are encouraged to arrive before 8:00 a.m. Trees must be planted on private residential property, and proof of Orange County residency is required (driver’s license, utility bill, or photo ID).
Saturday, July 11, 2026, 8:00am–until trees are gone.
FREE. No pre-registration required. 407-254-9200.
Gardening with Kids: UF/IFAS School Garden Success Workshop (In Person)
This hands-on workshop is designed for K-12 teachers and Master Gardener Volunteers interested in building and sustaining successful school garden programs. Participants will learn about site selection, food safety, pollinator and herb gardening, youth engagement strategies, and pest management, while also exploring the Orange County Extension Demo Garden and connecting with fellow educators and volunteers.
Tuesday, July 14, 2026, 9:30am–4:00pm.
$25 fee. Pre-registration required; registration closes July 12, 2026. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
Lawn & Ornamental Pest Management: Overview, Exam Review, & CEUs (In Person)
Designed for landscape professionals seeking to obtain or maintain a pesticide applicator license (CLO, L&O, LLO, LCLM, LUF, O&T), this four-hour course provides an overview of Best Management Practices (BMPs), Integrated Pest Management (IPM), laws, safety procedures, pest identification, and equipment calibration. Instruction is provided by Orange County Extension Agent Hannah Eason. CEUs available.
Wednesday, July 15, 2026, 9:00am–1:00pm.
$40 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
Introduction to Cottage Foods in Florida (Online)
Learn the basics of Florida’s cottage food law and how to legally sell certain homemade foods directly from your home. This workshop will cover key food safety practices, labeling requirements, and simple steps for getting started as a cottage food entrepreneur. Presented by Orange County Extension Agent Hillary MacMichael.
Monday, July 20, 2026, 12:00pm–1:00pm.
$10 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
Remarkable Roselle: Exploring Edible Hibiscus in Central Florida
Discover the remarkable world of roselle, an edible hibiscus that thrives in Central Florida gardens. This two-part workshop series, led by Orange County Extension Agent Dr. Heather Kalaman, will explore roselle’s history and cultural significance, best practices for growing and caring for the plant, and techniques for harvesting its vibrant calyces. Participants will receive a potted roselle plant and enjoy hands-on demonstrations showing how roselle can be transformed into teas, jams, syrups, and other culinary creations.
Part One: Friday, July 24, 2026, 10:00am–12:00pm.
Part Two: Friday, October 9, 2026, 10:00am–12:00pm.
$25 fee per class/$50 for both. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
First Time Homebuyer Workshop – ENGLISH 7/24 & 7/31 (Online)
This two-part online workshop in English covers the homebuying process, mortgage options, and steps to secure an affordable loan. Led by Extension Agents, including Orange County Extension Agent Jenny Rodriguez, the class meets education requirements for many down payment assistance programs.
Friday, July 24, 2026, 9:00am–1:00pm.
Friday, July 31, 2026, 9:00am–1:00pm.
$10 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
First Time Homebuyer Workshop – SPANISH 7/30 (Online)
This online workshop in Spanish provides step-by-step guidance through the homebuying process, mortgage options, and qualifying for down payment assistance programs. Led by Extension Agents, including Orange County Extension Agent Jenny Rodriguez, the class meets education requirements for many assistance programs.
Thursday, July 30, 2026, 9:00am–5:00pm.
$10 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
July “Pop Up” Plant Clinic (In Person)
Master Gardener Volunteers will host “Pop Up” Plant Clinics at the Chickasaw, South Creek, and West Oaks Branches within the Orange County Library System this month!. Residents may stop by with plant questions and receive research-based gardening guidance.
Thursday, July 9, 2026, 11:30am–1:30pm at Chickasaw Branch Library
Friday, July 10, 2026, 10:15am–12:15pm at South Creek Branch Library
Saturday, July 11, 2026, 10:15am–12:15pm at West Oaks Branch Library
FREE. No registration required.
