From UF/IFAS
In Summary:
UF/IFAS Extension in Orange County is offering a full calendar of in-person and online classes this May, focusing on topics such as financial literacy, sustainable landscaping, and food production. Programs include workshops for renters and first-time homebuyers, gardening classes, and youth summer camps through 4-H. Many classes are free or low-cost and aim to provide residents with hands-on learning opportunities and practical life skills.
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Whether you want to eat healthier, grow your own food, strengthen your body, manage your money, or turn your backyard into a wildlife haven, April offers a full calendar of hands-on and online learning opportunities through UF/IFAS Extension in Orange County. From free workshops to in-depth, multi-week programs, residents can explore topics ranging from colorectal cancer prevention to hydroponic strawberries, all designed to build practical skills and strengthen the community.
Registration for most classes is available at ocextension.eventbrite.com. For more information, call 407-254-9200.
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, May 13, 2026, 2:00pm–5:00pm.
FREE. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
How to Grow Microgreens (In Person)
Join us to learn about the basics of microgreens and how to grow them at home! Presented by Orange County Extension Agent Calvin Gardner, this class will cover the common types of microgreens, growth habits, and edible uses. The class will also include a hands-on portion where participants will make their own microgreen pot to take home.
Thursday, May 14, 2026, 10:00 am-11:30 am.
$12 fee, includes a microgreen pot to take home. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
First Time Homebuyer Workshop – ENGLISH 5/15 & 5/22 (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, May 15, 2026, 9:00 am–1:00 pm.
Friday, May 22, 2026, 9:00 am–1:00 pm.
$10 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
How to Grow Microgreens (In Person)
Join us to learn about the basics of microgreens and how to grow them at home! Presented by Orange County Extension Agent Calvin Gardner, this class will cover the common types of microgreens, growth habits, and edible uses. The class will also include a hands-on portion where participants will make their own microgreen pot to take home.
Tuesday, May 19, 2026, 10:00am-11:30am.
$12 fee, includes a microgreen pot to take home. 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 Dr. P. Phillips Community Park, 8249 Buenavista Woods Blvd., Orlando, FL 32836. Trees must be planted on private property, and proof of residency (driver’s license, utility bill, or photo ID) is required. Tree varieties appropriate for Zone 10A will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. The event helps expand the local tree canopy.
Saturday, May 16, 2026, 8:00am–12:00pm, or until trees are gone.
FREE. No pre-registration required. 407-254-9200.
Basics of Landscaping (In Person)
Learn how better landscaping practices can help conserve Florida's water resources! Join Orange County Extension Agent Hannah Eason to explore eco-friendly landscaping techniques that keep landscapes green and water clean for future generations.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026, 9:00am-11:00am.
$25 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
Urban Backyard Chicken Class (Online)
This online class covers the basics of raising backyard chickens in urban and suburban settings, including coop setup, flock health, local regulations, and egg production. Orange County Extension Agent J.K. Yarborough will lead the session.
Wednesday, May 27, 2026, 10:00 am–12:00 pm.
$5 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
First Time Homebuyer Workshop – SPANISH 5/27 (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.
Wednesday, May 27, 2026, 9:00am–5:00pm.
$10 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
4-H Cloverbud Summer Camp Days (In Person)
Orange County 4-H will offer two one-day Cloverbud Summer Camp experiences for youth ages 5–7 (as of 9/1/25). Each camp includes four hours of hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, arts and crafts, music and movement, and a healthy snack led by UF/IFAS Extension faculty and staff. Space is limited.
Growing Up WILD: Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 8:00am–12:00pm.
Kitchen Sprouts: Wednesday, July 8, 2026, 8:00am–12:00pm.
$20 fee per person, per camp. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
4-H Summer Day Camps (In Person)
Orange County 4-H will offer two week-long summer day camps for youth ages 8–12 (as of 9/1/25). Camps feature interactive, hands-on activities such as science experiments, outdoor exploration, gardening, and creative food projects, led by UF/IFAS Extension faculty and program volunteers, along with a healthy snack. Space is limited.
4-H S.T.E.M. Day Camp: Monday-Friday, June 22–26, 2026, 8:00am–12:00pm. Register by June 8, 2026.
4-H Adventurous Kids Day Camp: Monday-Friday, July 13–17, 2026, 8:00am–12:00pm. Register by June 29, 2026.
$100 per camp. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
May “Pop Up” Plant Clinics (In Person)
Master Gardener Volunteers will host “Pop Up” Plant Clinics at 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, May 7, 2026, 11:30am–1:30pm at Chickasaw Branch Library
Friday, May 8, 2026, 10:15am–12:15pm at South Creek Branch Library
Saturday, May 9, 2026, 10:15am–12:15pm at West Oaks Branch Library
FREE. No registration required. 407-254-9200.
