From UF/IFAS
UF/IFAS Extension Orange County provides education and information to residents and businesses through workshops, publications, and mass media in the areas of family life, youth development, natural resources, horticulture, and agriculture. Current December classes/events are listed below and on its events calendar.
How to Grow Oyster Mushrooms (In Person)
Join us for a hands-on workshop on growing oyster mushrooms led by Orange County Extension Agent Calvin Gardner! We’ll cover the basics of fungi, mushroom biology, and edible uses PLUS participants will make a mushroom grow bag to take home!
Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 10:00am-11:30am.
$20 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
Take Control of Your Money for Renters (Online)
Money management, renters’ rights, eviction prevention, and more! Offered via Zoom by a team of UF/IFAS Extension Agents, including Orange County Extension Agent Jenny Rodriguez, this class is for residents looking for income-based assistance programs or anyone wanting to become a more savvy renter.
Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 5:00pm-8:00pm.
FREE! Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
Native Plant Workshop (In Person)
Interested in incorporating more native plants into your landscape but not sure where to begin? Join us to learn more about Florida native plants that thrive in our local climate, support wildlife, and conserve resources! Led by Orange County Extension Agent Dr. Heather Kalaman, and MAC Camacho-Viera, President of the Tar Flower Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society, this workshop will include an in-classroom discussion and an outdoor native plant walk.
Tuesday, February 11, 2025, 10:00am-12:00pm.
$15 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
First Time Homebuyer Workshop – ENGLISH 2/13 & 2/20 (Online)
Learn the steps to home ownership and how to obtain an affordable mortgage in this 2-part class offered via Zoom in ENGLISH by a team of UF/IFAS Extension Agents, including Orange County Extension Agent Jenny Rodriguez. The homebuyer workshop meets the education requirements for down payment assistance programs.
Thursday, February 13, 2025, 5:00pm-9:00pm.
Thursday, February 20, 2025, 5:00pm-9:00pm.
$10 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
Garden Tour (In Person)
Grab your gardening hat, sunglasses, and some comfy shoes and join our Orange County Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Agent Dr. Heather Kalaman for a guided tour through our Exploration Gardens! See unique plants in our 12 themed gardens and learn about Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles, smart irrigation, vegetable gardening, and flower species to attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. The tour includes an FFL book and pollinator seed packets.
Tuesday, February 18, 2025, 10:00am-11:30am.
$10 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
How to Grow Oyster Mushrooms (In Person)
Join us for a hands-on workshop on growing oyster mushrooms led by Orange County Extension Agent Calvin Gardner! We’ll cover the basics of fungi, mushroom biology, and edible uses PLUS participants will make a mushroom grow bag to take home!
Tuesday, February 18, 2025, 10:00am-11:30am.
$20 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) (In Person)
A science-based educational program for lawn care and landscape maintenance workers. Pre-requisite for the Limited Urban Fertilizer Applicator License. Presented by Orange County Extension Agent Hannah Eason, this class covers proper fertilization, pest control, irrigation, and cultural practices for landscape and pest control professionals. Plus, enjoy a bonus Lunch & Learn on SunSpot Safety—with SWAG included! CEUs available!
Wednesday, February 19, 2025, 8:15am-3:30pm.
$30 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
First Time Homebuyer Workshop – SPANISH (Online)
Learn the steps to home ownership and how to obtain an affordable mortgage in this class offered via Zoom in SPANISH by a team of UF/IFAS Extension Agents, including Orange County Extension Agent Jenny Rodriguez. The homebuyer workshop meets the education requirements for down payment assistance programs.
Wednesday, February 19, 2025, 9:00am-5:00pm.
$10 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
Urban Backyard Chicken Class (Online)
Raising chickens for fresh eggs is a fun and practical hobby, even in urban or suburban spaces! Join Orange County Extension Agent JK Yarborough via TEAMS to learn how hens can benefit your home garden and how to start and maintain a successful chicken coop in your backyard.
Wednesday, February 19, 2025, 10:00am-12:00pm.
$5 fee. Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
Florida's Hidden Invaders: Tackling Invasive Species (Online)
February is Invasive Species Awareness Month! Join Orange County Extension Agent Clarissa Chairez to learn about invasive plants in Florida, their effects on local nature, and how we can manage and prevent them. You'll discover how to recognize common invasive species and discuss effective strategies to prevent their spread and protect Florida's natural ecosystems!
Wednesday, February 26, 2025, 5:30pm - 6:30pm.
FREE! Registration required at http://ocextension.eventbrite.com. 407-254-9200.
February "Pop Up" Plant Clinic (In Person)
Our Master Gardener Volunteers are hosting "Pop Up" Plant Clinic at the Windermere Branch within the Orange County Library System this month! Visit our booth for all of your plant care questions.
Tuesday, February 4, 2025, 10:30am-12:30pm at Windermere Branch Library.
FREE! No registration is needed.
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