For those with a green thumb—or those aspiring to one—Duval County's UF/IFAS Extension is rolling out a series of free workshops aimed at empowering Florida residents to beautify their landscapes and go eco-friendly at the same time. The "HOW Series" (Hands-On Workshops), featuring Master Gardener Amy Franqui, promises to dig deep into Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ with sessions that are both in-depth and dirt-under-the-fingernails practical, as per the City of Atlantic Beach.
Mark your calendars for the series kickoff on September 4, at 6 p.m., with the intriguingly titled "Catch the Rain & Save the Drain" workshop; participants will learn how to craft a DIY rain barrel to collect rainwater, a simple step that conserves resources, and, as an added bonus, might just shave a few bucks off the monthly water bill, meanwhile, the workshop on October 2, also at 6 p.m., dubbed "Outsmart Pests & Protect the Rest," promises to show homeowners how to win the war against mosquitoes without resorting to industrial-grade chemicals by making a mosquito dunk bucket—enviable for its simplicity and safety.
Capping off the series on November 6, Amy Franqui returns to lead the charge in "Start Strong So Plants Last Long," a hands-on excursion into the world of plant preparation and planting, guiding attendees from nurturing nursery pots to pronounced plant prosperity.
Residents in and around Duval County can plant themselves in the seats at the City of Atlantic Beach Commission Chamber, 800 Seminole Road, to catch these events live, or if you're living outside the sprinkle of the Floridian sun, fear not, as the sessions will be live-streamed, ensuring no keen gardener misses out; walk-ups are also welcome for those making a last-minute decision to attend in person. Just be sure to register, a small step, and there's the assurance that even if you can't attend, a recording will find its way to you, shoveling up the knowledge you need to thrive in your own backyard.
If you're ready to revamp your landscapes and are within digging distance of the information, scamper over to the official posting on the City of Atlantic Beach's website for all the dirt, and yes, pun intended. "Transform Your Yard with Our FREE Hands-On Workshop Series" might be the ground-breaking move for the aspiring Floridian gardener in you.
