ManateeFYN

Florida-Friendly Fall Plants

2011-10-17T16:36:00.000-04:00

To get great Fall color consider adding the following Florida-Friendly Plants.

Gazania - annual

Coleus - comes in many varieties

Beauty Berry

Herbs - Purple Basil adds Fall color

Celosia - annual

Save the Date - Nov. 5th for the Walkabout

2011-10-06T15:05:00.000-04:00

Plant a Pollinator Garden.

2011-09-01T20:00:00.007-04:00

September is National Pollinator Month so help out our hard working friends by establishing a pollinator garden. Pollinators need your help! There is increasing evidence that many pollinators are in decline. However, there are some simple things you can do at home to encourage pollinator diversity and abundance.

Plant a Pollinator Garden. The most obvious need for pollinating species is a diversity of nectar and pollen sources. Consider the following when choosing plants for your garden:

Choose plants that flower at different times of the year to provide nectar and pollen sources throughout the growing season
Plant in clumps, rather than single plants, to better attract pollinators
Provide a variety of flower colors and shapes to attract different pollinators.
Whenever possible, choose native plants. Native plants will attract more native pollinators and can serve as larval host plants for some species of pollinators.

To create a design that will invite your favorite pollinators to your garden look at this chart.

Avoid or Limit Pesticide Use. Pesticides can kill more than the target pest. Some pesticide residues can kill pollinators for several days after the pesticide is applied. Pesticides can also kill natural predators, which can lead to even worse pest problems. Consider the following when managing pests in your garden:

Try removing individual pests by hand if possible (wearing garden gloves)
Encourage native predators with a diverse garden habitat
Expect and accept a little bit of pest activity
If you must use a pesticide, choose one that is the least toxic to non-pest species, does not persist on vegetation, and apply it in the evening when most pollinators are not as active. Read and follow label directions carefully.

Florida-Friendly Fence Plants

2011-07-12T10:54:00.001-04:00

Click here and go to page 22

Looking for Florida-Friendly fence plants to create a screen? Above is an excerpt from our Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Pattern Book. The link shows a sample plan that offers variety creating a great screen and diversity in your yard. The back of this book lists plant material that will thrive in Manatee County. Attention needs to be paid to the light conditions, soil types and watering needs of each plant to match it to your site conditions.

Avoid the monoculture. Planting a screen that consists of only one variety can cost you in the end. Using one plant variety to create a hedge has been popular because it can provide even growth and a straight line
to guide pruning. A monoculture hedge does have a few problems. What if an insect or disease strikes your hedge? All of your shrubs could be lost or you could end up with random large dead holes

A better alternative is to plant a hedge using a variety of large and small shrubs and trees. Generally, something that requires screening will need it the year round, so evergreens naturally predominate in any list of screening plants. But don’t be afraid to add a deciduous plant. A few deciduous plants can provide wonderful color. When choosing plants for screening, check the available space carefully and know the mature height and width of the plant. Be sure that the plants you choose will fit in the allotted space without an undue amount of maintenance. If you have to frequently prune your plants to keep them in check, it’s more than likely you used the wrong plant for that location. Also, when mixing several different types of plants, be sure to choose ones with similar growth and water requirements.

Put some fireworks in your yard

2011-07-01T11:17:00.000-04:00

Put some fireworks in your yard this 4th of July. Red, white and blues gardens can be achieved with a number of plants here in Florida.


Scarlet Salvia, Saphire Salvia, Dusty Miller

Blue Iris


White Penta

Red Penta


Blue Plumbago

White Plumbago

Powder Puff

These plants can give you a POP of color to enjoy while you are celebrating this 4th of July.

Install Now, Harvest Later

2011-06-17T12:09:00.000-04:00

Now is a great time to install a rain barrel. I know, it's dry and we need rain. However, it is a great time to clean out those gutters and install so that when the rains finally get here you are prepared. Rain barrels are available for $16.75 and you can attend a workshop on how to install and maintain one for free. Register at http://combo71611-eorg.eventbrite.com/ for the July 16th workshop.

Composting Toilet

2011-06-01T15:22:00.000-04:00

In planning a trip to a Florida spring I found advertised "composting toilets". I teach both worm and landscape composting but am unfamiliar with human waste composting so I decided to do a little research. Maybe we need to add a new class!

Composting toilets are toilet systems which treat human waste by composting and dehydration to produce a useable end-product that is a valuable soil additive. They come in a variety of models and brand names as well as different shapes and designs to enhance the natural composting process. They use little or no water, are not connected to expensive sewage systems, cause no environmental damage and produce a valuable resource for gardening. Sounding good so far.

Some disadvantages are:
• Maintenance of composting toilet systems requires more responsibility and commitment by users and owners than conventional wastewater systems.
• Removing the finished end-product is an unpleasant job if the composting toilet system is not properly installed or maintained.
• Composting toilet systems must be used in conjunction with a graywater system in most circumstances.
• Smaller units may have limited capacity for accepting peak loads. Wait, what? Okay, size matters!

I now find myself looking forward to visiting a toilet. My August blog will definitely include a report from the John.

I am not sure the residents of Manatee County are ready for a full class on this type of composting although it does have some great environmental advantages, maybe we'll mention it in our other composting classes.

Weekend Plans? Get Out and Enjoy our Wetlands

2011-05-12T15:02:00.000-04:00

It is American Wetlands Month - Enjoy some this weekend!

Plant ID & Nature Tour - DeSoto Memorial/Riverview Preserve

May 14, 2011

Stroll through DeSoto National Memorial and Riverview Pointe Preserve with a Master Gardener volunteer to learn more about Florida's native plants and inhabitants of a coastal habitat. This program is suitable for all ages.

This tour is FREE and will take place from 9:00 - 11:00am. Call the Master Gardeners at (941) 722-4524 to register.

Plant ID & Nature Tour - Robinson Preserve

May 15, 2011

Stroll through Robinson Preserve's salt marshes with a Master Gardener volunteer to learn more about Florida's native plants and inhabitants of a coastal habitat. This program is suitable for all ages.

This tour is FREE and will take place from 9:00 - 11:00am. Call the Master Gardeners at (941) 722-4524 to register.

May is American Wetlands Month

2011-05-09T12:34:00.002-04:00

Emerson Point

Identify your watershed and find the wetlands in your neighborhood. Learn more about them and share what you learn with someone you know! Encourage neighbors, developers, and state and local governments to protect the functions and values of wetlands in your watershed.

Although wetlands are best known for being home to water lilies, turtles, frogs, snakes, alligators, and crocodiles, they also provide important habitat for waterfowl, fish, and mammals. Migrating birds use wetlands to rest and feed during their cross-continental journeys and as nesting sites when they are at home. As a result, wetland loss has a serious impact on these species. Habitat degradation since the 1970s has been a leading cause of species extinction.

Wetland functions include water quality improvement, floodwater storage, fish and wildlife habitat, aesthetics, and biological productivity. The value of a wetland is an estimate of the importance or worth of one or more of its functions to society. For example, a value can be determined by the revenue generated from the sale of fish that depend on the wetland, by the tourist dollars associated with the wetland, or by public support for protecting fish and wildlife.

Visit http://wetlandextension.ifas.ufl.edu/ or http://water.epa.gov/type/wetlands/outreach/facts_contents.cfm for more info.

Explore some of Manatee County wetlands at
http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/recreation/areas/edwardchance-gilley.html
http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/recreation/areas/terraceia.html
http://www.mymanatee.org/home/government/departments/natural-resources/resource-management/preserves.html.

Snow Effects Downtown

2011-05-06T16:33:00.000-04:00

The white fluff floating in the breeze as you drive on US 41 through downtown Bradenton belongs to the Silk Floss Tree Chorisia speciosa.

Silk Floss Flower

Silk Floss Tree seed in the floss

Trunk of the Silk Floss Tree

As you wait for the traffic light to turn green you can let your imagination take you to colder climates with snowy days. Just don't stay away too long or car horns may bring you back to reality.

Earth Day Is Here!!! Happy Day.

2011-04-22T07:00:00.014-04:00

Green Up Your Day!

History of Earth Day
Find a Recycling Center

Earth Day Count Down - 1day to go

2011-04-21T10:00:00.000-04:00

Compost it!

Compost helps improve soil so it holds more water and plants grow better. Allow grass clippings to stay on the lawn, instead of bagging them. The cut grass will decompose and return to the soil naturally. Food scraps and kitchen waste also make good compost, and you save money on fertilizers or other additives. Earth Machine compost bins with compost class available to Manatee County Residents for $40. Visit http://manateefyn.eventbrite.com/ to register for a class or go to http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn_and_garden/fyn/CompostInformation.shtml for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - 2 days to go

2011-04-20T10:00:00.001-04:00

Recycle the rain!

Harvesting rainwater using a rain barrel helps supplement irrigation for a small cost. Storing rainwater also helps reduce stormwater runoff, which can lead to reduced levels of pesticides and fertilizers in our water. Visit http://manateefyn.eventbrite.com/ to register for a class or go to http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn_and_garden/fyn/rain-barrel.shtml for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - 3 days to go

2011-04-19T09:48:00.000-04:00

Shower power!

A full bathtub requires about 70 gallons of water, but taking a five-minute shower saves water by using 10 to 25 gallons. Put a little timer or clock near your shower so you can see how fast you are. Save even more water, and money on your water bill, by installing a water-efficient showerhead, or ask your landlord to install one if you rent. Exchange your high volume showerhead for a low flow (2 gallons per minute) showerhead at the Manatee County Utility Complex, Bldg 4412, 4410 66^th Street West, Bradenton. Visit http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/conservation/thepowerof10/ to find out your water usage using the water calculator

Earth Day Count Down - 4 days to go

2011-04-18T09:42:00.005-04:00

Be sensible!

The Earth might seem like it has abundant water, but in fact only one percent of all water on the planet is available for humans. Buy fixtures and products that are water efficient – you can use less water to get the same job done just as well. When you go shopping, look for the WaterSense label to find water efficient products. Visit http://www.h2ouse.org/index.cfm for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - 5 days to go

2011-04-17T09:06:00.005-04:00

Reduce your carbon footprint!

Leaving your car at home twice a week can cut greenhouse gas emissions by 1,600 pounds per year. Save up errands and shopping trips so you need to drive fewer times. If you commute to work, ask if you can work from home at least some days, and you'll reduce air pollution and traffic congestion - and save money. Visit http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/road.html for more information

Earth Day Count Down - 6 days to go

2011-04-16T09:00:00.004-04:00

Make it a full load!

Run your dishwasher only when it's full. Don't pre-rinse dishes - tests show pre-rinsing doesn't improve dishwasher cleaning, and you'll save as much as 20 gallons of water per load. When you buy a new dishwasher, look for one that saves water. Water-efficient models use only about only about 4 gallons per wash. Visit http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/conservation/florida_water_star_gold/ for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - 7 days to go

2011-04-15T09:00:00.001-04:00

Read the label!

You might not realize it, but on a pesticide container, the label is the law. Pesticide product labels provide critical safety information for handling and use. Pesticides are powerful substances, but when used according to the label they are safe and effective. So … always use pesticides safely, at home or in the field. Always read the label. Visit http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/label/ for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - 8 days to go

2011-04-14T09:00:00.006-04:00

Don't let pet waste run off!

You can help reduce polluted storm water runoff by just picking up your pet's poop and dispose of it properly. Leaving pet waste on the ground increases public health risks by allowing harmful bacteria or organic material to wash into the storm drain and eventually into local waterbodies. So remember - always scoop the poop! Visit http://www.epa.gov/weatherchannel/stormwater.html and http://sarasotabay.org/nar-poochesfortheplanet.html for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 9

2011-04-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

Don't be a drip - fix that leak!

Take the Water Conservation Pledge

Leaky faucets can waste thousands of gallons of water each year, like money down the drain. Repair or replace old or damaged fixtures. If you're not sure you have a leak, check the water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same, you probably have a leak. Visit http://www.epa.gov/watersense/water_efficiency/what_you_can_do.html for more information

Earth Day Count Down - Day 10

2011-04-12T08:29:00.000-04:00

Make your home an Energy Star!

When you do home maintenance, also do a home energy audit to find out how you can save money by making your home more energy efficiency. And if every American home replaced just one conventional light bulb with a compact fluorescent light bulb, we would save enough energy to light more than 3 million homes a year. Visit http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_improvement_index for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 11

2011-04-11T09:00:00.020-04:00

Make it a full load!

The average washing machine uses 40.9 gallons of water per load. If you buy a a new washer, shop for a high-efficiency washer that needs less than 28 gallons of water per load. To achieve even greater savings, wash only full loads of laundry or be sure to choose the appropriate load size on the washing machine. Visit http://www.epa.gov/watersense/water_efficiency/what_you_can_do.html for more information.

April is Water Conservation Month. Take the pledge at http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/conservation/waterpledge/

Earth Day Count Down - Day 12

2011-04-10T09:00:00.002-04:00

Don't trash it - reuse it!

Be creative as you look for new ways to reduce the amount or kinds of household waste. Give cardboard tubes to pet hamsters or gerbils. Plant seeds in an egg carton. Make a flower pot out of a plastic ice cream tub. By thinking creatively, you will often find new uses for common items and new ways to recycle and reduce waste. Visit http://www.epa.gov/osw/wycd/catbook/tip12.htm for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 13

2011-04-09T09:00:00.000-04:00

eCycle it!

Take your old computer, DVD player, or other electronics to an electronics recycling center. Reusing and recycling materials like copper, gold, and others saves natural resources and reduces mining and processing. eCycling also helps avoid land, air, and water pollution by capturing and reusing hazardous substances such as lead or chromium. Visit http://www.mymanatee.org/home/government/departments/utilities/recycling/recycling-materials-pickup.html to find out how to dispose of your e-scrap.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 14

2011-04-08T09:00:00.005-04:00

Just bag it!

Help protect the environment when you shop. Keep reusable bags on your car seat or near your door so they are easy to grab when you go. And you can even combine shopping bags - just tell the cashier that you don't need a bag, then put all your purchases together in one bag… just be sure to hang on to your receipts! Visit http://www.epa.gov/osw/education/pubs/shopping.htm for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 15

2011-04-07T11:09:00.000-04:00

Wait for the storm to pass!

Don't fertilize before a rain storm. Your fertilizer - along with your money – can just wash off your lawn and down the storm drain. Fertilizer runoff can pollute rivers, lakes, and bays, and cause problems in recreational areas or fishing grounds. Check the weather forecast before you head out, and wait for the storm to pass. Visit http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/yards/fertilizing/ or http://fyn.ifas.ufl.edu/handbook/Fertilize_Appropriately_vSept09.pdf for information on Florida-Friendly Fertilizing.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 16

2011-04-06T08:07:00.000-04:00

Travel green!

Look for hotels that encourage guests to use less water or energy. Hang up your towels to dry so you can use them again. Use the sheets more than a night or two. When you go out, look for local foods and souvenirs to reduce transportation. Before you go, unplug your computer, DVD player, and other electronics, and turn down your thermostat. Visit http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/conservation/waterchamp/to find Water Champ Lodging or http://www.epa.gov/region1/communities/traveltips.html for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 17

2011-04-05T09:00:00.011-04:00

Choose Florida-Friendly!

Landscaping the Florida-Friendly way means using low maintenance plants and environmentally sustainable practices. Learn how you can have a beautiful landscape that could save you time, energy and money while protecting our future. Environmental protection begins in your yard. Visit http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn_and_garden/ffl/index.shtml for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 18

2011-04-04T12:27:00.000-04:00

Give it to the worms!

Vermi-composting, or worm composting, allows you to compost your food waste faster than you ever imagined, while producing a high quality compost and/or compost tea. Best of all, it's self-contained and nearly odorless! Visit http://manateefyn.eventbrite.com/ to register for a class or go to http://livinggreen.ifas.ufl.edu/waste/composting.html for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 19

2011-04-03T09:00:00.000-04:00

#19 Get Outside!
Getting outside is a fun, easy and low-cost way to spend time with your friends and family. The preserves of Manatee County offer a wonderful variety of animals and plants. Take a tour on foot or kayak. For more information go http://www.mymanatee.org/home/government/departments/natural-resources/resource-management/preserves.html or http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/recreation/ for regional information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 20

2011-04-02T09:00:00.000-04:00

#20 Buy Local!
Local food production can be thought of in concentric circles that start with growing food at home. The next ring out might be food grown in our immediate community - then state, region, and country. Buying local goes for more than just food, buying local saves on transportation costs and has a positive impact on our carbon footprint. For more information visit http://farmlink.org/ to find local food & farms or the Bradenton Farmers Market.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 21

2011-04-01T09:00:00.003-04:00

#21 Water efficiently!
Typically, up to 50% of water used by households is used outdoors. Efficient watering will not only help you save money and conserve water, but can also create a healthier landscape. Manatee County offers irrigation rebates and evaluations to residents. For more information visit http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn_and_garden/water_wise/index.shtml

April is Water Conservation Month

2011-03-30T08:23:00.000-04:00

April in Florida…
It’s an ideal time to enjoy a little fun in the sun and to remind Floridians about the importance of water conservation.
The state Legislature designated April as Water Conservation Month because April is in the dry season, typically the time when water needs are most acute and temperatures begin to climb. Although Florida receives an average of 52 inches of rainfall per year, 60 percent of that annual rainfall is from June through September.
If you haven’t thought about conserving water, now is a great time to start! On average, about 50 percent of home water use is for outdoor irrigation. One way to reduce your water consumption is by practicing Florida-friendly landscaping techniques. Florida-friendly landscaping, established by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences for the Florida Yards & Neighborhoods Program, is a commonsense way to landscape that conserves water and protects the environment. Florida-friendly landscaping emphasizes the following nine principles:

Right Plant, Right Place — Plants selected to suit a specific site will require minimal amounts of water, fertilizers and pesticides. Group plants according to their maintenance needs.

Water Efficiently — Irrigate only when your lawn and landscape need water. Efficient watering is the key to a healthy Florida yard and conservation of limited resources.

Fertilize Appropriately — Less is often best. Over-utilization of fertilizers can be hazardous to your yard and the environment.

Mulch — Maintaining a 3-inch layer of mulch will help retain soil moisture, prevent erosion and suppress weeds.

Manage Yard Pests Responsibly — Unwise use of pesticides can harm people, pets, beneficial organisms and the environment.

Recycle — Grass clippings, leaves and yard trimmings recycled on site provide nutrients to the soil and reduce waste disposal.

Reduce Stormwater Runoff — Water running off your yard can carry pollutants such as soil, debris, fertilizer and pesticides that can adversely impact water quality. Reduction of this runoff will help prevent nonpoint-source pollution.

Protect the Waterfront — Waterfront property, whether on a river, stream, pond, bay or beach, is very fragile and should be carefully protected to maintain freshwater and marine ecosystems.

Attract Wildlife — Plants in your yard that provide food, water and shelter can sustain Florida’s diverse wildlife.

Incorporating these simple steps will not only save water, but will help protect the environment for future generations. For more information about how you can conserve water inside and outside your home, please visit the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s web site at WaterMatters.org.

Spring Irrigation Maintenance

2011-03-10T08:22:00.000-05:00

Click on the photo above to view video.

Florida-Friendly Fertilizing

2011-03-08T08:35:00.001-05:00

Sometimes Florida yards need fertilizer to help keep them healthy, but applying too much fertilizer, too often or at the wrong time can cause water pollution.

Recent studies have shown that rising nitrate levels in many local water bodies can be traced to fertilizer. Nitrate is a form of nitrogen that is found in inorganic fertilizers. When fertilizer is needed and applied correctly, the lawn absorbs the nitrogen. However, fertilizers applied improperly can run off lawns and into local water bodies, harming water quality and threatening the plants and animals that depend on clean water for survival.

You can help protect water quality while having a beautiful lawn. Learn more with steps 1–5 or by ordering our free Do-It-Yourself Guide to Florida-Friendly Fertilizing.

Fertilizer applications vary depending on grass species, your location in the state and your desired level of lawn care. For more detailed information, visit University of Florida/IFAS.

Know When to Apply Fertilizer

2011-02-16T16:45:00.000-05:00

To prevent fertilizer from washing into water bodies, it’s important to know the right time to fertilize. Follow these tips before fertilizing:

Consider the time of year, climate, soil type and, most important, type of grass and health or condition of the lawn before applying fertilizer.
Fertilize only when the grass is actively growing. For instance, during the winter, grass is dormant in many areas of Florida; therefore, fertilizer is not necessary. Fertilizer applied when grass is not growing wastes your money and time, since it will not be beneficially used by the grass. Instead, it will leach through the soil or run off and pollute nearby water bodies.
If your lawn has problem areas, find out if this is related to a pest, soil or environmental problem such as excess shade or the uneven distribution of irrigation water. These problems should be corrected and not just masked by fertilization.
If your household uses reclaimed water, check with your utility to determine if your reclaimed water has nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which are also in fertilizer. If so, you may not need to fertilize as much.
Do not fertilize if rain is predicted in the next 24–36 hours or when a heavy rain, tropical storm, hurricane or flood is predicted.

For more information check out http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/yards/fertilizing/

To Flush or Not To Flush

2011-01-05T15:59:00.000-05:00

Photo from Columbia News Service

Pharmaceuticals are now attracting attention as a potentially new class of water pollutants. Drugs such as antibiotics, anti-depressants, birth control pills, seizure medication, cancer treatments, pain killers, tranquilizers and cholesterol-lowering compounds have been detected in varied water sources.

Where do they come from? Pharmaceutical industries, hospitals and other medical facilities are obvious sources, but households also contribute a significant share. People often dispose of unused medicines by flushing them down toilets. These drugs can pass intact through conventional sewage treatment facilities, into waterways, lakes and even aquifers. Further, discarded pharmaceuticals often end up at dumps and land fills, posing a threat to underlying groundwater. For more info click here.

Manatee County Sheriff's office is now offering a safe way to dispose of your medication. The drop off location is the front desk of the Sheriff’s Office located at 600 301 Boulevard West, Bradenton. The front desk is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Reduce your pollution by disposing of your medications properly!

The Invasive Air Potato

2010-12-15T09:36:00.000-05:00

Photo from Okeechobee UF/IFAS Extension

Stephen Brown, Lee County Extension Agent, did a great job on this video describing the air potato vine. Click here to view video.

For more information visit:

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ag112

http://solutionsforyourlife.ufl.edu/hot_topics/environment/air_potato.html

http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/parks/air_potato.html

http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/node/133

Ten water-wasting irrigation problems (And their easy fixes!)

2010-12-07T14:13:00.000-05:00

Staying on top of irrigation system problems will prevent wasting water and loss or damage to landscapes. The most important action to take to help maintain an irrigation system is to conduct regular inspections while the system is running.

1. Problem: System is watering during rainfall or after sufficient rainfall.
Fix: Install a rain sensor that will automatically turn off the system during rain events to reduce overwatering. (It is a requirement by state law SB494 that all systems have a rain sensor and that they are tested and operating properly).

2. Problem: Sprinklers on large turf areas do not provide uniform water distribution.
Fix: Adjust sprinkler heads to create head-to-head coverage and add heads where needed.

3. Problem: Small areas of turf are deteriorating and are difficult to maintain.

Fix: Convert the areas to plant beds and use drought-tolerant plants suitable to the conditions.

4. Problem: System is watering turf and plants on the same zone for the same duration and with the same amount of water.
Fix: If plant materials in beds are established, irrigation should be shut off altogether or the more appropriate low-volume irrigation should replace the current high-volume irrigation system.

5. Problem: Broken sprinkler heads are noted.
Fix: Check sprinkler heads on a regular basis and replace broken heads as soon as possible.

6. Problem: Sprinkler heads are spraying onto driveway or sidewalk.
Fix: Change nozzles from 180 degree spray to 90 degree spray or adjust spray pattern.

7. Problem: Sprinkler head is spraying directly into the ground.
Fix: Straighten the sprinkler head.

8. Problem: Sprinkler head distribution is blocked by plant material.

Fix: Remove or trim plant material to reduce blockage.

9. Problem: Sprinkler heads are watering a plant-less mulch area.
Fix: Cap these sprinkler heads.

Problem: Sprinkler head appears to be clogged or is not popping up.
Fix: Flush out the head and replace the nozzle if necessary.

Information above provided by Sylvia L. Durell, Senior Communications Coordinator,

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Protect Your Plants in Cold Weather

2010-12-03T13:16:00.001-05:00

What to Do During the Freeze

photo from www.realcoolpics.blogspot.com

Ornamental plants can be protected during a freeze by sprinkling the plants with water. Sprinkling for cold protection helps keep leaf surface temperatures near 32°F (0°C) because sprinkling utilizes latent heat released when water changes from a liquid to a solid state. Sprinkling must begin as freezing temperatures are reached and continue until thawing is completed.

Water must be evenly distributed and supplied in ample quantity to maintain a film of liquid water on the foliage surfaces. Irrigation for several days may water soak the soil resulting in damaged root systems and/or plant breakage due to ice build up.

Also visit http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/MG/MG02500.pdf

It's Time to Skip a Week!

2010-12-01T12:12:00.002-05:00

During the winter months of December, January and February, your yard only needs about 3/4” of water every 10-14 days. So turn your irrigation timer off when you want to skip a week and turn it on the week you want to water.

Find out more at http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/conservation/irrigating/

Click here to view a short video on how to reset your irrigation timer.

Feeding the Birds

2010-11-21T18:53:00.000-05:00

To make room for people moving to Florida, vast areas of wildlife habitat are affected. Habitat is an area that has sufficient amount of food, cover, water, and space for a particular animal. When humans change the land to suit their needs, they can decrease the amount of habitat available for wildlife. In particular, this changing environment is affecting where birds occur in Florida. When humans move in, some bird species move out. However, some bird species are still living in these human-dominated landscapes. A great way to attract wildlife into your landscape, especially birds, is to install plants that provide food.

Provide food for birds by planting species with berries, seeds, and fruits and filling your bird feeders with high
quality seed. Make sure your bird feeders protect the seed from rain, minimize spillage, and are easy to see from the air. And keep them at least fifteen feet away from vegetation to thwart cats and creative, determined squirrels.

Some ideas for recycled bird feeder:

For more information visit
http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/giam/fyn/florida_friendly_yards/bird_gardening.html

Stop Crape Murder!

2010-11-18T13:19:00.001-05:00

It is that time of year when the crape myrtles are starting to loose their leaves and go dormant for the winter. Resist the urge to over prune these poor trees.Unfortunately, many homeowners and landscape professionals prune crape myrtle trees too severely. Topping--commonly called "crape murder"--can be very damaging and disfiguring to the tree. This practice results in a "witch's broom" appearance and a tree that is no longer in proportion.

Crape myrtle may need little or no pruning if planted in full sun away from walkways and roads and in areas with room for plant growth. In these locations, trees form a round canopy that often extends to the ground. Reasons for pruning crapemyrtle (or any plant) are to improve plant structure and alter plant size, shape, and appearance according to human perceptions and landscape function. Well pruned crape myrtle provide an interesting, sculptural feature in your landscape during it's dormant season and beautiful color in the growing season.

For more information on pruning crape myrtles or other trees visit:
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep399
http://solutionsforyourlife.ufl.edu/hot_topics/lawn_and_garden/crape_murder.html
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep399
http://hort.ufl.edu/woody/pruning.shtml
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mg087

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Walkabout Photos

2010-11-01T13:37:00.000-04:00

Thanks to all 84 walkers who join us for the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Walkabout. We had perfect weather to enjoy the landscapes of historic Palmetto. Photos can be viewed at http://picasaweb.google.com/112564141574467714222/FloridaFriendlyLandscapingWalkabout#

Join us for the Walkabout!

2010-10-21T12:54:00.000-04:00

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Walkabout

2010-10-14T16:56:00.000-04:00

Join us at the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Walkabout to stroll through historic Palmetto’s Florida-Friendly landscapes gathering ideas to for your own yard. Observe beautiful water conserving, environmentally friendly landscape designs. Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer questions and point out highlights.

This FREE tour will take place October 30^th from 9:00 a.m. - Noon. Pick up your map at the First United Methodist Church parking lot, 330 11^th Avenue West, Palmetto. For more information please call Michelle at (941) 722-4524.

Note: This is a self guided walking tour. Please come prepared with appropriate footwear, hat and sunscreen.

Squirrels in the Landscape

2010-10-12T10:48:00.000-04:00

Squirrels can make interesting wildlife neighbors and often can be attracted to your landscape with minimal effort. Attracting squirrels with feeders, however, is not recommended because it often causes more problems than benefits. One of the major reasons that squirrels cause problems here in Florida is because people feed them using a bird feeder or a corn cob feeder designed specifically for squirrels. Feeders often encourage more squirrels to live in an area than can be supported by the neighboring habitat. When this occurs, squirrels may search out nesting sites in your home and cause property damage. Many squirrels that take up residence in an attic or garage ceiling can be traced to a feeding situation. Should the food ever be reduced or eliminated (you move, go on vacation, or you quit feeding them, etc.) the squirrels often respond by chewing up nearby vegetation.

Grey squirrels are one of the most frequently encountered native Florida mammals. They have large, bushy tails and chisel-like front teeth that can chew through almost anything. The bark on certain trees is enjoyed by squirrels. This can cause small to moderately sized branches to die and then fall from the canopy.

Unfortunately, there is not a lot that can be done to control squirrel populations. They have ample natural habitat and food with our native vegetation. They are territorial so as soon as one dies or is killed there is another one to take its place. They can be legally caught in live animal traps and relocated to another site with the approval of the property owner. Poisons cannot be legally used to control squirrels.

Sometimes squirrels can be repelled from garden areas with a hot pepper spray. Blood meal and garlic also seems to repel squirrels. Landscape cloth can be laid over garden areas to prevent digging by squirrels.

The above information was compiled from the following sources http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/giam/index.html and

http://brevard.ifas.ufl.edu/Forms%20and%20Publications/PDF/Feeding%20Squirrels.pdf

New Florida-Friendly Resources

2010-09-08T12:53:00.000-04:00

Great new publications for you to use in your Florida-Friendly Landscape™. Check out:

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Pattern Book - zone 9A
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Pattern Book - zone 9B

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Planting Selections & Landscape Guide

Protect the Waterfront - Especially Our Estuaries

2010-09-02T10:37:00.001-04:00

(Robinsons Preserve)

Celebrate National Estuaries Day on September 25, 2010

Estuaries are places where freshwater mixes with salty water from the sea. Teeming with life, our nation's estuaries provide vital habitats for 80 percent of the world's fish and shellfish species, including many that are listed as threatened or endangered. Estuaries are one of our nation's most valuable natural resources, creating more food per acre than the richest farmland.

In the past 100 years 55,000,000 acres of estuarine habitat have been destroyed. Bays once filled with fish and oysters have become dead zones filled with excess nutrients, chemical wastes, harmful algae, and marine debris.

Estuaries require everyone’s help and hard work to keep them clean and safe. There are many things you can do to help protect estuaries and to conserve the valuable natural resource in estuarine ecosystems.

Click here to learn 10 things you can do to help protect our estuaries.

Information from Sarasota Bay Estuary Program and Estuaries.gov

Interesting Texture

2010-08-26T10:20:00.000-04:00

The Leather fern holds interesting texture. In landscape design, texture refers to how coarse or fine the surface of the plant or hardscape material feels and/or looks. Texture is used to provide variety, interest, and contrast. The plant's foliage, flowers, bark, and overall branching pattern all have texture. Coarse-textured plants attract the eye and tend to hold it because the light and dark contrasts of the shadows provide more interest. Acrostichum daneifolium, Leather fern looks spectacular planted in mass in a large landscape. Its unusual texture and open habit combine to make this a great, eye-catching attraction. In a smaller residential landscape, leather fern can be used as a specimen planted alone to add texture to the garden. Many ferns grow poorly near the coast, however this one is tolerant of all but the most exposed ocean-front lots.

Provide a shaded or partially shaded spot for leather fern for the best growth and to keep plants healthy. Prolonged direct sun, especially in the summer, can burn foliage. Ferns transplant well any time of year as long the soil ball is handled carefully.

This beautiful fern that is native to Florida grows larger than many other ferns, becoming 4 to 8 feet tall. The 3- to 6-foot-long, pinnately divided fronds emerge from the ground to form a beautifully textured, open form. The plant changes very little throughout the year, but provides a continual green mass of beautiful foliage.

The giant leather fern is considered a Florida-Friendly plant. This plant is relatively pest free.

Rainy Day Water Trivia

2010-08-25T10:55:00.000-04:00

One inch of rain on one acre of land yeilds 27,154 gallons of water!

This may sound like a lot of water but to put it into perspective, it takes

300 milllion gallons of water to produce a single day's supply of US newsprint
39,090 gallons to manufacture a new car
1,851 gallons to refine a barrel of crude oil
62,600 gallons to produce a ton of steel

A great way to conserve water is to capture rainfall. Cisterns and rain barrels can recycle the rain into your landscape when dryer times are present. For information on rain barrels including workshop information visit http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn_and_garden/fyn/rain-barrel.shtml

Watch the Weather - Wait to Water Your Yard!

2010-07-21T16:14:00.000-04:00

http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/conservation/irrigating/watch-weather/

During the summer months of June, July, August and September, yards need only about ¾ inch of water every 3 to 5 days. If your lawn has received enough water from rainfall, then you can turn off your irrigation system and operate it manually as needed.

Take full advantage of the rain

Make sure gutter downspouts are directed into landscaped areas or lawn.
Install a rain barrel to capture excess rainwater.

Attend a rain barrel workshop to learn more. To register click here.

Mowing 101

2010-07-16T14:38:00.000-04:00

Groundcovers can be an alternative to turfgrass and reduce maintenance in areas that are not heavily foot trafficked. To find Florida-Friendly Groundcovers for Manatee County click here.

With our summer rains the turfgrass is growing which means you are mowing, if you have turfgrass. There are some important things to consider before you start making laps with your mower.

1. Mowing height - this will be determined by the variety of your turfgrass. Turfgrass undergoes physiological stress with each mowing event, particularly if too much leaf tissue is removed. Effects of “scalping,” or removal of too much shoot tissue at one time, can produce long-term damage to the turf. This can leave turf susceptible to other stresses such as insects, disease, drought, and sun scald. Mowing also greatly influences rooting depth, with development of a deeper root system in response to higher mowing heights. Advantages of the deeper root system are greater tolerances to drought, insects, disease, nematodes, temperature stress, poor soil conditions, nutrient deficiencies, and traffic. Mowing below the recommended heights for each species is a primary cause of turf death and should be avoided.
See the table 1 at http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/lh028 to determine appropriate mowing height for your turf.
2. Clippings - On most lawns, grass clippings should be returned to help recycle nutrients to the soil. If the lawn is mowed frequently enough, clippings cause few problems. Although many people believe that clippings contribute to thatch, research has shown that clippings are readily decomposed by microbial action.
3. Mowing Equipment - keep the blade sharpened to prevent a ragged cut. A ragged cut stresses turfgrass making it more susceptible to insects and disease.
4. Good Practices -

Pick up all stones, sticks and other debris before mowing to avoid damaging the mower or injuring someone with flying objects.
Never mow wet turf with a rotary mower because clippings can clog the machine. Mow only when the turf is dry.
Sharpen the mower blade frequently enough to prevent a ragged appearance to the turf.
Mow in a different direction every time the lawn is cut. This helps prevent wear patterns, reduces the grain (grass lying over in the same direction), and reduces the possibility of scalping.
Do not remove clippings. If clumping occurs, distribute these by remowing or by lightly raking. A leaf blower can also be used to distribute clippings.
Check your mower every time it is used. Follow manufacturer's recommendations for service and adjustments.
Adjust cutting height by setting the mower on a driveway or sidewalk and using a ruler to measure the distance between the ground and the blade.
Never fill a hot mower with gasoline.
Always wear heavy leather shoes when mowing the lawn.
Wash mower after use to reduce rusting and weed seed movement.

For more information visit http://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/yourfloridalawn/ or visit the Master Gardener Plant Clinic at the Manatee County Extension Office.

What's eating your garden?

2010-07-13T12:54:00.004-04:00

Touring through the demonstration garden here at the Manatee County Extension office we came across friend and foe.

This dill is almost completely devoured

63 Friends

But look closely because the muncher is the Black Swallowtail caterpillar. In order to have butterflies we have to support the caterpillars. Spraying a pesticide to eliminate them would also eliminate their chance to become butterflies. We soon will be enjoying butterflies.

Black Swallowtail Butterfly

As for the dill, we can grow more in another location and transfer any munchers to the plant in the photo above.

We also came upon many of these very attractive grasshoppers

Foe

The Eastern Lubber Grasshopper may often invade residential areas and feast on certain ornamental plants, especially amaryllis and related flowers. Unlike the tolerance we recommend for the caterpillar, the University of Florida's recommendation for the Lubber is "If you cannot control them through mowing, try hand-picking. You can throw them into a bucket of soapy water or a trash bag to kill them." This is because the occurrence can be large enough to cause serious economic damage to citrus, vegetable crops and landscape ornamental.

Any time you come across a plant or animal stranger in your landscape or garden bring it in for our Master Gardeners to identify. This is a free service offered through the Manatee County Extension Office, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto hours are Mon., Tues., Thurs., and Fri. from 9am-4pm.

What is that yellow tree in bloom right now?

2010-06-30T10:43:00.004-04:00

The Yellow Poinciana, Peltophorum pterocarpum, is quite showy right now which spurs many to ask about it. It is not a native tree, however, it is considered Florida-Friendly as it can with stand periods of drought and is resistant to many pests in our area.

From May through September, the entire tree’s canopy is smothered with a yellow blanket of flowers. The yellow poinciana tree can grow to heights of 50 feet with a spread of 40 feet so be sure to find the right place for this plant ensuring it has lots of room to grow. Also, keep in mind that these blooms drop off, so plan ahead of planting to keep your maintenance level low by placing this tree where the expended blooms are not a nuisance.

Canopy in bloom

Poinciana without blooms

It's Raining, It's Pouring

2010-06-22T15:31:00.000-04:00

Our summer afternoon showers, rain events, have begun. What does this mean to you?

Your rain barrel is filling or full, good news! Now is a great time to add another rain barrel to your collection. If you are not currently using a rain barrel you can sign up for an upcoming workshop at http://manateefyn.eventbrite.com/
It's time to check your irrigation timer! You may be able to turn it off. For more info check out http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/conservation/irrigating/watch-weather/
Consider a Rain Garden. Find out how to include a rain garden into your landscape at http://buildgreen.ufl.edu/Fact_sheet_Bioretention_Basins_Rain_Gardens.pdf

Upcoming Events

2010-06-17T09:56:00.001-04:00

Summer Sat. Series: Bring the family and discover interesting Florida facts, animals, plants and ways to be friendly to our environment. This event is outside please be prepared with a drink, hat and/or sunscreen.

Meet the Natives – June 26th – Rye Preserve
Rye Wilderness Preserve 905 Wilderness Trail Parrish, FL 34219

Take a walk with one of our Master Gardeners to identify Florida native plants. Listen to stories about our native friends as you tour the preserve spying new species along the way. Pot and take home a native plant. Registration is required.

*No fee required. Please register at http://metthenatives062610.eventbrite.com/

Program Location Description: Rye Preserve is a 145 acre property located just northwest of the Lake Manatee Dam. The preserve features nature trails, horseback trails, picnic areas, a playground and a canoe/kayak launch.
The preserve's trail system leads visitors through four distinctive ecosystems, including sand pine scrub, xeric oak scrub, oak hammocks and the river community. A variety of interesting creatures can be seen in these areas including the rare gopher tortoise, and Florida scrub-jay.
Rye Preserve is home to a piece of Manatee County's early pioneer history. Within the preserve visitors can view the Rye Family Cemetery, the last remaining reminder of the old Rye river community.

Other Series Titles:
Hippity Hoppity Frog Habitats- July 10th – Palma Sola Botanical Park http://froghabitats071010.eventbrite.com/

Wiggly Squiggly Worm Composting- August 14th - Manatee County Extension Office
http://wigglysquiggly081410.eventbrite.com/

Compost Facts - Compost Awareness Week

2010-05-05T17:10:00.000-04:00

Yard trimmings and food residuals together constitute 24 percent of the U.S. municipal solid waste stream. That's a lot of waste to send to landfills when it could become useful and environmentally beneficial compost instead!

Register for a Compost Workshop at ManateeFYN.eventbrite.com The Earth Machine Compost Bin is sold at this workshop for $25 to Manatee County Residents.

Worm Composting - Compost Awareness Week

2010-05-04T09:59:00.000-04:00

It's Compost Awareness Week so let's talk Worm Composting (Vermiculture)!

Earthworms make great compost and are easy to grow. You can raise them in boxes (this is what we sell in our classes) also called worm bins or just put them in your cold compost piles. Worm castings are rich in nutrients and are great for your garden starts or garden beds.

Attend a class on Worm Composting at the Manatee County Extension Office on Saturday, May 22nd at 9:00am - 11:00am. Registration is required at http://www.eventbrite.com/event/532295109 or call Linda at (941) 722-4524 ext. 265.

May 2nd - 8th is International Compost Awareness Week

2010-05-03T15:08:00.000-04:00

It's International Compost Awareness Week!
Check out these helpful links:
Setting up a compost bin.
Check the list of compostable items.
Using your compost

Register for a Compost Workshop at ManateeFYN.eventbrite.com The Earth Machine Compost Bin is sold at this workshop for $25 to Manatee County Residents.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 21

2010-04-21T09:22:00.000-04:00

Earth Day Count Down - Day 20

2010-04-21T09:19:00.000-04:00

#20 Buy Local!
Local food production can be thought of in concentric circles that start with growing food at home. The next ring out might be food grown in our immediate community - then state, region, and country. Buying local goes for more than just food, buying local saves on transportation costs and has a positive impact on our carbon footprint. For more information visit http://www.manateeedc.com/Buy-Local.aspx or http://farmlink.org/ to find local food & farms.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 19

2010-04-19T08:00:00.000-04:00

#19 Get Outside!
Getting outside is a fun, easy and low-cost way to spend time with your friends and family. The preserves of Manatee County offer a wonderful variety of animals and plants. Take a tour on foot or kayak. For more information go http://www.mymanatee.org/conservation.html or http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/recreation/ for regional information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 18

2010-04-18T08:00:00.001-04:00

#18 Include some wildlife!
Landscaping to attract wildlife brings nature close by welcoming it into our backyards. Planting certain trees, shrubs, and flowers can create an inviting atmosphere for songbirds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Another advantage of landscaping for wildlife is creating habitat for animals that have been displaced by community growth and development where space is limited. Visit http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn_and_garden/backyard-habitat/index.shtml for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 17

2010-04-17T08:00:00.000-04:00

#17 Give it to the worms!
Vermiculture, or worm composting, allows you to compost your food waste faster than you ever imagined, while producing a high quality compost and compost tea. Best of all, it's self-contained and nearly odorless! Visit http://manateefyn.eventbrite.com/ to register for a class or go to http://livinggreen.ifas.ufl.edu/waste/composting.html for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 16

2010-04-16T10:04:00.000-04:00

#16 Choose Florida-Friendly!
Landscaping the Florida-Friendly way means using low maintenance plants and environmentally sustainable practices. Learn how you can have a beautiful landscape that could save you time, energy and money while protecting our future. Environmental protection begins in your yard. Visit http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn_and_garden/fyn/index.shtml for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 15

2010-04-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

#15 Travel green!
Look for hotels that encourage guests to use less water or energy. Hang up your towels to dry so you can use them again. Use the sheets more than a night or two. When you go out, look for local foods and souvenirs to reduce transportation. Before you go, unplug your computer, DVD player, and other electronics, and turn down your thermostat. Visit http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/conservation/waterchamp/to find Water Champ Lodging or http://www.epa.gov/region1/communities/traveltips.html for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 14

2010-04-14T08:00:00.001-04:00

#14 Wait for the storm to pass!
Don't fertilize before a rain storm. Your fertilizer - along with your money – can just wash off your lawn and down the storm drain. Fertilizer runoff can pollute rivers, lakes, and bays, and cause problems in recreational areas or fishing grounds. Check the weather forecast before you head out, and wait for the storm to pass. Visit http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/greenscapes/owners.htm or http://fyn.ifas.ufl.edu/handbook/Fertilize_Appropriately_vSept09.pdf for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 13

2010-04-13T21:59:00.000-04:00

#13 Just bag it!
Help protect the environment when you shop. Keep reusable bags on your car seat or near your door so they are easy to grab when you go. And you can even combine shopping bags - just tell the cashier that you don't need a bag, then put all your purchases together in one bag… just be sure to hang on to your receipts! Visit http://www.epa.gov/osw/education/pubs/shopping.htm for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 12

2010-04-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

#12 eCycle it!
Take your old computer, DVD player, or other electronics to an electronics recycling center. Reusing and recycling materials like copper, gold, and others saves natural resources and reduces mining and processing. eCycling also helps avoid land, air, and water pollution by capturing and reusing hazardous substances such as lead or chromium. Visit http://www.mymanatee.org/internet/utilities_site.nsf/ContentLookup/sw_e-scrap to find out how to dispose of your e-scrap.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 11

2010-04-11T08:00:00.001-04:00

#11 Don't trash it - reuse it!
Be creative as you look for new ways to reduce the amount or kinds of household waste. Give cardboard tubes to pet hamsters or gerbils. Plant seeds in an egg carton. Make a flower pot out of a plastic ice cream tub. By thinking creatively, you will often find new uses for common items and new ways to recycle and reduce waste. Visit http://www.epa.gov/osw/wycd/catbook/tip12.htm for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 10

2010-04-10T08:00:00.004-04:00

#10 Make it a full load!

The average washing machine uses 40.9 gallons of water per load. If you buy a a new washer, shop for a high-efficiency washer that needs less than 28 gallons of water per load. To achieve even greater savings, wash only full loads of laundry or be sure to choose the appropriate load size on the washing machine. Visit http://www.epa.gov/watersense/water_efficiency/what_you_can_do.html for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 9

2010-04-09T08:00:00.002-04:00

#9 Make your home an Energy Star!

When you do home maintenance, also do a home energy audit to find out how you can save money by making your home more energy efficiency. And if every American home replaced just one conventional light bulb with a compact fluorescent light bulb, we would save enough energy to light more than 3 million homes a year. Visit http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_improvement_index for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 8

2010-04-08T08:00:00.005-04:00

#8 Don't be a drip - fix that leak!
Leaky faucets can waste thousands of gallons of water each year, like money down the drain. Repair or replace old or damaged fixtures. If you're not sure you have a leak, check the water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same, you probably have a leak. Visit http://www.epa.gov/watersense/water_efficiency/what_you_can_do.html for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 7

2010-04-07T08:00:00.000-04:00

#7 Don't let pet waste run off!
You can help reduce polluted storm water runoff by just picking up your pet's poop and dispose of it properly. Leaving pet waste on the ground increases public health risks by allowing harmful bacteria or organic material to wash into the storm drain and eventually into local waterbodies. So remember - always scoop the poop! Visit http://www.epa.gov/weatherchannel/stormwater.html and http://sarasotabay.org/nar-poochesfortheplanet.html for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 6

2010-04-06T20:36:00.000-04:00

#6 Read the label!
You might not realize it, but on a pesticide container, the label is the law. Pesticide product labels provide critical safety information for handling and use. Pesticides are powerful substances, but when used according to the label they are safe and effective. So … always use pesticides safely, at home or in the field. Always read the label. Visit http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/label/ for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 5

2010-04-05T08:00:00.000-04:00

#5 Make it a full load!

Earth Day Count Down - Day 4

2010-04-04T08:00:00.002-04:00

#4 Reduce your carbon footprint!
Leaving your car at home twice a week can cut greenhouse gas emissions by 1,600 pounds per year. Save up errands and shopping trips so you need to drive fewer times. If you commute to work, ask if you can work from home at least some days, and you'll reduce air pollution and traffic congestion - and save money. Visit http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/road.html for more information

Earth Day Count Down - Day 3

2010-04-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

#3 Be sensible!
The Earth might seem like it has abundant water, but in fact only one percent of all water on the planet is available for humans. Buy fixtures and products that are water efficient – you can use less water to get the same job done just as well. When you go shopping, look for the WaterSense label to find water efficient products. Visit http://www.h2ouse.org/index.cfm for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 2

2010-04-02T08:32:00.002-04:00

#2 Shower power!
A full bathtub requires about 70 gallons of water, but taking a five-minute shower saves water by using 10 to 25 gallons. Put a little timer or clock near your shower so you can see how fast you are. Save even more water, and money on your water bill, by installing a water-efficient showerhead, or ask your landlord to install one if you rent. Exchange your high volume showerhead for a low flow (2 gallons per minute) showerhead at the Manatee County Utility Complex, Bldg 4412, 4410 66^th Street West, Bradenton. Visit http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/conservation/thepowerof10/ to find out your water usage using the water calculator

Today is Earth Day!

2010-04-02T08:00:00.013-04:00

Today is earth day! Celebrate by enjoying the outdoors, take a walk.

#22 Compost it! Compost helps improve soil so it holds more water and plants grow better. Allow grass clippings to stay on the lawn, instead of bagging them. The cut grass will decompose and return to the soil naturally. Food scraps and kitchen waste also make good compost, and you save money on fertilizers or other additives. Earth Machine compost bins with compost class available to Manatee County Residents for $25. Visit http://manateefyn.eventbrite.com/ to register for a class or go to http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn_and_garden/fyn/CompostInformation.shtml for more information.

Earth Day Count Down - Day 1

2010-04-01T11:33:00.000-04:00

Earth Day is April 22nd! We will be counting down with a tip a day to help you make your April a little greener.

#1 Recycle the rain!
Harvesting rainwater using a rain barrel helps supplement irrigation for a small cost. Storing rainwater also helps reduce stormwater runoff, which can lead to reduced levels of pesticides and fertilizers in our water. Visit http://manateefyn.eventbrite.com/ to register for a class or go to http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn_and_garden/fyn/rain-barrel.shtml for more information.

Lakewood Ranch Lake Bank Planting

2010-03-25T11:35:00.000-04:00

Come out and join us for a lake bank planting at Lakewood Ranch's Town Hall, 8175 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Lakewood Ranch. We will be there Saturday, March 27th from 9 am until 12:00pm. Bring your gloves and a shovel to help install a vegetative buffer zone along the shoreline of Lake Uihlein.

This is a grant funded project made possible by the South West Florida Water Management District. Establishing a “maintenance-free zone” of at least 10- feet between your landscaped areas and the waterfront filters pollutants and protects the water from runoff. Lake Uihlei'sn maintenance-free zone will not be mowed, fertilized, or have pesticides applied.

Water Conservation & Native Plant Sale

2010-03-16T07:21:00.000-04:00

Saturday, March 20th from 9 am to 2 pm join us at Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive North, for a Water Conservation Program & Native Plant Sale. For a $15 fee you will receive a 55-gallon rain barrel complete with all hardware, an A/C condensate drip hose, an indigenous plant , a hose repair kit and other water-saving devices. Please call 941-778-4619 to register.

Residents learn ways to conserve at the Florida-Friendly Family Festival

2010-03-10T11:07:00.000-05:00

The Florida-Friendly Family Festival held March 6th at the Manatee County Fairgrounds brought 515 people together to share environmental themes and conservation methods. The Eco-Workshops were attended by 158 attendees thirsty for ideas. Topics included worm composting, conservation at home, making bio-fuel, the importance of bees and the water cycle. The Earthlings, musician with an environmental message, provided musical suggestions for conservation with their instruments made from recycled items. The Manatee County Utilities Department provided food which was grilled to perfection by the Palmetto Kiwanis Club volunteers. A local 4-H club served drinks for $.50 in re-useable cups with refills offered for $.25 to encourage reuse. Compost bins were manned with volunteers to educate on compostable trash vs. non-compostable trash. Food service items were made of 100% paper and able to be composted.

Compost Bins Are In!

2010-02-25T11:14:00.000-05:00

The new style compost bin is now available to Manatee County Residents at The Manatee County Extension Office! After taking one of our "Compost Happens" workshop you are eligible to purchase the Earth Machine Compost Bin for $25.00.

Upcoming Classes:

Saturday

April 17th 9am - 12pm
Rain Barrel & Compost

Thursday
May 20th 2pm - 4pm
Compost only

Saturday
June 12th 9am - 12pm
Rain Barrel & Compost

To register for an upcoming workshop go to manateefyn.eventbrite.com or call Linda at 941.722.4524

Florida-Friendly Family Festival

2010-02-23T05:51:00.001-05:00

Come join us March 6th, 9 am - 3 pm at the Manatee County Fairgrounds for the Florida-Friendly Family Festival. The Festival will feature a variety of fun activities, eco-workshops and entertainment that appeals to children of all ages. The Festival will offer a wide array of interactive demonstrations, ideas, workshops and exhibits to highlight our environment and show ways that families can conserve in and around their homes. Admission is free. Food will be provided, first come, first serve. Local youth will be performing. The Manatee County Utilities Department will be hosting a shower head exchange. Bring your old shower head to be exchanged for a new water conserving model.

Performances by the Earthlings (conservation themed entertainment), Palmetto High School Jazz Band and ROTC. Eco-workshop topics include worm composting, life as a drip, bio-fuel blast and home conservation. Local businesses, not for profit organizations and Manatee County Government will host exhibits. Mote Marine's touch tank, a hybrid school bus and a 1930's fire truck will be on display.

Guilty of a Compost Infraction?

2010-02-07T15:41:00.003-05:00

Green Police Video

Don't let the Green Police catch you with compost infractions learn how to compost at one of our upcoming workshops.

Helpful Compost Websites:

http://compostinfo.com/

http://livinggreen.ifas.ufl.edu/waste/composting.html

http://solutionsforyourlife.ufl.edu/hot_topics/lawn_and_garden/compost.html

Did Your Palms Get Cold Damage?

2010-02-04T11:11:00.000-05:00

Cold weather slows down the growth of palms, reduces the activity of the roots, and often weakens the plant to the point where a disease can become active and kill the palm. Severe cold damage from frost or freezing temperatures destroy plant tissues and may severely reduce water conduction in the trunk for years. Often the only above-ground portion of a cold-damaged palm that is still alive is the protected bud. As warmer weather returns, primary or secondary plant pathogens often attack weakened plants through damaged tissue. Read more here.

How to Help Your Lawn Survive the Chill

2010-01-27T12:09:00.001-05:00

Certainly when we think of living in Florida, we do not generally think about losing our lawns to freezing temperatures. However, some homeowners in Florida may find themselves needing to replace portions of their lawns in the spring of 2010 due to the freezing temperatures! Here are some tips about how to prevent or reduce winterkill by preparing your lawn for the winter months and how to let your lawn recover from the big chill with minimal damage.

Preparing Your Lawn for Winter
All of our warm season lawngrass species go into some degree of “dormancy” during the winter months. This means that they slow their growth down and may or may not stay green. This is a natural cycle, regardless of where you live in the state. In north and even central Florida, lawn may stay green or may turn brown, either of which can be normal. Even in south Florida, lawns do not grow as quickly (less mowing required!) in the winter, even though they may remain green. Regardless of where you are in the state, you should work to keep your lawn as healthy as possible through your mowing, irrigating, and fertilizing practices. For more information on how to properly manage your lawn, please refer to EDIS publication ENH979, Homeowner Best Management Practices for the Home Lawn (http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep236).

Lawns in south Florida are typically fertilized year-round with no problems. However, central and north Florida lawns should not be fertilized after mid to late September. The last fertilization should be done with a fertilizer high in potassium (the 3rd number on the bag) relative to nitrogen (the first number on the bag), such as 15-0-15 or something with equal or higher potassium to nitrogen. This helps to impart some stress tolerance to cold or freezing temperatures and may enhance spring greenup. In central Florida, do not fertilize lawns between October and the end of March. In north Florida, avoid fertilizing from mid-September through mid-April. Keep mowing height high year-round (3.5 to 4” for most St. Augustinegrass cultivars and bahiagrass and 2 to 2.5” for centipedegrass and coarse-textured zoysiagrass lawns) for additional enhanced stress tolerance.

Coming Out of the Freeze
Freezing temperatures will turn lawns brown. Do not panic, this is a normal part of winter dormancy. When the days become longer and temperatures start to warm up in the spring, the growing points will become active, bringing green growth to the lawn again. Do not fertilize your lawn in the winter to try to green it up after a freeze – wait for the natural cycle of events to occur in the springtime. Fertilizing after a freeze will do more harm to your lawn than waiting for spring greenup. Do not apply a weed and feed product for preemergence weed control during the winter in central and north Florida. Lawns generally do not require as much irrigation during winter months, so scale back your irrigation systems. In central Florida, you may need to irrigate weekly or every other week, while in north Florida, it may be every 3 to 4 weeks. You will not need to mow for some time; when you do need to mow again, be sure to cut at the highest recommended height for your grass type. Do not scalp the lawn, as this makes it less able torecover from freeze damage.

How can you tell if your grass has truly succumbed to a winter freeze or if it is only dormant?
One way is to cut small plugs of the grass (with roots and shoots attached) and plant them in a pot, put it in a warm spot with natural sunlight and see if the grass regrows. If your lawn does not recover come springtime, remove the decayed vegetation from the affected areas and replace with either sod pieces or plugs. Do this before weeds have a chance to germinate and take hold of the ground. It is possible that not all of your lawn will be affected, perhaps just those areas that are most exposed to the cold temperatures. Following these tips will help your lawn survive freezing temperatures. For more lawn care tips, go to http://www.yourfloridalawn.ifas.ufl.edu/.

This information was prepared by L.E. Trenholm, Associate Professor, Environmental Horticulture and
J.B. Unruh, Associate Professor, West Florida Research and Education Center

Manatee County Fair Starts Today

2010-01-14T15:04:00.000-05:00

Come out to the Manatee County Fair. Today is opening day at 5:00pm. We have worked hard to create an interactive experience in the UF/IFAS Extension Booth. The Florida Yards & Neighborhoods Program has a doll house landscape demonstration highlighting the 9 principles for Florida-Friendly Yards. Besure to look for the rain barrel, compost bin, pervious drive and walk ways, wildlife and beneficial insects. Hope to see you at the Fair.

To Prune or Not to Prune

2010-01-13T13:00:00.001-05:00

Many people prune shrubs and trees too early trying to revive their landscape.

UF recommendations state: Severe pruning should be delayed until new growth appears to ensure that live wood is not removed. Dead, unsightly leaves may be removed as soon as they turn brown after a freeze if a high level of maintenance is desired. Cold injury may appear as a lack of spring bud break on a portion or all of the plant, or as an overall weak appearance. Branch tips may be damaged while older wood is free of injury. Cold injured wood can be identified by examining the cambium layer (food conducting tissue) under the bark for black or brown coloration. Prune these branches behind the point of discoloration.

As an avid gardener, it is hard to resist the tempation to cut off those brown branches. Some garden tasks that can be done this month; adjust irrigation based on rainfall, deadhead flowers to encourage new blooms and monitor the garden for insects and disease.

For more information on How to Repair the Cold Damage in Your Landscape attend the class with that title on April 17th from 10am - 12pm at the Manatee County Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto. To register please call 941-722-4524 or register online at http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu/class_registration/class-registration-form.shtml

Were You Surprised by Frost or Freeze?

2010-01-06T10:06:00.005-05:00

Don't be surprised by the upcoming tempatures. You can type in your zip code at http://www.noaa.gov/ to get current and forecasted conditions for your area.

Visit UF/IFAS Extension Solutions for Your Life to read about

Protecting Ornamental Plants from the Cold
What to Do Before the Freeze
What to Do During the Freeze
What to Do After the Freeze

Florida Friendly at the Fair

2010-01-05T11:40:00.004-05:00

Come out to the Manatee County Fair to learn more about Fabulous Florida-Friendly Landscaping. Mini presentations will be given on January 15th @3:00pm and January 18th @6:00pm. Stop by the Horticultural Learning Center (HLC) for presentations daily at 3:00pm and 6:00pm. The HLC is open during fair hours, come wander through the displays which include the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Doll House demonstration.

Winter Herb Gardening

2009-12-15T09:48:00.007-05:00

Herbs are plants which are grown for the special flavor and aroma of their various parts. Herbs in the Florida Garden will give you information on how to grow herbs successfully.

Rosemary is a long lasting plant that is well known as a culinary herb in the kitchen, a hardy long-lasting plant, a drought tolerant plant in arid landscapes. During this season rosemary is available as a tabletop christmas tree or a bonsai wreath, a gift to please any gardener. So why do we hear that it is so hard to keep these gifts alive? Rosemary has tiny, shallow, hair-like roots which require good drainage. However, the plant can not tolerate being too dry either. Other plants have leaves that wilt to give notice that watering is needed. But the leaves of rosemary don’t wilt. Rosemary doesn’t give a good clue that it is drying out until it is so dry it’s dead.

Plant herbs that thrive in cool weather. Some to try are parsley, thyme, sage, dill, fennel, garlic, comfrey and coriander.

The New FYN Handbook is Here

2009-12-11T08:27:00.004-05:00

The new Florida Yards & Neighborhoods Handbook is now available online. If you would like a printed copy please visit your local extension office.

Discover all 9 Principles of the FYN program and utilize them in your yard to create a Florida-Friendly Landscape.
1. Right Plant, Right Place
2. Water Efficiently
3. Fertilize Appropriately
4. Mulch
5. Attract Wildlife
6. Manage Yard Pests Responsibly
7. Recycle Yard Waste
8. Reduce Stormwater Runoff
9. Protect the Waterfront

For more information please contact Michelleatkinson@ufl.edu or call the Manatee County Extension office at 941-722-4524.

Florida-Friendly Holiday Tips

2009-12-08T13:37:00.010-05:00

While holiday shopping and decorating this year keep the enviroment in mind. Look for things that do not have harmful impacts on our ecosystems.

These ornaments hold air plants to keep a little green indoors.

Using items found in your landscape can give a fresh look. When the season is over simply compost your displays.

Looking for a hostess, teacher or co-worker gift. These southern magnolias are a great option.

For your family and friends rain barrels, compost bins, bird feeders, bird bath or house, garden bench and trellises are gifts that are enjoyed all year.

Gift projects that can be done with kids; paint a rain barrel, make stepping stones with hand prints and/or glass pebbles, make a bird feeder or house, make a wind chime.

Have a Fabulous Florida-Friendly Holiday!

When to Water Establishing Shrubs

2009-12-01T13:16:00.004-05:00

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Good news for your utility bills and the environment: New University of Florida research shows that landscape shrubs need much less water to establish healthy roots than you might expect.
“We finally have our irrigation recommendations for establishing shrubs backed up with science. We need less irrigation than many people think,” said Ed Gilman, a UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences environmental horticulture professor who led the research study.
The six-year study’s objective was to determine how best to irrigate shrubs during “establishment” — the 20- to 28-week period when shrubs’ roots grow until the plant can survive without irrigation.
The research examined irrigation frequency and volume on the quality, survival and growth rates of three-gallon, container-grown shrubs. Plants were examined in Fort Lauderdale, Balm, Apopka and Citra, locations that span three water management districts in Florida and have varied growing conditions.
Some of the state’s most popular ornamental shrubs were evaluated, including both native and non-native species, such as yaupon holly and gardenia.
“One of the results that we noted was that there are no differences between native and non-native species for amount of water required for establishment, “Gilman said. “This often surprises people, but it emphasizes that the Florida-friendly principle — right plant, right place — is worth following.”
Florida-friendly gardening means planting that accounts for site conditions, maintenance needs and local climate. Such landscapes may use both native and non-native plants, as long as the non-native plants aren’t an invasive species.
Regular irrigation in the months after planting helps shrubs remain healthy and attractive as they establish. But one eyebrow-raising study finding is that light, frequent watering is much more efficient and effective than applying large volumes less frequently.
North of Orlando, Gilman recommends using as little as 1 gallon of water per shrub, applied every eight days. In South Florida, he recommends every four days.
More frequent irrigation, such as every four days in North Florida and every two days in South Florida, does result in more vigorous plant growth. But applying more than 1 gallon per irrigation doesn’t increase survival or growth, he said.
“Results showed that applying large volumes of water cannot compensate for infrequent irrigation,” Gilman said. “This means that you should water more often, but with less water at each irrigation event. That helps the plants achieve proper establishment and, in turn, means less watering in the long run.”
Gardeners should maintain their irrigation schedule until shrubs survive on rainfall alone, once roots have grown to the edge of the foliage canopy, usually within 28 weeks of planting.
In long hot, dry spells, occasional irrigation may be needed after shrubs are established. Such weather can occur at any time in Florida, but is most likely in the spring and fall – April, May, October and sometimes November.
In the first year after planting, use 1 to 2 gallons of water when there is less than a quarter inch of rain within a two-week period. Drought-sensitive shrubs, such as holly fern and wild coffee, may need more frequent supplemental irrigation, while drought-tolerant shrubs, like Burford holly, may need very little.
The study can be found at http://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/irrigation. Or check out the fact sheet Establishing Shrubs in Florida Landscapes, http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/EP391, for more information.
Several simple steps can help ensure your plants survive establishment:· Consider planting at the start of the rainy season.· Irrigate based on location, weather and desired plant vigor.· Apply water directly to the rootball.· Use low-volume irrigation. Don’t irrigate if a quarter-inch or more rain fell in the last 24 hours.· After establishment, irrigate when there are signs of wilting, but before leaves begin to die.

To watch video click on http://news.ufl.edu/2009/09/24/watering-multimedia/attachment/25839/

Skip a Week of Irrigation

2009-11-20T14:39:00.006-05:00

Now that our tempatures are starting to drop we can skip a week of irrigation. During cooler months in fall and winter, your lawn doesn’t need watering every week … It’s the best time to train your yard to need less water! So only water your lawn every other week and only if it needs it.

This Florida Friendly Irrigation video features one our own Master Gardeners, Carol Ann Breyer!

For more information please contact MichelleAtkinson@ufl.edu.

What is a Watershed?

2009-11-17T12:37:00.006-05:00

While teaching a group of 5th grade students I asked, "What is a Watershed?". The responses ranged from a well pump house description to a closet where water bottles are stored.

November is Watershed Awareness month so lets define a Watershed! water·shed (noun) a ridge or stretch of high land dividing the areas drained by different rivers or river systems. According to the Southwest FL Water Management District a watershed is an area of land that water flows across as it moves toward a common body of water, such as a stream, river, lake or coast.

That being said, do you know your watershed? Why is it important to know your Watershed? Understanding where stormwater runs to from your property will help you feel the connection we all have to our watershed. When we apply chemicals (i.e. oil, gas, pesticide, fertilizer, roof cleaner, driveway cleaner, etc), spill chemicals, leave debris or trash on your property it can end up in a body of water. We all have a responsibility to keep our watersheds as clean as possible so we can enjoy them for boating, kayaking, swimming, fishing or just observing.

By allowing stormwater to stay on our property in rain barrels, cisterns, rain gardens, green roofs or by using permeable surfaces we help prevent pollutants from entering our watershed by reducing stormwater runoff.

Take the Watershed Pledge and get a free wrist band.

For further information please contact MichelleAtkinson@ufl.edu or call 941-722-4524.