The UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County Office is pleased to announce the following Environmental Horticulture programs for May 2026. These programs are being offered by Environmental Horticulture Agent Cynthia Nazario-Leary and Master Gardener Volunteers.
Annual Master Gardener Volunteer Spring Plant Sale - May 2, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Alachua County Agriculture & Equestrian Center (23100 W. Newberry Road, Newberry).
The Spring Plant Sale offers a selection of over 3,000 locally grown, Florida-Friendly plants, including Florida natives, edible fruits and vegetables, herbs, ornamentals, trees, citrus, and much more.
Free on-site parking is available. Cash, checks, and credit cards are accepted.
Gardening for Pollinators - May 12, from 2:30 to 4 p.m., at the Alachua County Ag Auditorium (22716 W. Newberry Road, Newberry).
This presentation will discuss how to create a pollinator-friendly landscape. The presentation provides information on the best plants to include in landscapes to support bees and butterflies in north Florida, as well as on how to design and maintain landscapes for maximum benefit.
There is no registration fee, but participants must register online. It is limited to 100 participants.
Master Gardener Volunteer Program – now accepting applications
The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program is a volunteer-driven program that benefits UF/IFAS Extension and the citizens of Florida. The program relies on dedicated volunteers who are interested in gardening and giving back to their communities. With training from UF/IFAS Extension, Master Gardener Volunteers are active in their communities, offering leadership and education in gardening, landscaping, and water conservation projects.
This year’s training course will begin on Aug. 12 and run through Nov. 4, 2026. The class will meet every Wednesday, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., at the Alachua County Ag Auditorium (22716 W. Newberry Road, Newberry). The cost of the training is $200 and includes a student manual and handbook, soil test, and other educational materials and resources. Seating for this program is limited, and placement is selective. There are typically more applicants than we can accept.
After successful completion of the training, interns are required to volunteer a minimum of 75 hours in the first year to achieve their Master Gardener Volunteer certification. In subsequent years, 35 volunteer hours and 10 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are required to maintain active status in the program.
To apply for the 2026 Master Gardener Volunteer training course, go to Master Gardener Volunteer Application and create an account in the volunteer management system. The deadline to submit applications online is May 8.
For more information, call 352-955-2402. Visit the extension office website for a list of additional programs offered.
An Equal Opportunity Institution. Extension Service, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Dr. Andra Johnson, dean for UF/IFAS Extension. Single copies of extension publications (excluding 4-H and youth publications) are available free to Florida residents from county extension offices.
