The Alachua County Extension Office is pleased to announce the following Environmental Horticulture Programs, for October 2010. These programs are offered by Wendy Wilber, Environmental Horticulture Agent.

Fruit & Vegetables for Your Backyard – October 13 from 6:30 pm. to 7:30 pm. at the Extension Office (2800 NE 39 Avenue, Gainesville).

Developing and maintaining a successful home orchard requires special horticultural skills. Challenges include insects, diseases, poor soil conditions and weather conditions. This class teaches how to plan a home garden and orchard and how to make corrections in existing gardens.

Plants for Your Florida Friendly Landscape – October 20 from 6:30 pm. to 7:30 pm. at the Extension Office (2800 NE 39 Avenue, Gainesville).

Learn landscaping techniques to save water, and spend less on fertilizers and sprays. The Florida Yards and Neighborhoods program is considered the “green building” landscaping program because it saves water, energy and protects natural resources.

There is no cost to attend these classes. Pre-register by calling 352-337-6209. For more information about any of these programs, call the Extension Office at 352-955-2402.

All Extension Programs and Services are open to all without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin or handicap.  For persons requiring special accommodations, please contact the Extension office at (352) 955-2402 (voice) or TDD/TYY (352) 955-2406 or at the Alachua County Extension Service, 2800 NE 39th Avenue, Gainesville, FL  32609.  Please contact the Extension Office at least five working days prior to the program so that proper consideration may be given to the request.