“Spring won’t let me stay in this house any longer! I must get out and breathe the air deeply again” ..Gustav Mahler (Austrian Composer)

 “Here comes the Sun”...George Harrison (British Songwriter)

The warm weather is here. We have set our clocks one hour ahead. The grass needs mowing. It must be spring. However, time in the sun can bring sunburn and heatstroke. When you go out, apply sunscreen, and wear a hat with brims. Don’t forget sunglasses to reduce cataract risk. 

Overheating can quickly develop into heat stress if we don’t pay attention. Consider scheduling strenuous work for cooler times of the day. Wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing will help you stay cooler. Finally, drink lots of water even if you are not thirsty. Hydration, sunscreen, and proper precautions will ensure that as you delve into your landscape, you will stay safe and cool.

Eat The Weeds

As we approach “low mow March,” I’ve started thinking about all the benefits of freedom lawns. Sure, the forbs for pollinators are a great reason to go low-mow and turfgrass free, but what about the ability to forage for food right in your own backyard?? 
Read on to find out more about three weeds to munch on.

Woe, What are these weeds

Weeds.  They're on every gardener's list of woes. We often have clients come into the office asking for a weed to be identified, along with how to control them. Read on for great information about how to identify and control common weeds.

3 Reasons to book a Florida Friendly Yard Review in 2025!

A yard review is your first step in maintaining all the things that attracted you to Florida in the first place. You will get recommendations from a trained FFL review team. Read on to learn how to schedule a yard review.

Living with Citrus Greening

For several years now citrus greening has been decimating residential citrus in Northeast Florida. Recent research has provided us with new ways to manage citrus greening in our landscapes. Read on to find out more information

Armenian Cucumber:  A Warm Season Crop to Try

At the Duval County Urban Demonstration Garden, we like to try new-to-us varieties of common crops, along with our tried-and-true varieties. Last spring we tried Armenian cucumbers.  We think you may want to try them too. Read on for more information

What to plant in March and April

The Gardening Calendar gives North Florida gardeners a guide for what to plant and do in their gardens. It includes links to useful gardening websites, all based on University of Florida research and expertise.

• What to Plant in March  
• What to plant in April

Upcoming Events

(Follow us on Eventbrite for Upcoming Classes)

March Backyard Hen Training

Tuesday, March 25th, 2025, PM at 2:00 pm. The cost is $10.00.

Location: Duval County Extension Office

1010 N. McDuff Avenue

This class is necessary for you to get your backyard hen permit in Duval County. Steven Jennewein will be presenting information to help get you started on your backyard flock. It is just a little over an hour and very informative. You will receive a certificate of completion that you present to the city to receive your permit. The class will consist of a lecture and then an exhibition of a functional coop at the UF/IFAS Urban Garden. To register, go to: March Backyard Hens on Eventbrite.

Getting Started in Farming; What to do and where to get help

Wednesday, March 26, 2025 5:30pm EST. The cost is $10.00

Location: Via Zoom, or in person at  Duval County Extension,                             

1010 N. McDuff Avenue

Do you own land? Are you looking to purchase land? Want to learn more about your options for farming on it? This class will include topics such as: Introductory agronomy, Choosing a commodity, Planning and management, Taxes and greenbelt exemption, How Extension can help you. To register, go to: Getting Started in Farming on Eventbrite

Community Garden Leader Course 2025   

Monday’s in  April-May 2025 5:30pm EST. The cost is $10.00.

Location: Duval County Extension, 1010 N. McDuff Avenue

The 2025 Community Garden Leader course will teach participants the basics of what it takes to start or manage a community garden. It puts the "community" aspect in the community garden concept. To register, go to: Community Garden Leader Course on Eventbrite

Spring Rain Barrel Workshop 

Friday, May 2nd 2025 1:00pm EST. 

The cost  75.00 (Includes Rain barrel to take home)

or $5.00 (Information Only)

Location: County Extension, 1010 N. McDuff Avenue 

Become more Florida-Friendly! Learn all about saving the rain and protecting our precious water resources during this informative class. By collecting and storing rainwater, you can save money, improve the health of your plants, and protect the environment. To register, go to: Spring Rain Barrel Workshop on Eventbrite

For persons with disabilities requiring special accommodations that wish to attend any Extension events, please contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Office (TDD, via Florida Relay Service, 1-800-955-8771) at least ten working days prior to the class so that proper consideration may be given to the request. UF/IFAS Extension is an Equal Opportunity Institution.