Homeowners and gardening enthusiasts are invited to “play in the dirt” at the third annual Florida Yard Fandango March 8-9 at the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI.)
The goal of the Fandango is to promote Florida-friendly landscaping and lawn maintenance because it is beautiful and saves water, time and energy.
This year the gardening event has grown to two days. The first day features gardening classes and a plant auction. Participants have the opportunity to participate in their choice of 12 Florida-friendly landscape workshops throughout the day. Some of the choices include herb and vegetable gardening, turf tips, and container gardening.
There is a $10 registration fee for workshop participation and same day admission to MOSI. There is an additional charge for admission to MOSI’s Special Engagements and IMAX films. All of the admission proceeds will be used for horticulture educational scholarships to benefit Hillsborough County high school students.
In addition to the workshops, the Florida Yard Fandango also features a keynote address from Monica Brandes, author of “Ease of Florida Gardening.”
The second day features free demonstrations and an herb walk through MOSI’s wetland area.
Both days include a free Plant and Garden Expo and free pH soil testing. Participants are also encouraged to bring in their dull gardening tools to be sharpened for a nominal fee.
The 2008 Florida Yard Fandango is partially funded by the District’s Alafia River, Hillsborough River, Northwest Hillsborough and Pinellas-Anclote River Basin Boards. Other partners and sponsors include Wildrose Lawncare, Inc.; Connerton Development Corporation; UF/IFAS Florida Yards & Neighborhoods Program; Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association; the City of Tampa Water Department; Wesley Chapel Toyota; Mister Landscaper; and the Hillsborough County Future Farmers of America Association. The Tampa Tribune, WFLA/News Channel 8 and TBO.com are the exclusive media sponsors.
In conjunction with the event, Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio will proclaim March 8 “Florida-Friendly Landscaping Day.”
For more information or to register, visit the web site at www.FloridaYardFandango.com or call (813) 317-6454. Pre-registration is suggested as workshop space is limited.
To learn more about Florida-friendly landscaping, visit the District’s web site at www.WaterMatters.org .