Free Workshops Offer Tips on Composting, Conserving Water

Amateur green thumbs might want to take time out for two free workshops at the Hillsborough County Extension in Seffner on June 16.

The aim of the classes is to make gardens both healthier and more cost-effective. The extension office is at 5339 County Road 579.

The Extension office, a partnership between Hillsborough County and the University of Florida, is hosting “Compost Happens” and “Water-Wise” workshops.

The workshops will be hands-on affairs as extension staff members have their own working composting area with a variety of composting methods and bins. Extension staff also practice what they preach when it comes to water conservation: The office has its own cistern to capture rain water.

Turning trash into treasure for your garden is the topic at the "Compost Happens Workshop," which starts at 10 a.m. This workshop is sponsored by the Master Composters of Hillsborough County, Hillsborough County Extension, Hillsborough County Public Utilities Department and the City of Tampa's Department of Solid Waste.

Each county resident will receive a free compost bin and thermometer.

The "Water-Wise Workshop" begins at 11 a.m. and teaches how to have a healthy and attractive lawn and landscape -- while still conserving water.

The workshop will also include a presentation on installing and using micro-irrigation. This irrigation method not only conserves water, but is not as restricted by current water restrictions as traditional in-ground irrigation systems. Hillsborough County residents attending this workshop for the first time will receive one free micro-irrigation kit.

Call 813-744-5519  for more information.

The extension will be offering more workshops in September.