4th Annual Talking Plants Series of Classes
As part of the Green Thumb mission to educate the public on Florida Friendly Landscaping practices, free classes on a range of popular topics are held in the first three months of each year. See 2026 class schedule below...
Talking Plants Presenters:
January 9: Jerry and Lori Larson are retired teachers from Wisconsin. Jerry taught Math, Physical Science, and Earth Science, which encompassed earth history, rocks and minerals, astronomy, weather, and much more. He also taught a meteorology class for teachers. Lori taught music K-12, focusing mostly on elementary. Students experienced music through listening, moving, playing instruments, and musical notation. They both have a keen interest in environmental issues, including habitat restoration, birds, and native plants.
February 13: Daniela Carrasquilla holds the Planner I position in Punta Gorda's Urban Design Dept. Her background is in landscape architecture with a master's degree in Landscape Architecture, Urban, and Environmental Design. She is currently working toward her arborist certification. Pollinators are one of her biggest passions! Says Daniela, "There’s just something magical about seeing a garden come to life with busy bees, fluttering butterflies, and curious birds enjoying a space you helped create."
March 13: Jamie Reynolds is a Charlotte County Master Gardener, Master Naturalist, and an active volunteer for the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center.