Celebrate Florida Arbor Day with a free tree Jan. 17

Posted on January 2, 2026

Taylor County Master Gardener Volunteers invite residents to attend their annual Arbor Day Tree Giveaway on Saturday, Jan. 17, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“To better serve our community, this year’s event will be held at the UF/IFAS Taylor County Extension Office (203 Forest Park Drive),” said UF/IFAS Taylor County Extension Agriculture & Natural Resources Extension Agent Lisa Strange. Previous tree giveaways were held in the Rosehead Park pavilion (adjacent to the Splash Pad).

Event highlights will include:

• Free trees: Choose from a variety of native seedlings specifically selected to thrive in the local climate.

Trees provide essential benefits, including natural shade, increased property value, reduced energy costs and vital habitats for wildlife, Strange said.

• Chili for sale: The Perry Garden Club will be on-site selling chili and all the fixings as a fundraiser.

• Expert advice: Master Gardener Volunteers will be available to answer any planting and maintenance questions.

While National Arbor Day is observed in April, Florida celebrates on the third Friday in January to take advantage of the state’s ideal winter planting season.

For more details, please contact Strange at the Taylor County Extension Office at (850) 838-3508 or e-mail at lstrange@ufl.edu.

To learn more about becoming a volunteer, visit the Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program at https:// gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl. edu/mastergardener/.