Dr. Hort's Citrus Lecture Proves Fruitful – and Fun

Greg “Dr. Hort” Charles shared his citrus secrets Feb. 23 with a group of more than 70 homeowners and seasoned gardeners eager to learn from the expert.  

This presentation was second in a lineup of the Florida Friendly Gardening Educational Series offered by Pinellas County Extension and Master Gardeners. 

Each person who registered for this class received a copy of the University of Florida fact sheet, “Citrus Culture in the Home Landscape,” which Greg used as a guide for  the lecture. He also provided interesting citrus facts, a history of citrus agriculture, and tips for growing the best fruit trees possible.  Then he opened the floor to questions. 

One homeowner wanted to know about the greenish stuff growing on the bark of his tree, and another needed to know why the entire tree turned black. Others asked about root stock, brown fruit, and fruit cocktail trees. Some brought examples of infected leaves for Greg to diagnose.

There were so many questions from the floor that Greg stayed longer, so that every person who had a question could be heard. The presentation ended an hour later than scheduled; most remained in their seats hoping to absorb as much information as possible in the time they had with Greg. 

Every attendee was asked to fill out an evaluation form before leaving and one person was so impressed with Greg that he wrote,  if he had had "a teacher that was half as interesting, I might have continued my education.”

I think that says it all!

The next presentation in the Florida Friendly series is “Bromeliads,” by Marty Baxley of Jungle Gems, and will be held March 22 at the Main Library on 9th Ave.  Registration is required at www.pinellascountyextension.org or by
calling 582-2109.