Spring always brings a little more life to Palma Sola Botanical Park. This season, the park has a full lineup of ways for the community to stop by, learn something new, lend a hand, or simply spend more time in a place that locals already love. Here's a look at what's happening around the park:
Hidden Garden Nursery
April (Every Tuesday & Saturday)
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
The Hidden Garden Nursery at Palma Sola Botanical Park is open to the public and offers a rotating selection of plants grown and cared for by volunteers on site. Visitors can browse a wide mix that often includes tropicals, butterfly plants, herbs, hanging baskets, and other landscape-ready options, all set within the park's garden surroundings.
The nursery operates as a volunteer-run effort, with proceeds supporting the nonprofit gardens. Pricing is kept reasonable, making it an easy stop for anyone looking to add something new to their yard while also supporting the park. The inventory changes regularly based on what's been cultivated, so each visit can bring something different.
High School Volunteers Needed
April (Every Wednesday)
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Palma Sola Botanical Park is welcoming high school students to take part in its ongoing volunteer program, offering a chance to earn Bright Futures community service hours while helping around the gardens. Students assist with a range of tasks including planting, weeding, propagating, mulching, and occasional office work, all with guidance from adult mentors.
No prior experience is required, and participants can simply show up on Wednesdays to join in. The park provides what's needed, along with snacks and water, creating a supportive setting for students to stay involved and complete their service hours.
2026 Horticultural Classes
April 17 , 2026 (Introduction to Invasive Plants)
April 23, 2026 (Backyards for Birds)
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
The first class, Introduction to Invasive Plants, takes a closer look at how invasive species are defined and why they matter in Florida landscapes. The session covers how these plants spread, the impact they can have, and what steps can be taken to manage them responsibly. It's led by experienced Master Gardeners who share practical insight based on local conditions. To reserve a spot, call 941-761-2866.
The second class, Florida-Friendly Landscapingâ„¢: Backyards for Birds, focuses on creating outdoor spaces that naturally support bird life. It looks at plant choices and simple yard features that help attract and sustain birds without relying on feeders. The session offers ideas that can be applied at home with lasting results. Tickets can be reserved through this Eventbrite link.
Garden Workdays
April 22, 2026 (Earth Day)
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Garden Workdays at Palma Sola Botanical Park give the public a chance to take part in maintaining and caring for the gardens. Volunteers work alongside others in the community on hands-on tasks that help keep the space looking its best, with all experience levels welcome.
Everything needed is provided, including tools, water, and snacks. Participants can simply arrive ready to help and check in at the park before getting started.
Walk, Talk, & Learn Series (New!)
April 30, 2026
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
This new series at Palma Sola Botanical Park offers a guided walk through the gardens with a focus on different nature topics throughout the season. The April session highlights trees, led by Senior County Forester Richard Larsen, with discussion centered on their role in the landscape and what to look for around the park.
Attending is simple with no RSVP required. Guests can meet at the tables on the covered back porch before the walk begins, making it easy to join in and take part in the conversation.
Books Needed for Little Libraries
April (Every Wednesday)
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Palma Sola Botanical Park is currently accepting donations of used books for all ages to help stock its two Free Little Libraries located on the property. These libraries were built as part of an Eagle Scout project and serve as a simple way for visitors to take a book or leave one during their visit.
Donations can be placed directly into the library boxes or dropped off at the park office. The goal is to keep both locations stocked and active for visitors throughout the season.
About Palma Sola Botanical Park
Palma Sola Botanical Park is located at 9800 17th Ave NW in Bradenton, set on a former county nursery that was preserved and transformed into a nonprofit community park in the early 1990s. Today, the space continues to be maintained through local support, volunteers, and ongoing improvements across the grounds.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to dusk and does not charge an admission fee, though donations help support its upkeep. Visitors can walk the gardens at their own pace, with different areas featuring native plants, tropical species, and shaded paths that change throughout the year.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
PALMETTO / ELLENTON
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
