April 18, 2018
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Turfgrass tips to make a lawn the envy of the neighborhood
By Adam Russell
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
Springtime is a good time to prepare lawns for a healthy summer as warm-season grasses come out of dormancy and begin to green up, said a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert.
Dr. Becky Grubbs, AgriLife Extension turfgrass specialist, College Station, said lawn care is a multifaceted effort homeowners can tackle if they follow AgriLife Extension recommendations and invest the time to create healthy, thriving grasses.
"It's impossible to make blanket recommendations for homeowners who want their lawn to perform to its potential," she said. "But AgriLife Extension has an incredible amount of science-based information that can direct homeowners on most lawn care questions and concerns."
AgriLife Extension has several online resources available to help homeowners establish and maintain turfgrass. Aggie Turf at https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/ has extensive information about caring for species including Bermuda grass, St. Augustine, buffalo grass, seashore paspalum and others.
The site also provides information regarding identification and treatment of common weeds and insect pests and publications that address specific weed, disease and pest issues.
Grubbs recommends homeowners contact their county's AgriLife Extension agents for recommendations that meet their lawn's needs according to local conditions.
THATCH
One thing all homeowners can check for is excess thatch - a layer of living and dead grass stems, roots, rhizomes and stolons, which are new plant growth that develops between the live green vegetation of a lawn and the soil surface. The thatch layer is composed of plant parts at various stages of decomposition, according to an AgriLife Extension publication.
Thatch can help provide a good growing environment for grasses, but excess thatch can prevent water and oxygen from reaching plant roots and create conditions for diseases, Grubbs said.
Core aerators or verticutters can be used to thin thatch, she said. Many professional landscapers can dethatch and aerate lawns, or machines can be rented at some lawn and garden retailers.
"Roots need oxygen and water to survive, and microbes need oxygen to be productive to create healthy soil," she said.
FERTILIZER
Once past the window of a last frost, Grubbs said homeowners should ramp up their grasses' access to nitrogen via fertilizers. The nitrogen requirements for grasses vary with species, but most warm-season varieties should receive nitrogen fertilizer every four to six weeks.
Bermuda grasses, for instance, can require moderate-to-high levels of fertilizer, she said.
"Bermuda grass needs approximately 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet every four to six weeks between May and August, whereas buffalo grass, which is native to West Texas and typically low maintenance, needs less nitrogen over the growing season," she said. "I would emphasize that homeowners need to strike a balance with their fertilizing, as too much fertilizer can be detrimental for the grass, the environment and their pocketbook."
WATER
Like fertilizers, grass species also require different amounts of water, Grubbs said.
"Making a recommendation on water is difficult because it varies so much with location, grass species and ever-changing environmental conditions," she said.
AgriLife Extension has a resource at http://texaset.tamu.edu/ that provides evapotranspiration rates and watering needs based on current conditions for around 50 locations around the state.
Evapotranspiration, which is the rate water evaporates into the atmosphere by evaporation and by transpiration from plants, for some areas can be found by going to the site and clicking on the county or weather station nearest their lawn, she said. It will calculate how much water needs to be applied with the input of a little information.
Grubbs does recommend homeowners refrain from watering until grass shows initial signs of stress - such as reduced bounce-back.
"When you walk on your lawn and the leaves don't immediately bounce back and your steps leave an indention - it's time to water," she said.
Typically, watering one to two times a week for a total of 1-2" of water when conditions are dry is plenty, she said. Moisture- or rain-sensing technology is a good way to avoid overwatering.
Grubbs recommends watering to reach a soil depth of 6 inches.
"That might take using a hand trowel to dig down and see how much time and water it takes," she said.
Homeowners should also be aware of municipal water restrictions and recommendations, Grubbs said.
Grubbs said homeowners with sprinklers should also be mindful about their systems and check for leaks or faulty sprinkler heads and using water unnecessarily.
"It's a good time to check systems or have a professional take a look at it," she said. "A malfunctioning sprinkler head could mean too much water in one area or not enough in another."
WEEDS
Grubbs said the best way to fight weeds is by promoting warm-season grasses. Creating ideal conditions for specific warm-season grass varieties includes fertilizing and watering appropriately.
"The time for pre-emergents has passed, but we can do other things to help create ideal conditions for turfgrasses," she said. "Turfgrasses can more easily outcompete weeds for resources when we reach the goal of a healthy, dense turf."
Grass health will also depend on other conditions such as whether it is a high- or low-traffic area, the amount of shade or sun it receives, and mowing height, she said. Post-emergent herbicides, such as 2,4-D, work well against broadleaf weeds such as dandelions without hurting most turfgrass varieties, but they aren't effective against clover and grassy weeds.
"Weed identification is very important when it comes to determining what the treatment options are," she said. "Again, I would reference Aggie Turf publications or contact a local AgriLife Extension agent when there is a question."
MOWING
Grass species will play the most significant factor in mowing height, and conditions such as rain and sun will direct frequency of cutting, Grubbs said.
"Homeowners should never take more than one-third of the plant's mature height throughout the season," she said. "The amount of shade or sun will also factor into how high the grass should be cut. The height should be raised about 50 percent for areas that are shady most of the time."
The amount of foot traffic will also direct mower height, Grubbs said.
An AgriLife Extension publication on mowing practices at https://bit.ly/2H2eNrx can direct homeowners on cutting height, mowing equipment and frequency for several grass species in lawns, athletic fields and golf courses.
"Once homeowners establish what they need to do to provide the right environment and conditions for their lawns to thrive, lawn care won't seem like such a daunting task," Grubbs said. "Most things will become a routine that will be repeated each year and growing season, and AgriLife Extension publications, resources and staff are available for things that pop up."
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The art of waterwise gardening
By Melinda Myers
Making a few changes in your garden care can yield great benefits. Less time and water wasted means more time for you to relax or entertain friends and family in your beautiful landscape. Water is critical throughout the life of a plant, but deciding when and how much water to provide each plant can be a bit overwhelming. Make this task easier and conserve moisture with these simple strategies.
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Drip irrigation systems allow you to slowly apply water right above the plant roots, encouraging the development of deep, drought-tolerant roots. (Photo: Gardener's Supply Company)
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Start by matching plants to your growing conditions. Selecting plants suited to your climate, soil moisture and average rainfall means healthier, better-looking plants and productive gardens with less supplemental water.
Incorporate organic matter such as compost into the soil prior to planting. This helps the soil more efficiently absorb rainfall and irrigation water. Less runoff means less water wasted. Adding organic matter also increases the ability of fast-draining soil to hold moisture, extending the time between watering.
Mulch the soil with organic materials such as shredded leaves, evergreen needles or woodchips. Mulching helps conserve moisture while suppressing weeds and improving the soil as it decomposes. Plus, you'll be recycling landscape trimmings back into the landscape and the environment. It's green gardening!
There will still be times you need to lend nature a hand. Sprouting seeds, young seedlings and new transplants need consistent moisture to grow and establish a root system. Most annual flowers and vegetables also need consistent moisture throughout the season.
Newly planted perennials, trees and shrubs also need more attention and water than established plants with deeper roots able to absorb more moisture. During extended dry periods, even established plants will need supplemental water.
Providing the right amount of water at the right time can be a challenge. Doing it efficiently to avoid wasting time or water can help ensure your gardening success.
Take the guess work out of watering with a drip irrigation system. Drip irrigation systems allow you to apply water to the soil right above the plant roots, exactly where it's needed.
Run a line next to each row of plants - or every 18" in planting beds. The water slowly seeps through the holes and into the soil below. The slow, steady flow moistens the root zone, encouraging the development of deep, drought-tolerant roots.
Just turn on the faucet, set the timer and let the irrigation system do the work. This reduces the risk of frequent, ineffective watering which leads to shallow roots growing just below the soil surface where they dry out quickly. High temperatures or missed irrigation can stress shallow rooted plants, reducing their beauty and productivity.
The use of appropriate irrigation, mulching and organic matter can make a huge difference in the quality of your landscape - and your enjoyment of your garden!
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How do they make the grass on golf courses so smooth?
Crop Science Society of America
As you watch the Masters Tournament, your eye may be drawn to more than the legends on the greens. What about the greens themselves? The March 22 Sustainable, Secure Food blog explains the painstaking labor needed to make the golf courses so perfectly smooth and green.
"Creating and maintaining a golf course - even just a putting area - is best left to the professionals!" says blog author Thomas A. Nikolai, Michigan State University. Nikolai reveals five steps in creating a golf course green:
- Select the best type of grass for your climate and growing conditions.
- Mow - a lot! This replicates the original greenskeepers on golf courses, grazing rabbits and sheep. A height of merely 0.189 inch is considered ideal.
- Fertilize so the grass will grow well and spread to barren areas.
- Use a sand topdressing, worked into the grass canopy, to keep the surface firm and smooth.
- Roll with it. That is, use a mechanical roller to smooth the surface and increase ball speed.
That kind of commitment is impressive! But Nikolai says so are the results: "A smooth surface that results in longer ball roll and increased customer satisfaction."
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Gardening tips
If you are using an organic fertilizer, remember they are lower in nutrient content and are slower to release than commercial, synthetic fertilizers. Consequently, you will need to apply about three times as much of the organic fertilizer but less often than the synthetic. Another big plus: you can apply them any time because they do not have to be watered in.
Have a favorite gardening tip you'd like to share?
Texas Gardener's Seeds is seeking brief gardening tips from Texas gardeners to use in future issues. If we publish your tip in
Seeds, we will send you a copy of
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r's 2018 Planning Guide & Calendar. Please send your tips of 50 words or less to the editor at:
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ning Tips.
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Upcoming garden events
If you would like your organization's events included in "Upcoming Garden Events" or would like to make a change to a listed event, please contact us at Garden Events. To ensure inclusion in this column, please provide complete details at least three weeks prior to the event.
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APRIL
Houston: The Harris County Master Gardeners Green Thumb Series: Soils and Composting will be held 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., April 19, at the Freeman Branch Library, 16616 Diana Lane, Houston. For more information, call (713) 274-0950 or visit hcmga.tamu.edu.
Seguin: Thursday, April 19, 6:30 p.m.. Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will meet at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension 210 E. Live Oak, Seguin, for a program from Keith Amelung. Learn the How, When, Where and Why about Growing Tomatoes. Everyone is welcome. Free. For more information, visit www.guadalupecountymastergardeners.org.
Tomball: Angela Chandler, The Garden Academy, will present "
Insectary Gardens," Thursday,
April 19, 10 a.m., at The Arbor Gate, 15635 FM 2920, Tomball. For additional information, visit
www.arborgate.com.
Hillsboro: Spring gardeners and plant lovers are invited to the Hill County Master Gardeners plant sale on Saturday,
April 21. A variety of well-adapted plants for Central Texas gardens will be offered, including annuals, perennials, natives and drought tolerant plants. 126 S. Covington St., Hillsboro. For more information, call (254) 582-4022 or email
hillcomastergardener@gmail.com.
Houston: The Harris County Master Gardeners Spring Plant Sale will be held 9:00 a.m.-noon, April 21, at Farm & Ranch Lot at Bear Creek, 1 Abercrombie Dr., Houston. For more information, call (713) 274-0950 or visit hcmga.tamu.edu.
Houston: The Houston Rose Society will hold their annual Spring Show on Saturday, April 21, at Memorial City Mall, 303 Memorial City Way, Houston. The show is free and will open to the public from noon to 4 p.m. See beautiful roses grown by local rosarians. Consulting Rosarians will be on hand to answer your rose questions. This year floral design students from Klein Oak High School will participate in the arrangement section of the show, creating their own lovely flower arrangements. For more information, visit www.houstonrose.org.
McKinney: The Collin County Master Gardeners Association will present its 15th Annual Plant Sale on Saturday, April 21, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. This special spring event will be held in the Show Barn at beautiful Myers Park and Event Center in McKinney. Attendees will find hundreds of varieties of beautiful plants recommended by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension that include annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, vegetables, herbs, grasses, and succulents that thrive in sun, part-sun, and shade. Collin County Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer questions, and offer advice to help homeowners plant with confidence and success. There will also be an opportunity for attendees to tour the award-winning research and demonstration gardens. There is no sales tax, and purchases can be made by cash, check, or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, and Discover only). Bring your own cart or wagon. Children ages 5 and up can participate in fun, age appropriate horticulture related activities at the Children's Discovery Area. The Plant Sale will be held indoors, rain or shine, hot or cold at Myers Park, 7117 County Road 166, McKinney. Parking is free. To find out more about the plant sale, visit
www.ccmgatx.org
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Tomball: Henry Flowers, Festival Hill Gardens, , will present "Underutilized Herbs," Saturday,
April 21, 10 a.m. at The Arbor Gate, 15635 FM 2920, Tomball. For additional information, visit
www.arborgate.com.
Tomball: Skip Richter, Texas Gardener contributing editor, will present Summer Color in the Landscape, Wednesday, April 25, Noon-1:00 p.m., at The Arbor Gate, 15635 FM 2920, Tomball. Landscape color options are plentiful in the spring but in summer our landscapes often become a "sea of green." Richter will discuss some of the best plant options for maintaining a beautiful, colorful landscape in the hot summer months. For more information, visit arborgate.com.
Athens: The Henderson County Master Gardener Association (HCMGA) will hold their annual plant sale on Saturday, April 28, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Athens Senior Citizens Center, located at 3344 State Hwy 31 E, Athens (by the arena). Offerings will include a wide variety of trees, shrubs, bulbs, perennials, annuals, natives, heirlooms, vegetables and herbs. For more information, visit
txmg.org/hendersonmg or call (903) 675-6130.
Bacliff: "Growing Cucurbits (Cucumbers, Summer Squash, Cantaloupe, etc.)", with Galveston County Master Gardener Herman Auer presenting, 9-10:30 a.m,
April 28, at Galveston County Bayside Community Center, 4833 10th Street, Bacliff, at Galveston County Bayside Park. For more information, call (281) 534-3413; email
galvcountymgs@gmail.com; or visit
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/galveston/index.html. Free.
Houston: 2018 NASA/Agro Spring Plant Swap in conjunction with the Galveston County Plant Swap. The 2018 theme is Time For Renewal to help folks renew gardens after Harvey/ICE damage.
April 28, 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at JSC Gilruth Live Oak Pavilion (on the grounds of NASA JSC on Space Center Blvd, Houston). For more information, visit
http://www.freewebs.com/gcplantswap or phone Steve Candler, (281) 687-7654. Free, no entry or sales charges.
Tomball: Nancy Greig, Cockrell Butterfly Center, will present "Monarch Butterflies and other Pollinators," Saturday,
April 28, 10 a.m. at The Arbor Gate, 15635 FM 2920, Tomball. For additional information, visit
www.arborgate.com.
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MAY
Navasota: "50th Celebration of the founding of the Navasota Garden Club" First Baptist Church, 300 Church Street, Navasota. Business Meeting 9:30-10:30 a.m. Celebration 11:00 to 12:30 "Come and Go." May 2. Visitors and former members welcome.
Conroe:
Saturday, May 5, Open Gardens Day. 9 a.m. til 11 a.m. Free! Bring your kids and gardening questions and join Montgomery County Master Gardeners in ther demonstration gardens at the AgriLife Extension Office, 9020 Airport Road, Conroe. There will be tours and plenty of Master Gardeners to identify plants and problems you may have in your garden and yard.
Houston: "Which Rose is Right for You?"
is the topic of the Houston Rose Society meeting, Thursday, May 10. Please note: the meeting location will be The Lott Clubhouse, 6201Hermann Park Drive, Houston (just southwest of the zoo). This is a one-time location change. Chris VanCleave will present the program. Chris is known as the Redneck Rosarian. He is the creator of the Rose Chat Podcast and past president of the Birmingham Rose Society. Chris is a candidate for vice president of the American Rose Society. The program will begin at 7:30 p.m. Arrive at 7:00 p.m. for social time and refreshments. Free Admission. for more information, visit www.houstonrose.org.
Tyler: Master Gardeners at the Library, May 11, 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. "Sex in the Garden, All about Propagation" with Master Gardener Debby Watkins. Tyler Public Library, 201 S. College, Tyler. Free and open to the public. For more information, visit
www.txmg.org/smith
or call (903) 590-2980.
Austin: The Travis County Master Gardeners Association is sponsoring free public seminars on the second Saturday of each month from May to September. The seminars include:
May 12 - Gardening with Cacti and Succulents;
June 9 - Easy Composting with Worms;
July 14 - Container Gardening Success;
Aug. 11 - Permaculture: Sustainable Design;
Sept. 8 - Fall Vegetable Gardening. O
n May 12 learn how cacti and succulents can add an appealing and compelling look to your garden. These water-wise plants work well together and share low-maintenance growing conditions. In addition, their wide range of leaf colors and structure add visual interest and drama to any setting. Join members of Austin Cactus and Succulent Society, Andrea Wakefield and Jeff Pavlat, as they share their expertise and suggestions on all of these matters. Each seminar will be held from 10:00 a.m. to noon in the Austin Area Garden Center at the Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Spring Road, Austin. A park entrance fee is required. Fees are $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), and $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.
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Monthly meetings
If you would like your organization's events included in "Monthly Meetings" or would like to make a change to a listed meeting, please contact us at Monthly Meetings. To ensure inclusion in this column, please provide complete details.
FIRST WEEK
Kaufman:
The Kaufman County Master Gardeners meet the first Monday of each month at the First Community Church at 1401 Trinity Drive in Crandall. January through April and August and September meetings are at 9 a.m., with the remaining meetings beginning at 7 p.m. For additional information, visit http://www.kcmga.org, call 972-932-9069 or email to sbburden@ag.tamu.edu.
Houston: The Harris County Master Gardeners meet at noon the
first Tuesday of each month at a location in Houston to be determined. For additional information, visit
http://hcmga.tamu.edu/Public/ or call 713-274-0950.
Dallas: Garden Masters, Inc., meet the
first Wednesday of each month at North Haven Gardens, 7700 Northaven Rd., Dallas. The club hosts different speaker each month from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Bring your lunch! For more information, email Bunny Williams at
bunny-williams@sbcglobal.net.
Kerrville: Hill Country Master Gardeners meet the
first Wednesday of each month at 1:00 pm at Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Hwy 27. For more information visit
www.hillcountrymastergardeners.org.
Midland/Odessa: The Permian Basin Master Gardeners meet at noon, the
first Wednesday of each month, lternating between the Midland and Ector County's Extensions Offices. For more information about location, call 432-498-4071 or 432-686-4700.
Navasota: The Navasota Garden Club meets on the
first Wednesday of each month (September through May) at 10:00 a.m., usually at the First Baptist Church Family Life Center, 300 Church Street, Navasota. If not meeting at the church, a change of meeting notice will be placed on the door at the North entrance. Guests are welcome. Members are from Grimes County and surrounding counties.
Allen: The Allen Garden Club meets at 7 p.m. on the
first Thursday of each month, February through December, at the Allen Heritage Center, 100 E. Main St., Allen. For more information, visit
www.allengardenclub.org.
Atlanta: The Cass County Master Gardeners meet the
first Thursday of each month at the Atlanta Memorial Hospital Conference Room, State Highway 77 @ S. Williams St., Atlanta. A business meeting is followed by an educational program. The public is welcome to attend. For additional information, call 903-756-5391 or visit
http://cass.agrilife.org.
Fort Worth:
The Native Plant Society of Texas - North Central Chapter meets the first Thursday of each month, excluding January and July, at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth. Meeting begins at 6:30 p.m., program begins at 7:00 p.m. Guest speakers present educational programs on topics of interest. Members, friends, family, guests and the public are welcome. For a list of speakers and topics or more information, visit http://www.txnativeplants.org.
Hempstead: The Waller County Master Gardeners usually meet at 9 a.m. the first Thursday of each month at the Waller County AgriLife Extension Office, 846 6th St., Hempstead. For more information on the meeting schedule, visit http://txmg.org/wallermg or call 979-826-7651.
Gonzalas: Gonzales Master Gardeners hold their monthly meeting at noon on the
first Thursday of each month at 623 Fair Street, Gonzales. Bring a bag lunch, drinks provided. Contact AgriLife Extension Office at 830-672-8531 or visit
http://gonzalesmastergardeners.org
for more information.
New Braunfels: The Comal Garden Club meets the
first Thursday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at Southbank Clubhouse, 222 Southbank Blvd., New Braunfels.
Hempstead: The Peckerwood Garden Conservation Foundation, 20559 F.M. 359, Hempstead, hosts a special Peckerwood Insider's Tour at 10 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month. Spaces are limited so pre-registration is required. $15, free for members. For more information, visit http://www.peckerwoodgarden.org/explore/visit-peckerwood-garden/.
SECOND WEEK
Austin: Austin Organic Gardeners Club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the
second Monday of each month (except December) at the Austin Area Garden Center, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Zilker Botanical Gardens in Austin. For more information, visit
www.austinorganicgardeners.org.
Jacksonville: The Cherokee County Master Gardeners meet on the
second Monday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at Woodmen of the World, 1800 College Ave., Jacksonville. For more information, e-mail Tom Abbott at
tom@deerfield-abbey.org.
Glen Rose: The Glen Rose Garden Club meets at 10 a.m. on the
second Tuesday of each month (September through May) at the Somervell County Community Center in Glen Rose. For additional information, email
stringer030@yahoo.com.
Glen Rose: The Prairie Rose Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas meets at 6 p.m. on the
second Monday of each month at the Somerville County Citizen Center, 209 SW Barnard St., Glen Rose. For additional information, email
prairierose.npsot@gmail.com.
Harrison County: The Harrison County Master Gardeners meet on the
second Tuesday of each month in the Harrison County Annex building, 102 W Houston St. (south side of the square), Marshall. Meetings are held in the 2nd floor AgriLife Extension meeting room. For more information, call 903-935-8413, or email
wannagrow2@gmail.com.
Marion: The Guadalupe County (Schertz/Seguin) Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas meets on the
second Tuesday of each month except July, August and December at St. John's Lutheran Church in Marion. Directions to St. John's Lutheran Church: From FM 78 turn south onto FM 465 and the church is just past the Marion School on the right. From IH-10 go north on FM 465 towards Marion. The Church will be on the left, just before you get to town. A plant exchange and meet-and-greet begins at 6:30 p.m. followed by the program at 7 p.m. Visitors are welcome. For more information or an application to join NPSOT visit
www.npsot.org/GuadalupeCounty/
or contact
guadalupecounty@npsot.org.
Quitman: The Quitman Garden Club meets at 2 p.m. the
second Tuesday of each month at the Quitman Library on E Goode Street, Quitman. It is a diverse group that welcomes all visitors. For more information, e-mail
quitmangardenclub@gmail.com.
Denton:
The Denton County Master Gardener Association meets from 9:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. the
second Wednesday of each month
. Meetings are open to the public. For complete details, visit
http://dcmga.com/.
Humble: The Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 22306 Aldine Westfield Road, Humble, hosts a Lunch Bunch the
second Wednesday of each month from noon until 2 p.m. Take a sack lunch or order a box lunch from Starbucks when you call 281-443-8731 to reserve your spot. Master Gardeners and Masters Naturalists may earn CEU credits by attending.
Jacksboro: The Jacksboro Garden Club meets at 9:30 a.m. the
second Wednesday of each month (except June, July and August) at the Concerned Citizens Center, 400 East Pine Street, Jacksboro. For more information, call Melinda at 940-567-6218.
Longview:
The Gregg County Master Gardeners Association's Learn at Lunch program meet the second Wednesday of each month. The business meeting begins at 11:30 a.m., with the program at noon, at the AgriLife Extension Office, 405 E. Marshall Ave., Longview. The program is presented for horticultural education and is free to the public. For further information call 903-236-8429, visit www.txmg.org/gregg, or like us on Facebook at Gregg County Master Gardeners.
Rockport: The Rockport Herb & Rose Study Group, founded in March 2003, meets the
second
Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. at 619 N. Live Oak Street, Room 14, Rockport, to discuss all aspects of using and growing herbs, including historical uses and tips for successful propagation and cultivation. Sometimes they take field trips and have cooking demonstrations in different locations. For more information, contact Linda 361-729-6037, Ruth 361-729-8923 or Cindy 979-562-2153 or visit
www.rockportherbs.or
g and
http://rockportherbies.blogspot.com.
Woodway: The McLennan County Master Gardeners meet on the
second Wednesday each month at noon at the Carleen Bright Arboretum, 9001 Bosque Blvd., Woodway. Educational programs follow the business session. For more information, call 254-757-5180.
Beaumont: The Jefferson County Master Gardeners meet at 6 p.m. (social) 7:00 (meeting) the
second Thursday of each month except in July in the AgriLife Extension auditorium, 1225 Pearl 2nd floor (downtown Beaumont next to the Court House). For more information contact: 409-835-8461 or
txmg.org/jcmg.
Georgetown: The Williamson County Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas meets from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. the
second Thursday of each month at the Georgetown Public Library, 402 W. 8th Street. Georgetown. For additional information, contract Kathy Henderson at kshend@verizon.net or visit
http://www.npsot.org/wp/wilco.
Orange: The Orange County Master Gardeners Association holds their monthly meeting on the
second Thursday of each month. A short program is presented. The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. at the new Orange County Expo Center on Hwy 1442 in Orangefield. Enter the building in the front entrance, first door on the right, Texas AgriLife offices. Pot luck supper at 6 p.m. Visit
http://txmg.org/orange
for more information.
Pasadena
: The Harris County Precinct 2 Master Gardeners hold an educational program at 10 a.m. on the
second Thursday of each month
at The Genoa Friendship Garden Educational Building at 1202 Genoa Red Bluff, Pasadena. The programs are free and open to the public. For more information,
visit http://hcmgap2.tamu.edu
.
San Antonio: The San Antonio Herb Society meets at 7 p.m. on the
second Thursday of each month at the San Antonio Garden Center, 3310 N. New Braunfels (corner of Funston & N. New Braunfels). For more information on programs, visit
www.sanantonioherbs.org.
Smithville: The Smithville Community Gardens meets at 5:30 p.m. the
second Thursday of each month at the Smithville Recreation Center.
Angleton: The Brazoria County Master Gardeners meet at 11 a.m. on the
second Friday of each month at the Brazoria County Extension Office, 21017 County Road 171, Angleton. There is a general business meeting followed by a brief educational program each month. For further information call 979-864-1558, ext.110.
College Station: The A&M Garden Club meets on the
second Friday of each month during the school year at 9:30 a.m. in the training room of the College Station Waste Water Facility building at the end of North Forest Parkway, College Station. Expert speakers, plant sharing, and federated club projects help members learn about gardening in the Brazos Valley, floral design, conservation, and more. For more information, visit
http://www.amgardenclub.com/.
Houston: The Spring Branch African Violet Club meets the
second Saturday of each month, January through November, at 10:00 a.m. at the Copperfield Baptist Church, 8350 Highway 6 North, Houston. Call Karla at 281-748-8417 prior to attending to confirm meeting date and time.
Kilgore: Northeast Texas Organic Gardeners meets at 1:30 p.m. on the
second Saturday of each month. For more information, call Carole Ramke at 903-986-9475.
Dallas: The Rainbow Garden Club of North Texas meets the
second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Meetings are held at member's homes and garden centers around the area. For more information, visit
www.RainbowGardenClub.com.
THIRD WEEK
Arlington: The Arlington Men's Garden Club meets from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. on the
third Monday of each month (except December) at the Bob Duncan Center, 2800 S. Center Street, Arlington. For more information, contact Lance Jepson at
LJepson@aol.com.
Cleburne:
The Johnson County Master Gardener's meet on the third Monday of each month at McGregor House, 1628 W Henderson, Cleburne. Meeting times are at 2 p.m. October through April, except December and at 6 p.m. May through September. An educational program precedes the business meeting. For additional information, contact Elaine Bell at 817-309-8052.
New Braunfels: The Comal Master Gardeners meet at 6 p.m. the
third Monday of each month (except April and December,) at the
GVTC Auditorium, 36101 FM 3159, New Braunfels. An educational program precedes the business meeting. The public is invited to attend. For additional information, call 830-620-3440 or visit
http://txmg.org/comal/.
Texarkana: The Four Corners Chapter of Native Plant Society of Texas meets at 7 p.m. on the
third Monday of each month at the Southwest Center, 3222 W. 7th St. (U.S. 67), Texarkana. Visitors are welcome. For additional information, contact Belinda McCoy at 903-424-7724 or
blackmtngardens@yahoo.com.
Corpus Christi: The Nueces Master Gardeners meet at noon the
third Tuesday of each month, except December, at Garden Senior Center, 5325 Greely Dr., Corpus Christi. An educational program precedes the business meeting. For further information call 361 767-5217.
Evant: The Evant Garden Club meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m., usually at the bank in downtown Evant. To confirm the date, time and place of each month's meeting, call 254-471-5860.
New Braunfels:
The Lindheimer Chapter (Comal County) of the Native Plant Society of Texas meets on the third Tuesday of each month at
6:30 pm
at the GVTC Auditorium, 36101 FM 3159, New Braunfels. Meetings include an informative speaker
and a Plant of the Month presentation. Meetings are free and
visitors are welcome. For more information,visit www.npsot.org/w/lindheimer.
Note
: there will be no meeting in June or December.
Rockport: Monthly meetings of the Aransas/San Patricio Master Gardeners are held at 10 a.m. on the
third Tuesday of each month at Texas AgriLife Extension Service - Aransas County Office, 892 Airport Rd., Rockport. For additional information, e-mail
aransas-tx@tamu.edu or call 361-790-0103.
Sugar Land: The Sugar Land Garden Club meets on the
third Tuesday of each month, September through November and January through April at 10 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 702 Burney Road, Sugar Land. The club hosts a different speaker each month. For more information, visit
www.sugarlandgardenclub.org.
Denton: The Denton Organic Society, a group devoted to sharing information and educating the public regarding organic principles, meets the
third Wednesday of each month (except July, August and December) at the Denton Senior Center, 509 N. Bell Avenue. Meetings are free and open to the public. Meetings begin at 7 p.m. and are preceded by a social at 6:30. For more information, call 940-382-8551.
Glen Rose: The Somervell County Master Gardeners meet at 10 a.m., the
third Wednesday of each month at the Somervell County AgriLife Extension office, 1405 Texas Drive, Glen Rose. Visitors are welcome. For more information, call 254-897-2809 or visit
www.somervellmastergardeners.org.
Granbury: The Lake Granbury Master Gardeners meet at 1 p.m. on the
third Wednesday of each month at the Hood County Annex 1, 1410 West Pearl Street, Granbury. The public is invited to attend. There is an educational program each month preceding the business meeting. For information on topics call 817-579-3280 or visit
http://www.hoodcountymastergardeners.org/.
Abilene: The Master Gardeners meet the
third Thursday of each month at the Taylor County Extension Office, 1982 Lytle Way, Abilene. For more information, contact Lind Spivey, Corresponding Secretary at
spivey209@hotmail.com.
Brownwood: Brownwood Garden Club meets the
third Thursday of each month, 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. The club meetings are at Southside Baptist Church, 1219 Indian Creek Road, with refreshments and a speaker presentation. Visitors are welcome. For more information, email
boeblingen@centex.net or call 817-454-8175.
Hallettsville: The Hallettsville Garden Club meets at 2 p.m. on the
third Thursday of each month from September through May, at the Hallettsville Garden and Cultural Center, 605 E 2nd St, Hallettsville. Each month, the club hosts speakers that provide informative programs on a wide range of gardening subjects, and refreshments are provided by member hostesses after the business meeting. Visitors are welcome. Please email Sharon Harrigan at
sharonspetals@yahoo.com for more information.
Houston: The Native Plant Society of Texas - Houston (NPSOT-H) meets at 7:30 p.m. on the
third Thursday of each month except for October (4th Thursday) at the Houston SArboretum and Nature Center in Memorial Park (4501 Woodway Dr.). For more information on programs, and for information about native plants for Houston, visit
http:/npsot.org/wp/Houston.
San Antonio: The Bexar County Master Gardeners (BCMG) meet on the
third Thursday of each month at the Texas AgriLife Extension Office, 3355 Cherry Ridge Dr., Suite 208, San Antonio. During the months of Jan., March, May, July, Sep. and Nov., an evening meeting begins with a social time at 6 p.m. followed by a free presentation from 6:30-8:30 p.m. During the intervening months (Feb., April, June, Aug., Oct., Dec.), afternoon educational seminars/general meetings are held from 1-3:30 p.m. Check
http://www.bexarmg.org/ to verify meeting date for any given month, as circumstances could require a change, and to find information on the speaker and topic scheduled for each meeting.
Seguin: The Guadalupe County Master Gardeners meets at 6:30 p.m. the
third Thursday of each month, at the AgriLife Building, 210 East Live Oak, Seguin. After a brief social hour, the meeting and guest speaker begins at 7 p.m. The meeting is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 830-303-3889 or visit
www.guadalupecountymastergardeners.org.
Hempstead: The Peckerwood Garden Conservation Foundation, 20559 F.M. 359, Hempstead, hosts the Evening at Peckerwood Lecture series at 7 p.m. on the
third Friday of each month. Tickets are available online. Tickets are $10, $5 for members.For more information, visit
http://www.peckerwoodgarden.org/explore/visit-peckerwood-garden/.
FOURTH WEEK
Brackenridge Park: The Native Plant Society San Antonio Chapter meets every
fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Lions Field Adult and Senior Center, 2809 Broadway at E. Mulberry, Brackenridge Park, except August and December. Social and seed/plant exchange at 6:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. For more information, contact Bea at 210-999-7292 or visit
www.npsot.org/sanantonio.
Bryan: The Brazos County Master Gardeners, a program of Texas AgriLife Extension, meet the
fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Brazos Center, 3232 Briarcrest Drive, Bryan. There is a public gardening program at each meeting and pertinent information may be found at
brazosmg.com or 979-823-0129.
Edna: The Jackson County Master Gardeners present their "Come Grown With Us" seminars on the
fourth Tuesday of each month, January through October, beginning at 7 p.m. at 411 N. Wells, Edna. The seminars are free, open to the public and offer 2 CEU hours to Master Gardeners or others requiring them. For additional information, contact the Jackson County Extension Office at 361-782-3312.
Linden: The Caddo Wildflower Chapter of Native Plants Society meets the
fourth Tuesday of each month at the senior citizens building at 507 S Kaufman St. in Linden at 6:30. Visitors are welcome. For additional information, contact Karen Tromza at
khtromza@yahoo.com.
Fort Worth: The Organic Garden Club of Forth Worth meets at 7 p.m. on the
fourth Tuesday of each month except July and December at the Deborah Beggs Moncrief Garden Center, 3220 Botanic Blvd., Ft. Worth. Refreshments are served. For more information, call 817-263-9322 or visit
www.ogcfw.webs.com.
San Antonio: The Native Plant Society of Texas San Antonio Chapter meets the
fourth Tuesday of each month, except August and December, at the Lions Field Adult & Senior Center, 2809 Broadway, San Antonio. Social and plant/seed exchange at 6:30 p.m., program at 7:00 p.m. For more information, visit
www.npsot.org/sanantonio or email
npsot.sanantonio@gmail.com.
Houston: The Houston Native Prairie Association meets at 7 p.m. on the
fourth Wednesday of each month at the Cherie Flores Pavilion in McGovern Centennial Gardens at Hermann Park, 1500 Hermann Drive, Houston. For more information, contact
hnpat@prairies.org.
Austin: The Garden Club of Austin meets at Zilker Botanical Gardens auditorium, 2220 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, at 7:00 p.m. on the
fourth Thursday of each month. 7:00-7:30 p.m. Refreshments and Social, followed by a presentation at 7:30 p.m. Free. For additional information, visit
http://thegardenclubofaustin.org/.
Leander:
The Leander Garden Club meets on the fourth Thursday of each month (except June, July and August) at 10:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Room of the Leander Presbyterian Church, 101 N. West St., Leander, unless there is a special event planned. Following a program and short business meeting, there is a pot-luck luncheon. To confirm the meeting place and time, please call President Kathleen Tully at 512-422-8580 or email LeanderGardenClub@gmail.com .
Dallas: The Dallas County Master Gardeners meet the
fourth Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. For location and program information, visit
h
ttp://www.dallascountymastergardeners.org/ or contact The Helpdesk, M-F, 8 to 4:30 214-904-3053.
Dallas: The Greater Dallas Organic Garden Club meets at 7:00 p.m. on the
fourth Thursday of each month at the REI, 4515 LBJ Freeway, Dallas. For more information, call 214-824-2448 or visit
www.gdogc.org.
Arlington: The Arlington Organic Garden Club meets from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. on the
last Thursday of each month (except November and December) at the Bob Duncan Center, 2800 S. Center Street, Arlington. For more information, contact David at 817-483-7746.
Hempstead: The Peckerwood Garden Conservation Foundation, 20559 F.M. 359, Hempstead, holds an Open Day, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on the fourth Saturday of each month. Tours start at 10 a.m. and the last tour leaves at 2 p.m. Tickets available online or at the gate. $10, free for members. For more information, visit http://www.peckerwoodgarden.org/explore/visit-peckerwood-garden/.
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Texas Gardener digital edition available-Only $19.95 per year (digital only) or $9 per year if you tack it on to your print subscription!
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2018 Planning Guide & Calendar
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