 September 16, 2020
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Get the most out of your backyard, plant a container garden to maximize space
By Laura Muntean
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
Whether you're looking to add a bit of beauty to your porch or making the most out of space in the backyard, gardeners can grow any vegetable in a container that they would normally grow in the ground.
Richter breaks down the basics to a successful and enjoyable container garden.
"You can grow any vegetable in a container that you can grow in the ground as long as the container is large enough for that particular type of vegetable," he said. "While a 5-gallon container may work for a tomato plant, a 15-gallon container will result in less watering and a more productive plant.
Container types
First, gardeners must choose the container most appropriate for their space and preferences. There are many container types on the market. Options range according to size, colors, shapes and type.
"Terra cotta containers are a great traditional type, and actually wick water throughout the clay, so you need to water them a little bit more," Richter said. "However, they do hold on to the soil a bit better and keep it from pulling away from the sides of the container like some of the plastic containers might do."
There are a wide variety of terra lite and plastic containers available, and these pots are lightweight, which makes them easier to move.
If you are looking for a more rustic container, galvanized metal containers work well and offer a rustic look, he said. Glazed pottery provides a sturdy container and also comes in a variety of shapes and sizes.
"I like these for a salad container. You can grow a lot of different types of greens in it and as they grow, just mow them off with scissors for your salad, and they will come again and grow some more," Richter said. "You can also set a variety of herbs around in a container like this and really have a beautiful little garden for going out and snipping some herbs for cooking."
Ensure good drainage
Once the type of container is selected, be sure to check for drainage holes. Proper drainage is essential to the success of the plant. Without adequate drainage, roots will become waterlogged and are more likely to die from root rot diseases.
"If a container lacks drainage holes, drill a few in the bottom," he said.
Correct soils and fertilizers
Inside the container, you want to use a good quality soil mix that provides opportunity for good drainage and nutrition for your vegetables.
"Use a potting soil mix or container mix that has peat moss, compost or coconut core, mixed with something like perlite to help loosen it up and help make sure the internal drainage works really well," he said.
When it comes to fertilizer, Richter recommends a slow release fertilizer that won't burn the roots. Soluble liquid fertilizers can provide plants a quick boost if needed, but slow release fertilizers provide a gradual release of nutrients over time.
Choose plants wisely
Plants thrive and grow differently all across the state, Richter said. Be sure to check the Gardening Guide for recommendations on vegetable varieties that do well in your area, or reach out to your local AgriLife Extension agent, who can also recommend the best varieties and planting dates for your area.
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Avoid the rash altogether by safely removing poison ivy from your property
By Adam Russell
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
Poison ivy is an unwelcome plant on many Texas properties, and a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert has some tips on how to avoid and remove the pest plant that causes a painful rash.
William M. Johnson, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension horticulturist, Galveston County, said removing poison ivy is worth the effort to reduce the risk of exposure.
"Poison ivy is one of those plants that nobody wants to be around - much less have on their property," he said. "If you've ever had a reaction or known someone who has, you know that it's worth the time and money to effectively remove it."
Poison ivy and other pest plants
Poison ivy is most identifiable by remembering - "Leaves of three, let it be." Poison ivy plants display three leaflets at the end of each stem. Mature leaves are 2-4 inches long, dull or glossy green with relatively smooth, rounded edges and pointed tips.
The plant spreads underground via rhizomes, Johnson said. Birds and other wildlife eat the berries and spread it secondarily through droppings.
It can present itself in many ways according to its environment, Johnson said. It is a tall climbing vine that will attach to other plants, trees, a fence or any structure that supports growth. But it can also grow along the ground or as a shrub.
The plant prefers semi-shady areas with moist, rich soil, but can survive in most any environment, Johnson said.
"Poison ivy can survive just about anywhere," he said. "But it loves woody areas and can be a real problem along walking trails or even in raised beds in home gardens."
Johnson said poison oak is closely related and looks very similar to poison ivy and both plants produce urushiol - the cause of the rash, blisters, and infamous skin itch.
Poison ivy and poison oak are often confused with several other vining-like plants like peppervine and Virginia creeper, he said. Poison oak is more prevalent in East Texas, whereas poison ivy can be found throughout the state.
"Identifying poison ivy or poison oak is important because the consequence of mishandling them can be painful," he said. "But none of these vines are preferred plants on any property."
I touched poison ivy, now what?
Urushiol is a highly concentrated and stable oil, Johnson said. One billionth of a gram can irritate a person's skin. Just 1/4 ounce of urushiol is all that is needed to cause a rash in all 7.8 billion people on earth if every person were sensitive to urushiol.
Urushiol can also bind to pet hairs or gardening tools and maintain potency for long periods of time.
Many people aren't sensitive to urushiol, but it can cause horrible rashes for people with poison ivy sensitivity, Johnson said.
"I am not sensitive to it, but I am careful to avoid contact with poison ivy, because I know people can develop sensitivity to it as they age," he said. "I don't tempt fate and practice the 'better safe than sorry' approach."
If the oil gets on your skin, you have about 15 minutes before it bonds to your skin, so immediate treatment is recommended, he said.
Johnson recommends running generous amounts of water over the area until it is gone. If rubbing alcohol is available, pour it over the area first as alcohol readily dissolves the oil, and afterwards follow with ample amounts of running water.
"Soap can work, but it can also work against you by spreading the irritating oil," he said. "So, I recommend starting with rubbing alcohol as a solvent and following with cool running water because hot water will open your pores. Don't scrub because that can spread it, just let the water run over it, lots of water, until it's gone.
"After that, take a shower with soap and warm water," he said. "Then wash the clothing you were wearing when exposed to urushiol. If this sounds like a lot of time and effort, be assured it will be worthwhile considering the pain caused from the skin rashes.
Best way and time to treat poison ivy
Johnson said catching poison ivy early can reduce the time and effort it takes to eradicate the plant.
If your property was poison ivy-free but you see the tell-tale three leaves emerge in the spring, he said the best strategy is to manually remove it. Wear suitable protective gloves, like Neoprene or Laytex, and a long-sleeve shirt that will prevent the oil from touching your skin when removing plant material.
"If it's just one or a few sprouts, just dig them up with a spade," he said. "Make sure you get all the roots and dispose of it in the trash. Don't burn it because the oil that causes the skin irritation will vaporize, and the worst case of poison ivy is when it gets in your lungs. Wash the spade with soapy water in case some urushiol oil was deposited on the shovel."
Treating established poison ivy is a bit more involved, Johnson said. It could take multiple applications of multiple herbicides to fully eradicate the plant.
Spraying the plant foliage with an herbicide containing glyphosate as the active ingredient, such as Round-Up, or triclopyr, such as Brush-B-Gone, or a combination of dicamba plus 2,4-D, will be effective. Two weeks before or after full bloom, which is typically in late-spring or early summer, is the best time to spray because the plant is absorbing liquid and nutrients to grow.
Applying herbicide at any other time will give decent control, he said, but will not fully eradicate the plants in one run. Using a combination of the herbicide options in alternating treatments could improve effectiveness.
Do not apply herbicides on windy days to avoid spray drift onto non-target plants in your landscape or your neighbors' landscapes, Johnson said. And always read and follow label instructions.
"Glyphosate can be effective anytime, though air temperatures and soil moisture levels do impact herbicide effectiveness," he said. "The 2,4-D is good for early summer and spring, whereas the triclopyr is best after the leaves fully spread in the spring or fall. Just be persistent because the poison ivy is only going to spread and get worse."
Climbing vines already established in trees can be cut near the ground, he said. The stump should be treated with an herbicide immediately to maximize absorption. Make cuts to the vine horizontal to allow the herbicide to sit and soak.
The vine can be physically removed carefully or left to wither, he said.
"Even when the vine dies, the urushiol oil can be a problem, so be careful anytime you're handling plant material whether it is fresh or dried," he said.
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Select the right tool for the pruning task
By Melinda Myers
Deadheading, trimming, and pruning are part of growing and maintaining a beautiful and productive garden and landscape. Make sure you are outfitted with the right tool for the job. Matching the tool to the pruning task will help ensure a proper cut, reduce hand fatigue, and allow you to work longer.
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| | The FlexDial bypass pruner allows you to adjust the grip to fit the size of your hand, reducing fatigue when making repetitive cuts. (Photo: Corona Tools) |
Since most pruning cutsin the garden and landscape are between 1/4" and 3/4", abypass hand pruner is a must. These pruners have two sharp blades like scissors, making a clean cut that closes quickly. This helps reduce the risk of insects and disease moving in and harming your plants.
Avoid hand-held pruners that are too heavy or open too wide for your hand size. Those with a spring action return help reduce hand fatigue as long as the opening matches the size of your hand. Make sure the pruner does not open wider than your hand can easily grip. Select atool that fits in your hand, is comfortable, has an ergonomic grip and is easy to control.
Matching your pruner to your hand size is as important as matching it to the cutting job. Opting for an oversized pruner to make larger cuts can lead to hand fatigue, frustration, and improper cuts. Measure the width across the palm of your hand at the base of your fingers. Next, measure the height from the middle of the base of your hand to the tip of your middle finger.
A pruner rated for ½" cuts is a good match for those with small hands less than 31/2" wide and 6¼" high. If your hands measure 3½ to 4" wide and 6½ to 8" high, you may want to purchase a ¾" pruner. Those with larger hands should do fine with a 1" hand-held pruner.
But size is just one factor to consider. Hand strength also influences the diameter of the stems you will be able to cut. Just because a tool is rated for ¾" doesn't mean everyone will be able to apply the needed pressure to make such a large cut. Invest in tools with compound levers or ratchets when you need a mechanical advantage to make cutting easier.
When the job is too big for you or the tool, select one better suited to the task. Employ a bypass lopper like with soft grips that fit various size hands and cuts limbs up to 1¾" in diameter. Loppers have long handles that give you greater leverage and extend your reach. This extra reach makes it easier to prune all parts of small trees, shrubs, and roses.
Saws are useful tools for cutting larger branches on trees and shrubs that you can safely prune. Although I am a certified arborist, I only prune small trees and shrubs. I save big tree work for my colleagues that climb, have the equipment and training to do the job safely.
Using the right size tool for the job is good for the health and beauty of your plants and you. You will enjoy a healthier, more beautiful garden and extend your time in the garden by reducing muscle pain.
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Ready your yard for fall
Be purposeful in how you maintain your landscape. Many people are sprucing up their yards for fall entertaining and adding trees and shrubs. If adding a tree or bush , consider location, maintenance, sunlight and watering needs, as well as how it might support local pollinators in the spring and backyard wildlife over the winter.
Plan how to manage leaves. Mulching leaves and leaving them on the grass - rather than raking and bagging them - is good for the lawn and the environment. As shredded leaves decompose, they feed it naturally. If you need a mulching attachment or want a mulching mower, now is the time to shop.
Keep your lawn healthy by aerating it. Aeration prevents soil from becoming compacted and covered with thatch, a thick layer of roots, stems, and debris that blocks water, oxygen and nutrients from reaching the soil.
Get out equipment and assess your needs for fall yard work. Clean and inspect your mower, trimmer, leaf blower, pruner, or hedger. Get out attachments needed for fall like an aerator or mulching attachment. Take any equipment that needs it to an authorized service representative.
Continue to mow during the fall season. You should cut the grass until the first hard frost. Find the just-right length for your yard's species, typically between 2-3 inches, to keep the grass healthy when it turns cold.
Check if trees or bushes need pruning. Look for low-hanging branches that might snap or break in the winter and cause damage. Now is the time to trim them. Call a tree service if needed.
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Gardening tips
Now is a good time to plant cool-season native grasses such as three-flower melic and inland seaoats.
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 Texas Gardener's 2021 Planning Guide & Calendar. Please send your tips of 50 words or less to the editor at: Gardening 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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The COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak has caused the cancellation of many events. Because SEEDS has a long lead time, events listed below may have already been cancelled. We strongly encourage you to take care of yourself by practicing social distancing. If you do wish to attend any of the events listed below, please contact the presenters in advance to determine if the event has been cancelled or if it will take place as planned.
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SEPTEMBER
Online: Home Grown Lecture Series:Update on Harris County Plant Trialsby Paul Winski, Harris County AgriLife Extension Agent, Thursday., Sept. 17, 10:00-10:30 a.m., Free Virtual Lecture, Register through Eventbrite at homegrown2020september.eventbrite.com. Deadline to register is at 8:00 a.m. For more information, visit hcmga.tamu.edu.
Online: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and the Fort Bend County Master Gardeners will be hosting the last three 2020 classes of the popular Grow Your Own program using an online format. Saturday, September 19, Cool Season Vegetables - what to plant for fall and winter harvest. Saturday, October 17, Fruit Trees - what to grow in Fort Bend County. Saturday, November 14, Composting - benefits and how to compost. Online classes will begin at 9:00 a.m., last approximately 1½ hours, and include a question and answer session. The registration fee is $15 per class and registration is required at least two days prior to the class date. For more information and to register visit https://fortbend.agrilife.org/grow-your-own/ or contact Brandy Rader by phone at (281) 342-3034 or by email at Brandy.rader@ag.tamu.edu. All registrants, including those who signed up earlier in the year, will receive instructions on joining the online class via email a few days in advance of the class.
Online: The 2020 Texas Fruit Conference will be held virtually Sept. 21-22. This annual Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service horticulture event provides information for every level of fruit grower. Registration is open at the Texas Fruit Virtual Conference website. Day 1 registration is $50, Day 2 registration is $35, and registration for both days is $70. Registration closes on Sept. 19. Day 1 topics will be a crash course in starting a fruit orchard in Texas. Day 2 sessions will explore new growing practices, new crops and new marketing opportunities. A virtual field trip to fruit nurseries in Texas will help participants gain insight from two of long-term conference sponsors into how fruit trees are commercially propagated in Texas. Participants will virtually travel to Womack Nursery in De Leon with presenters Lewis and Stein, followed by a viewing of the Texas Pecan Nursery in Chandler with Monte and Carol Nesbitt. Hard Questions, Good Answers will be a live panel discussion with AgriLife Extension's fruit team.
Online: Gulf Coast Lecture Series:Herbs for the Coastal Garden by Kevin Gibbs, AgriLife Extension Horticulture Agent in Nueces County, Wednesday, Sept. 23, 10:00-10:30 a.m. Free Virtual Lecture, For more information, visit hcmga.tamu.edu. Register at gardeningonthegulf.eventbrite.com.
Online: Home Grown Lecture Series:Cool Kids Plan Projects by Brandi Keller, Harris County Master Gardener Program Coordinator, Thursday, Sept. 24, 10:00-10:30 a.m.,Free Virtual Lecture. Register through Eventbrite at homegrown2020september.eventbrite.com. Deadline to register is at 8:00 a.m. For more information, visit hcmga.tamu.edu.
Longview: Gregg County Master Gardener's (GCMGA) annual Fall Plant Sale will be held on Saturday, September 26, from 9 a.m.-noon at the Longview Arboretum, 706 W. Cotton St., Longview. Shoppers will find a variety of indoor and outdoor plants, ground covers, native plants, bulbs, succulents and more. All plants are propagated by members and many will be plants not usually found at local big box stores. Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer plant care and gardening questions. Arrive early for best selection and find treasures to add color and beauty to your home and garden. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/greggcountymastergardeners/ or call the Gregg County Master Gardeners Association at (903) 236-8429.
Online: Gulf Coast Lecture Series:Citrus Varieties by Stephen Brueggerhoff, AgriLife Extension Horticulture Agent in Brazoria County, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 10:00-10:30 a.m. Free Virtual Lecture, For more information, visit hcmga.tamu.edu. Register at gardeningonthegulf.eventbrite.com.
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OCTOBER
Online: As one of the most famous rose breeders, David Austin introduced more than 190 rose cultivars during his lifetime. Many of them not only send out beautiful blooms but also have wonderful fragrance. At the HRS monthly meeting in April, Gaye Hammond will introduce the fragrant shrub roses of David Austin. Gaye is the past president of Houston Rose society. She is also a life member of American Rose Society. As an avid writer, she published more than 300 articles and also has been a special section editor to the American Rose magazine. She's also a great speaker giving talks across United States. This meeting will be a virtual meeting held at GoToMeeting on October 8 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (CDT). Joint meeting using computer, tablet or smartphone with access code: 508-500-077 https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/508500077 or you can also dial in using your phone. United States: +1 (312) 757-3121. For more information, visit www.houstonrose.org.
Buda & Dripping Springs: Hays County Master Gardeners will host their annual Plant and Tree Sale on Sunday, October 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Buda Farmers Market and Wednesday, October 14, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Dripping Springs Farmers Market. This year they will feature native and adapted perennials, herbs and Texas Superstar. HCMGA will also be selling Ornamental & Small Trees and Shade Trees on a preorder only basis. Details and order forms are available on the HCMGA website. To ensure availability, order early. The last date to order trees is September 30, 2020. While we remain optimistic, we cannot guarantee that this sale will occur as scheduled due to the uncertainties around COVID-19. Payment for trees will be accepted from September 1-30, closer to the actual sale date. Payment must be received by September 30 in order to take delivery at the Dripping Springs Farmers Market on October 14, 2020. Payment may be made by cash or check.
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Weekly Meetings
Galveston: The Young Gardeners Program is a school garden and healthy eating program operating on Galveston and the Bolivar Peninsula. Every Saturday, 9-11 a.m., they host a garden Community Day at one of the schools. It's an opportunity for community members to work and play in the garden and it's kid-friendly. First Saturday - Crenshaw, 416 State Hwy 87, Crystal Beach; Second Saturday - Rosenberg Elementary, 721 10th St., Galveston; Third Saturday - Morgan Elementary, 1410 37th St., Galveston; Fourth Saturday - Oppe Elementary, 2915 81st St., Galveston.
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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
Jasper: The Jasper County Master Gardeners meet on the first Monday of each month at St. Michael's Catholic Church from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The evening begins with pot luck social and then guest presentations and/or educational class to conclude. Visit https://jasper.agrilife.org/jasper-master-gardeners/ 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; Visit https://mastergardener.tamu.edu/become/ to become a member.
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.
Schulenberg: Schulenburg Garden Club meets the first Tuesday of the month, at 11:30 a.m., September-May, at the Schulenburg First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 110 Upton Ave., Schulenburg.
Dallas: Garden Masters, Inc., meet the first Wednesday of each month, Sept.- May, at North Haven Gardens, 7700 Northaven Rd., Dallas, 75230. The club hosts different speakers each month from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Come early and order lunch from the The Cafe, which features a healthy menu, fresh local produce and sustainably produced meats and fish (or call in advance to order 972-338-2233). For more information about Garden Masters Inc, email Marcia Borders at borderlineart1@gmail.com.
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: The Permian Basin Master Gardeners (Ector/Midland counties) have monthly meetings at noon on the first Wednesday of each month at the West Texas Food Bank, 1601 Westcliff Drive in Midland. For more information call 432-498-4071 or 432-686-4700.
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 Insider's Tour at 10 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month. Spaces are limited so pre-registration is encouraged. $15, free for members. For more information, visit http://peckerwoodgarden.org/product/peckerwood-insiders-tours/.
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. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; club business begins at 7:00 p.m., followed by a presentation. 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 The First Methodist Church, 1031 TX-456 Loop, Jacksonville. For additional information, contact Kim Benton at kim.benton@ag.tamu.edu.
Cedar Park/Leander/Liberty Hill: The Hill Country Bloomers meet the second Tuesday of each month (except December) at 7 p.m. at the Cedar Park Recreation Center, 1435 Main Street, Cedar Park. Arrive at 6:30 p.m. to socialize and swap plants and seeds. Meetings feature guest speakers on a variety of topics for the home gardener or landscaper. They host a plant sale in the spring and a garden tour in the late summer/early fall. Throughout the year they contribute time and expertise to local projects. Those with any level of experience are welcome. Non-members are invited to their first meeting at no cost. Membership and speaker info is available at www.hillcountrybloomers.com.
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.org 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. San Marcos: The Spring Lake Garden Club meets the second Thursday of each month at 9:30 a.m., September-May, at McCoy's Building Supply Headquarters, 1350 IH-35, San Marcos. Contact Terri Boyd (512) 395-66644 x6134. 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. Killeen: Youth Backyard Gardening Initiative holds community engagement meetings the second Saturday of each month at 2:30 p.m. at Monarch Academy, 4205 Old Florence Road, Killeen. To learn more, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/ybkydgarden/.
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 comalmg.org.
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. Abilene: The Master Gardeners meet the third Tuesday of each month at the Taylor County Extension Office, 1982 Lytle Way, Abilene. For more information, contact Big Country Master Gardeners Association at mgardeners@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/.
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, 107 Fink Street, 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 afterwards. Visitors are welcome! Please email Sharon Harrigan at sharonspetals@gmail.com for more information.
Houston: The Native Plant Society of Texas - Houston Chapter meets at 6:45 pm on the third Thursday of each month at the American Red Cross Building, 2700 Southwest Fwy. For more information about meeting presentations and native plants, visit http://npsot.org/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 with presentation is held 6:00-8:00 p.m. During the intervening months (Feb., April, June, Aug., Oct.), afternoon educational seminars/general meetings are held from 1:00-3:00 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.
Fort Worth: The Greater Fort Worth Herb Society meetings are held the third Saturday of each month at Texas Garden Club Inc, 3111 Old Garden Club Rd., Fort Worth (located next to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden), 10:00 a.m. to noon, September through June. For more information, email herbalhen@yahoo.com.
FOURTH WEEK
New Braunfels: The New Braunfels Chapter of Native Plant Society of Texas meets on the fourth Monday of each month except July and December. Meetings are held at the Westside Community Center, 2932 S. I-35 Frontage Road, New Braunfels. Meetings start at 6:15 p.m. with a meet and greet time, followed by a short business meeting. Programs begin around 7:00. Native plant and seed exchanges are held monthly. Expert speakers present educational programs on topics of interest. Meetings are free and open to the public. For more information or to join, visit www.npsot.org.
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.
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 (except November and December) at the Houston Red Cross Building, 2700 Southwest Freeway, Houston. Refreshments served at 6:30 p.m. 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 http://www.dallascountymastergardeners.org/ or contact The Helpdesk, M-F, 8 to 4:30 214-904-3053. 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, hosts a garden Open Days from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the fourth Saturday of each month. Drop-in tours are permitted but pre-registration is encouraged. Docent led tours are $10 for guests, free for members. For more information, http://peckerwoodgarden.org/explore/visit-peckerwood-garden/.
Dallas: The Greater Dallas Organic Garden Club meets at 2:30 p.m. on the fourth Sunday of each month (except November and December) at North Haven Gardens, 7700 Northaven Road, Dallas. For more information, visit www.gdogc.org.
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