By Valerie Smith
Sod Solutions Content Strategist
Your soil’s health is what determines the overall health of your grass and other plants. When you work from the ground up, you are ensuring superior grass quality. Fertilizing your lawn regularly is good practice to make sure your grass is getting nutrients, but what if you aren’t sure which exact nutrients your lawn needs at the time?
For example, you may be applying an abundance of nitrogen, but you aren’t really seeing a difference in your grass’s appearance or quality. You might also notice that grass isn’t growing as well in some areas of your lawn as others, but you aren’t sure why.
The best way to diagnose a problem before spending time and money on other solutions is to collect and submit a soil analysis in your yard. A soil analysis will inform you of all the nutrients you need in your lawn.
What is a soil test?
A soil test is a tool that can be used to determine which macro and micronutrients are currently in your soil and which nutrients your lawn and garden needs to reach its optimum pH level. Most of the time, companies will make suggestions on how to improve your soil’s quality with fertilizers or other amendments based on the results from the soil test.
Soil tests can come in different shapes and sizes, but they all require you to collect a sample of soil from your lawn and place it in some sort of small container or baggie to submit to an expert. Whether you mail a package in or drop it off at your local cooperative extension office depends on the company or turfgrass expert you go with.
Why should I use a soil test?
A soil test is an inexpensive way to see what your soil needs to perform its best. A soil analysis essentially measures the pH of your soil and provides nutrient recommendations to achieve optimum performance.
Regularly applying fertilizer products and other chemicals can impact the pH levels of your soil, so collecting and submitting a soil sample provides information about which nutrients your lawn needs or doesn’t need.
For example, if you’re looking at purchasing a nitrogen fertilizer, a soil sample might come back and say there’s already more than enough nitrogen in the ground already. Your lawn may need other nutrients to excel instead.
A pro to this is that you won’t waste money on fertilizers your lawn and garden don’t need. After soil test results recommend solutions, the fertilizer chemicals will be absorbed into the plant and won’t sit in the soil. Overapplied fertilizers that don’t get absorbed typically get washed away with the rain into streams and other natural bodies of water, which is harmful to the environment.
A soil test will tell you exactly what the soil needs so that you can make an educated decision on which fertilizer or nutrients to purchase.
By improving the environment your lawn and garden grows in, you’re essentially working from the ground up to improve your lawn and garden’s health. With that being said, there are different soil types depending on where you live. Each soil type tends to have different pH levels.
How do I collect and submit a soil analysis?
This often depends on the company you’re submitting the soil test to. Sometimes they’ll want you to place the soil in a container they mail to your address. Other times, they’ll provide you with instructions for collecting the sample and placing it in a container or baggie of your own.
If you’re collecting a soil sample and placing it in your own container (not one provided to you by a professional) it’s important that you collect the sample in a container that won’t affect the pH levels of your soil. Plastic containers like a bucket or baggies are usually the best options—not metal.
You should always follow the instructions each company or cooperative extension office provides you with when collecting and submitting a soil sample. However, it’s often recommended you collect soil samples from various locations throughout your yard and then combine them into one collective soil sample.
Soil samples can widely vary in different locations in your yard — even if it’s just a few feet away from the site another soil sample came from. Collecting from different areas of the lawn reduces any inconsistencies from the different locations in your lawn and allows the soil sample to test a larger area.
Instructions for collecting a soil sample
1. You’ll start by collecting several soil samples in plastic probes or baggies. Make sure they’re thoroughly cleaned before use so they don’t contaminate your sample.
2. Walk in a zigzag pattern as you collect the samples. Most universities and landscape professionals recommend collecting soil from about 10–15 locations. Use a shovel or soil probe like the ones listed below to collect the samples. Each sample should remove soil from the top 6 inches from the soil’s surface.
3. Afterwards, remove any plant material, mulch or natural soil organisms like worms and drop the soil samples into a plastic bucket. Mix the samples well to make sure it’s blended.
4. Dump the soil out on a newspaper or grocery bag and then allow it to dry. Wet soil may alter the soil analysis, so make sure it’s dry before collecting.
5. Once dry, you’ll want to collect about 1 pint of the soil to send to your turfgrass expert.
Areas in the lawn, vegetable garden, ornamental beds or problem areas should all be tested separately. Be sure to remove any plants or mulch from the sample.
When is the best time to collect and submit a soil analysis?
The best time to collect and submit a lawn soil analysis ultimately depends on where you live and what type of grass you have. The best time to soil test warm-season grasses such as zoysia, St. Augustine, Bermuda grass and centipede grass should ideally be collected in the spring. This generally takes place between March 15 and April 30.
Soil tests for cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and fescues should be collected between August and September.
Generally speaking, the best time to collect soil samples from gardens or ornamental beds is during the fall. You can then make amendments before winter so that they can take effect in the spring.
One of the best times to conduct a sod analysis is when you are about to install new sod because it allows you to see what nutrients you need after the installation process is finished. This will help you get your lawn off to a healthier start. Be sure to collect a soil sample before applying chemicals like glyphosate to kill off old grass as this can alter your lawn soil test.
However, it is never a bad idea to conduct a soil analysis if you need to see what nutrients your lawn or garden needs.
How often should I test my soil?
Most lawn and garden professionals recommend testing your soil once every 1–3 years. Some experts suggest once every 3–5 years. We believe submitting soil samples are invaluable ways to keep your lawn and garden healthy — it also rarely costs a lot of money. Unless there are problems occurring in your lawn and garden, we suggest submitting a soil sample once every 1–3 years. If problems arise like poorly performing turfgrass or ornamentals, you should send a soil sample in right away.
Who do I send a soil test to?
There are many different professionals you can send a soil sample to. Most of them can be divided into two groups: 1) a local cooperative extension office, or 2) a company you bought a soil test kit from and mail it back to.
1. A Local Cooperative Extension Office
Each state has its own soil testing cooperative extension office you can either drop your sample off at or mail it in to. In Texas, that's the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
Be sure to visit the local cooperative extension office’s website and follow soil testing instructions thoroughly. Many of these websites have a soil testing form you can print off and fill out to send with the sample.
2. A Company You Bought a Soil Test Kit From
Another option is to buy a soil test kit from a company and submit it back to them in the mail. If this is what you’re looking to do, some of these companies will still have someone who can professionally test your soil sample and provide you with accurate results and recommendations. Just be sure to do your research on what they can offer you.
Depending on the company you go with, their results forms might also be easier to read and comprehend.
How much do soil samples cost?
The amount a soil test costs depends on who you choose to do the soil analysis. Universities generally charge between $10–$15 while it can vary for companies. Some cost about $12 while others can run up to $40.
How long does it take to receive my soil testing results?
When you submit your analysis to a local cooperative extension office, the soil analysis takes between 3–4 days usually. During heavy sampling times like April or May, it might take as long as 1–2 weeks.
How do I read a soil analysis?
Soil test results come in all kinds of different forms. Generally speaking, you’ll receive a sheet of paper or a digital report that will provide you with information on which nutrients your soil is lacking and which nutrients your soil is plentiful with.
Some soil tests will give you a simple N-P-K analysis (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) while others might go into more detail.
In general, most soil analyses will provide you with your soil’s results compared to what the optimal results should be. Ratings may include an analysis for your pH levels, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulfur (S), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), boron (B) and lime and fertility requirements.
pH levels range from 1 to 14 with 1 being very acidic, 14 as very alkaline and 7 as neutral. Your soil’s pH depends on your soil type, however, your lawn and garden are more receptive to absorbing nutrients at a pH rating between 6.0–7.0.
Oftentimes, homeowners overapply nitrogen fertilizers and other macronutrients (N, P, K) without also including the proper amount of micronutrients (S, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B). Although they’re micronutrients, they’re essential to your lawn and garden’s health and can make a huge difference.
Another key nutrient that often plays an underdog in lawn and garden nutrition is carbon. Along with nitrogen and oxygen, carbon is one of the essential building blocks of all organic life. In fact, 50 percent of a plant is made up of carbon. Like plants and animals, soil is also carbon-based and needs carbon, nitrogen and oxygen to remain balanced and healthy.
How do I improve my soil after a soil analysis?
Soil analysis solutions can vary. Some soil testing results will come with suggestions for products that will help your lawn and garden. If they don’t, you’ll need to know how to read a fertilizer label so that you can choose the best fertilizer for your soil.
Alkaline soils will need nutrients to make it slightly more acidic so that it reaches the 6.0–7.0 pH range. On the other hand, acidic soils will need nutrients that make it more alkaline.
Ultimately, soil tests are invaluable tools that will provide you with a lot of information as to how you can improve your lawn and garden’s health. Most of the time, they’re also inexpensive. We hope this blog answered some of your questions about soil testing and how it can benefit your home landscape.
|
|
Cat grass kits are easy to grow and provide fresh, healthy wheatgrass, oat grass, and/or ryegrass for cats to nibble on instead of your plants. (Photo courtesy of True Leaf Market) |
|
Keep your houseplants safe from cats |
|
By Melinda Myers
Growing houseplants when curious cats are in the house can be challenging. We want our cats to be safe and happy while keeping our houseplants intact. You can accomplish both with a few simple strategies.
Boost indoor gardening success by selecting plants suited to your home’s growing conditions and gardening style. Then be sure to remove any toxic plants to ensure your pet’s safety. Consult with your veterinarian and visit the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) website for a list of pet-safe and toxic plants.
Create a list of all the plants you are growing. Include both common and botanical names for accurate identification. Do a bit of research on the care they need and their toxicity to your pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, you’ll have the proper plant name when contacting your veterinarian.
Match the pet-friendly plants you select to their preferred light conditions. An east- or west-facing window provides enough light for most indoor plants. Keep those that need brighter light within two feet of a window. Those that prefer lower light can be grown near a north-facing window or up to six feet back or off to the side of an east- or west-facing window.
Keep toxic plants out of the reach of curious cats. This can be challenging if your cat is skilled at jumping and climbing. There are so many beautiful houseplants it may be safer to simply avoid those that are toxic.
Make your houseplants less appealing to your cat with the smell of citrus. Spray a mixture of lemon, lime, or orange juice diluted with some water on the leaves of your plant. Or purchase one of the commercial mixes. If you don’t want to spray your plants, place citrus peels in the pot.
Give your cat a pot of grass to nibble on and enjoy instead of your houseplants. Most cat grass kits contain wheatgrass, oat grass, ryegrass, or a mixture of these. A pot of cat grass can help entertain your cat, provide fiber and some micronutrients, and aid in digestion.
There are several theories as to cats’ attraction to greenery. One theory suggests plants were used to help them regurgitate undigested parts of their prey. Many cat owners find it also works for hairballs. Another theory suggests that greens provide vitamins and minerals, may promote health, and aid in digestion.
Busy and new gardeners can successfully grow a pot of cat grass. Look for an easy-care growing kit like True Leaf Market’s Organic Self-Watering Cat Grass Kit (trueleafmarket.com). You’ll only need to fill the water reservoir twice a week and the container helps eliminate messes and spills that often happen with traditional pots.
Prevent curious cats from knocking over any of your plant containers with the help of mounting putty. A couple of pieces on the bottom of the pot will help reduce the risk of toppling.
Prevent cats from using indoor plants as litter boxes. Cover the soil surface with coarse mulch, like cork or large nugget mulch. If this is not an option, spray the soil surface with the citrus and water mix to help discourage digging.
Regular play can entertain your cat, help reduce stress, and even reduce plant nibbling. This is also good for your well-being and the beauty of your indoor plants.
Implement these strategies and you’ll be able to help your cats and plants coexist in your home.
|
|
10 ways to know if you’re a master backyarder |
|
TurfMutt Foundation
According to the TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care and use of our backyards, community parks, and other green spaces around us, 2023 is the year of the master backyarder. “Backyarding” is the act of taking activities normally done indoors to the great outdoors such as our yards and parks. Today, people are elevating their outdoor life to master backyarder status.
“For Master Backyarders, living and working outdoors is an integral part of everyday life,” explains Kris Kiser, president & CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation. “Time to relax? They go outside. Have a web call? They set up their laptop on their deck or patio. Have a party to throw? They do it in their backyard.”
So how do you know if you are a Master Backyarder? The TurfMutt Foundation says to ask yourself these questions:
1. Do you use your yard for recreation, like parties?
2. Do you take work outside, like a laptop on a deck or a study session under a shade tree?
3. Have you created an outdoor fun zone in your backyard for your kids and pets?
4. Do you use your yard as a place to be still and de-stress?
5. Have you staged a “staycation” for your family in your own backyard?
6. Do you recognize your backyard as an urban habitat that is an important part of the connected ecosystem?
7. Do you plant with pollinators and other backyard wildlife in mind?
8. Have you added a mix of trees, shrubs, grass and flowering plants to your yard, putting the right plant in the right place?
9. Have you used your backyard or community park as a living science lab to teach kids hands-on STEM lessons?
10. Are you an outdoor evangelist who shares with friends and family about the benefits of getting outside, starting in your own backyard?
If you answered yes to the majority of the questions above, congratulations! You are mastering outdoor life.
“Master backyarders are inspirational, and we should all strive to level up our outdoor living to this status,” Kiser concludes. “This spring is the perfect time to take the next step to living life more outdoors.”
|
|
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.
|
|
The COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak has caused the cancellation or rescheduling of many events these past few years. If you wish to attend any of the events listed below, please contact the presenters in advance to determine if the event has been cancelled, postponed, moved online or if it will take place as scheduled. |
|
APRIL
Online: John Bagnasco will lead Lost, Found & Still Around…The Proposition of Saving Rose Varieties in the 21st Century at 7 p.m., Thursday, April 13. He has been a part the gardening industry for over 54 years, starting with a degree in Horticultural Marketing from Michigan State University. In 2000, John became senior editor for Garden Compass Magazine and a garden show radio host. He is currently the president of Garden America, a nationally syndicated radio show. John is also an amateur rose breeder and is responsible for introducing over a dozen new roses. He has taught horticulture classes at Palomar College and San Diego State University. He is the host of the DVD “The Essential Guide to Roses.” John has written two books on succulents: Planting Designs for Cactus and Succulents and Success with Succulents. He is the current President of the California Coastal Rose Society (CCRS) and Chairman of the Save the Roses! foundation. Last year was the twenty-second year for the Annual “Save the Roses!” Auction. The organization is now working with concerned rosarians and public gardens to preserve the genetic of rare and unusual rose varieties through an effort to return them to home gardens. Join virtually from the comfort of home or office using a computer, tablet or smartphone device on the GoTo Meeting website at https://meet.goto.com/253028565. If you have not used GoTo Meeting previously, get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts at https://meet.goto.com/install.
Clear Lake: Clear Lake Native Plant Society Spring Sale: April 15, 8 a.m.-10 a.m. Located at UHCL, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Clear Lake. For more information, contact Cheryl Barajas at cherylbarajas9@gmail.com.
Gonzales: The Gonzales Master Gardeners will hold their annual Spring Plant Sale on Saturday, April 15, on Independence Square in downtown Gonzales from 8:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. They will be offering many perennial/adaptive native plants, annuals, herbs, hanging baskets, houseplants and succulents. There will also be a few varieties of citrus and fruit trees along with blackberries and blueberries. There will be a great Silent Auction, children’s activities and “Ask the Master Gardener” booth. They will be accepting cash/checks/credit/debit cards this year. Come on out for a great time (rain or shine). For more information, call 830-672-8531.
Houston: Harris County Master Gardener Perennial & Pepper Sale: April 15, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Online orders are encouraged for the best selections. Order online from Apr 1-13 at hcmga.tamu.edu/shop. Pick up online orders or purchase plants in person while supplies last. Additional purchases can be made Mon., April 17, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Genoa Friendship Gardens, 1210 Genoa Red Bluff Rd., Houston.
La Marque: “Peppers” with Galveston County Master Gardener Gene Speller, Saturday, April 15, 9-11:00 am. Location: Galveston County AgriLife Extension Office located inside Carbide Park, 4102-B Main Street (Hwy 519), La Marque. For additional information: https://galveston.agrilife.org/horticulture/ or call 281-309-5065.
La Marque: “Grafting Pecans” with Horticulture Agent Stephen Brueggerhoff, Saturday, April 15, 1-3 pm. Class limited to 15. Location: Discovery Garden inside Carbide Park, 4102 Main Street (Hwy 519), La Marque. To register, and for additional information: https://galveston.agrilife.org/horticulture/ or call 281-309-5065.
McKinney: The 2023 CCMGA Spring Plant Sale will be presented by The Collin County Master Gardeners Association on Saturday, April 15, 9A a.m.-1:30 p.m. or until sold out. Proceeds from the sale benefit community outreach programs, horticultural education programs, workshops, and water conservation education throughout Collin County. CCMGA has carefully sourced a collection of locally grown drought tolerant plants that are well suited to our climate and will perform well in North Texas gardens. Attendees will find dozens of varieties of perennials, shrubs, ferns, grasses, groundcovers, succulents, vines, daylilies and annuals, as well as native milkweed that attracts Monarch butterflies, which are not typically found at big box stores. Collin County Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer questions and offer free advice to help homeowners plant with success. Come early for best selection! There is no sales tax, and purchases can be made by cash, check, or credit card. Bringing your own cart or wagon is recommended. Parking is free. The 2023 CCMGA Spring Plant Sale will be held rain or shine inside the Show Barn at Myers Park, 7117 County Road 166, McKinney. To learn more, visit www.ccmgatx.org.
Rosenberg: Sat., April 15: Grow Your Own Series: Warm-Season Vegetables & Herbs with Fort Bend County Master Gardeners, 9-10:30 a.m. For additional details, visit https://fortbend.agrilife.org/grow-your-own/ or 281-342-3034.
Online: Lawn Alternatives Workshop by Harris County Master Gardeners April 19, 9:00 a.m.-10 a.m. Learn how to grow and care for lawn alternatives that support the environment. Each participant will go home with a lawn alternative plant. $15 Registration required: bit.ly/3KqzVro. 1210 Genoa Red. Bluff Rd., Houston.
Online: "Flowering Plants for 4 Seasons" will be presented by Fort Bend Master Gardeners, 2-3:30 p.m., Friday, April 21. This virtual presentation is free, but registration is required Landscape Success - Fort Bend (agrilife.org).
Houston: The Herb Society of America, South Texas Unit is hosting its 37th Annual Herb Day, Living our Herbal Legacy - Inspiring Today's Cooks, Gardeners, and Herbalists on Saturday, April 22, from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. in Houston’s Museum District. This year’s talks include “Heirloom Gardening with Traditional Herbs and Skills” by national award-winning horticulturist and author John Forti (via zoom); “An Introduction to Fermentation” by Scotty Sheridan of Scotty’s Fermented Foods; and “Heirloom Seeds — Their Place in Our Lives” by Charley Fisher. Join us for fun educational demonstrations with compost tea, fermentation, heirloom seeds, and vermiculture. Creative handmade crafts and limited seasonal herb plants are available for purchase. Visit http://www.herbsociety-stu.org/herb-day.html for more information and registration.
Katy: Harris County Master Gardener Perennial & Pepper Plant Sale: April 22, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. or until supplies last. Purchase perennials and pepper plants suited for our growing season. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 5373 Franz Rd. For more information and list of available plants: hcmga.tamu.edu/plant-sales.
La Marque: “Open Garden Day: Garden with the Master Gardeners, Plus Louisiana Iris” The Galveston County Master Gardeners’ Discovery Garden will be open to the public on Saturday, April 22, 11 am-1 pm. Location: Discovery Garden inside Carbide Park, 4102 Main Street (Hwy 519), La Marque. For additional information: https://galveston.agrilife.org/horticulture/ or call 281-309-5065.
Flower Mound: Texas Native Plant Sale, sponsored by the Trinity Forks Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas, will be held Saturday, April 29, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. or sellout! There will be more than 1,200 plants and 170+ species, and knowledgeable volunteers to help with your selection. The sale will be at Flower Mound High School, 3411 Peters Colony Road, Flower Mound, on the back parking lot at the corner of Old Settlers Road and Sagebrush Drive. Bring a flat or box to make taking home all your treasures easier.
Weatherford: The Cross Timbers Native Plant Society will have their Native Plant Spring Sale on April 29, at the First Monday Trade Days monthly sale event in Weatherford. The sale is from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Heritage Park, 315 Santa Fe Dr., Weatherford. They will have a large booth and will many wonderful native plants, including some hard-to-find native and lots of literature about the Native Plant Society of Texas and growing natives.
|
|
MAY
Online: Green Thumb Lecture Series: Gardening with Less Water by Harris County Master Gardeners with Houston Community College, May 8, Gardening with Less Water. 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Free Virtual Lecture. Register in advance to receive the link: hccs.edu/community-learning-workshops.
Online: Gardening with Less Water. 11:00 am.-12:30 p.m., May 21, Free Virtual Lecture. No reservation required. Watch on Facebook - facebook.com/harriscountypl/live.
Houston: Master Gardener Open Garden Day. 8:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m., May 20. Tour a variety of planting exhibits and meet with Harris County Master Gardeners. Plants will be available for sale in the greenhouse. Genoa Friendship Gardens, 1210 Genoa Red Bluff Road, Houston.
|
|
JUNE
Online: "Weed & Nutrient Management" will be presented by Fort Bend Master Gardeners, 2-3:30 p.m., Friday, June 16. This virtual presentation is free, but registration is required Landscape Success - Fort Bend (agrilife.org).
|
|
AUGUST
Online: "Trees for Small Landscapes" will be presented by Fort Bend Master Gardeners, 2-3:30 p.m., Friday, August 18. This virtual presentation is free, but registration is required Landscape Success - Fort Bend (agrilife.org).
|
|
SEPTEMBER
Rosenberg: Sat., September 9: Grow Your Own Series: Composting with Fort Bend County Master Gardeners, 9-10:30 a.m. For additional details, visit Grow Your Own - Fort Bend (agrilife.org) or 281-342-3034.
Online: "Fall is for Planting" will be presented by Fort Bend Master Gardeners, 2-3:30 p.m., Friday, September 15. This virtual presentation is free, but registration is required Landscape Success - Fort Bend (agrilife.org).
|
|
NOVEMBER
Online: "Winter Protection" will be presented by Fort Bend Master Gardeners, 2-3:30 p.m., Friday, November 17. This virtual presentation is free, but registration is required Landscape Success - Fort Bend (agrilife.org).
|
|
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.
|
|
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 Gardener Association meets the first Monday of each month (second Monday if the first is a holiday) the First Community Church at 1402 Trinity Drive in Crandall. An educational program begins at 10 a.m., followed by the business meeting. For topic and additional information, visit http://www.kcmga.org/ and check Events. Refreshments will be available. For more information or to ask about accommodations, call 469-376-4520, or email Jackie Robertson at jrobertson@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 each month, at 11:30 a.m., September-May, at the Schulenburg First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 110 Upton Ave., Schulenburg.
Corpus Christi: The Coastal Bend Cactus and Succulent Society meets the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Garden Senior Center, 5325 Greely Dr., Corpus Christi. The purpose is to stimulate an interest in cactus and succulent plants by providing a forum to foster and broaden knowledge of the plants. Join the society on Facebook: Coastal Bend Cactus & Succulent Society.
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.
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 Presbyterian Church Family Life Center, 302 Nolan Street, Navasota. If not meeting at the church, a change of meeting notice will be placed on the door of the Family Life Building. Guests are welcome. Members are from Grimes County and surrounding counties.
San Antonio: The San Antonio Garden Center meets on the first Wednesday of each month from September – May at 3310 N. New Braunfels @ Funston, San Antonio. Social and plant sale begins at 9:30 a.m. Program at 10 a.m. Open to the public. For more information visit www.sanantoniogardencenter.org.
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.
Gonzales: 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.
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 Chapter, Native Plant Society of Texas meets on the second Tuesday of each month except July, August and December at St. John Lutheran Church in Marion. Directions to St. John 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 always welcome. For more information or an application to join NPSOT contact guadalupecounty@npsot.org. Or visit https://npsot.org/wp/guadalupe/
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 meeting is held on the second Wednesday of each each month at noon at the Central Presbyterian Church, 9191 Woodway Dr., Woodway. 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. at Peace Lutheran Church, Fellowship Hall, 2201 Rio Grande Blvd., 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.
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 Gardeners meet on the third Monday of each month at Johnson. County Agricultural Office, 109 W. Chambers, Cleburne. Meeting times are at 6 p.m. An educational program precedes the business meeting.
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.
Alvarado: The Alvarado Garden Club meets on the third Tuesday of each month during the months of September through May (excluding December). The meeting time is 1 p.m. and the locations vary for each meeting. The club hosts a different and exciting speaker each month that focuses on enriching the lives of all gardeners. Meetings are free and include a light lunch. The public is invited to attend. For additional information, please contact 817-680-4291.
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.
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/.
Waco: The McLennan County Master Gardeners host Lunch with the Masters on the third Wednesday of each month at noon at MCC’s Emergency Services Education Center (ESEC), 7601 Steinbeck Bend Dr., Waco. These educational programs are free and open to the public. Attendees bring their own lunch. For more information, call 254-757-5180.
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 Houston Arboretum, 4501 Woodway, Houston. For more information about meeting presentations and native plants, visit https://npsot.org/wp/houston/.
Mineola: The Fannie Marchman Garden Club meets at the Mineola Civic Center, 9:30-11:30 a.m. the third Wednesday of each month from September through May. For additional information, find them on Facebook or email FannieMarchmanGardenClub@gmail.com.
Ft. Worth: The North Texas Daylily Society is affiliated with the American Daylily Society and is located in AHS Region 6. Club meetings are held in the Camellia Room located inside the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, on the third Thursday of each month (excluding June and July). Throughout the year NTDS hosts guest speakers, special interest programs, an annual daylily show, an annual daylily sale, and social activities and outings. For more information visit, their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/northtexasdaylilysociety.
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 New Braunfels Public Library, 700 E. Common St, New Braunfels. Meetings are “hybrid” with in-person and Zoom available. They start at 5:45 PM. with a meet and greet time, followed by a short business meeting at 6:15 PM. Programs begin at 6:30 PM. 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 about Zoom or to join, visit https://npsot.org/wp/newbraunfels/.
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 County Extension Office, 4153 County Park Ct., 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.
Denton: The Trinity Forks Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas meets the fourth Thursday of each month to share information about native plants. Excellent programs are heard each month. Social time begins at 6:30, program at 7:00 p.m. For more information, visit https://npsot.org/wp/trinityforks/.
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.
|
|
Texas Gardener's Seeds is published weekly. © Suntex Communications, Inc. 2023. All rights reserved. You may forward this publication to your friends and colleagues if it is sent in its entirety. No individual part of this newsletter may be reproduced in any manner without prior written permission from the publisher.
Texas Gardener's Seeds has been published each Wednesday since April 26, 2006.
Texas Gardener's Seeds, P.O. Box 1676, Brenham, Texas 77834-1676
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
