Whether you're a seasoned gardener or an ambitious newbie, you'll want to mark your calendars for the City of Allen's upcoming Sustainable Landscape Series. The seven classes, offered January through April, educate homeowners on sustainable landscape techniques and practices that conserve water. (And since we know money doesn't grow on trees, we're offering the seminars to all residents free of charge.)

The series kicks off Jan. 31 with "Tomato Talk: Success with Growing Tomatoes in Allen." Dr. Greg Church of the Texas AgriLife Extension will reveal the best growing practices, common pest problems and their remedies, the best tomato varieties to use in our area and more. Future topics in the series include landscaping after a drought, growing fruit in Allen, planting for shade vs. sun and urban tree care. Seminars are held select Saturdays at 1 p.m. in the Community Room at Allen City Hall (305 Century Parkway). Though the classes are free, you must register to reserve a spot; a full schedule and registration forms are available online.

With current lake levels about the same as this time last year, sustainable techniques will be critical to your gardening success. Water conservation efforts, especially those connected to landscape watering, will continue as we move into the spring and summer months. You can find the most current watering schedule map at CityofAllen.org/WaterConservation . You can also sign up for a monthly water conservation newsletter with the latest conservation news and landscaping tips.