September 30, 2015
  
Gardening helps veterans

Boulder Crest Retreat

According to research published in the journal Psychiatry Investigation, engaging in horticulture therapy (gardening) helps reduce pain, improves attention, reduces stress and agitation, and lowers the usage of medications. Additionally, the University of Florida reports that horticulture therapy improves bodies, minds, and spirits, and has been used for centuries. For all of these reasons, horticulture is one of the complementary alternative therapies that is being used to help the many combat veterans suffering from such conditions as post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injuries, and physical injuries.

"Most combat veterans don't think about gardening as a tool to help them heal, yet it does a lot to help the mindset," explains Ken Falke, chairman and founder of Boulder Crest Retreat. "Horticulture therapy has a prominent place in our programs because we know that it helps and it's something that our guests can take home with them to continue their healing process."

Horticulture therapy, includes the growing of plants and gardening, is centuries old and is a great way of helping to reduce stress and improve mental state. The University of Florida reports that even in 1798, Dr. Benjamin Rush, who also signed the Declaration of Independence, reported that mentally ill patients made improvement through the use of gardening.
Dallas Arboretum's acclaimed spring bulbs perfect for fall planting, on sale now
 
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is selling spring-blooming bulbs that are perfect for fall and winter planting. Bulb packages range from $13 to $83 and include hyacinths, muscari, daffodils, paperwhites and tulips. Admirers of the largest floral festival in the Southwest, Dallas Blooms, are invited to purchase the same bulb varieties that the Dallas Arboretum plants in its gardens.
 
Dave Forehand, Dallas Arboretum's vice president of gardens, said, "The most asked question during Dallas Blooms is 'Where can I buy these bulbs?' We decided to bring back the bulb sale as so many have asked us. A tip for planting bulbs: The ideal planting time is either late November or early December because in Texas we have to wait longer for the soil temperature to be 55 degrees or less."
 
Forehand added, "I recommend guests try planting different varieties of bulbs that have different bloom times, just like we do at the Arboretum. Some tulips bloom early, others bloom mid-season and some are late bloomers. By staggering the planting times, you have the opportunity to see the beautiful blooms in one bed for a longer time."
 
Orders are open through October 10 with shipments starting in late November, just in time for perfect fall planting. Bulb purchases can be made online at shop.dallasarboretum.org/spring-bulbs.html.
Dallas Arboretum a great fall experience
 
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
 
The incredible fall beauty and phenomenal pumpkin displays at The Dallas Arboretum have just been recognized in national media as the experiences not to miss this fall in America, stated Mary Brinegar, the botanical garden's president.
 
MSN Travel named the arboretum's pumpkin displays one of the "Best Fall Festivals to Celebrate the Season," and Fodor's Travel named it one of "America's Best Pumpkin Festivals." The Dallas Observer named it the "Best Fall Outing," and DFW Child named the garden the "Best Place to Get Outdoors."
 
Along with the stunning vistas, there are activities galore for children. The eight-acre, internationally acclaimed Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden has activities every day when youngsters walk along the treetop walks, transform the power of the sun, water and wind into energy, and have more than 100 opportunities for interactive fun.
 
"There is indoor and outdoor seated dining, music on the weekends, special discounts nearly every day, but the showstopper is that there are few other fall experiences in America with the quality of floral diversity and spectacular blooming color found at the Dallas Arboretum, thus the national publicity continues to come our way each year," said Terry Lendecker, vice president of advertising & promotions.
 
Tickets, hours of operation and further information about group tickets and membership purchases are available online at www.dallasarboretum.org.
Gardening tips

Now  is the time to plant cole crops such as broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower in most areas of the state. It is best to use transplants rather than seed. Water them in with a fertilizer solution to get them off to a good start. Repeat the fertilizer solution again in a week. You want these plants growing fast for a good harvest later on.   
 
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 free Texas Gardener 2015 Planning Guide & Calendar. Please send your tips of 50 words or less to the editor at: Gardening Tips.
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.
OCTOBER

Houston: The Garden Club of Houston's 73rd annual Bulb & Plant Mart will be held October 1-3, at St. John the Divine Church, 2450 River Oaks Blvd. at Westheimer Road. The Mart opens Thursday, October 1, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for 'Early Bird Shopping' (Admission $20) with a party on the patio featuring a mariachi band and nearby stores offering discounts to Bulb Mart shoppers. Sales continue Friday, October 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday, October 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. All sales are tax-exempt. Admission and parking are free. The Bulb & Plant Mart offers more than 500,000 top-quality bulbs from domestic and international suppliers. Experienced as well as beginning gardeners will find an expanded collection of hard-to-find and unusual plants, perennials, trees, shrubs and vines, including unique offerings from the gardens of GCH members, grown specifically for the Mart. Visitors to the Bulb & Plant Mart will receive a free Horticultural Guide for Houston, prepared by the Club. For pictures of bulbs and plants that will be offered this year and for additional information, visit www.gchouston.org.

Seguin: "Fall Bulbs" will be presnted by Deedy Wright and the Guadalupe County Master Gardeners noon-1 p.m., Thursday, October 1, at the AgriLife Extension Office, 210 E Live Oak St , Seguin. Learn The best fall bulbs to plant in Guadalupe County, how to plant fall bulbs, and caring for your bulbs. FREE! - Just bring your own lunch (Optional!) For more information call Extension office at 830-303-3889.

Denton: The 2015 Fall Garden Fest will be held from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 3, at the Trietsch Memorial UMC Family Life Center, 6101 Morriss Rd., Flower Mound. This year's event will be held both indoors and out, permitting the event to go on no matter what the weather may be. Admission is free. Educational booths will cover everything from bees, worms and Monarch butterflies to vegetable gardens, herbs, gardenscapes, trees, waterfalls and water conservation. Presentations begin at 9:15 a.m. and run until 3 p.m. Topics include planting for the North Texas climate, composting, ponds, aquaponics gardening and propagation techniques. Dozens of booths will provide educational information and shopping opportunities. The event will feature a silent auction, and refreshments will be available from members of the 4-H Club. For details, visit dcmga.com, look for the Denton County Master Gardener Association on Facebook or call 940-394-2883.

La Marque: Master Gardener Deborah Repasz will present "Gardening for Jewels ... Hummingbirds," 9-11 a.m., October 3, at Galveston County AgriLife Extension in Carbide Park, 4102 Main, La Marque; Ph 281-534-3413; email reservations to galv3@wt.net, further details see www.aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/galveston. Free.
 
La Marque: Master Gardener Sandra Devall will present "Texas Tuff Landscape Plants - Blooming & Beautiful," 1-3 p.m., October 3, at Galveston County AgriLife Extension in Carbide Park, 4102 Main, La Marque; Ph 281-534-3413; email reservations to galv3@wt.net. Further details see www.aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/galveston. Free.

Longview: The Gregg County Master Gardeners will hold a plant sale on Saturday, October 3, at the Gregg County AgriLife Extension Auditorium, 405 E. Marshall, Longview. The sale will be from 9 a.m. until noon. All plants will be $5, except Earth-Kind Roses which will cost $10. Entry to the sale will be through the back doors of the building. Many different kinds of shrubs and perennials will be offered. For additional information call, 903-236-8429 or on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/greggcountymastergardeners.

Nacogdoches: SFA Gardens at Stephen F. Austin State University will host its annual Fabulous Fall Festival Plant Sale from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at the SFA Pineywoods Native Plant Center, 2900 Raguet St. in historic Nacogdoches. A wide variety of hard-to-find, "Texas tough" plants will be available, including Texas natives, heirlooms, tropicals, perennials, shrubs, trees, and exclusive SFA introductions. Most of the plants are extensively trialed in the gardens before being offered to the public, and most are produced by the SFA Gardens staff and volunteers. This popular event benefits the SFA Mast Arboretum, Pineywoods Native Plant Center, Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden, Gayla Mize Garden and educational programs hosted at the gardens. The educational programs at SFA Gardens reach more than 15,000 students ages 1 to 100 on a yearly basis. Parking is available at the nearby Early Childhood Research Center, 2428 Raguet St. The public is encouraged to arrive early and bring a wagon. For more information, call 936-468-4404, or visit  www.sfagardens.sfasu.edu two weeks before the sale for a list of available plants.

Fort Worth: The public is invited to explore seven of Fort Worth's best private gardens for the price of six on Sunday, October 4, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. during The Garden Conservancy's Open Days program. The gardens are located in the TCU and Oakhurst areas of Fort Worth - cottage gardens to an acre of multi-level landscapes. The Open Days are self-guided tours and you decide which gardens you want to visit and in what order. Information about each garden is at www.opendaysprogram.org. Admission is $7 for each house, plus a two-for-one combo. Tarrant County Master Gardeners are the hosts at each home with information and demonstrations to share. Purchase tickets at each house or online. The Garden Conservancy seeks to save gardens which are in danger of being lost.

La Marque: "The ABC's of Composting" presented by GC Master Gardener Ken Steblein, 6:30-8 p.m., October 6, at Galveston County AgriLife Extension in Carbide Park, 4102 Main, La Marque; Ph 281-534-3413; email reservations to galv3@wt.net, further details see www.aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/galveston. Free.

Tyler: "Bulbs: Easy Spring Color Starts Now" will be presented at noon, October 6, in the IDEA garden at the Tyler Rose Garden, 420 Rose Park Dr., Tyler. An informative lecture covering seasonal gardening topics held on the patio of the IDEA garden, the program begins at noon. The lecture is approximately 30 minutes with a Q&A session following. Seating is limited; please bring a chair for you comfort. In case of inclement weather, program will be held in Rose Garden Center. For more information, visit http://txmg.org/smith/coming-events/ or call 903-590-2980.

San Antonio: San Antonio Garden Center Clubs will meet at 10 a.m., Wednesday, October 7, at 3310 N. New Braunfels @ Funston. The program, "Harvesting Style: Floral Inspirations for Fall," will feature demonstrations by local floral designer John Romo, using traditional fall elements in fresh and surprising ways. You might even take one of his fabulous arrangements home! Join us for coffee at 9:30; meetings are free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.sanantoniogardencenter.org or call 210-824-9981.

Wichita Falls: The Texas Section Society for Range Management (TSSRM) will be hosting its annual meeting in Wichita Falls at the Multi Purpose Events Center on October 7-9. The theme for this year's meeting is "Rangeland Sustainability: Managing Toward an Integrated Future" and focuses on sustainable ranching operations. In 2014, McDonald's announced new goals for sustainability by 2020. These goals included "Supporting sustainable beef production and to begin purchasing beef from verified sustainable sources in 2016," "Will your operation qualify as a verified sustainable source?" and "How do others define sustainability?" These questions will be addressed by industry leaders, ranchers, and agency personnel. The meeting will kick off Wednesday with lunch followed by a tour of the Murray and Birdwell-Clark Ranches, two productive and sustainable ranches in the area. The tour will conclude on Wednesday evening with a reception and steak dinner at the Birdwell-Clark Ranch. Thursday's events will consist of presentations from industry leaders and ranchers. Each will discuss the ever-changing climate of marketing livestock with a focus on sustainability. On Thursday, there will be an awards luncheon, presentations, and an evening reception and banquet. Friday morning's program focuses on collegiate members, with presentations by graduate students and other young professionals. The meeting will conclude at noon, with the closing ceremonies. Three hours of Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) for Texas Pesticide Applicators License and 12 CEUs for Certified Professional Range Management will be given for attendance. Those interested in attending can contact Reggie Quiet (rquiett@cebridge.net) or by phone at 940-473-9624. Hotel reservations can be made at Days Inn and Suites (855-213-0582) or Baymont Inn and Suites (940-691-4200). Please request the TSSRM block for special room rates. Sponsorships and exhibitor space are still available. Those interested in sponsoring or reserving space for a commercial exhibit should contact Cody Scott (Cody.Scott@angelo.edu; 325-486-6744) or Mandi Ligon (allsmiles2ya@yahoo.com; 940-733-0120).

Austin: "Plant Propagation" will be presented 10 a.m. to noon, October 8. Learn how to make new plants for your yard through propagation methods such as rooting slips and cuttings. In this workshop you will assemble a self-watering propagator and select cuttings to grow new plants. All supplies, instructions, and cuttings will be provided for each participant. Master Gardener Sue King, a Plant Propagation Specialist, is a retired school librarian, an avid soup-maker, and a life-long gardener. Master Gardener Carolyn Turman found propagating plants using cuttings as an easy and inexpensive way to add wonderful additions to her landscape. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service-Travis County, 1600-B Smith Road, Austin. Cost: $25 thru 9/28, $30 starting 9/29. Seating limited to 25. No on-site registration available. No cash accepted - checks and credit cards only. Register: https://agriliferegister.tamu.edu/TravisCounty, Register by Phone: 979-845-2604. Contact: Sue Carrasco, 512-854-9610 or sacarrasco@ag.tamu.edu.

Houston: "Compost Tea - Nature's Elixir" will be the topic of the Houston Rose Society Meeting on October 8, at 7:30 p.m. Speaking will be John Ferguson owner of Nature's Way Resources, a composting company that specializes in high quality compost, mulch, and soil mixes. John will discuss how to make a home-brewed compost tea that is a great fertilizer for roses and all plants. The HRS has moved to the Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion, 1500 Hermann Drive, Houston 77004. The parking lot is Lot C, located at Hermann Drive and Crawford Street. Free admission. For more information, visit http://www.houstonrose.org.

La Grange: Wizzy Brown will present "Ants" at 12:05 p.m., October 8, at the Fayette County Agricultural Building, 255 Svoboda Lane, La Grange. Everyone has a home remedy or recommendation about controlling ants. Listen to someone who has real knowledge about controlling those pesky critters. For additional information, visit http://fayette.agrilife.org.

San Antonio: Brian Gordon from Roots of Change Community Garden will be presenting Hugelkultur, a German gardening method of layering of mounds for an ideal biosphere for organisms and a base for seedlings and seeds, at the October San Antonio Herb Society October meeting, Thursday, October 8, starting at 6:30 p.m. at the San Antonio Garden Center, 3310 N New Braunfels Ave. Free and open to the public. For additional information: 210-826-6860 or mbelisle@satx.rr.com.

San Antonio: "Beekeeping Basics" will be presented Saturday, Oct 9, at 3355 Cherry Ridge, San Antonio. Classroom and Field Day options--Oct 10 (Adkins) & Oct 11(Leon Springs). If you have ever been interested in keeping bees, or need to know the basics of how to get started, this course will answer those questions for you. Topics covered include the equipment, space and tools needed, where to get bees, what you need to get started, and resources for future help. Taught by beekeepers with experience. Cost is $60, lunch included. Registration form available on the BCMG Calendar, http://www.bexarmg.org/members/ , or email Molly Keck, mekeck@ag.tamu.edu , for more information. Class fills quickly, register soon!

College Station: In conjunction with the "History in the Making: Texas A&M Forest Service" exhibit and the centennial celebration of Texas A&M Forest Service, the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum, 1000 George Bush Drive West, College Station, is hosting a community-wide Fire Prevention and Safety Family Festival Saturday, October 10, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Attendees will learn how they can protect their families from preventable fires and create emergency plans for their households - including how to put out grease fires, candle and match safety, what to watch for with holiday-related fires and using electrical appliances safely. In the meantime, they can enjoy free refreshments, games and a special appearance by Smokey Bear! The event will fulfill most of the requirements for the Fire Safety Merit Badge, as presented by the Boy Scouts.

La Marque: "Galveston County Plant Sale Preview Presentation," presented by GC Master Gardener John Jons. 8-8:50 a.m., October 10, at Wayne Johnson Community Center in Carbide Park, 4102 Main, La Marque; Ph 281-534-3413; further details see www.aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/galveston. Free.

La Marque: The Annual Galveston County Master Gardener Fall Sale will be held October 10 at the Wayne Johnson Community Center in Carbide Park, 4102 Main, La Marque. This popular annual fall sale will introduce and feature many outstanding and hard-to-find fruit and citrus trees, fall/winter vegetables, herbs and perennials that grow well in this area. New this year are bulbs and corms that grow well in the area, and a craft table, Seminar 8-8:50 a.m. Sale 9 a.m.-1 p.m. For additional information, visit www.aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/galveston.

Marshall: Beginning at 10 a.m., October 10, the Harrison County Master Gardeners are hosting a plant and seed swap on the grounds of the Starr Family Home Historical Site, 407 West Travis St., Marshall. The swap is free and open to the public. Bring plants or seeds to swap, and take home something new. Master Gardeners will be bringing homegrown plants and seeds to trade and give away. The Starr Home Site is located at the corner of W. Travis and S. Grove in Marshall. Come early, as this won't last long! For more information, contact heidibender027@yahoo.com.

Tenaha: On October 10, help celebrate King's Nursery's 100 years serving Texas and Louisiana gardeners. The festivities kick off at 10 a.m. with a welcome and bit of nursery history followed by an entertaining lecture by well-known Texas horticulturist and Texas Gardener Contributing Editor Greg Grant at 11 a.m.. Hot dogs and fixings will be served at noon followed by a generous helping of musical talent. The nursery is located on US 84 just east of the US 59/US 96 interchange in Tenaha. For more information call the nursery at 936-248-3811.

Tyler: The Smith County Master Gardener Fall Conference and Bulb Sale will be held October 10 at the Harvey Hall Convention Center, 2000 W Front St., Tyler. Registration: 8:30 a.m. Program: 9 a.m. Free and open to the public Skip Richter, Harris County Extension - Horticulture Agent and Texas Gardener Contributing Editor, will present "Building Soil & Controlling Pests Nature's Way." The bulb and plant sale will follow the conference. Bulbs, perennials, trees and shrubs will be offered for sale. For more information: http://txmg.org/smith/coming-events/  or 903-590-2980.

Austin: John Dromgoole, founder and owner of The Natural Gardener, will discuss spiritual gardens including the historical background and ceremonial uses of specific plants as well as creating sacred spaces in your garden, Monday, October 12. The Austin Organic Gardeners' Club meets at the Austin Area Garden Center, 2220 Barton Springs Rd, in Zilker Botanical Gardens. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the opportunity to meet, mingle, and ask questions with local gardeners; club business begins at 7 p.m., followed by the guest speaker's presentation. For more information, visit  www.austinorganicgardeners.org.

Schertz: "Lawn Care" will be presented by Marvin Borth, Master Gardener, noon-1 p.m., Monday, October 12, at the GVEC Service Center Community Room, 908 Curtis Street, Schertz. Topics include: Turf Grass Types, Proper Maintenance, Fertilization, Weeds, and Pests Control. Free and attendees are welcome to bring a lunch. For more information call 830-303-3889, AgriLife Extension Office or visit guadalupecountymastergardeners.org.

San Antonio: "Trees, Trees, Trees!" presented by Mark Krotze of the Texas A&M Forest Service, 103 p.m., October 15, at 3355 Cherry Ridge Dr., San Antonio, will focus on trees in the local area and all you need to know about providing proper tree care. 2 CEUs for MGs. Free. Bexar County Master Gardner (BCMG) Educational Seminars/General Meetings are held on the afternoon of the third Thursday every other month at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office, Suite 208. For more information contact Jack Downey, President@bexarmg.org, or call 210-699-0663.

Huntsville: A Texas Pollinators Garden Symposium will be held 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., October 16 followed by a Butterfly Festival and Fall Plant Sale October 17 at the Veterans Conference Center, 455 Hwy 75, Huntsville. Speakers include Felder Rushing, Henry Flowers, and Dotty Woodson. Registration: $75 until September 15; $95 after September 15. For additional information, visit www.walkercountymastergardeners.org or call Duane Robinson at 936-355-8215. 

La Marque: "Buried Treasures...Bulbs & Other Hardy Perennials for Gulf Coast Landscapes," presented by GC Master Gardener Anna Wygrys. 9-11 a.m., October 17, at Galveston County AgriLife Extension in Carbide Park, 4102 Main, La Marque; Ph 281-534-3413; email reservations to galv3@wt.net, further details see www.aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/galveston. Free.

La Marque: "The Joy of Daylilies," presented by with Nell Shimek, 6:30-8 p.m., October 20, at Galveston County AgriLife Extension in Carbide Park, 4102 Main, La Marque; Ph 281-534-3413; email reservations to galv3@wt.net, further details see www.aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/galveston. Free.

Woodway: Master Gardener Louis McDaniel will present "Hydroponics/Aquaponics" from noon until 2 p.m., October 21, at the Pavilion at Carleen Bright Arboretum, 1 Pavilion Way, Woodway. For additional information, call 254-399-9204.

St. Francisville, Louisiana: The Southern Garden Symposium, offering prestigious speakers amid gracious surroundings, will be held October 23 & 24, in St. Francisville, La. With featured speakers including LSU Ag Center's Allen Owings, award-winning floral designer Scott Hasty, and noted author Larry Mellichamp, no other gardening program brings together top quality speakers and historic plantation settings as well as the Southern Garden Symposium in St. Francisville, La. Known as much for its engaging social events and historic venues as for its outstanding gardening lectures and workshops, the Southern Garden Symposium - now in its 27th year - has become an annual tradition for garden enthusiasts from across the south. While the symposium's workshops and lectures provide ideas and inspiration for the gardener, the social activities surrounding the event are classic southern elegance at its best. From the home-baked breakfast breads served in the morning, to the sumptuous fare of the evening gala and the delightfully relaxed Saturday afternoon tea, not a single detail of southern hospitality is overlooked. Located about 45 minutes north of Baton Rouge, La., St. Francisville was established in 1809. Set in a unique location on a bluff of the Mississippi River and often described as a town "two miles long and two yards wide," the quaint community offers southern hospitality, fantastic shopping, and breathtaking scenery. Symposium events are held at several historic and picturesque locations, both public and private, including Afton Villa Gardens, Rosedown Plantation, Grace Episcopal Church, Wildwood, Underwood Cottage, and more. For complete program information and registration forms, visit www.SouthernGardenSymposium.org, call 225-635-3738, or email luciecassity@bellsouth.net. For information regarding overnight accommodations in St. Francisville, visit www.stfrancisville.us  or call 225-635-4224, toll free at 800-789-4221. Seating is limited and hotel rooms can be scarce in St. Francisville in October, so register now!

Bryan/College Station: The Brazos County Master Gardeners' Association will host the 3rd Annual Garden Tour, "Beyond the Garden Gate," on Saturday, October 24, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. This year's garden line-up will offer four diverse home gardens and the Master Gardeners' Demonstration Idea Garden (The DIG). The Demonstration Idea Garden (DIG): "The DIG," the garden created and maintained by local Master Gardeners, is located at 2619 Hwy. 21 West, Bryan, and will offer fun-filled and educational addition to this year's tour. There will be a family pollinator hunt with prizes from 9 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Then from noon - 1 p.m. Chef Tai, owner of Veritas Wine & Bistro will hold a demonstration of garden cooking. From 1:30-2:30 there will be a demonstration by a local beekeeper and door prizes will be announced at 3:00p.m. Wildlife Habitat and Garden: This 5.5 acre property, located at 10100 White's Creek Rd., College Station, is certified as a Wildlife Habitat, a Texas Wildscape and Best of Texas Backyard Habitat and as a Butterfly Garden. The homeowner has augmented the natural setting with native Texas plant species selected to entice and sustain local and transient wildlife with food, water and shelter. The owner is a die-hard composter and loves to teach others the art and science of composting. Garden of Easing: The Garden of Easing, located at 11737 Durrand St., College Station, provides an inviting setting for relaxation, contemplation, and entertainment. The owners designed a long-term functional structure for the garden that protects the large post oaks, elms and other trees, shrubs and vines that are on the property. The lawn was reduced to a minimum to lower irrigation requirements while providing a drainage swale that directs water from front to back. Seasonal splashes of color are provided by annuals in the ground and in decorative containers. To avoid mud trails and increase the backyard entertainment area, a circular concrete paver patio is extended with connecting flowing cobble. As the name indicates, this gardener was looking for function, aesthetics and ease of gardening. The Rescue Garden of Hidden Dimensions: The Rescue Garden of Hidden Dimensions, located at 3927 Hawk Owl Cove, College Station, demonstrates the infinite dimensions possible in a small garden created from discounted plants lovingly resuscitated by the gardener. Hundreds of plants grow in a riotous beauty that brings joy to the beholder. Plants can be seen at many vertical levels and raised beds are framed by white stones. Water features and soft night lighting are embedded into garden environments. With careful nurturing in winter, the gardener has successfully grown an abundance of subtropical and potted tropical plants, rewarding visitors with a splash of leaf and flower colors and textures through most of the year. Sanctuary Rose Garden: Taking inspiration from Europe and Savannah, the homeowner of this garden, located at 4605 Oakmont Circle, College Station, has designed a tranquil, rose-filled, walled sanctuary, using classical elements of symmetry, structure, and stone. Roses, emblematic in Catholicism, predominate, but under, above and through the canes is a rich diversity of plants, including fruit trees and hard-to-grow specimens of camellia and hydrangea. A six-foot statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel surmounts the Italianate fountain at center stage. Bricked and gravel paths lead past the statue to roses and clematis climbing the fences. A compact vegetable garden is tucked in next to the rain capture system that waters the yard by means of drip irrigation. Ticket Information: Tickets may be purchased between September 1 -October 22, on-line at www.brazosmg.com, at Brazos Natural Foods, 4303 S. Texas at Rosemary, Bryan, or at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office, 2619 Hwy. 21 W, Bryan. They may also be purchased on-site at any of the five gardens on tour day. Tickets are $15 for adult admittance to all gardens. Tickets for "The DIG" only are $5 and there is no charge for children under 12 years of age with ticketed adult. Tickets purchased at the Extension Office or those purchased on-site at any garden on October 24 must be paid by cash or check only.

La Marque: "Garden Tool Care Presentation and Workshop," presented by GC Master Gardeners Tim Jahnke and Henry Harrison, III, 9 a.m.-noon, October 24, at Galveston County Master Gardener Demonstration Garden in Carbide Park, 4102 Main, La Marque; Ph 281-534-3413; email reservations to galv3@wt.net, further details see www.aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/galveston. Free.

Victoria: Victoria County Master Gardener Association will hold its 2015 "Garden Tour: Nature's Beauty Beyond the Gate" featuring six home locations in Victoria Oct. 24-25. For more information call 361-575-4581.
NOVEMBER

Tyler: "Providing Winter Care for Wildlife" will be presented at noon, November 3, in the IDEA garden at the Tyler Rose Garden, 420 Rose Park Dr., Tyler. An informative lecture covering seasonal gardening topics held on the patio of the IDEA garden, the program begins at noon. The lecture is approximately 30 minutes with a Q&A session following. Seating is limited; please bring a chair for you comfort. In case of inclement weather, program will be held in Rose Garden Center. For more information, visit http://txmg.org/smith/coming-events/ or call 903-590-2980.

Austin: "Bold and Beautiful Edibles" will be presented, 10 a.m. to noon, November 12. Learn about edible plants with ornamental potential for Central Texas landscapes. We're talking artichokes, asparagus, rhubarb, strawberries, herbs and more. Some are perennials, some are annuals, but all will beautify your landscape and satisfy your appetite. Master Gardener Patty Leander is a writer for Texas Gardener magazine and grows vegetables year round in her Oak Hill garden. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service-Travis County, 1600-B Smith Road, Austin. Cost: $10 thru 11/02, $15 starting 11/03 and onsite, No cash accepted - checks and credit cards only. Register: https://agriliferegister.tamu.edu/TravisCounty, Register by Phone: 979-845-2604
Contact: Sue Carrasco, 512-854-9610 or sacarrasco@ag.tamu.edu.

La Grange: Johnny Schroeder will present "Lawn & Landscape Equipment Management" at 12:05 p.m., November 12, at the Fayette County Agricultural Building, 255 Svoboda Lane, La Grange. Maintenance tips and schedules for all your outdoor power equipment. maintain your yard and garden like a pro with these handy operation tips and tricks. For additional information, visit http://fayette.agrilife.org.

Woodway: Master Gardener Patricia Goaley will present "Anecdotes from the Garden," an amusing romp through the garden, from noon until 2 p.m., November 18, at the Pavilion at Carleen Bright Arboretum, 1 Pavilion Way, Woodway. For additional information, call 254-399-9204.
DECEMBER
Grapevine: The National Grazing Lands Coalition will host the 6th National Conference on Grazing Lands December 13-16, at the Hyatt Regency DFW near Grapevine. Conference organizers expect more than 1,200 ranchers, professors, land managers, researchers, public officials, conservationists and students to attend this national conference and participate in the exchange of ideas and information on grazing land environmental and economic practices and issues. The conference will feature experts in fields such as range science, range and pasture management, forage management and animal behavior. Speakers include Dr. Don Ball, professor emeritus, Auburn University; Dr. Garry Lacefield, professor of plant and soil science, Extension forage specialist, University of Kentucky; Dr. Peter Ballerstedt, forage product manager, Barenbrug, USA; and Dr. Rachel Gilker and Kathy Voth, who produce "On Pasture," an online grazing magazine which translates research and experience into actions graziers can implement on their own operations. The conference's unique format will provide grazing information and expert speakers along four "tracks" - Western, Midwestern, Eastern and Dairy. Some of the topics to be highlighted include grazing management, grazing land economics and marketing, public policy, soil health and the ag/urban interface. Session speakers also include everyday ranchers and land managers. This year's conference will also feature a "Texas Day" on December 15 that will feature sessions on prescribed burning and brush management, along with a Texas Social in the evening. Early bird registration of $295 is available through Oct. 15, followed by regular online registration of $365 until Dec. 4. On-site registration is also available at $365. For more registration information, or opportunities to exhibit or participate in poster presentations visit http://www.grazinglands.org.

Woodway: Peggy Cathey of Waco Iris will discuss Irises from noon until 2 p.m., December 16, at the Pavilion at Carleen Bright Arboretum, 1 Pavilion Way, Woodway. For additional information, call 254-399-9204.
Monthly meetings

 

If you would like your organization's events included in "Monthly Meetings" or would like to make a change to a listed meeting, please contact us at Monthly Meetings. To ensure inclusion in this column, please provide complete details. 

 

FIRST WEEK

  

Kaufman: The Kaufman County Master Gardeners meet the first Monday of each month at the First Community Church at 1401 Trinity Drive in Crandall. January through April and August and September meetings are at 9 a.m., with the remaining meetings beginning at 7 p.m. For additional information visit http://www.kcmga.org, call 972-932-9069 or email to sbburden@ag.tamu.edu.


Houston: The Harris County Master Gardeners meet at noon the first Tuesday of each month at the Texas AgriLife Extension, 3033 Bear Creek Drive (near the intersection of Highway 6 and Patterson Road), Houston. For additional information visit http://hcmga.tamu.edu
or call 281-855-5600.

Dallas: Garden Masters, Inc., meet the first Wednesday of each month at North Haven Gardens, 7700 Northaven Rd., Dallas. The club hosts different speaker each month from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Bring your lunch! For more information, email Bunny Williams at bunny-williams@sbcglobal.net.

 

Kerrville: Hill Country Master Gardeners meet the first Wednesday of each month at 1:00 pm at Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Hwy 27. For more information visit www.hillcountrymastergardeners.org.

 

Midland/Odessa: The Permian Basin Master Gardeners meet at noon, the first Wednesday of each month, lternating between the Midland and Ector County's Extensions Offices. For more information about location, call 432-498-4071 or 432-686-4700.

  

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. 

 

Brownwood: The Brown County Master Gardeners Association meets the first Thursday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the AgriLife Extension Office, 605 Fisk Ave., Brownwood. For further information, call Mary Green Engle at 325-784-8453.

Fort Worth: The North Central Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas meets the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. except (January and July) in the Fort Worth Botanical Garden Building at 3220 Botanic Garden Boulevard, Fort Worth. For additional information, contact President Theresa Thomas at kayleetl@sbcglobal.net.

 

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. 

 

SECOND WEEK

 

Austin: Austin Organic Gardeners Club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month (except December) at the Austin Area Garden Center, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Zilker Botanical Gardens in Austin. For more information, visit www.austinorganicgardeners.org.

Jacksonville: The Cherokee County Master Gardeners meet on the second Monday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at Woodmen of the World, 1800 College Ave., Jacksonville. For more information, e-mail Tom Abbott at tom@deerfield-abbey.org.

 

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 Billye Adams at 512-863-9636 or visit http://www.npsot.org/WilliamsonCounty/default.htm.

 

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.

 

San Antonio: The San Antonio Herb Society meets at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the San Antonio Garden Center, 3310 N. New Braunfels (corner of Funston & N. New Braunfels). For more information on programs, visit www.sanantonioherbs.org.

Smithville: The Smithville Community Gardens meets at 5:30 p.m. the second Thursday of each month at the Smithville Recreation Center. 

 

Angleton: The Brazoria County Master Gardeners meet at 11 a.m. on the second Friday of each month at the Brazoria County Extension Office, 21017 County Road 171, Angleton. There is a general business meeting followed by a brief educational program each month. For further information call 979-864-1558, ext.110.

 

College Station: The A&M Garden Club meets on the second Friday of each month during the school year at 9:30 a.m. in the training room of the College Station Waste Water Facility building at the end of North Forest Parkway, College Station. Expert speakers, plant sharing, and federated club projects help members learn about gardening in the Brazos Valley, floral design, conservation, and more. For more information, visit http://www.amgardenclub.com/.

 

Houston: The Spring Branch African Violet Club meets the second Saturday of each month, January through November, at 10:30am at the Copperfield Baptist Church, 8350 Highway 6 North, Houston. Call Karla at 281-748-8417 prior to attending to confirm meeting date and time.

  

Kilgore: Northeast Texas Organic Gardeners meets at 1:30 p.m. on the second Saturday of each month. For more information, call Carole Ramke at 903-986-9475.

 

Dallas: The Rainbow Garden Club of North Texas meets the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Meetings are held at member's homes and garden centers around the area. For more information, visit www.RainbowGardenClub.com.

 

THIRD WEEK

 

Arlington: The Arlington Men's Garden Club meets from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. on the third Monday of each month (except December) at the Bob Duncan Center, 2800 S. Center Street, Arlington. For more information, contact Lance Jepson at LJepson@aol.com.

 

Cleburne:The Johnson County Master Gardener's meet on the third Monday of each month at McGregor House, 1628 W Henderson, Cleburne. Meeting times are at 2 p.m. October through April, except December and at 6 p.m. May through September. An educational program precedes the business meeting. For additional information, contact Sue Matern at 817-517-9076.

  

New Braunfels: The Comal Master Gardeners meet at 6 p.m. the third Monday of each month (except April and December,) at the GVTC Auditorium, 36101 FM 3159, New Braunfels. An educational program precedes the business meeting. The public is invited to attend. For additional information, call 830-620-3440 or visit http://txmg.org/comal/.

 

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 7:00 p.m. at the GVTC Auditorium, 36101 FM 3159, New Braunfels. Meetings include an informative speaker, plant of the month presentation, and plant raffle. Visitors are welcome. For more information, visit www.npsot.org/wp/lindheimer.

 

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/.

 

Seabrook: The Harris County Precinct 2 Master Gardeners hold an educational program at 10 a.m. on the third Wednesday of each month at The Meeting Room at Clear Lake Park (on the Lakeside), 5001 NASA Road 1, Seabrook. The programs are free and open to the public. For more information, visit http://hcmgap2.tamu.edu.

 

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.

 

Houston: The Native Plant Society of Texas - Houston (NPSOT-H) meets at 7:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month except for October (4th Thursday) at the Houston SArboretum and Nature Center in Memorial Park (4501 Woodway Dr.). For more information on programs, and for information about native plants for Houston, visit http:/npsot.org/wp/Houston.

 

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.

 

FOURTH WEEK

 

Brackenridge Park: The Native Plant Society San Antonio Chapter meets every fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Lions Field Adult and Senior Center, 2809 Broadway at E. Mulberry, Brackenridge Park, except August and December. Social and seed/plant exchange at 6:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. For more information, contact Bea at 210-999-7292 or visit www.npsot.org/sanantonio.

 

Bryan: The Brazos County Master Gardeners, a program of Texas AgriLife Extension, meet the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Brazos Center, 3232 Briarcrest Drive, Bryan. There is a public gardening program at each meeting and pertinent information may be found at brazosmg.com or 979-823-0129.

 

Edna: The Jackson County Master Gardeners present their "Come Grown With Us" seminars on the fourth Tuesday of each month, January through October, beginning at 7 p.m. at 411 N. Wells, Edna. The seminars are free, open to the public and offer 2 CEU hours to Master Gardeners or others requiring them. For additional information, contact the Jackson County Extension Office at 361-782-3312.

 

Linden: The Caddo Wildflower Chapter of Native Plants Society meets the fourth Tuesday of each month at the senior citizens building at 507 S Kaufman St. in Linden at 6:30. Visitors are welcome. For additional information, contact Karen Tromza at khtromza@yahoo.com.

 

Fort Worth: The Organic Garden Club of Forth Worth meets at 7 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month except July and December at the Deborah Beggs Moncrief Garden Center, 3220 Botanic Blvd., Ft. Worth. Refreshments are served. For more information, call 817-263-9322 or visit www.ogcfw.webs.com.

 

San Antonio: The Native Plant Society of Texas San Antonio Chapter meets the fourth Tuesday of each month, except August and December, at the Lions Field Adult & Senior Center, 2809 Broadway, San Antonio. Social and plant/seed exchange at 6:30 p.m., program at 7:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.npsot.org/sanantonio or email npsot.sanantonio@gmail.com.

 

Houston: The Houston Native Prairie Association meets at 7 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Cherie Flores Pavilion in McGovern Centennial Gardens at Hermann Park, 1500 Hermann Drive, Houston. For more information, contact hnpat@prairies.org.

 

Leander: The Leander Garden Club meets on the fourth Thursday of each month (except July and August) at 10:30 a.m. at the community room behind the Greater Texas Federal Credit Union,1300 N. Bell, Cedar Park, unless there is special event planned. Following a program and short business meeting, we share a pot-luck luncheon. To confirm the meeting place and time, please call president Cathy Clark-Ramsey at 512-963-4698 or email info@leandergc.org.

 

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.

 

Dallas: The Greater Dallas Organic Garden Club meets at 7:00 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month at the REI, 4515 LBJ Freeway, Dallas. For more information, call 214-824-2448 or visit www.gdogc.org.

  

Arlington: The Arlington Organic Garden Club meets from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. on the last Thursday of each month (except November and December) at the Bob Duncan Center, 2800 S. Center Street, Arlington. For more information, contact David at 817-483-7746.
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