Travis County Master Gardeners Association

Demonstration Garden Open House and Plant Sale
2018-10-20 09:00 - 13:00 UTC | Travis Co AgriLife Extension Service Office, 1600 Smith Road, Austin, TX, 78721, United States
The Travis County AgriLife Extension Service will be hosting its annual Demonstration Garden Open House and Plant Sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on October 20, 2018.
Daphne Richards, Travis County Extension Horticulturist, will be on hand to answer your gardening questions and Travis County Master Gardener Specialists will host informal discussions on a variety of topics, such as, rainwater harvesting, composting, herbs, vegetables, native and adapted plants and roses.
Additionally, the Travis County Master Gardener Association will be holding a Plant Sale featuring pollinator-friendly perennials, such as Duranta, mistflower and Mexican mint marigold. All the plants have been propagated by Travis County Master Gardeners.
The Demonstration Garden is full of plants that fill many different needs, including drought tolerance, brilliant color, plants for full sun or shade and plants of varying heights. There are ornamental trees, flowering shrubs, perennial and annual flowers, roses, vines, herbs, groundcovers and vegetables, all watered by a drip irrigation system and harvested rainwater. The best organic and traditional gardening and landscaping principles are combined to create an effective and environmentally responsible garden which encourages water conservation, reduced fertilizer and pesticide use, energy conservation and reduction of waste in landfills.
The Demonstration Garden is located in front of the Travis County AgriLife Extension Service offices at 1600B Smith Road, Austin, 78721. The garden was designed and is maintained by the volunteer efforts of the Travis County Master Gardeners. It serves as a test area for plants, including a newly planted rose garden, and as a demonstration tool for the citizens of Travis County.
For more information contact Daphne Richards at drichards@ag.tamu.edu or 512.854.9600.

The Care of Trees and Adding Roses to Your Garden
2018-10-06 10:30 - 12:30 UTC | North Village Branch Library, 2505 Steck Ave, Austin, TX, United States
Trees improve our environment, provide shelter from the hot Texas sun and add beauty to our landscapes, so keeping them healthy is extremely important. Travis County Master Gardener Wendy Buck will share tree maintenance procedures, such as mulching, proper pruning, limiting fertilization and supplemental irrigation techniques that will increase your trees’ chance of withstanding our extreme weather swings.
Growing roses in Central Texas is easier than you thought! Today there are many hybrid varieties that need little maintenance and have abundant blooms. Travis County Master Gardener Cher Coleman, who has 30 years’ experience working with roses, will teach methods for proper selection of rose varieties, site prep and maintenance like pruning, pest control and fertilization.

North Village Branch Library
2505 Steck Ave., Austin, TX
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
For more information or questions, call the Travis County Agrilife Extension Office at 512-854-9600.

Fall Vegetable Gardening
2018-09-08 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
The milder days of fall create an ideal gardening environment for both garden and gardener. Now is the time to plant cool-season vegetables, including broccoli, kale, Swiss chard, lettuce, sugar snap peas and more. Join Master Gardener Patty Leander as she shares tips for planting a fall garden, along with information on recommended vegetable varieties, planting dates and organic techniques for pest control.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.

Creating Sustainable Designs with Permaculture
2018-08-11 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Permaculture looks to the flows of nature, such as the sun, wind, and water, as the foundation of design to create regenerative systems that are both productive and beautiful. Its design principles integrate sustainable and self-sufficient gardening practices to create an ecosystem that minimizes its impact on the environment. Please join Taelor Monroe, Executive Director, Austin Permaculture Guild, as she shares gardening strategies and practical tips, such as companion planting, that can be incorporated in your own garden designs, whether you are updating your landscape or starting anew.
The Travis County Master Gardeners Association is sponsoring free public seminars on the second Saturday of each month from May to September.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.

The 6 D’s of Container Gardening Success
2018-07-14 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Whether you want winter color or summer vegetables, you can grow it in containers. The session covers the major considerations and decisions that lead to gardening success – from design and soil, to irrigation and sunlight. Participants will come away with a list of recommended plants and resources suitable for Central Texas. Travis County Master Gardener Kirk Walden is a hands-on experiential gardener.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.

Easy Composting with Worms!
2018-06-09 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Let these “little composters” save landfill space while turning your kitchen vegetable and fruit waste into black gold! Even if you live in an apartment, you can host a small bin under the kitchen sink. Worm casting are useful in many ways: compost tea, potting soils, top dressing for houseplants and seedlings, just to name a few. Tommie Clayton, Master Gardener Compost Specialist, will show you how worm bins work, demonstrate how to construct your own worm bin and get it started, review methods for harvesting castings and for brewing your own tea.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.

The Beauty of Cacti and Succulents in your Garden
2018-05-12 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Cacti and succulents can add an appealing and compelling look to your garden. These water-wise plants work well in plantings together, thanks to sharing similar features and preferred conditions. Along with being low maintenance, their wide range of leaf colors and forms add visual interest and drama to any setting. Please join members of the Austin Cactus and Succulent Society, Andrea Wakefield and Jeff Pavlat as they share their expertise and suggestions for including cacti and succulents in your gardening plans.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.

2018 East Austin Garden Fair
2018-04-14 | Parque Zaragoza Recreation Center, Parque Zaragoza Recreation Center 2608 Gonzales Street, Austin, TX, 78702, United States
PARQUE ZARAGOZA RECREATION CENTER
2608 GONZALES STREET, AUSTIN, TX 78702
RAIN OR SHINE – COME ENJOY THIS GREAT EVENT.
ASK THE EXPERTS AND GET GARDEN IDEAS.
KID-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES!
Free Admission
Free Plants
Free Garden books, magazines, seed catalogs and plastic garden buckets
Free Soil Screening for food gardeners – Bring a 2-cup soil sample in a quart zip lock bag.
Easy instructions for soil sampling at http://austintexas.gov/soilkitchen
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Travis County Master Gardeners, and Austin Parks & Recreation present the 12th annual East Austin Garden Fair.
Free and open to the public, this fun, hands-on fair involves community members in creative, low-cost ways to grow vegetables, herbs and fruit to improve the family diet as well as information about Earth-Kind landscaping. Travis County Master Gardeners offer University-based information to fairgoers on a diverse variety of horticulture topics, while Community Partner Organizations provide information on closely-related services, programs and projects.
The fair features an assortment of DIY and demonstration activities, including building a rain barrel, raised bed or compost bin, and information about waterwise irrigation methods and gardening in containers and straw bales. Learn how to care for house plants as well as your garden tools! Booths on backyard chickens and beekeeping are a big hit with all ages and there will be plenty of activities for kids.
For more information, please call 512-854-9600.
The members of Texas A&M AgriLife will provide equal opportunities in programs and activities, education, and employment to all persons regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation or gender identity. The Texas A&M University System, the U. S. Department of Agriculture and the County Commissioners’ Court of Texas cooperating.
Persons with disabilities who plan to attend a meeting and who may need auxiliary aids or services are required to contact Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service-Travis County at 512-854-9600 ten working days prior to the meeting so appropriate arrangements can be made.

Native and Well-Adapted Plants: Winning Combinations
2018-03-29 18:00 - 19:00 UTC | Pflugerville Library, 1008 Pfluger St W, Pflugerville, TX, 78660, United States
The first step to successful gardening in Central Texas is to choose the right plants. The next step is to combine them in ways that they thrive with each other to present a pleasing palate in your garden space year-round. Garden size, light, water and soil will be taken into consideration. Participants will come away with a list of different ornamental groupings suitable for five different garden situations. Presented by Travis County Master Gardener, Kirk Walden.
This is a free event.
Thursday, March 29, 6:00 PM, Pflugerville Library, 1008 Pfluger St W, Pflugerville, TX

Vertical Vegetables
2018-03-10 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Vertical structures save space, increase yields, make harvesting easier and add interest to the garden; any vegetable that vines, climbs, twirls or sprawls can be grown “up”. Master Gardener Patty Leander will share varieties of beans, cucumbers, squash, tomatoes, peas and even small melons that be grown on a vertical support, with plenty of practical tips and photos for inspiration.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.

Travis County Master Gardener Plant Sale
2018-03-10 09:00 - 14:30 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
A Plant Sale sponsored by the Travis County Master Gardener Association (TCMGA) will be held on Saturday, March 10, from 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at Zilker Botanical Garden. Representatives from the TCMGA, Austin Herb Society, Iris Society of Austin and Texas Bamboo Society will set up on the South Lawn to sell plants and answer your questions.
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.

Garden Decorating 101 – recycle, reclaim and repurpose
2017-11-04 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Create an outdoor sanctuary by infusing bits of your own personality into your garden. You know what calms you, what aspects of an environment make you feel safest and most peaceful. Bring out those aspects by enhancing your garden in ways that accentuate these elements. Travis County Master Gardener Martha King will show how nature is the ultimate recycler, reusing everything it can and that creators of garden spaces can use nature as an example.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.
For more information contact: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service – Travis County, 512-854-9600

Tree Care Seminar
2017-10-28 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Community College South Campus, 1820 W Stassney Lane, Austin, TX, 78745, United States
Saturday October 28 from 10am-12pm
Austin Community College South Campus – Room 1130
1820 W Stassney Lane
Austin, TX 78745
Travis County Master Gardeners will present an informative seminar on basic tree care, tree selection, and common tree diseases. Geared toward the homeowner, you’ll come away with knowledge in selecting the right tree for your space, planting new trees in the urban environment and tips on how to care for your tree during it’s first 3 years. Also learn to identify common tree problems and diseases and hear the latest news on Oak Wilt in our area. Presentations from Wendy Buck, Jackie Johnson, and Jerry Naiser will last about 40 minutes each including time for questions.
The seminar is free and open to the public. Parking on site.

Brooke Elementary Sustainable Gardening Symposium
2017-10-21 | Brooke Elementary School, 3100 E 4th St, Austin, TX, 78702, United States
Brooke Elementary and Travis County Master Gardeners have collaborated to create a day long gardening symposium. This event is open to the public. Please see below for registration information.
Please join us for the Brooke Elementary Sustainable Gardening Symposium. Registration is open to parents, teachers, and interested community members that want to learn more about gardening. Registration is $25 for the day (lunch included).
Speaker topics include:

Grow Your Own Veggies
Backyard Chickens
Preserve the Harvest/Vegetable Fermenting
Backyard Bees
Companion Planting

Information Booths (available in the gym) include:

Composing/Vermiculture
Rainwater Harvesting
Beneficial Insects
Butterfly Gardening
Tree Care
Ground to Ground
Junior Master Gardener Program

Cost $25 per person (includes lunch)-Sessions will be held in the cafeteria/Information Booths will be in the Gymnasium
CPE Credits will be offered to teachers from AISD Science Department/CE Credits will be offered to MGs that attend
Schedule:

8:30-9:00 Registration
9:00-9:15 Introduction to Brooke Green Program
9:20-10:15 Grow Your Own Veggies
10:20-11:15 Backyard Chickens
11:20-12:20 Lunch (School Garden Panel Discussion w/ AISD Outdoor Learning Specialist)
-Attendees can take a tour of the campus gardens
-Attendees can visit information booths in the gymnasium
12:25-1:20 Preserving the Harvest/Vegetable Fermenting
1:25-2:20 Backyard Bees
2:25-3:20 Companion Planting
3:25-4:00 Final Remarks and Survey

Information Booths available in the gymnasium between 10:30-2:30pm
Current Booths:
Composting/Vermiculture
Rainwater Harvesting
Beneficial Insects vs Harmful Insects (IPM)
Butterfly Gardening
Tree Care
Junior Master Gardener Program
Ground to Ground Program
Register online at https://agriliferegister.tamu.edu/productListingDetails/2393
Register by phone: 979-845-2604

Water-Wise Symposium for Home Gardeners
2017-09-30 10:00 - 16:45 UTC | Cepeda Branch Library, 651 N Pleasant Valley Rd, Austin, TX, 78702, United States
All-Day Program Features Experts from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Travis County Master Gardener Association and the City of Austin
Expanding on a popular seminar series, a Water-Wise Symposium for home gardeners has been set for September 30, 2017 at the
Cepeda Branch, Austin Public Library
651 N Pleasant Valley Rd
Austin, TX 78702
Participants will learn how to save precious water and money by capturing, channeling and controlling water in the lawn and garden. They will get practical advice from a distinguished panel of Austin experts. Topics covered in the day-long program include rainwater collection, rainscapes, efficient home and garden design, grey water use and City of Austin rebates.
Marian Stasney, program coordinator, said: “Water conservation and control are increasingly crucial for Central Texas. This symposium is a unique opportunity for home gardeners to get comprehensive information all in one place, all in one day.” Attendance at the symposium is free. But, advance registration is required because seating is strictly limited.
The agenda for the full-day symposium is as follows;

10:00 – 10:50 Rainwater Collection, Ed Parken, Travis County Master Gardener
11:00 – 12:00 Rainscapes, Tom Franke, COA Watershed Protection Department
1:00 – 1:50 Water Efficiency, Jerry Naiser, Travis County Master Gardener
2:00 – 2:50 Holistic Home Design for Water Collection and Conservation, Billy Kniffen, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, ARCSA instructor
3:00 – 3:50 Grey Water Use and Design, Robert Stefani, Austin Water
4:00 – 4:15 Rebates from City of Austin, Chris Charles, COA
4:15 – 4:45 Panel Discussion: Best Practices

Attendance at the symposium is limited to 45 people. Based on similar programs, the symposium is likely to sell out well in advance. Interested residents should register as soon as practical.
Attendance is free. But advance registration is required at http://bit.ly/wisewater_conservation. The program will be held at the Cepeda Branch, Austin Public Library, 651 N Pleasant Valley Rd, Austin, TX 78702. Lunch is not provided. Numerous restaurants are nearby.

Bulbs for the Austin Area
2017-09-09 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Are you tired of planting bulbs that bloom once and you never see them again? Learn some of the reasons bulbs struggle in our climate and soil while others naturalize into generous clumps that you can share with your friends. Travis County Master Gardener Betty Dunn will discuss some reliable and newer varieties that grow well in our area.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.
For more information contact: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service – Travis County, 512-854-9600

Wise Rainwater Control for Central Texas
2017-08-05 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Raingardens, Rainwater Collection, Dry Creeks and Wetlands
Drought one month, floods the next. Yes, you must be gardening in Central Texas! Can a homeowner control excess run-off from spilling into streets, storm drains and prized succulent gardens? What are some questions that may need to be considered before deciding to invest in any or all of the common options for water control? Join seasoned Travis County Master Gardeners Marian Stasney and Pat Mokry for a discussion on the practical aspects of taming excess rainwater, including functionality, location, construction and maintenance.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.
For more information contact: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service – Travis County, 512-854-9600

The 6 D’s of Container Gardening Success
2017-07-08 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Whether you want winter color or summer vegetables, you can grow it in containers. The session covers the major considerations and decisions that lead to gardening success – from design and soil to irrigation and sunlight. Participants will come away with a list of recommended plants and resources suitable for Central Texas. Travis County Master Gardener Kirk Walden is a hands-on experiential gardener.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.
For more information contact: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service – Travis County, 512-854-9600

Wild in the City: Living with Austin's Urban Wildlife
2017-06-10 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Got critters? Meredith O’Reilly will lead a discussion of common wildlife species seen in Austin’s urban landscape and offer practical tips for humans to co-exist with wildlife while protecting home and garden. Meredith is the gardening specialist for 4-H CAPITAL and a Texas Master Naturalist.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.
For more information contact: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service – Travis County, 512-854-9600

Inside Austin Gardens Tour
2017-05-06 09:00 - 16:00 UTC | TX
5 private gardens, 1 public garden
9:00 am – 4:00 pm, rain or shine
A rare, behind-the-scenes look at gardens that demonstrate realistic, sustainable practices for Central Texas.
Garden Themes:
Earth-Kind Landscaping – environmentally friendly principles and a secret garden
Wildlife Restoration & Preservation – 23 acres of fruits, veggies, beehives and miniature horses
Birds, Butterflies, and Zen – natives, natural attractors along with meditation space
Sun & Shade – sunny daylilies to die for; shady umbrellas and gingers to soothe the soul
A Journey Through Fairyland – whimsical design, a plethora of plants and a garden piano
AgriLife Testing Ground – rainwater collection, new varieties and proven winners
$20 advance purchase
$25 on tour day, $5 on tour day for single-garden ticket
Information and tickets at www.InsideAustinGardens.org

East Austin Garden Fair 2017
2017-04-08 09:00 - 14:00 UTC | TX
A Passion for Plants: An East Austin Garden Fair
Parque Zaragoza Recreation Center
2608 Gonzales Street, Austin, TX 78702
Rain or Shine – come enjoy this great event.
Ask the experts and get garden ideas.
Kid-friendly activities!
Free Admission
Free Plants
Free Garden books, magazines, seed catalogs and plastic garden buckets
Free Soil Screening for food gardeners – Bring a 2-cup soil sample in a quart zip lock bag.
Easy instructions for soil sampling at http://austintexas.gov/soilkitchen
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Travis County Master Gardeners, and Austin Parks & Recreation present the 11th annual East Austin Garden Fair.
Free and open to the public, this fun, hands-on fair involves community members in creative, low-cost ways to grow vegetables, herbs and fruit to improve the family diet as well as information about Earth-Kind landscaping. Travis County Master Gardeners offer University-based information to fairgoers on a diverse variety of horticulture topics, while Community Partner Organizations provide information on closely-related services, programs and projects.
The fair features an assortment of DIY and demonstration activities, including building a rain barrel, raised bed or compost bin, and information about waterwise irrigation methods and gardening in containers and straw bales. Learn how to care for house plants as well as your garden tools! Booths on backyard chickens and beekeeping are a big hit with all ages and there will be plenty of activities for kids.
Long-standing community partners and new participants include the Sustainable Food Center, Green Corn Project, Home Depot Kid’s Workshop, Austin Public Library, Austin Resource Recovery, City of Austin-Urban Forestry, Austin Herb Society, 4-H CAPITAL AmeriCorps, Travis County 4-H, Travis Co Master Wellness Volunteers, Travis County Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program and Travis County Cooperative Extension Program-Prairie View A&M University.
For more information, please call 512-854-9600.
Flyer: English Spanish
The members of Texas A&M AgriLife will provide equal opportunities in programs and activities, education, and employment to all persons regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation or gender identity. The Texas A&M University System, the U. S. Department of Agriculture and the County Commissioners’ Court of Texas cooperating.
Persons with disabilities who plan to attend a meeting and who may need auxiliary aids or services are required to contact Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service-Travis County at 512-854-9600 ten working days prior to the meeting so appropriate arrangements can be made.

Zilker Garden Festival
2017-03-25 - 2017-03-26 | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin 78746
Saturday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Stop by the Travis County Master Gardener’s vendor tent to purchase a variety of ornamental plants, vegetables and herbs then head over to Kids’ Corner for fun educational garden activities.
Entrance – $10 Adults (age 13+), $4 Children (age 4-12), Under age 4 Free
Parking $5
For more information visit http://www.zilkergarden.org/ZGF/index.html

All About Roses
2017-02-04 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Incorporate user friendly roses into your new or existing garden plans! Travis County Master Gardener Cher Coleman has 30 years’ experience in the use of roses in a landscape. She will teach you methods for proper selection of rose varieties, site prep and maintenance like pruning, pest control and fertilization. This session is excellent for newbies and experienced gardeners and questions are encouraged.
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.
For more information contact: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service – Travis County, 512-854-9600

Hello Invasive Species, Goodbye Texas Natives
2016-11-12 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Austin Area Garden Center – Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX, United States
Invasive species have the potential to drastically change our Texas landscape. This presentation will cover the threats posed by invasive species, as well as responses to the threat. The Invaders of Texas citizen scientist program will be introduced, as one of several ways you can get involved in managing invasive species. As the Invasive Species Program Coordinator at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Dr. Hans Landel manages the Invaders of Texas citizen scientist program, manages the Texasinvasives.org website, and collaborates with other agencies and organizations in managing invasive species. He has performed conservation research both in the U.S. and internationally.
Picture: Giant reed (Arundo donax) along the Rio Grande, National Park Service ‐ http://science.nature.nps.gov/im/units/chdn/monitor/exotics.cfm
Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Seminar is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
Zilker park entrance fee is $2 per adult, $1 per child (ages 3-12) or seniors (age 62 & over), $3 for non-Austin Residents. Cash or check accepted.
For more information contact: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service – Travis County, 512-854-9600

Preserving the Harvest
2016-11-10 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Travis Co AgriLife Extension Service Office, 1600 Smith Road, Austin, TX, 78721, United States
Learn about the key food preservation processes; freezing, dehydration and canning. Factors related to food spoilage and the science involved in prevention will be covered along with a basic review of the tools and techniques involved. Master Gardener Jeff Peters will provide a step‐by step illustration of the hot water bath canning process–an excellent resource for those with an interest in preserving their garden produce.
Backyard Basics, offered by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Travis County, will provide consumers, backyard gardeners, homemakers, educators and farmers a “do-it-yourself” learning opportunity on tips for harvesting and preserving your garden produce, caring for bees and raising chickens for home egg production.
Cost: $10 thru 10/31, $15 starting 11/1 and onsite
NO cash accepted – checks and credit cards only. Space is limited so register on-line early to reserve your seat!
Register: https://agriliferegister.tamu.edu/TravisCounty
Register by Phone: 979-845-2604

Using Water Wisely - Demonstration Field Day
2016-11-05 09:00 - 13:00 UTC | Travis Co AgriLife Extension Service Office, 1600 Smith Road, Austin, TX, 78721, United States
Learn about the entire spectrum of water saving solutions from high tech to no tech at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office Demonstration Field Day in Austin. You determine the best answer for your situation and pocket book. Travis County Master Gardeners and Horticulturist Daphne Richards will be available to demonstrate and answer your questions on a one- on-one basis.
Discover various rain water catchment methods. See examples of various watering methods from a wicking bed to drip irrigation. Understand the importance of compost for water conservation and plant health. Gain knowledge about the importance of selecting the right plant for the spot. Look at ways to control heat (summer and winter) to increase vegetable garden production.
Come stroll the diverse garden and ask questions. Enjoy watching the butterflies, bees, blooming flowers, and growing vegetables. Take home lettuce seeds and how-to knowledge to accomplish your next project.
Demonstration Field Day is free and open to the public – No RSVP is required.
For more information, contact Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service – Travis County, 512-854-9600.

5th Annual Texas Fruit Conference
2016-10-31 08:30 - 2016-11-01 17:00 UTC | New Braunfels Civic & Convention Center, 375 S Castell Ave, New Braunfels, TX, United States
5th Annual Texas Fruit Conference to be Held in Central Texas for the First Time
Now in it’s fifth year, the Texas Fruit Conference has gotten bigger and better, encompassing a wide variety of cultural information and best management practices regarding fruit and nut crops. Featuring some of our most renowned AgriLife Extension experts and industry professionals, this year, for the first time ever, the conference will be held right here in Central Texas, at the New Braunfels Civic and Convention Center.
Whether you currently own an orchard, are considering the potential of establishing one, or are simply a fruit enthusiast, there’s something for you at this conference. This opportunity to learn from the very best experts on all-things fruit should not be missed!
Date: October 31 (1:00 to 5:00 PM) and November 1 (8:30 AM to 5:00 PM), 2016
Location: New Braunfels Civic & Convention Center, 375 S Castell Ave, New Braunfels
Cost: $80 through 10/21 ($95 late and onsite)
Register online: 5th Annual Texas Fruit Conference Registration
Just a few of the featured speakers include:
Monte Nesbitt, Jim Kamas, Larry Stein, George Ray McEachern, and Kevin Ong, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
Tom Beckman, USDA-ARS Fruit & Tree Nut Laboratory
Wes Mickel, Argus Cidery
Tim McCaskill, Austin Orchards
Check out the full agenda here: 5th Annual Texas Fruit Conference Agenda

Chickens in Your Backyard
2016-10-13 08:00 - 17:00 UTC | Travis Co AgriLife Extension Service Office, 1600 Smith Road, Austin, TX, 78721, United States
Are you ready for the fun and rewarding experience of keeping your own backyard chickens? Learn about planning your coop, breed selection, caring for chicks, ideas to beat boredom, diets for delicious eggs and keeping the coop clean. Master Gardener Ally Stresing will help you get started with this informative talk on raising the home flock.
Backyard Basics, offered by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Travis County, will provide consumers, backyard gardeners, homemakers, educators and farmers a “do-it-yourself” learning opportunity on tips for harvesting and preserving your garden produce, caring for bees and raising chickens for home egg production.
Cost: $10 thru 10/3, $15 starting 10/4 and onsite
NO cash accepted – checks and credit cards only. Space is limited so register on-line early to reserve your seat!
Register: https://agriliferegister.tamu.edu/TravisCounty
Register by Phone: 979-845-2604

To Bee, or Not to Bee
2016-09-08 10:00 - 12:00 (Asia/Karachi) | Travis Co AgriLife Extension Service Office, 1600 Smith Road, Austin, TX, 78721, United States
Come learn all about bees: anatomy, society & communication. Gather information on establishing your first hive, beekeeping equipment and integrated pest management. Master Gardener Ginny Stubblefield has been a beekeeper for 3 years and is a member of the Williamson County Area Beekeepers Association and the Austin Area Beekeepers.
Backyard Basics, offered by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Travis County, will provide consumers, backyard gardeners, homemakers, educators and farmers a “do-it-yourself” learning opportunity on tips for harvesting and preserving your garden produce, caring for bees and raising chickens for home egg production.
Cost: $10 thru 8/29, $15 starting 8/30 and onsite
NO cash accepted – checks and credit cards only. Space is limited so register on-line early to reserve your seat!
Register: https://agriliferegister.tamu.edu/TravisCounty
Register by Phone: 979-845-2604

Garden to Kitchen - Tips for a Fresh and Tasty Harvest
2016-08-11 10:00 - 12:00 (Asia/Karachi) | Travis Co AgriLife Extension Service Office, 1600 Smith Road, Austin, TX, 78721, United States
The best part of vegetable gardening is the harvest! Give your home‐grown vegetables the attention they deserve with proper harvesting and handling techniques. Master Gardener Patty Leander shares tips on when to harvest produce at its prime along with proper storage conditions for peak quality and flavor.
Backyard Basics, offered by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Travis County, will provide consumers, backyard gardeners, homemakers, educators and farmers a “do-it-yourself” learning opportunity on tips for harvesting and preserving your garden produce, caring for bees and raising chickens for home egg production.
Cost: $10 thru 8/1, $15 starting 8/2 and onsite
NO cash accepted – checks and credit cards only. Space is limited so register on-line early to reserve your seat!
Register: https://agriliferegister.tamu.edu/TravisCounty
Register by Phone: 979-845-2604
