Gardening Events email

https://tngaustin.com/event

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

We still have many exciting events going on this spring in the Highland Lakes area.

March thru May - Backbone Valley Nursery will present gardening programs at the nursery on most Saturdays at 1:00 PM in March and at 10 AM in April and May. These programs are approved for AT credit for Master Gardeners. Go to backbonevalleynursery.com/events/list for list of programs.

Wednesday, March 27th - It's time for the second plant sale at the Burnet Middle school. You can get great plants at good prices and help this great program at the same time. It will be 9 AM to 4 PM at their greenhouse. Go north on 281 past Hwy 29 to 3rd street and turn right to about the third entrance just before the baseball fields. Proceed right to the greenhouse. Lots of beautiful vegetables, hanging baskets, and plants.

Saturday, March 30th - Master Gardener's Hill Country Lawn and Garden Show will be held on March 30th at the Burnet Community Center, 401 East Jackson St., in Burnet from 9 AM to 3 PM. Come choose your spring plants and hear excellent speakers. The best vendors in the area will be there in addition to the Native Plant Society, the Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists and the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society. Be sure to get your tickets for the beautiful raffle quilt to be awarded at the show and participate in the large silent auction. There are also children's activities. There are three programs presented at the show. At 9:30, the head gardener at the Helping Center Garden, Master Gardener Ricky Lane, will present Tomatoes 101 - a complete guide to growing wonderful organic tomatoes. At 11:00, Master Gardener Sheryl Yantis will present a very informative and beautiful program on "Hill Country Wildflowers and More" and at 12:30 learn about our Hill Country Butterflies in "Let's Talk Butterflies". AT for MG for all 3 programs and AT for MN for Wildflowers and Butterflies.

Thursday, April 4th - The meeting of the Birding and Wildflower Society will have a presentation by Mr. Dennis Markwardt with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) entitled “TxDOT’s Wildflower Program”. The meeting is at the AgriLife Extension building at 607 North Vandeveer St. in Burnet. The monthly bird walk before the meeting will be at the City of Burnet's Haley Nelson Park located at 1624 Buchanan Dr (West Hwy 29), Burnet. (see link below for more information), Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. Go to www.yantislakesidegardens.com/hlbws for more information and directions. AT for MG

Wednesday, April 10th - The Master Gardener Green Thumb program for April is Burnet County Extension Agent Kelly Tarla with a free program on "Native Plants for Landscaping" at the Lakeshore Library, 7346 Hwy 261, Buchanan Dam at 2 PM AT for MG

April 12th-14^th - The second weekend in April means it’s time for the Burnet Bluebonnet Festival and the wildflower show from the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society. This display is held at the side room of the Burnet Public Library from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Friday and 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. Many of the Hill Country Wildflowers will be identified and on display in this free public service event. Get full information at https://bluebonnetfestival.org

Saturday, April 13th and 27th - The Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center is offering talks approximately every other Saturday at Numinous Coffee Roasters in Marble Falls. It is located on RM 1431 one block east of US 281 on the north side. The discussion for the 13th is Martelle Ludecke discussing "Vultures: Nature's Clean-up Crew" These are not presentations but casual discussion tables for visitors to stop and get info and ask questions. They will be there between 9 and noon so please drop by. The discussion for the 27th is Master Naturalist Sondra Fox discussing "Monarchs and other Butterflies"

Saturday, April 20th - The Kingsland Garden Club presents their annual home-grown Plant Sale in conjunction with The Lion's Semi-annual Charity Pancake Breakfast at the Kingsland Community Center 7 AM to 12 PM. Get quality plants at great prices and breakfast at the same time.

You can always check out the latest on upcoming programs at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

March is always a great month for activities and this year is no exception.

January thru March - Backbone Valley Nursery will present gardening programs at the nursery on most Saturdays at 1:00 PM. These programs are approved for AT credit for Master Gardeners. Click here for program descriptions, dates and directions.

Friday, March 1st - Growing Lavender allows you to craft items from the bounty of your own lavender flower garden. Join Beth Patterson for a program "Lavender Crafter's Garden". Join us for this free program presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the meeting and program which starts at 1:00 PM. Click here for more information. AT for MG

Saturday, March 2nd - T

he Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center is offering talks approximately every other Saturday at Numinous Coffee Roasters in Marble Falls. It is located on RM 1431 one block east of US 281 on the north side. The discussion for this day is Dr. Ray Buchanan discussing "Native American Gardens"

These are not presentations but casual discussion tables for visitors to stop and get info and ask questions. They will be there between 9 and noon so please drop by. Click here for a listing of upcoming discussion topics The discussion for

Saturday, March 16th

is Rhonda Spray discussing "Native American Tool Making"

Thursday, March 7th -

The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society’s March 7th meeting will have a presentation by Ms. Rebekah Rylander entitled “Family First! Uncovering the secret social lives of the Black-crested Titmouse”.

Meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society is at the AgriLife Extension building at 607 North Vandeveer St. in Burnet.

The monthly bird walk before the meeting at 8:15 will be at the City of Burnet's Haley Nelson Park located at 1624 Buchanan Dr (West Hwy 29), Burnet.

(see link below for more information), Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00.

Click here for full information on the program and directions.

Friday, March 8th -

The Burnet Middle School is ready for their Annual Plant Sale. You can get great plants at good prices and help out this great program at the same time. It will be 8:30 AM to 4 PM at their greenhouse. Go north on 281 past hwy 29 to 3rd street and turn right to about the third entrance marked "Food Service". Proceed right to the greenhouse. Lots of beautiful vegetables , hanging baskets, and plants. A second sale is scheduled for Wednesday, March 27th at the school.

March 8th, 2019 - Comal Master Gardeners Association is hosting its annual seminar on March 8, 2019 from 8:30-4:00 in New Braunfels. The seminar is entitled “Dynamics of the Four Seasons,” and will include four prominent speakers: Dr. Calvin Finch (garden color); David Rodriguez (vegetables); Skip Richter (maintenance); and Dr. Larry Stein (fruit trees). Registration and details for the event, as well as more information about the speakers, can be found at the Comal Master Gardeners website or by following the link below. Seating is limited, and seminar slots usually fill quickly. Lunch is included in the $55 seminar fee, and 6 hours of AT will be given for MG. https://txmg-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/comal/files/Poster-2019.pdf

Tuesday and Friday, March 12th and 15th - Master Gardener Willard Horn will be presenting a free talk on "Organic Vegetable Gardening" at Canyon of the Eagles March 12th from 1-2 pm, and repeat the program March 15th same time. He will also lead an interpretive nature walk on Saturday, March 16th at 10:30 AM . Free parking on Tuesday. AT for MG for program

Wednesday, March 13th - "Edible Wild Plants" with Master Naturalist Jerry Stacy in a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at 2:00 PM at the Lakeshore Library Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

Saturday, March 16th -

The March meeting of the Highland Lakes Native Plant Society of Texas will be from 1:00 pm-3:00 pm at the Marble Falls Public Library. The speaker will be Elias Guerrero, formerly with the Wildflower Center and now with the Escondido Golf and Lake Club near Horseshoe Bay. His topic is: "One is the loneliest number, garden fails by failing to go bold!” AT for MG

Saturday, March 30th -
Master Gardener's Hill Country Lawn and Garden Show will be held on March 30th at the Burnet Community Center, 401 East Jackson St., in Burnet from 9 AM to 3 PM. Come choose your spring plants and hear excellent speakers. The best vendors in the area will be there in addition to the Native Plant Society, the Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists and the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society. Be sure to get your tickets for the beautiful raffle quilt to be awarded at the show and participate in the large silent auction. There are also children's activities.There are three programs presented at the show. At 9:30, the head gardener at the Helping Center Garden, Master Gardener Ricky Lane, will present Tomatoes 101 - a complete guide to growing wonderful organic tomatoes. At 11:00, Master Gardener Sheryl Yantis will present a very informative and beautiful program on "Hill Country Wildflowers and More" and at 12:30 learn about our Hill Country Butterflies in "Let's Talk Butterflies". AT for MG for all 3 programs and AT for MN for Wildflowers and Butterflies. Click here for full information, directions and program schedule.

You can always check out the latest on upcoming programs at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

The Natural Gardener in Austin has some informative

programs presented on Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Nursery during January and February. Go to

s/ for a list of the programs. Master Gardeners check the Dig-It newsletter for AT approvals.

Backbone Valley Nursery also has gardening programs at the nursery on most Saturdays at 1:00 PM, January thru March. These programs are approved for AT credit for Master Gardeners. Click here for program descriptions, dates and directions.

On Friday, February 1st, John Caballero of Apple Valley Orchard will show us which apple and other fruit varieties are best to grow in the Texas Hill Country and what are the preferable growing conditions. Join us for this free program presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the meeting and program which starts at 1:00 PM. Click here for more information. AT for MG

Saturday, February 2nd

is Martelle Ludecke on "Vultures"

Feb 16 is Matt Carley talking about "Bats of Texas"

The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society’s Thursday, February 7th meeting will have a presentation by Mr. Billy Hutson entitled “Life Cycle and Importance of Bees.” Billy has been “bee keeping” since the early 70’s and will share his experiences about the world of bees. The m

eeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society is at the AgriLife Extension building at 607 North Vandeveer St. in Burnet.

The monthly bird walk before the meeting will be at the City of Burnet's Haley Nelson Park at 8:15 located at 1624 Buchanan Dr (West Hwy 29), Burnet.

(see link below for more information), Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00.

Click here for full information on the program and directions. AT for MG

The Highland Lakes Garden Club meets Thursday, Feb 14th at the Marble Falls Public Library, 101 Main St. Social time is at 1 p.m. Program is at 1:30 p.m. Master Gardener Sheryl Yantis will present a program on "Gardening for Wildlife - Birds, Bees and Butterflies" (not deer and raccoons). This program will discuss how to attract wildlife by developing an effective wildlife habitat that will provide all four of the basic needs of wildlife. The public is welcome. AT for MG RSVP to Janice Cleavinger at 830-598-1063.

You can always check out the latest on upcoming programs at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

https://txmg-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/comal/files/Poster-2019.pdf

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

After the holidays, it's time for some great programs starting in January. It is also time to sign up for classes to become a Master Gardener. Get full information here.

The Comal Master Gardeners Association is hosting its annual seminar on March 8, 2019 from 8:30-4:00 in New Braunfels. This event usually fills up early so be sure to sign up now. The seminar is entitled “Dynamics of the Four Seasons,” and will include four prominent speakers: Dr. Calvin Finch (garden color); David Rodriguez (vegetables); Skip Richter (maintenance); and Dr. Larry Stein (fruit trees). Registration and details for the event, as well as more information about the speakers, can be found at the Comal Master Gardeners website or by following the link below. Seating is limited, and seminar slots usually fill quickly. Lunch is included in the $55 seminar fee, and 6 hours of AT will be given for MG.

The January 3rd Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society program will host Mr. Bob Rose, Chief Meteorologist for the Lower Colorado River Authority. Mr. Rose will present a program entitled “The Return of El Nino and It’s Role in Recent Flooding and the Effect on Our Future Weather".

Meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society is at the AgriLife Extension building at 607 North Vandeveer St. in Burnet.

The monthly bird walk before the meeting will be at the City of Burnet's Haley Nelson Park located at 1624 Buchanan Dr (West Hwy 29), Burnet.

(see link below for more information), Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. AT for MG Click here for full information on the program and directions.

Local Expert and Highland Lakes Master Gardener Earth-Kind Specialist Sheryl Yantis will present "Hill Country Landscaping” on Friday January 4th. This informative program discusses how to use landscape design principles to create or enhance your own hill country garden. A garden is a work of art that changes with the seasons and some of the same principles can be used to create a beautiful garden in your yard using native and adapted hill country plants. Join us for this free program presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the meeting and program which starts at 1:00 PM. AT for MG Click here for more information.

he Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center is offering talks approximately every other Saturday at Numinous Coffee Roasters in Marble Falls. It is located on RM 1431 one block east of US 281 on the north side. The discussion for Saturday, January 5th is Chuck Hixson with a discussion of "Archaeology of the Hill Country"

Check out more programs on January 19th and February 2nd below.

The Highland Lakes Garden Club meets Thursday, Jan. 10, at the Marble Falls Public Library, 101 Main St. Social time is at 1 p.m. Program is at 1:30 p.m. Billie Hutson, President of the Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center will give a talk about the operations, activities and native plants of the UHLNC. The public is welcome. RSVP to Jennye Keys at (830) 953-0404.

Dr. Hans Landel will be doing the animal invasive workshop, that compliments the invasive plant workshop he gave us in September. The date is January 19th from 1:00 to 4:00 at the Agri-Life Extension office in Burnet. You have to register. Click here for full information on this free workshop and to register

The January meeting of the Highland Lakes Native Plant Society of Texas will be from 1:00 pm-3:00 pm on Saturday, January 19th at the Marble Falls Public Library. Native Plant member Deedy Wright will be talking about a variety of plants to use in a Hill Country wildscape. Her program is "Native Plants Add New and Surprising Dimensions to Landscape Gardens" AT for MG Click here for full information.

he Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center is offering talks approximately every other Saturday at Numinous Coffee Roasters in Marble Falls. The discussion for Saturday, January 19th is Charles Beierie with "Geology of the Hill Country"

The discussion for February 2nd is Martelle Ludecke with a discussion of "Vultures".

The Natural Gardener in Austin has some wonderful programs presented on Tuesdays and Saturdays at the Nursery during January and February. Go to

https://tngaustin.com/events/ and click the arrow to see the January programs. Master Gardeners check the Dig-It newsletter for AT approvals.

You can always check out the latest on upcoming programs at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

Just a short reminder about some activities for December.

November and December is the time to sign up for the classes to become a Master Gardener. Get full information here.

The 15th Annual SparrowFest is February 2, 2019. This Sparrow Identification Workshop is hosted by the Friends of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. Registration opens November 22, 2018. This usually fills up very fast so reserve your spot now. The central Texas Hill Country is one of the best locations in the United States for the study of native sparrows in late winter. Click here for more info and registration.

The Thursday, December 6^th Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society Program will have Mr. Ed Sones, President of the Austin Area Wildlife Rehabilitation, Inc. and a member of Austin Wildlife Rescue. Mr. Sones will present a program entitled “Adventures of a Wildlife Rehabber” and will have some live raptors at the meeting.

Meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society is at the AgriLife Extension building at 607 North Vandeveer St. in Burnet. Bird walk at 8:15 is cancelled.

The monthly bird walk before the December 6th meeting is cancelled and will restart January 3rd at the City of Burnet's Haley Nelson Park located at 1624 Buchanan Dr (West Hwy 29),Burnet.

(see link below for more information), Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. Click here for full information on the program and directions.

The garden and nature organizations will have many exciting programs starting in January including a program by Master Gardener Sheryl Yantis on "Hill Country Landscaping" on January 4th. Sheryl and I wish you a wonderful holiday season.

Regards, Robert

Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

Click for Club information and more info on the certification class.

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

The Burnet Farmers and Crafts Market will be will be open on the Burnet Courthouse square every Saturday until November 17th 2018. They will have seasonal vegetables, plants, jellies, salsas, tamales, eggs and handcrafted items. Items change weekly. Local backyard gardeners, we would love to have you join us on the weeks you have too many vegetables, berries,or peaches. Garden booth is open for questions. Burnet Farmers and Crafts Market is sponsored by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners. For more information or to become a vendor contact Roxanne Dunegan at 512-756-9396. Click for Market webpage.

On Thursday, November 1st, the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society Program will bring back a longtime favorite speaker, Dr. Chuck Sexton. Dr. Sexton is well known for his birding expertise which is documented on the “e Bird” web site by checking the lists of top ten birders for our local counties. His presentation is titled “BIOBLITZING ON VACATION IN WESTERN PANAMA”.
Meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society is at the Agri-Life Extension building at 607 North Vandeveer St. in Burnet. Bird walk at 8:15 (see link below for location), Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. Click here for full information on the program and directions.

Backbone Valley Nursery will present a program on trimming trees at the nursery from 10 AM to 11 AM on Saturday, November 3rd. Learn why we prune trees, when we prune trees, proper pruning principles, and the proper pruning cuts. Maybe you have heard that there are special pruning times for live oaks to prevent Oak Wilt, This seminar will cover the why and how of that as well. Click here for more information. AT for MG

On Thursday, November 8th, the Highland Lakes Garden Club will welcome Master Gardener and Master Naturalist Dr. Ray Buchanan speaking onJapanese Landscape Gardens at the Marble Falls Library. Social at 1:00 and Program starts at 1:30 p.m. For more information, call Janice Cleavinger 830-598-1063.

The November meeting of the Highland Lakes Native Plant Society of Texas will be from 1:00 pm-3:00 pm on Saturday, November 17th at the Marble Falls Public Library. Our speaker will be Josie Overton of Marble Falls. She will show us natural ways to dry wildflowers and native grasses to use in making note-cards and floral arrangements. AT for MG Click here for more info on the Highland Lakes Native Plant Society

Regards, Robert

Event Reminder
Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,
The next few weeks will offer Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists a chance to get required AT hours and others to enjoy some wonderful programs.

This Wednesday, September 26th, the City of Horseshoe Bay will present 2 lectures regarding at-risk pollinators from 1:30 to 3 PM. at the Horseshoe Bay City Hall. The first will be by Julian Chavez, a researcher at UT-San Antonio. Julian will discuss the life cycle and biology of the Monarch butterfly, as well as how we can help conserve this valuable insect. The 2nd lecture will be by Sheri Pollard, a bee keeper and administrator for the City of Horseshoe Bay. Sheri will discuss the importance of bees, both honey bees and Texas native bees, as pollinators and efforts to conserve them, as well as what to do to relocate a honey bee hive should you find one on your property. Following the lectures, you will have the opportunity to visit the Steve Hawley Drought Tolerant Gardens next to City Hall. The talks are free and open to anyone interested.  AT credit for MG

T
he Highland Lakes Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas is hosting a Level 1 Native Landscape Certification Class on
Saturday, September 29th
. The class will be at the Marble Falls Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 1101 Bluebonnet Drive from 8:30-4:30.
AT credit for MG

Click for Club information and more info on signing up for the certification class.

Backbone Valley Nursery will present gardening programs on Saturdays in September and October at 10 to 11 AM at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980, Marble Falls. The following classes will be presented: September 29th - African Violet Workshop; October 6th - Deer Resistant Plants; October 13th 10 AM to 3 PM- Orchid open house and re-potting with Jessica Robertson (1 hour AT); October 20th - Fruit Trees with Wade Hibler   Click here for more information.

AT credit for MG for these Backbone programs

Scott Summers, Environmental Protection Specialist, will be the speaker at the Thursday, October 4th meeting of the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society. Scott has worked at Fort Hood, Texas in numerous capacities the last 22 years. He will be enlightening us about bird research at Fort Hood, namely Black-capped Vireos, Brown-headed Cowbirds, and Golden-cheeked Warblers.

Meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society is at the Agri-Life Extension building at 607 North Vandeveer St. in Burnet. Bird walk at 8:15 (see link below for location), Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. AT for MG Click here for full information on the program and directions.

Linda Wells, County Extension Agent, presents "Critter Cuts" showing how you can have fun with animal shapes and vegetable art at your house. Join us for this free fun program presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk on Friday, October 5th. The public is invited to the meeting and program which starts at 1:00 PM. AT for MG
Click here for more information.

“A CACTUS PRIMER: Care and Handling of Six Species of Texas Cactus” by Alice Liles, Cactus Specialist,

in a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at 12 noon on

Wednesday, October 10th

at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk.

The talk will cover planting, propagation, and care of six popular Texas species of cactus, including helpful tools and

methods of handling cacti , helpful resources for information on cacti and a caution about collection practices that endanger the survival of certain species of cacti. Door prizes. AT credit for MG

The Highland Lakes Garden Club will host a program on Identifying Wildflowers presented by Elias Guerrero on Thursday, Oct. 11th at the Marble Falls Library, 101 Main. Guerrero is a garden and landscape designer and horticultural consultant and is a consultant for the golf course at Escondido. This is the perfect time to make plans for planting wildflowers because the seeds should be sown during October and November for spring blooming. Social at 1:00 and Program starts at 1:30 p.m.

AT for MG

For more information, call Janice Cleavinger 830-598-1063.

Come Celebrate Native Plant Week from 9 AM to 1 PM on Saturday, October 13th at Horseshoe Bay City Hall and Park. Take FM 2147 to #1 Community Drive. The Native Plant Society will have a sale of native plants and enjoy our expert speaker, Deedy Wright, who will speak at 10:30 in the council chamber on "Using Native Plants in Landscapes from Wild to Formal". This event is hosted by the Highland Lakes Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas and City of Horseshoe Bay. AT credit for the program for MG

Regards, Robert

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

It is almost September and it's time for the club programs to begin again. Don't forget The Burnet Farmers and Crafts Market will be open on the Burnet Courthouse square every Saturday until November 17th 2018. They will have seasonal vegetables, plants, jellies, salsas, tamales, eggs and handcrafted items. Items change weekly. Local backyard gardeners, we would love to have you join us on the weeks you have too many vegetables, berries,or peaches. Garden booth is open for questions. Burnet Farmers and Crafts Market is sponsored by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners. For more information or to become a vendor contact Roxanne Dunegan at 512-756-9396. Click for Market webpage.

The Birding and Wildflower Society kicks off the season at their new location on Thursday, September 6th

at the Agri-Life Extension building at 607 North Vandeveer St. in Burnet. Bird walk at 8:15 (see link below for location), Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. Our speaker is Kelly Tarla, Burnet County Agri-Life Extension Agent since 2015. Kelly’s presentation will center on the Plants of the 98th Meridian.

Click here for complete information on the bird walk location, program and speaker. Advanced Training credit for MG

Thursday, September 6th and the first Thursday of each month, The Lakes Photography Club meets at the Falls on the Colorado Museum at 6:00 PM. Everyone is welcome. Bring some photos on a flash drive or just come and visit.

Kari Hines, Wildland Urban Interface Specialist with Texas A&M Forest Service

will talk about Firewise Landscaping to

decrease your chance of home loss during a wildfire.

his free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk on Friday, September 7th. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Everyone is invited to the Club meeting at 1 PM. Click here for more information.

AT credit for MG

“Art and Architecture Inspired by Plants” by Allison Bennett, Master Gardener will be on Wednesday, September 12th.

This talk will explore the impact the shape, form, and function of plants have made on artists (architecture, sculpture, painting and photography)

in a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at 12 noon at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

Bill and Martelle Luedecke will present "

Raised Bed Gardening in the Fall and How to Listen to the Birds."

It will combine their Master Gardening and Master Naturalist interests with a power point presentation which is open to the public

Thursday, September 13 at a meeting of the Highland Lakes Garden Club at the Marble Falls Library, 101 Main St. at 1 PM.

AT credit for MG

The Highland Lakes Native Plant Society will meet on Saturday, September 15th at the Marble Falls Library. Social at 1:00, program at 1:30. The speaker will be

Kathy Lyles of the Fredericksburg Chapter of NPSOT and a 2015 recipient of the Benny J. Simpson Fellows award. Her topic will be: “Lessons learned in 18 years of Hill Country Gardening.”

Approved for AT for MG and MN

The Highland Lakes Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas is hosting a Level 1 Native Landscape Certification Class on Saturday, September 29, 2018. The class will be at the Marble Falls Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 1101 Bluebonnet Drive from 8:30-4:30.

AT credit for MG

Saturday, September 22nd is the day to learn about the "Invasive Invaders of Texas" This free workshop will cover the Invaders of Texas citizen scientist program, focusing on training citizen scientists to identify and report invasive plants. It will include data entry using the TX Invaders mobile application. The workshop will also present general information on invasive species, managing the spread of invasives, invasive pests of regulatory concern and the Sentinel Pest Network, and best management practices for control and eradication of selected species. They will demonstrate the "Eradicator Calculator", which is designed to help organize and record volunteer-based eradication efforts. Space is limited to 30. Registration is first come, first served.

Please bring your smart phone or tablet, or laptop computer. We will be outside for a brief period, otherwise indoors, so please dress appropriately. Bring your own lunch or $10 for Subway sandwiches.

Location: Agrilife Extension Office, 607 North Vandeveer Street #100, Burnet, TX
Trainer: Dr. Hans Landel
Time: 9:30am - 4:30pm
Registration is open: https://www.texasinvasives.org/invaders/workshop_results.php. Look for the Highland Lakes Invaders program. AT is approved for MG and MN

If you no longer wish to receive these e-mails, simply reply with the word “cancel” and you will be removed. If you change your e-mail address, please keep me informed. Feel free to call (325) 388-8849 or email if you have any questions about any of the programs.
Regards, Robert

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

The Balcones Songbird Festival on

Friday - Sunday, April 27th-29th

is a celebration of nature through a collection of interpretive events to experience both birds and their habitat. There are a few spots left. Click here for more info and registration information.

he Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center is offering talks approximately every other Saturday at Numinous Coffee Roasters in Marble Falls. It is located on RM 1431 one block east of US 281 on the north side. The discussion for Saturday, April 28th is "Geology of the Hill Country - rocking with cool rocks".

These are not presentations but casual discussion tables for visitors to stop and get info and ask questions. They will be there between 9 and noon so please drop by.

Meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society at the Marble Falls Library is on Thursday, May 3rd. Bird walk at 8:30, Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. Our speaker, botanist Minnette Marr, MS is Plant Conservationist at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center and will help explain the endangered species ranking system and values. Her presentation will cover Texas rare and endangered native wildflowers and is entitled “Conservation Ranks For People In a Hurry”. Click here for complete information on the program and speaker. Advanced Training for MN and MG

Starting Saturday May 5th at 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 P.M., The Burnet Farmers and Crafts Market will be open on the Burnet Courthouse square every Saturday until November 17th 2018. They will have seasonal vegetables, plants, jellies, salsas, tamales, eggs and handcrafted items. Items change weekly. Local backyard gardeners, we would love to have you join us on the weeks you have too many vegetables, berries,or peaches. Garden booth is open for questions. Burnet Farmers and Crafts Market is sponsored by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners. For more information or to become a vendor contact Roxanne Dunegan at 512-756-9396. Click for Market webpage.

Growing citrus in Central Texas takes some know-how. Backbone Valley Nursery will help guide you through it on Saturday, May 5th. Find out what citrus you can grow in the ground in our area, what citrus needs to be grown in pots, how to keep your citrus happy and healthy in a free program at 10 AM at the Nursery. Click here for more information AT for MG

On Thursday, May 10th, The Highland Lakes Master Gardeners will present a free Green Thumb public program "What's Bugging Y'all Now? (Entomology) " with Master Gardener Suzy Rowley at 12 noon at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk. Learn about good and bad bugs. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

he Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center is offering another discussion on Saturday, May 12th at the Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center. The discussion for this day is "Butterflies - dancers on the wind".

They will be there between 9 and noon so please drop by.

Meeting of the Native Plant Society at the Marble Falls Library is on Saturday, May 19th. Social at 1:00, program at 1:30. The speaker will be Clay Bales of the Texas A & M Forest Service. Clay will speak on "Central Texas Trees" - which trees are invasive to the Hill Country; what native trees do best in the Hill Country; tree diversity; should we avoid planting oak trees because of the threat of oak wilt; identifying oak wilt. Approved for AT for MG and MN Click for Club information.

Friday and Saturday, June 8th & 9th - It's time for the Burnet County Area Fair. This includes all counties surrounding Burnet County. The theme this year is "Hill Country Wildflowers". It is time to get your entries ready for the Fair at the Burnet Community Center, 401 E. Jackson St. in Burnet. Come visit the many vendors and Car show on Saturday. Click here for full information on the Show.

Regards, Robert

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

Backbone Valley Nursery will present Growing Roses on Saturday, March 31st at 2 to 3 PM at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980, Marble Falls. Click here for more information. This program will count for Advanced Training for Master Gardeners

Saturday, March 31st is the morning for the Lions Club Pancake Breakfast and the Kingsland Garden Club Annual Plant Saleat the Kingsland Community Center (sale-7 AM to noon), 3451 Rose Hill, in Kingsland, just past the First Baptist Church on RM 1431. Come have a good time and help the Lion's charities and get some good home-grown plants at great prices. They will be serving from 7 AM to 11 AM. We hope to see everyone there.

The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society is pleased to have author and botanist Michael Eason who will tell us about ourTexas Wildflowers and introduce us to his new wildflower guide that will include additional wildflower species. The meeting isThursday, April 5^th at the Marble Falls Library. Bird walk at 8:30, Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. Click here for complete information on the speaker and this interesting program. AT for MG and MN

The Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center is offering talks approximately every other Saturday at Numinous Coffee Roasters in Marble Falls. It is located on RM 1431 one block east of US 281 on the north side. The discussion for Saturday, April 7th is "Native Peoples - how they lived, survived and lessons they can teach us". These are not presentations but casual discussion tables for visitors to stop and get info and ask questions. They will be there between 9 and noon so please drop by.

The Highland Lakes Master Gardeners are proud to present a free Green Thumb program “Trees of Texas and Landscaping” with Extension Agent Kelly Tarla on Wednesday, April 11^th at 12 noon at the Lakeshore Library, 7346 Hwy 261, Buchanan Dam. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

The Burnet Middle School will be having a plant sale at the school greenhouse on Thursday, April 12th. You can get great plants at good prices and help out this great program at the same time. It will be 8 AM to 4:30 PM at their greenhouse. Go north on 281 past hwy 29 to 3rd street and turn right to about the third entrance marked "Food Service". Proceed right to the greenhouse. Lots of beautiful vegetables and plants.

HLBWS participates in the Burnet Bluebonnet Festival with a beautiful and informative free wildflower exhibit at the Burnet Library on Friday afternoon and Saturday all day, April 13-14, 2018. The Birding and Wildflower Society will host the show in the meeting room of the Burnet Herman Brown Library. This is a wonderful time to learn about our Hill Country wildflowers. It is open to the public Friday, April 13, 2:00-5:00 and Saturday, April 14, 9:00-5:00. Come to the side entrance. The Festival is open on Sunday, but the exhibit is only open on Friday and Saturday. AT for MG

The Balcones Songbird Festival is a celebration of nature through a collection of interpretive events to experience both birds and their habitat. It is on Friday - Sunday, April 27-29 Click here for more info and registration information.

The Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center is having their Saturday, April 28^th discussion on “Geology of the Hill Country - Rocking with Cool Rocks" at Numinous Coffee Roasters in Marble Falls. Check for directions and times above.

Regards, Robert

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

Backbone Valley Nursery will present gardening programs on Saturdays in March at 2 to 3 PM at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980, Marble Falls. The following classes will be presented: Mar 17 - Veggie Gardening II, Mar 24 - Deer Resistant Plants, Mar 31 - Growing Roses. Click here for more information. AT for MG for all programs

The Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center is offering talks approximately every other Saturday at Numinous Coffee Roasters in Marble Falls. It is located on RM 1431 one block east of US 281 on the north side. The discussion for Saturday, March 17th is "Predators of the Hill Country - with beak and tooth, fang and claw, mandible and jaw". These are not presentations but casual discussion tables for visitors to stop and get info and ask questions. They will be there between 9 and noon so please drop by.

The Native Plant Society will meet at the Marble Falls Library on Saturday, March 17^th. Social at 1:00, program at 1:30. The speaker will be Bob Mione, Meadow Nature Preserve Manager. The Meadow Nature Preserve is part of the Connemara Conservancy, and is located near Allen, TX (Dallas area). He will talk about restoration efforts at the Meadow Nature Preserve. Click here for more information. AT for MG and MN

The Burnet Middle School is ready for their Spring Plant Sale on Thursday, March 22^nd. You can get great plants at good prices and help out this great program at the same time. It will be 8:30 AM to 4 PM at their greenhouse. Go north on 281 past Hwy 29 to 3rd street and turn right to about the third entrance marked "Food Service". Proceed right to the greenhouse. Lots of beautiful vegetables, hanging baskets, and plants.

Highland Lakes Master Gardener's 20^th annual Hill Country Lawn and Garden Show will be held on Saturday, March 24th at the Burnet Community Center, 401 East Jackson St., in Burnet from 9 AM to 3 PM. Come choose your spring plants and see excellent speakers throughout the day. Click here for full information –map and program schedule.

This free family event has a wide variety of native and exotic houseplants, herbs, flowers, vegetables, succulents and garden supplies for sale. The Show also features children’s activities, a beautiful quilt raffle, silent auctions and food for purchase. In addition to the many interesting vendors, we will also have booths from the Native Plant Society, the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society, Highland Lakes Master Naturalists and Highland Lakes Master Gardeners.

Be sure to make time for free expert programs throughout the day:

All these programs count for AT credit for MG's and the butterfly program for MN's.

9:30 - "Tomatoes 101" - Ricky Lane AT for MG

10:30 - "Propagation" - Rose Lackey AT for MG

11:30 - "Let’s Talk Butterflies" presentation - Sheryl Yantis AT for MG or MN

12:30 - "Herbs for Central Texas" - Amy Parke AT for MG

1:30 - "Fun with What We Grow" - Linda Wells AT for MG

Saturday, March 31st is the morning for the Lions Club Pancake Breakfast and the Kingsland Garden Club Annual Plant Sale (7 AM to noon) at the Kingsland Community Center, 3451 Rose Hill, in Kingsland, just past the First Baptist Church on RM 1431. Come have a good time and help the Lion's charities and get some good home-grown plants at great prices. They will be serving breakfast from 7 AM to 11 AM. We hope to see everyone there.

Regards, Robert

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

Some of you have been receiving these emails through my hotmail account. All emails will now come through this account. Please mark these emails to go to your primary or focused section if you have this option. Some carriers will send BCC emails to junk . If you do not want to receive these emails, please reply with the word "cancel" and you will be removed.

This is a very busy season for nature and horticulture and we have many activities for your enjoyment and education. I hope you will take advantage of these great local opportunities.

If you know of a vendor interested in selling their items to garden lovers, the Master Gardener's Hill Country Lawn and Garden Show is coming up on Saturday, March 24, 2018. Contact Roxanne Dunegan at roxdunegan@gmail.com for application and info.

Backbone Valley Nursery will present gardening programs on Saturdays in February and March at 2 to 3 PM at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980, Marble Falls. The following classes will be presented: Feb.24 - Maintaining Roses, Mar 3 - All about Tomatoes, Mar 10 - Veggie Gardening I, Mar 17 - Veggie Gardening II, Mar 24 - Deer Resistant Plants, Mar 31 - All About Roses. Click here for more information. All of these programs qualify for Advanced Training for Master Gardeners.

Expert photographer Greg Lasley will present a program on Thursday, March 1^st on his recent trip to the 75,000 acres of wetlands in the Brazilian Pantanal at a meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society at the Marble Falls Library. Bird walk at 8:30, Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. Everyone is invited to this very beautiful and informative program. Click for more information on the program.

On Friday, March 2^nd, Dr. Stuart Nunnally will present "Healthy Garden, Healthy Food, Healthy Body". This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the First Baptist Church, 3435 Highway 1431, in Kingsland (near the Kingsland Community Center) because of the election. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Everyone is invited to the Club meeting at 1 PM. Click here for more information. AT credit for MG

The Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center is offering talks approximately every other Saturday at Numinous Coffee Roasters in Marble Falls. It is located on RM 1431 one block east of US 281 on the north side. The discussion for Saturday, March 3^rd is “Native Peoples - Sacred Gardens, Sacred Plants”. These are not presentations but casual discussion tables for visitors to stop and get info and ask questions. They will be there between 9 and noon so please drop by.

Master Gardener Willard Horn will present “Composting Made Easy” on Wednesday, March 7th in a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at 12 noon at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

Sammye Childers of the Native Plant Society will present a program on “Landscaping with Native Plants” at a meeting of the Highland Lakes Garden Club on Thursday, March 8^th. Social begins at 1:00 and program starts at 1:30 p.m. The public is invited to this free program, but reservations are requested. Contact Jennye Keys at 830-953-0404 AT credit for MG

The second discussion of the month courtesy of the Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center is on "Predators of the Hill Country - with beak and tooth, fang and claw, mandible and jaw" on Saturday, March 7th. See time and location above.

The Native Plant Society will meet on Saturday, March 17th at the Marble Falls Library. Social at 1:00, program at 1:30. The speaker will be Bob Mione, Meadow Nature Preserve Manager. The Meadow Nature Preserve is part of the Connemara Conservancy, and is located near Allen, TX (Dallas area). He will talk about restoration efforts at the Meadow Nature Preserve. Click here for more information. AT for MG and MN

The Highland Lakes Master Gardener's Hill Country Lawn and Garden Show will be held on Saturday, March 24th at the Burnet Community Center, 401 East Jackson St., in Burnet from 9 AM to 3 PM. Come choose your spring plants and see excellent speakers and demonstrations.

Saturday, March 31st is the morning for the Lions Club Pancake Breakfast and the Kingsland Garden Club Annual Plant Sale at the Kingsland Community Center, 3451 Rose Hill, in Kingsland, just past the First Baptist Church on RM 1431. Come have a good time and help the Lion's charities and get some good home-grown plants at great prices. They will be serving from 7 AM to 11 AM. We hope to see everyone there.

Regards, Robert

Robert

Robert Yantis

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

February and March are bringing many programs for your enjoyment and education with many offering Advanced Training credit. All programs are free and open to the public. If you do not want to receive these notices, please reply with the word cancel and you will be removed.

If you are, or know of, a vendor interested in selling their items to garden lovers, the Master Gardener's Hill Country Lawn and Garden Show will be held on Saturday, March 24, 2018. Contact Roxanne Dunegan at roxdunegan@gmail.com for application and info.

Paul Yura, Warning Coordination Meteorologist, NOAA, National Weather Service, will speak on "Extreme Weather in 2017, Will it Continue?" on Thursday, February 1st at a meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society at the Marble Falls Library. Bird walk at 8:30, Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. Click for more information. AT for MN and MG Check at the meeting for information on a field trip to the Weather Center.

The Kingsland Garden Club will host AgriLife Extension Agent Linda Wells who will talk about “Fun with Food and More”. Come and see the unusual things you can do with fruits and vegetables on Friday, February 2^nd at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. Meeting at 1:00, public program at 1:30. Click here for more information. AT credit for MG

The 14th Annual SparrowFest at the Flying X Ranch is on Saturday, February 3^rd, 6:00 AM to 6 PM. It is sold out this year so be sure to sign up early next year. AT for MN

Retired Extension Agent Wade Hibler will talk about "Rain Water Collections" in a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at 12 noon at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk on Wednesday, February 7th. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

The Highland Lakes Garden Club presents a program discussing buying, planting and pruning roses in our area with Sherie Clarkson on Thursday, February 8th at the Marble Falls Library, 101 Main. Social at 1:00 p.m., program begins at 1:30. The public is invited. Call Jennye Keys at 830-953-0404 for more information. AT credit for MG

More on the March programs and the Lawn and Garden Show next month.

I have attached a word doc of this email for your convenience

You can always check out program information at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

If you use hotmail, please add this email series to your focused group.

Regards, Robert

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

The new year is almost here and it’s time for a great start for nature programs. Why not start off on the right foot with the Friends of Balcones 3^rd annual 1^st day hike at Doeskin Ranch at 1 PM on Monday, January 1^st. Click here http:friendsofbalcones.org/event-2750070 for full information, directions and registration.

The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society will have an interesting program on Thursday, January 4^th at the Marble Falls Library. The January speaker is Steve Nelle, widely recognized for his expertise in range management and wildlife biology. He will address the controversial issue of Ashe juniper (cedar) and how we need to understand Hill Country ecology. Bird walk at 8:30, Social at 9:30, Meeting and program at 10:00. AT credit for MN and MG Click here for Club information and more on the speaker.

On Friday, January 5^th is a must-see program for all Hill Country residents. Master Gardener Sheryl Yantis has a beautiful and informative program on “Hill Country Wildflowers and More” that will help you identify some of the wildflowers you see and help you grow some of your own wildflowers. The beautiful pictures are all from our area. This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30 or join us for the Club meeting at 1 PM. Click here for more information on the program. AT for MG

"Vegetables Year-Round" with Kelly Tarla, Burnet County Extension Agent, kicks off the 2018 free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program series at 12 noon on Wednesday, January 10^th at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

On Saturday, January 20^th, The Native Plant Society meets at the Marble Falls Library. Social at 1:00, program at 1:30. The speakers for this meeting are going to be Patsy and Tom Inglet, from the San Antonio area. Both are avid birders and Master Naturalists. They are both bird educators, outdoor classroom instructors and citizen scientists at Cibolo Nature Center. They will be speaking on “Native Plants and Native Birds: A Relationship Worth Nurturing.” Click for more information. AT credit for MG and MN

There is still time to sign up for the annual classes to become a Master Gardener which will be in February in Burnet. Get full information here.

Regards, Robert

Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

If you have ever thought about becoming a Master Gardener, now is the time to act. The new Master Gardener classes will be in Burnet this year and will start in February. Get full information here.

The Kingsland Garden Club will be having member only activities in November and December.

The Burnet Farmers and Crafts Market will be on the Burnet Town Square each Saturday from 9 to 1 until November 18^th. More information here.

The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society will present Dr. Chuck Sexton talking about “Birding the Corners of Texas” on Thursday, November 2^nd at the Marble Falls Library. Bird walk at 8:30, Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. Click here for more information on the club and the program. AT credit for MN.

The Saturday, November 18th Native Plant Society meeting speaker will be Park Interpreter and Naturalist Craig Hensley. Social at 1:00, program at 1:30 at the Marble Falls Library. He will be speaking on “Butterflies and Native Wildflowers: Making Connections”. He will speak about butterflies of Burnet County and the wildflowers upon which they depend. From nectar for adults to serving as host plants for caterpillars, native wildflowers are a critical link for butterflies. Craig is the Park Interpreter and Resource Specialist at Guadalupe River State Park/Honey Creek SNA. Click here for the Native Plant page AT for MN and MG

The Birding and Wildflower Society will also be presenting another exciting birding program on the first Thursday on December 7^th at the Marble Falls library with birding expert Dr. Byron “Doc” Stone. There will also be a separate field trip with Dr. Stone. Get full information at the November meeting or check back here later. Bird walk at 8:30, Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. AT credit for MN

I will send out my next notice for the January programs which will include a beautiful program about our wonderful hill country wildflowers by Sheryl Yantis.

Regards, Robert

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

Our October programs start off with The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society on Thursday, October 5^th at the Marble Falls Library. Bill Reiner, biologist, who is a member of the team that monitors and manages the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve will be our speaker. His presentation will focus on “The Natural Community of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, with Findings of a Recent Study on the Golden-cheeked Warbler". Bird walk at 8:30, Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. Click for full Club and program info here.

The next day, Friday, October 6th - Master Gardener Holli Beckwith will speak on "Culinary Herbs and Their Many Uses." Holli grows her own herbs which she uses in many of her chocolate recipes. This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Everyone is invited to the Club meeting at 1 PM. Click here for more information on Holli and the Club. AT credit for MG

Saturday, the 7th is a busy day. The Native Plant Week celebration is from 9 AM to 1PM at The Falls on the Colorado Museum in Marble Falls. This year’s Native Plant Week celebration will feature Dr. Alice LeDuc, Adjunct Professor of Horticulture at Texas State University. She has a Ph.D. in Botany from The University of Texas. She will speak at 10:30 a.m. on Propagation of Native Plants Using Seeds. Native Plant Sale and tour available. More information here. AT credit for MG and MN

Also on Saturday, October 7th - Nothing says "Texas" like bluebonnets. Learn how to grow these and other wildflowers and attract native wildlife and butterflies in a free program at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980, Marble Falls at 10 AM. AT credit for MG

Remember that the Burnet Farmers and Crafts Market will be open every Saturday in October on the Burnet Town Square from 9 AM to 1 PM. Click here for more information.

Volunteers are needed at the Marble Falls Helping Center Garden. Times to volunteer are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:00 am until 11:00 am.(or less). Master Gardeners are on hand at these times to work in the garden, to assist, and to instruct volunteers. For more information, click here.

On Wednesday, October 11th , Master Gardener Violet Carson will present a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at 12 noon at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk. She will be talking about "Gardening - Fall and Winter" Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

On Saturday, October 14th, The Friends of Balcones will present The Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge Round Up from 11 AM to 3 PM. Come learn about the many activities offered at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. This FREE family event will feature dozens of hands-on recreational activities such as Archery, BB Guns, Fishing, Bird Banding, Junior Firefighter, Interpretive Hikes, Native Reptiles, Birds of Prey Show, Photography activity, Native Bee Homes, Nature Art, Kids crafts and so much more! Event location is Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge headquarters office 24518 FM 1431, Marble Falls, TX 78654. This is 5 miles west of Lago Vista. See more information at https://www.friendsofbalcones.org/

If you use hotmail, please add this email series to your focused group.

Regards, Robert

Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

Fall is coming and it’s time to enjoy some excellent programs starting in September.

On Thursday, September 7^th, the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society will present a program about all the ins and outs of the formation of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve and the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge from Valarie Bristol who was instrumental in guiding the process. Bird walk at 8:30, Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00. More info about the program and other club activities here.

Charlie Flatten, with the Hill Country Alliance, will talk on "Water Conservation" at a meeting of the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk on Friday, September 8th. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Everyone is invited to the Club meeting at 1 PM. Click here for more information on the program. "The Mission of the Hill Country Alliance is to bring together an ever-expanding alliance of groups throughout a multi-county of Central Texas with the long term objective of preserving open spaces water supply, water quality, and the unique character of the Texas Hill Country." AT (advanced training) credit for MG

It's hard to beat Fall Gardening. There is such a wide variety of vegetables we can grow in this area. Join Mary Kay Pope at Backbone Valley Nursery at 10:00 AM on Saturday, September 9^th to learn everything you need to know about starting your Fall Garden now to enjoy fresh homegrown produce for months to come. Click here to get full information and directions. AT credit for MG

The free Master Gardener Green Thumb program for September is "Fall Colors" with Master Gardener Violet Carson. The program is at 12 noon Wednesday, September 13^th at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

On Thursday, September 14^th, the Highland Lakes Garden Club welcomes Dr. Don C. Elfving, Emeritus Professor of Horticulture, Washington State University, who will give a power point presentation at the Marble Falls Library, 101 Main, about the apple, pear and sweet cherry industry in Washington State’s “cold desert”. Social begins at 1:00, program at 1:30 p.m. The public is invited. Please reserve your seat by calling Janice Cleavinger 830-598-1063.

The next meeting of the Native Plant Society should be a fun one. We are invited to Betty Blackmond’s home in Whitewater Springs at 1 PM. on Saturday. September 16^th. She is going to share her gardens with us and talk about starting from scratch and how you need to use native or adaptive plants. AT credit for MG and MN. Click here for full information and directions.

If you use hotmail, please add this email series to your focused group.

Be sure to save Saturday, October 7th to participate in the Native Plant Week celebration. More information next month.

Regards, Robert

Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

Hello Gardeners and Nature Lovers,

I have an update on two items in my last newsletter. The Monarch Butterfly Workshop is on June 8^th which is on a Thursday. Click here for info and registration. AT credit for MN and MG. The discounted registration is for Master Naturalists and Master Gardeners.

On Wednesday, August 9^th Amy Parke, Master Gardener and propagation expert will present “Growing Sprouts and Microgreens For Health, A Hands on Lesson” at 2:30-3:30, at the Lakeshore Library, 7346 Hwy 261, Buchanan Dam. This is a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program. Go to the Green Thumb page. This is a free program, however you must call the Library at (325) 379-1174 to reserve your spot. AT credit for MG.

Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

We are starting to slow down on our gardening and nature programs for the summer, but we have some excellent programs and activities for you to enjoy.

On Thursday, June 1^st, the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society will meet at the Marble Falls Library to hear photographer and birding expert Karen McBride present a beautiful program on the Birds of Thailand based on her recent trip. Meeting and public program at 10 AM. Join us for a free bird walk at 8:30. Meet across from the Library. Click here for full information.

The Highland Lakes Master Gardeners will present “A Festival in the Garden” at the Helping Center Garden on Saturday, June 3^rd from 9:00 AM until 2 PM, 1315 Broadway, Marble Falls, TX. Click here for full information on the programs and activities.

A Monarch Butterfly Workshop will be from 9 am - 4 pm on Saturday, June 8^th at Westcave Outside Discovery Center. Workshop Topics Include: Milkweed ecology, monarch biology and life cycle investigation, monarch migration & reasons for decline, citizen science, preferred native nectar plants, and in field monitoring. Presenters: Cathy Downs of Monarch Watch & Craig Hensley of TPWD. There is a charge for this workshop. Click here for info and registration. AT credit for MN and MG. The discounted registration is for Master Naturalists and Master Gardeners.

The Burnet County Area Fair will be on Friday & Saturday, June 9th - 10th at the Burnet Community Center, 401 E. Jackson St., Burnet, TX. Great vendors on Saturday and exhibits for your enjoyment. Enter your exhibits at the Fair. This is for all counties around Burnet County. Don't miss the barbecue lunch for the 4-H on Saturday. Click here for full information on the Area Fair.

This year we will have two Green Thumb programs during the summer at the Burnet Library with Master Gardener Rosalyn Lackey in a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at 10:30 at the Burnet Library, 100 E. Washington, Burnet, TX. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. On Thursday, June 22^nd the program is "Best Potting Soil Around" On Thursday, July,27^th she will present "To Be Or Not To Be; Asexual Or Sexual" AT credit for MG on both programs.

The original program for August 9^th has been cancelled.

You will hear from me next for the September programs.

Regards, Robert

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society will present birding experts Sherry Bixler and Joan Mukhergee sharing their experiences on their recent birding trip to Antarctica. The meeting is at the Marble Falls Library on Thursday, May 4^th. Refreshments at 9:30, Meeting and program at 10:00.

Burnet Middle School Greenhouse will have their final clearance plant sale on Thursday May 4th, 8 to 4 at their greenhouse. The greenhouse must be cleared out for the summer, so remaining plants are priced to sell - vegetables, plants, a few flowering plants and tomato hanging baskets. Thank you for supporting the greenhouse.

Saturday, May 6^th is the opening of the 2017 season for the Burnet Farmers and Craft Market presented each Saturday through November 18th at the Burnet Town Square 9 AM -1 PM. Click here for more information

On Wednesday, May 10^th, learn about "Soil and How to Make It Better" with Master Gardener Violet Carson in a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at 12 noon at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

The Highland Lakes Native Plant Society will meet at the Marble Falls Library at 1:30 on Saturday, May 20^th. Science illustrator Samantha Peters is currently employed at the Dallas Zoo. Her talk is “Botanical Illustration: Why and How”. AT credit for MN and MG More information about the Society here.

Be sure and get your exhibits ready for the Burnet County Area Fair on Friday and Saturday, June 9^th and 10^th. Entries are invited from all counties around Burnet County. Click here for full information on the Area Fair.

Regards, Robert

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

The Kingsland Garden Club will have their Annual Plant Sale onSaturday, April 1st at the Kingsland House of Arts & Crafts Spring Sale behind Wells Fargo Bank on Chamberlain St. We will be on the East side. Get good home grown Hill Country plants at very reasonable prices. Come early for best selection. Open Saturday 10-4. Sunday 9:00 until sold out.

Backbone Valley Nursery will present free gardening workshops at the Nursery on Saturdays in April at 10 AM. Current topics are Roses, Hanging Basket, Staghorn Fern and Color Bowl workshops. Classes are free, materials are a la carte. Click here for the latest information on all the programs. All these programs are approved for Advanced Training Credit for MG.

On Thursday, April 6^th, the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society will present botanist Bill Carr with a free program at the Marble Falls Library. Meeting and public program is at 10 AM. His presentation will explore the relationship of surface geology to plant distribution in our area, or more specifically, "The Botany of the Llano Uplift of Texas". AT credit for MN and MG. Free public bird walk before the meeting at 8:30 with birding expert Sherry Bixler. Meet across from the Library. More info on Bill Carr and the program here. The HLBWS Book Club meets the 4^th Monday, September – May at the Marble Falls Library conference room at 11 AM. For more information on the book club, call Betsy Bouchard, 847-302-3879.

Enjoy the many activities and vendors at the Burnet Bluebonnet Festival on Friday - Sunday, April 7th - April 9th. Don't miss the free wildflower exhibit and other activities at the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society Show at the Herman Brown Free Library on the Burnet Town Square on Friday from 2 to 5 and Saturday from 9 to 5. (not on Sunday)

Enjoy the free Green Thumb community programs presented at the public libraries as a public service by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners. On Wednesday, April 12th, Master Gardener Violet Carson will present "The Highs and Lows of Raised Beds Including Keyhole Gardens" at 12 Noon at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

April 15^th is the deadline to get your application in for the Highland Lakes Master Gardener Scholarship Program for horticulture college students. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity. Get full information here.

Friday - Sunday, April 21st-23rd is the 17th Annual Balcones Songbird Festival at the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. There are still some activities available so register today. Registration and more information www.friendsofbalcones.org/festival.

The Marble Falls Helping Center Garden Project can use your help on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at the garden. You don’t have to have experience to help. Learn from the Master Gardeners while you work. For more information click on http://www.burnetcountyhighlandlakesmastergardener.org/volunteer-opportunities.html

Regards, Robert

Robert

Robert Yantis

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

Because of a weather delay, the Marble Falls Market Days has been moved to Saturday the 18th and has caused a change of venue for the NPSOT program on the 18th. The Native Plant Society of Texas, Highland Lakes Chapter, will present Master Naturalist and photographer Marvin Bloomquist in a program "The Digital Camera as a Tool for Flower and Wildlife Identification" on Saturday, March 18^th at 1:30. The new venue is the Falls on the Colorado Museum at 2001 Broadway in Marble Falls behind Marble Falls Elementary School. The public is encouraged to attend. Click here for more info. Approved for AT for MN and MG

Backbone Valley Nursery will be presenting free programs every Saturday in March. There is a Kids Tomato Workshop on Sunday, March 19th with a $15 charge for materials. All these programs are approved for AT credit for MG. Click here for latest full information on all the programs.

We have two great public school horticulture programs with plant sales coming up next week. Both sales are from 8 AM to 4 PM at the school greenhouses. They both have a great variety of vegetables and flowering plants at very reasonable prices. The Burnet Middle School Plant Sale is on Thursday, March 23rd at the school greenhouse. Go north on 281 past hwy 29 to 3rd street and turn right to about the third entrance marked "Food Service". Proceed right to the greenhouse. The next day, Friday, March 24th, is the Marble Falls High School plant sale at their greenhouse which is directly behind the High School, 2101 Mustang Drive. Turn right at the school building. Thank you for your support of these great programs.

Saturday, March 25^th is the much anticipated Hill Country Lawn & Garden Show presented by the Highland Lakes Master Gardener Association at the Burnet Community Center from 9 AM to 3 PM. Check out the demonstrations and get all the plants you have been looking for as well as other interesting vendors. Don't forget the Native Plants Society Plant Sale at the show. Click here for more information.

The next Saturday, April 1st is the Kingsland Garden Club Annual Plant Sale at the Kingsland House of Arts & Crafts Spring Sale behind Wells Fargo Bank on Chamberlain St. We will be on the East side. Get good home grown Hill Country plants at very reasonable prices. Come early for best selection. Open Saturday 10-4. Sunday 11:00 until sold out.

Enjoy the many activities and vendors at the Burnet Bluebonnet Festival on Friday - Sunday, April 7th - April 9^th. Don't miss the free wildflower displays and other activities with the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society show at the Herman Brown Free Library on the Square on Friday from 2 to 5 and Saturday from 9 to 5.

It’s time to do some activities in your garden. Click here to see the monthly garden tips.

The Marble Falls Helping Center Garden can really use your help. Click on the link to find out how you can help. http://www.burnetcountyhighlandlakesmastergardener.org/volunteer-opportunities.html

Regards, Robert

Robert

Robert Yantis

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society will meet on Thursday, March 2 with a program "Ornithology! Migrating Birds, with special attention to the Golden-cheeked Warbler and the Black-capped Vireo", our two Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge protected birds. The speaker is Dr. Craig Farquhar, TPWD ornithologist. Social at 9:30, Meeting and public program at 10 AM at the Marble Falls Library. More information here. Advanced Training credit for MN and MG.

On Friday, March 3^rd, the Kingsland Garden Club will present a free program at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. "Growing Tomatoes: From Germinating to Preserving" with Debbie Sapp - Program includes soil preparation, seed germination, hardening off, transplanting to the garden, maintenance and preserving. The public is invited to the program at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk.which starts at 1:30. Club meeting at 1 PM. Click here for more information on the program. AT credit for MG

Backbone Valley Nursery will be presenting free programs every Saturday in March plus another this Saturday, the 25th. There is a Kids Tomato Workshop on Sunday, March 19th with a $15 charge for materials. All these programs are approved for AT credit for MG. Click here for full information on all the programs.

A free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program will be presented on Wednesday, March 8th at 12 Noon at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The topic is "Gardening In Deer Country" with Master Gardener Violet Carson. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

The Native Plant Society of Texas, Highland Lakes Chapter will present Master Naturalist and photographer Marvin Bloomquist in a program "The Digital Camera as a Tool for Flower and Wildlife Identification" on Saturday, March 18^th at 1:30 at the Marble Falls library. The public is encouraged to attend. Click here for more info. Approved for AT for MN and MG

Don’t miss The Burnet Middle School Plant Sale from 8 AM to 4 PM on Thursday, March 23rd at the school greenhouse. You can get great plants at good prices and help out this great program. Go north on 281 past hwy 29 to 3rd street and turn right to about the third entrance marked "Food Service". Proceed right to the greenhouse. Thank you for your support.

Saturday, March 25^th is the much anticipated Hill Country Lawn & Garden Show presented by the Highland Lakes Master Gardener Association at the Burnet Community Center from 9 AM to 3 PM. Check out the demonstrations and get all the plants you have been looking for and other interesting vendors. Don't forget the Native Plants Society Plant Sale at the show. Click here for more information.

It’s time to do some activities in your garden. Click here to see the monthly garden tips.

You don’t have to be a Master Gardener to help at the Marble Falls Helping Center Garden. Click here to find out how you can help. http://www.burnetcountyhighlandlakesmastergardener.org/volunteer-opportunities.html

Regards, Robert

Robert

Robert Yantis

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980, has a free program on January 28 @ 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm on Landscape Design. Join Mary Kay Pope to learn the foundations of landscape design in this free workshop. Learn about Landscaping Principles and how to design new beds in areas too shady for lawns. More information here. AT for MG.

The February programs start off with a bang with two outstanding programs on the first Thursday and Friday in February. Greg Lasley, nationally known naturalist and photographer, will present a program on “Dragonflies and Damselflies” at a meeting of the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society on February 2^nd at the Marble Falls Library at 10:00 AM. More info about Greg and the program and other club activities here. Advanced Training credit for MG and MN.

The next day, Friday, February 3^rd join Master Gardener Sheryl Yantis for a beautiful and informative program on “Butterflies in Your Backyard” to learn about attracting, identifying and maintaining the butterflies in our area. This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Club meeting at 1 PM. Click here for more information on the program. AT credit for MG and MN.

Be sure and join us for a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb program on Wednesday, February 8th at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk at 12 Noon. Master Gardener Violet Carson will present "Houseplants for Fresh Air" Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

This is your last chance this year to attend the classes to become a Master Gardener. Deadline is February 3^rd. Get full information here.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Holiday Season. January is full of interesting and informative programs for your enjoyment. What better way to start off the New Year than a great free interpretive hike at the Balcones Refuge at 1 PM on New Year’s Day Click here for full information, directions and free registration.

The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society will meet on Thursday, January 5^that the Marble Falls Library. The speaker will be Lisa O’Donnell, an Endangered Species Biologist who has lived in Texas most of her life and has devoted the major portion of her life-work to investigation of the ecological history of the Edwards Plateau and the Texas Hill Country. Social at 9:30, Meeting and Program at 10:00 AM. More info about the program and other club activities here. Approved for AT credit for MN.

It will be Purple Martin season before we know it. They will be arriving in February and it’s time to learn how to prepare for these delightful birds. Get the latest information on how to have a successful colony in your yard. These are the only birds that like to have human interaction. “Living with Purple Martins” will be presented by Master Gardener Robert Yantis at a meeting of the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library on Friday, January 6^th. Meeting at 1:00. Free public program at 1:30. Click here for more information on the program. AT for MN

The 2017 Green Thumb programs from the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners start off on Wednesday, January 11^th with Master Gardener Violet Carson presenting “Tomatoes Year Round” at 12 Noon at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. These programs are presented free for the public all year. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

The Highland Lakes Native Plant Society will meet at the Marble Falls Library on Saturday, January 21^st at 1:30. The speaker will be Steve Nelle. Steve is widely recognized for his gift of inspiring landowners to become thoughtful land stewards by developing a long term commitment to follow those management practices that best protect and enhance their property. Steve will talk about "The Great Grasslands Myth of the Texas Hill Country". He will explain what the historic vegetation of the Hill Country looked like based on numerous eyewitness accounts. The public is encouraged to attend. More info here. Approved for AT for MG and MN.

We can look forward to a great February this year. Naturalist and photographer Greg Lasley will present an interesting program on "Dragonflies and Damselflies" on February 2nd and Sheryl Yantis will be presenting a beautiful and informative program “Butterflies in Your Backyard” on February 3^rd. More information on these programs next month. The 13th Annual SparrowFest (Sparrow Indentification Workshop) will be on Saturday February 4^thhosted by the Friends of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. You will need to register for this now. Click here for more information and registration.

There is still time to apply for the Highland Lakes Master Gardener Class. Click here to get full information on these classes. Classes start in February.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

I hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season. The number of programs has slowed down for the holidays but we still have some activities going on.

This Thursday, December 1^st, we have a well-known bird expert that will be talking about the annual Christmas Bird Count that will be observed in many locations around the end of December. Bill Lindemann will be our speaker at the Birding and Wildflower Society meeting at 10 AM at the Marble Falls Library. Everyone is invited to this free program. Read more about Bill and the Society here.

At 6 PM this Thursday is a meeting of The Lakes Photo Club at The Falls on the Colorado Museum at 6 PM. Bring some pictures on a flash drive or just come to observe. Everyone is welcome.

The Marble Falls High School horticulture program is hosting a plant sale on Friday, December 9^th from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at the high school’s greenhouse, (behind the High School) 2101 Mustang Drive in Marble Falls. Sale features winter vegetables, winter flowers, floral arrangements, and handmade soaps. I hope you can support their program.

Get ready for a bunch of new programs in January.

January is the time to get ready for the wonderful purple martins. I will be presenting a program on the first Friday in January on how to care for and attract purple martins when they arrive in February. Purple martins are one of the few birds that depend on people for nesting sites. I will discuss where to put your houses, how to protect your birds, what they eat and what you need to know to have a successful season.

Sheryl will have a beautiful program coming up in February on our local butterflies that includes illustrations of their life-cycle and habitats and how to attract and identify different butterflies in this area. Most of the pictures were taken in our yard. I will send out more information on the January programs after Christmas.

The Highland Lakes Master Gardeners are now taking applications to become a Master Gardener. The annual classes start in February. There are a limited number of slots available so it is best to sign up early. Click here for full information.

We want to wish everyone a very Happy Holiday Season

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

Again this month, Backbone Valley Nursery will have several gardening programs on Saturdays. On Saturday, October 29th, Mary Kay Pope, will present a free program "Houseplants 101 + Transplanting Clinic" at 10:00 AM, at Backbone Valley Nursery. Click here for more information. Advanced Training credit for MG

Also on Saturday, October 29th is The Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center Owl-Oh-Ween open house from 10 AM to 2 PM at Reveille Peak Ranch. It is free to all families and kids and there are about 20 fun learning stations to enjoy. Click here for complete information and directions.

The Birding and Wildflower Society will meet on Thursday, November 3rd at the Marble Falls Library. The speaker will be Greg Lasley, nationally known naturalist and photographer. Meeting and speaker at 10 AM, More info about the program and other club activities here. Free bird walk at 8:30 AT credit for MN

The Kingsland Garden Club invites you to join them for a tour of the Torr Na Lochs Winery - A truly Texas wine experience on Friday, November 4th. The public is invited to join us at the winery at 1 PM to tour this beautiful winery. Go to https://www.torrnalochs.com for a preview and directions. Bring a folding chair. AT credit for MG if you have not taken credit before.

Backbone Valley Nursery will present three free programs in November on Saturdays for your educational enjoyment. On Saturday, November 5th Mary Kay Pope will present "Choosing Trees for Fall Color". All programs are at 10:00 AM, at Backbone Valley Nursery. On the 12^th, Mary Kay will present "Tips, Tricks and Techniques for Proper Pruning". The last program of the month is on the 19^th with a free hands-on workshop with Molly Pikarsky "Make Your Own Color Bowls". Plants, pots, and supplies are priced à la carte, or feel free to bring in your own containers. Click here for more information on all programs. AT credit for MG on these programs.

The Native Plant Society will meet at 1:30 on Saturday, November 19th at the Marble Falls Library. Manon Shockey, M.S. will be speaking to the NPSOT group on how to harvest/rescue plants from their native environment to transplant to a landscape or container. She is Instructor and Manager at Horticulture Center at Tarleton University in Stephenville. Click here for more information. AT credit for MN and MG.

If you have ever thought about being a Master Gardener, now is the time. Classes will start in February with sign-up starting now. There are a limited number of slots available so it is best to sign up early. Click here for full information.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

Again this month, Backbone Valley Nursery will have three gardening programs on Saturdays. On Saturday, October 1^st, Mary Kay Pope, Nursery Manager, will present “African Violets”. On Saturday, October 8^th, George Cates from Native American Seeds will speak on “Planting Wildflowers”. Mary Kay will be back on Saturday, October 29^th with "Houseplants 101 + Transplanting Clinic" All of these programs start at 10:00 a.m., at Backbone Valley Nursery. Click here for more information. AT credit for MG on all three programs.

On Thursday, October 6^th the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society will present Bill Neiman, founder/owner of Native American Seed who will talk about Twenty Years of Native Seeds. The program is at the Marble Falls Library. Refreshments at 9:30, meeting and program at 10 AM. AT credit for MG and MN. Learn more about the program, other Club activities and a free bird walk (AT for MN) with birding expert Sherry Bixler before the program, here.

Learn about ''Growing Artichokes and Garden Recipes" with Master Gardener Rosalyn Lackey at the Kingsland Garden Club meeting on Friday, October 7^that the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk St. Meeting at 1 PM, free public program 1:30. More info here. AT credit for MG

On Saturday, October 8^th, it’s time to Celebrate Native Plant Week at the Burnet Farmers Market on the Burnet town square. Native plant information booth and plant sale open 9 to 1 with two free interesting speakers at 9:30 and 11:00 at the Burnet Library. Click here for full information. AT credit for MG and MN for programs.

The Highland Lakes Master Gardeners will present a free Green Thumb program "Gardening - Questions and Answers" with Master Gardener Violet Carson on Wednesday, October 12^th at 12 Noon at the Kingsland Library Click here for more information on the Green Thumb program. AT credit for MG

Don't forget about the Helping Center. They really need some extra help harvesting vegetables. The work hours are 8:00-11:00 AM Monday, Wednesday and Friday. You don’t have to be there the whole time, any time you can give helping in the garden is most appreciated and a great learning experience. You just need to show up.

Don't forget to check out helpful monthly garden tips here.

It’s time to think about becoming a Master Gardener. Classes will probably start in February with sign-up in November and December. No dates are decided yet, but you can get a preview of what is involved by clicking here. Check back at that site for the latest information.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

I hope everyone has had a great summer. The nature clubs are getting back to business and they have some great programs and some good opportunities for advanced training credits for Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists.

The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society is starting us off with an exciting and informative program “Fall Migrant Raptors of Texas” with sparrow and raptor expert Byron “Doc” Stone. The program is Thursday, September 1st at 10 AM at the Marble Falls Library. Learn more about the program, other Club activities and a free bird walk with birding expert Sherry Bixler before the program HERE .  AT for MN for program & walk.

Backbone Valley Nursery will be presenting several interesting programs this period to help you with your gardening. These are all approved for AT for MG’s. All of these programs will be presented by the Manager of the Nursery, Mary Kay Pope. On Friday, September 9th she will present “Fall Vegetable Gardening”. On Saturday,September 17th she will talk about “Fall Lawn Care” and on Saturday, October 1st the topic will be “African Violets”. All programs start at 10 AM at Backbone Valley Nursery.  Click here for more information.

On Friday, September 9th, the Kingsland Garden Club will start their fall season learning about "Growing Olive Trees in Central Texas" with Joshua Swafford of Central Texas Olive Ranch of Georgetown. This free program is at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Everyone is invited to the Club meeting at 1 PM. Click here for more information on the program .  AT credit for MG

The Master Gardener Green Thumb programs start up again on Wednesday, September 14th at the Kingsland Library. Master Gardener Violet Carson will present“Fall Colors” at 12 Noon. Click here for more information on the free Green Thumb programs.  AT credit for MG

“Pollinators and Native Plants; Forever Intertwined” with Ricky Linex will be presented by the Highland Lakes Native Plant Society at 1:30 at the Marble Falls Library on Saturday, September 17th. He is a wildlife biologist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service. He is the author of Range Plants of North Central Texas. For more information click here.  AT credit for MG

Celebrate National Public Lands Day on Saturday, September 24th by volunteering at a trail work day at Doeskin Ranch at the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, 10654 FM 1164, Bertram,TX 78605 from 8 AM to 12:30 PM. Click here for full information.

The Birding and Wildflower Society Book Group meets on Monday, September 26th. Click here to learn about this fun group.

Don't forget about the Helping Center. They really need some extra help harvesting vegetables. The work hours are

8:00-11:00 AM Monday, Wednesday and Friday. You don’t have to be there the whole time, anytime you can give helping in the garden is most appreciated and a great learning experience. You just need to show up.

Robert

Robert Yantis

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

Summer is almost here and our gardening and nature programs are slowing down. Join Amy Sugeno, LCSW, presenting “Forest Bathing - How Nature and Animals Improve Mental Health and Well-being" at a meeting of the Birding and Wildflower Society at 10:00 AM on Thursday, June 2^nd at the Marble Falls Library. More info here. AT credit for MG

It’s time to get your entries ready for the Burnet County Area Fair on Friday and Saturday, June 10^th and 11^th at the Burnet Community Center. Get full information here to enter or to learn about all the great activities and vendors. Don’t miss the 4-H barbecue lunch on Saturday.

The Helping Center Garden could really use your help this summer. You don’t have to be a Master Gardener to go there and learn from the people that know best. Much is learned from volunteering in the garden and anyone in the community is welcome to volunteer. Times to volunteer are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:00 am until 11:00 am. Master Gardeners are on hand at these times to work in the garden, to assist, and to instruct volunteers. Groups such as homeschoolers, church groups, and scouts are welcome and special times can be arranged for these groups. They could really use your help this Wednesday because they have to make up for the Monday holiday. They will be doing a lot of harvesting. Periodically, seminars and special classes are held in the garden. For more information on the garden contact:

Garden Liaison, Suzy Rowley Home: 512-267-7678 Cell: 512-917-7917 suzyrowley@gmail.com

Check out the Helping Center website here.

Most organizations are taking the summer off so you will not hear from me until before the September programs. Have a great summer.

Don't forget to check out helpful monthly garden tips here.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

The Burnet Middle School is ready for their final 2016 Spring Plant Sale. You can get great plants at great prices and help out this great program at the same time. It will be 8 AM to 4 PM at their greenhouse on Wednesday, April 27th. Go north on 281 past hwy 29 to 3rd street and turn right to about the third entrance marked "Food Service". Proceed right to the greenhouse. Lots of beautiful vegetables , hanging baskets and plants. Great prices - with some baskets and plants at clearance prices. Let’s help them sell out the greenhouse for the school year. Thanks for supporting this wonderful student project.

On Saturday, April 30^th, Friends of Balcones Canyonlands Wildlife Refuge and The Lakes Photography Club present a "Photo Stroll" 9:30 A M- 11:30 A M at Doeskin Ranch, 10654 S FM 1174, Bertram, TX 78605. Click here to learn about this great free opportunity.

Attend a free “Worm Composting Workshop”, 10:00 am-12:00 noon, on Saturday, April 30th, at the Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980, Marble Falls. This is a hands-on activity. Click here for more information. AT for MG

The Helping Center Garden needs your help to win $5,000 from Safer Products. Click on this link to vote. Please vote every 24 hours until May 31st. You don't have to sign up for anything. Look for the Helping Center about halfway down the first page. We are now in 3^rd place and really need your help. We can’t do it without your help. Thank you for voting every day. Put this link in a convenient place so you can click on it every day on each browser. https://saferbrand.pgtb.me/R51cl3

The Kingsland Garden Club and Birding & Wildflower Society will be having member’s only meetings this month.

Saturday, May 7th is the much anticipated opening of the Burnet Farmers Market each Saturday through November 19th at the Burnet Town Square 9 AM -1 PM. I hope you will support our local vendors. Click here for more information.

Backbone Valley Nursery will present "Deer Resistant Plants" on Saturday, May 7th. This free Program is at 10 AM at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980. Click here for more information. AT credit for MG

On Wednesday, May 11^th, Beth Mortenson, Master Gardener, will present a Free Green Thumb Program "The Wonders Of Plant Propagation", 2:30 to 3:30, at the Lakeshore Library, 7346 Hwy 261, Buchanan Dam. This is a free program however you must call the library at (325) 379-1174 to reserve your spot. AT credit for MG. Click here for information on the Green Thumb programs.

Backbone Valley Nursery will present "Staghorn Fern Workshop" on Saturday, May 14th. Program is at 10 AM to Noon at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980. Click here for more information. AT credit for MG

The Native Plant Society will meet on Saturday, May 21^st at 1:30 at the Marble Falls Library. Jerry Stacy, Master Naturalist, will present "Edible Native Plants of the Texas Hill Country". Click here for more information. AT credit for MG

Thursday, June 2^nd is a meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society 10:00 AM at the Marble Falls Library. Amy Sugeno, LCSW with “Forest Bathing - How nature and animals improve mental health and well-being". More info here. AT credit for MG

The Burnet County Area Fair is coming to the Burnet Community Center on Friday & Saturday, June 10th - 11th. Great vendors and exhibits for your enjoyment. Click on the link to learn how to enter your exhibits at the Fair. Don't miss the barbecue lunch for the 4-H. Click here for full information on the Area Fair.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert

Robert Yantis

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

You have no excuses for not getting all the plants you need or want this weekend. The much anticipated Burnet Middle School Plant Sale is this Thursday, March 31^st. You can get great plants at good prices and help out this great program at the same time. It will be 8 AM to 4 PM at their greenhouse. Go north on 281 past hwy 29 to 3rd street and turn right to about the third entrance marked "Food Service". Proceed right to the greenhouse. Lots of beautiful vegetables, hanging baskets and plants are offered. Vegetable 6 packs are $2.00, 4 inch plants are $2.00, hanging baskets $8.00 and large pots with many plants are $10.00.

The Marble Falls High School Greenhouse Plant Sale is Friday, April 1st and Saturday April 2nd. Friday 1 to 7 PM, Saturday 10 AM to 4 PM behind the High School at the greenhouse storefront, 2101 Mustang Drive. They will have tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, herbs, flowers, cucumbers, melons, squash and hanging baskets at very low prices. All proceeds benefit the horticulture program at the school.

If you can’t find what you need at the school plant sales, you will certainly find it at the 18th Annual Hill Country Lawn and Garden Show presented by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners on Saturday, April 2^nd at the Burnet Community Center, 401 E Jackson St. in Burnet from 9 AM to 4 PM. A wide variety of vendors and the Native Plant Society can help you find the plants you need. This is a free show, but please buy a bunch of raffle tickets for some great prizes and a chance at the handmade raffle quilt. This free show will offer all different kinds of plants, demonstrations and information as well as other interesting vendors, food and children's activities. The Native Plant Society also has their plant sale. Don't forget to buy your raffle tickets for great prizes. We also appreciate your donations. Click here for more information.

On Friday, April 8^th, The Kingsland Garden Club will sponsor a free tour of the Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center with founder and Director Billy Hutson at 1 PM. If you have not seen this facility, this is a good opportunity for a visit. Click here for info on UHLNC. Click here for directions to UHLNC and Reveille Peak Ranch. Here is GPS info 30º48.468-98º20.055 105 CR 114 You can copy and paste this to google maps. You can also reach the ranch from hwy 690 from Buchanan Dam. You will be required to sign a release form for Reveille Peak UHLNC to tour the Ranch.

Enjoy the many activities of the Burnet Bluebonnet Festival, Friday thru Sunday, April 8th -10th. Don't miss the free wildflower displays and other activities with the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society show at the Herman Brown Free Library on the Square on Friday from 2 to 5 and Saturday from 9 to 5.

On Saturday, April 9^th, Backbone Valley Nursery will present former Travis County AgriLife Agent and present Harris County Agent Skip Richter with a free program on “Organic Soil and Beneficial Insects with Skip Richter”. Skip Richter was a long time contributor to Central Texas Gardener TV program. Program is at 11 AM at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980. Click here for more info on the program and Skip Richter. AT for MG

The Highland Lakes Master Gardeners will present a free Green Thumb program on Wednesday, April 13^th at the Kingsland Library at 12 Noon. Master Gardener Violet Carson will present “Gardening – Large or Small”. Click here for the Green Thumb page AT for MG

The Highland Lakes Garden Club will present their annual Flower Show on Thursday, April 21^st at the Marble Falls Library from 1 to 3. The public is invited.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

It’s the time of year to be watching for purple martins. We have seen several checking out housing up and down the lake. They are not ready to settle in yet but it won’t be long.

This Thursday, Friday and Saturday, February 25^th - 27^th are the last days to see the historical Quanah Parker exhibit at the Falls on the Colorado Museum, 2001 Broadway, Marble Falls. Hours are 10 AM to 5 PM on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

On Saturday, February 27^th, Backbone Valley Nursery will present “Late Winter Pruning Seminar”. Free program is at 1 PM at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980. AT credit for MG

The Lakes Photography Club will meet on Thursday, March 3rd (the first Thursday of each month) at 6 PM at the Falls on the Colorado Museum, 2001 Broadway, Marble Falls. Everyone is invited. You can bring a few jpegs on a flash drive to add to the discussion if you choose. If you want more information, contact Mike Childers at chili865@gmail.com

"Growing and Using Herbs" with Sherie Clarkson will be on Friday, March 4th. This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Everyone is invited to the Club meeting at 1 PM. Click for Garden Club page AT credit for MG

On Saturday, March 5^th, Backbone Valley Nursery will present a free program “All About Herbs” with Trisha Shirey. Program is at 1 P.M. at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980. Backbone Valley events page AT credit for MG

We have two free Green Thumb Programs on Wednesday, March 9th. Rosalyn Lackey, Master Gardener, will present "Propagation 101: Growing New Plants In Properly Treated Soil And Making those Pesky Insects Go Away", 10:30 to 11:30, at the Bertram Library, 140 S. Gabriel St., Bertram and Violet Carson, Master Gardener, will present "Soil, Not Dirt" at 12:00-1:00, at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk, Kingsland Click here for more Green Thumb info AT credit for MG on both programs.

On Thursday, March 10^th, Master Gardener Sheryl Yantis will present an interesting and informative program "Butterflies - The Jewels of Our Garden" at a meeting of the Highland Lakes Garden Club at 1:00 PM at the Marble Falls Library. The public is invited. More info here. AT credit for MG

Backbone Valley Nursery will present free workshops and seminars each Saturday in March. All start at 1 P.M. at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980. All are approved for AT for Master Gardeners.

Saturday, March 12th “Tomato Growing Seminar with Jessica”

Saturday, March 19th “Vegetable Gardening 1 (soil prep.) with Andy of Fox Farm Products”

Saturday, March 26th “Vegetable Gardening 2 (planting) with Jessica”

The Texas Bluebird Society will present the 2016 Season Kickoff and FUNdraising Auction in Bastrop on Saturday, March 12th. The annual kickoff promotes the conservation of bluebirds and teaches the public how to attract and provide quality habitat for bluebirds across Texas. 9 AM to 3 PM Guest speakers will cover topics that bluebirders, new and experienced, will find interesting and entertaining. Get full information at http://www.texasbluebirdsociety.org/2016event.php

The Native Plant Society is proud to present Amy Sugeno, LCSW, biologist and ecotherapist (nature-based therapies for adults and children) who will speak on the healing benefits of plants and gardens. The public is invited to attend on Saturday, March 19^th at 1:30 at the Marble Falls Library Click here for more info about this interesting program. AT credit for MG

If you know of a high school senior or college student studying horticulture or agriculture, you will want to check out the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners 2016 Scholarship Program. Click here for full information on the program.

We are all looking forward to the Hill Country Lawn and Garden Show which will be on Saturday, April 2^nd this year at the Burnet Community Center. Click here for map and more information.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

Tomorrow, Tuesday, January 26^th, Master Gardener Sheryl Yantis will be presenting "Hill Country Roses" at a meeting of the Friends of the Kingsland Library at 2 P.M. at the Kingsland Library. The public is invited to attend. AT credit for MG

On Saturday, January 30th , The Helping Center Garden will present a free program "Tool Maintenance and Fruit Tree Seminar" Wade Hibler, retired Burnet County Extension Agent, says it's the perfect time to trim fruit trees and get those garden tools in tip top shape. Wade will be conducting a free seminar on pruning fruit trees and garden tool maintenance on Saturday, January 30th, from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. at the Helping Center Garden. The Helping Center Garden is located adjacent to the Helping Center Food Bank at 1016 Broadway in Marble Falls. Tours of the garden will be available at 9:30 A.M. and 11:00 A.M., so come a little early or stay a little later to see the many gardening techniques practiced in the Helping Center Garden. Click here for more info on the Helping Center. AT credit for MG

On Thursday, February 4^th, Christine Taylor from Wildbirds Unlimited will be presenting a free program on the “Proper Feeding of Local Birds” at a Meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society 10:00 A.M. at the Marble Falls Library. AT credit for MG

The current Burnet County Texas A & M AgriLife Extension Agent Kelly Tarla will present "Historic Trees of Texas" on Friday, February 5^th. This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Everyone is invited to the Club meeting at 1 PM. Click for Garden Club page AT credit for MG

On Saturday, February 6^th, Backbone Valley Nursery will present a free program “Fruit Tree Pruning” with Jessica Robertson, co-owner of Backbone Valley Nursery. Learn how to properly prune fruit trees for the best yields and healthy trees. Program is at 1 P.M. at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980. Backbone Valley events page AT credit for MG

We have two free Green Thumb Programs on Wednesday, February 10^th. Rosalyn Lackey, Master Gardener, will present "You Can Grow Artichokes in Texas", 10:30 to 11:30, at the Bertram Library, 140 S. Gabriel St., Bertram and Violet Carson, Master Gardener, will present "Tomatoes And Their Kind" at 12:00-1:00, at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk, Kingsland Click here for more Green Thumb info AT credit for MG on both programs.

Backbone Valley Nursery will present free workshops and seminars each Saturday in February. All start at 1 P.M. at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980.

Saturday, February 13th “Chocolate and Orchids Workshop AT credit for MG

Saturday, February 20th “Spring Lawn Care Seminar” AT credit for MG

Saturday, February 27th “Late Winter Pruning Seminar” AT credit for MG

February is a good time to plant onion sets, hardy herbs, and fruit trees before the weather turns warm. Click here to see other important tips to do in February.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert

Robert Yantis

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

Now that cold winter weather has finally arrived, it’s time to start preparing our spring gardens with some programs from our local nursery and our gardening and nature organizations.

The Highland Lakes Birding & Wildflower Society will meet on Thursday, January 7th at 10:00 AM at the Marble Falls Library. Sammye Childers will be presenting the results of the local Christmas Bird Count and a program on "How Citizen Scientists Help Our Birds". More info here .

On Friday, January 8, 2016, Cindy Friedrichs, owner of Lily Flower Shoppe, will present "Think OUTSIDE the Box When Making Your Flower Arrangements". This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Everyone is invited to the Club meeting at 1 PM. In addition, Sheryl Yantis will also be presenting a short program on"Bring Back the Monarchs" during the 1 PM meeting. 1 hour AT credit for MG

Backbone Valley Nursery will present In’s and Out’s of Seed Propagation with Rhiannon Spaw of Fox Farms onSaturday January 9th. She will teach tips and tricks to save a ton of money growing your own vegetables and flowers. Program is from 1 PM to 3 PM at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980. AT credit for MG

The Native Plant Society will meet Saturday, January 16th at 1:30 at the Marble Falls Library. Mark Klym from Texas Parks and Wildlife will be the presenter and the topic will be “Milkweed and Monarchs”. Approved for AT for MG. Click here for more information. Public is invited to attend.

On Saturday, January 23^rd, Backbone Valley Nursery will present Bare Root Fruit Tree Planting with Jessica Robertson, owner of Backbone Valley Nursery, just in time for the arrival of their bare root fruit trees. Learn all you need to start your backyard orchard. Don't have a back yard? Grow in containers! Program is from 1 PM to 3 PM at Backbone Valley Nursery, 4201 FM 1980. AT credit for MG

On Tuesday, January 26^th, Master Gardener Sheryl Yantis will be presenting "Hill Country Roses" at a meeting of the Friends of the Kingsland Library at 2 P.M. at the Kingsland Library. The public is invited to attend. AT credit for MG

If you or someone you know would like to become a master gardener, the annual classes are forming now. Click here for full information.

Sheryl and I wish everyone a joyful and prosperous 2016.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis (325) 388-8849

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

There is a fun family activity coming up on Saturday, October 31^st. Whoooooo’s ready for some family-friendly fun? Join the Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center (at Reveille Peak Ranch) for Owl-oh-ween, October 31st, 10 am to 2 pm for Owl-Oh-Ween Nature Center Open House. This event is FREE and food and drinks will be available by donation! Click here to learn about the free fun activities for children and adults.

The Native Prairies Association and Monarch Host Cities Project present a monarch Workshop "The Benefits of Monarch Butterfly Conservation for Landowners" from 8:30 to 2:30 on Saturday, October 31st near Floresville, Texas. Registration is only $10 which includes lunch. Click here for full information. Advanced Training for MG and MN

The Highland Lakes Birding & Wildflower Society will meet at 10:00 AM on Thursday, November 5^th at the Marble Falls Library. Texas Parks and Wildlife hummingbird expert Mark Klym will be speaking. He will be narrating "First Flight" the story of a Mother Hummingbird. More info here.

On Saturday, November 7^th, Backbone Valley Nursery presents a free program with local favorite Keenan Fletcher. She will discuss "Heirloom Bulbs for the Hill Country" at 10:00 a.m. at Backbone Valley Nursery. AT for MG You can also learn about orchids at Jessica’s many free orchid repotting parties. Click here for more information.

There are several events presented by the Friends of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. I hope you can support their important work. On Sunday, November 8th the Friends of Balcones will have their annual meeting and awards luncheon 9:00 AM at Flying X Ranch, 8936 S FM 1174, Bertram, TX 78605. More information and online registration: Awards Luncheon & FOB Annual Meeting. On Monday, November 9^th, consider volunteering at the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. New volunteer Orientation is at Balcones NWR Headquarters 24518 FM 1431, Marble Falls, TX 78654 at 9 AM. More information and online registration: New Volunteer Orientation On Saturday, November 14^th, learn the techniques of being a volunteer tour guide at Balcones Refuge. This is a great opportunity to learn to be a leader presented from 9:30 to 12:30 at Doeskin Ranch. Click here for full information. AT for MN.

The Native Plant Society will meet at the Marble Falls Library on Saturday, November 21^st at 1:30 to hear Jeff Pavlat talk about "Cacti and Succulents for the Central Texas Garden". It covers the basics of gardening with cacti and succulents and gives example of appropriate plant selection. Click here to learn more about his beautiful garden. AT credit for MG

If you have ever thought about being a Master Gardener, now is the time. New applications are being accepted now for classes starting in February. Click here for full information.

This is your last month to take advantage of the fresh produce and other items at the Burnet Farmers Market presented by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners. It is open on Saturdays until November 21st on the Burnet Town Square from 9 AM to 1 PM. More info here.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis (325) 388-8849

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

The big event is coming up on Saturday, October 10^th - “Celebrate Native Plant Week in the Highland Lakes". Start at the Horseshoe Bay City Hall Park and get some great ideas for your own yard, buy native plants at our semi-annual Native Plant Sale and tour two beautiful home gardens ($5 for tour). 9 AM to 1 PM. Tour the city's native and drought tolerant plant gardens. Then visit the other gardens on the 2015 Native Plant Garden Tour. We thank Backbone Valley Nursery for helping us sponsor this event.

We have changed the speaker. We are very fortunate to have the opportunity to hear naturalist, Valerie Bugh talk about “The Butterflies of Central Texas”. There is a lot more to butterflies than just pretty wings. These insects are a dynamic component of the ecosystem and offer people a manageable glimpse into the complex world of arthropods. This program covers the major groups of butterflies, their predators, behaviors, challenges, life cycle, survival strategies and especially the plight of the monarch.

Valerie Bugh is a local naturalist specializing in the arthropods of the Austin area, with interests in taxonomy and photography. She runs the Fauna Project at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, leads insect discovery walks, teaches entomology courses, provides insect/spider identifications, gives talks to local organizations, and has published pocket guides to "Butterflies of Central Texas" and "Spiders of Texas." Website: http://www.austinbug.com/index.html

Her free program is "Butterflies of Central Texas" presented at 10 AM inside the City Hall Building. -AT credit for program for H L Master Gardeners- Click here for full information.

Master Gardener Violet Carson will present "Planting Bulbs for Fall Color" on Wednesday, October 14^th, in a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at 12 noon at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

Celebrate National Wildlife Refuge Week at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge on Saturday, October 17th. Enjoy free, fun family programs. Click here to learn about this great opportunity.

I just received an urgent message from the Balcones Canyonlands Wildlife Refuge volunteers. THE REFUGE NEEDS HELP. I hope that some of you can help out with their wonderful program for the public. Refuge Week has been boiled down to 1 DAY, Family Fun Day Saturday, October 17. Please help.

Cindy Fronk needs prep work done by folks who can work on their own since she is out of the office a lot. She will provide written instructions for the following:

Laminating 8.5 x 11 sheets - Laminating 24 x 36 sheets - Making tables in power point - Finding supplies and materials for each of the stations

She needs these volunteers ASAP. Contact Cindy at 830-265-7443.

On Saturday the 17th they need help from 8 am until 1:30-2 pm. They need the following:

Children’s activities & games- easy

Monarch tagging (They will train you)

Speaker to talk about the Plight of the Monarch

(Sheryl Yantis just volunteered to do this)

Assistants for ALL!!!

Setting up & breaking down

Please contact Jane Brunclik, Volunteer Coordinator, directly if you can help

512-466-6813 or Jane Brunclik jane@friendsofbalcones.org

There is another fun family activity coming up on Saturday, October 31st Whoooooo’s ready for some family-friendly fun? Join the Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center (at Reveille Peak Ranch) for Owl-oh-ween, October 31st, 10 am to 2 pm for Owl-Oh-Ween Nature Center Open House. This event is FREE and food and drinks will be available by donation! Click here to learn about the free fun activities for children and adults.

Don’t forget that the Burnet Farmers Market, presented by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners, is open on Saturdays until November 21st on the Burnet Town Square from 9 AM to 1 PM. More info here.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis (325) 388-8849

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

Backbone Valley Nursery will present a free program "Organics Made Easy with Greg Cooper", 10:00 a.m., this Saturday, September 26th at Backbone Valley Nursery. Click on http://www.backbonevalleynursery.com/events/list/ AT credit for MG

Also on Saturday, Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge will celebrate National Public Lands Day on September 26^th with a work day for the trails in the refuge. Click on http://friendsofbalcones.org/event-2025547 for more information (bring your lunch).

You are welcome to join the Birding and Wildflower Society for a bird walk (ride) at Meadowlakes Golf Course on Thursday, October 1^st by golf cart. Everyone is welcome but you must respond to Jo Ellen Cashion jcashion1@verizon.net no later than September 28^th because we must reserve the carts. There is a $5 charge per person for the carts. Social time after the tour. Meet at 8:00 AM at the Pro Shop with reservations.

Our friend Linda Fleming, former Kingsland resident, Master Gardener, Master Naturalist and Garden Club Member will present a program on Friday, October 2^nd on the establishment of the beautiful demonstration garden for the Victoria County Master Gardeners. This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Everyone is invited to the Club meeting at 1 PM. Click here for more information on the program. AT credit for MG

The next morning, Saturday October 3^rd, at 10 am, head to Backbone Valley Nursery for a free program from Jessica Robertson on “Worm Composting”. http://www.backbonevalleynursery.com/events/list/ AT credit for MG

The big event is Saturday, October 10^th "Celebrate Native Plant Week in the Highland Lakes" Start at the Horseshoe Bay City Hall Park and get some great ideas for your own yard, buy native plants at our semi-annual Native Plant Sale and tour two beautiful home gardens ($5 for tour). 9 AM to 1 PM. There is a free speaker presentation from Carrie McLaughlin on "Milkweeds, Monarchs and More" at 10:00 AM Click here for full information. AT credit for program for MG

Divide and replant your daylilies and irises this month and later in the month plant your spring bulbs. Check out more monthly garden tips here.

Don’t forget that the Burnet Farmers Market, presented by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners, is open on Saturdays until November 21st on the Burnet Town Square from 9 AM to 1 PM. More info here.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

It’s almost September and time for a new round of interesting gardening and nature programs this fall.

Jessica Robertson, Owner of Backbone Valley Nursery, will present a series of two free programs on “Fall Vegetable Gardens. Part 1- “Prepare Your Garden” will be at 10:00 a.m. this Saturday, August 29th at Backbone Valley Nursery. Part 2 – “Planting your Garden” will be at the same time the next week on Saturday September 5^th. Click here for more information. AT credit for MG for both classes.

On Thursday, September 3rd at a meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society at 10:00 AM at the Marble Falls Library, world traveler and birding expert Sherry Bixler will present a colorful and interesting program on "Birds of Africa" More info here.

Master Gardener Violet Carson will present "Clean up - Why Fall is the Best Time to Garden" on Wednesday, September 9^th, in a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at 12 noon at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

On Friday, September 11^th, we can learn about “Bokashi Composting” from Marble Falls resident Andra Harris. This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Everyone is invited to the Club meeting at 1 PM. Click here for more information on the program. AT credit for MG

The next morning, Saturday September 12^that 10 am, head to Backbone Valley Nursery for a free talk by George Cates from Native American Seed on “The Advantages of Native Plants” Click here for more information. AT credit for MG

Saturday, September 19th will be a meeting of the Native Plant Society at 1:30 at the Marble Falls Library. The speaker has not been confirmed as of this date but check back on the events page next week for full information. More info here.

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge will celebrate National Public Lands Day on September 26^th with a work day for the trails in the refuge. Click on http://friendsofbalcones.org/event-2025547 for more information.

We are making big plans to “Celebrate Native Plant Week” on Saturday, October 10^th. This year’s celebration will be in Horseshoe Bay and will include a speaker and the Native Plant Society’s semi-annual Plant Sale. See more information here.

This is also the best time of the year to save seeds from your favorite plants to plant next spring. Pick the ripe seeds and dry them on a paper towel. When they are dry put the seeds in a jar or bag with the label showing what they are and when you picked them. Remember that seeds from hybrid plants will not produce plants that look like their parents. Check out more monthly garden tips here.

Don’t forget that the Burnet Farmers Market, presented by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners, is open on Saturdays until November 21st on the Burnet Town Square from 9 AM to 1 PM. More info here.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

Summer is almost here and the much anticipated Burnet Farmers Market, presented by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners, will open on Saturdays from May 2nd to November 21st on the Burnet Town Square from 9 AM to 1 PM. More info here.

Also on Saturday, May 2nd Jessica Robertson, Owner of Backbone Valley Nursery, will present “Worm Composting Class” at 10:30 a.m. at Backbone Valley Nursery: “Come learn how to create your own worm composting bin!” More information here. AT for MG

On Thursday, May 7th at a meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society at 10:00 AM at the Marble Falls Library, Pauline Tom, President of the Texas Bluebird Society, will present a program on "Attracting Bluebirds" She will also have a special offer for you. More info here.

On Tuesday, May 12th we will have a wonderful new Green Thumb program. “How to Grow Plants from Seeds: Unlocking Some of the Mysteries” with Master Gardener Beth Mortenson, in a Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at 2:30 at the Lakeshore Library in Buchanan Dam. You must make a reservation to attend this free program (325) 379-1174. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

Saturday, May 16th will be a meeting of the Native Plant Society at 1:30 at the Marble Falls Library. Hans Landel, Ph.D of the LBJ Wildflower Center will discuss "Texas Invaders" More info here. AT credit for MG and MN

If you planted garlic or onions last winter keep an eye on them and pinch off any blossoms. Pinching the blossoms will yield bigger bulbs and they will be ready to dig up when the tops start to turn brown. Check out more monthly garden tips here.

You can also check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

Saturday, March 28th is the big day for all gardeners. The 17th Annual Hill Country Lawn and Garden Show will be at the Burnet Community Center, 401 E. Jackson St., from 9 AM to 4 PM. This free show will offer all different kinds of plants, demonstrations and information as well as other interesting vendors, food and children's activities. The Native Plant Society also has their plant sale. Don't forget to buy your raffle tickets for great prizes. We also appreciate your donations. Click here for more information.

Dr Ray Buchanan will be presenting an interesting program on "Japanese Landscape Gardens" at a meeting of the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society on Thursday, April 2nd at 10 AM at the Marble Falls Library. The public is always invited to attend.

On Friday, April 3rd, "How to Build and Maintain a Keyhole Garden" will be presented at the Marble Falls Helping Center Garden. This is a free program presented by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners featuring W. Leon Smith, owner of Keyhole Farm.com . The program is 10:00 to 12:00 at the Helping Center Garden. Click here for a map and full information on the program. AT for MG

Saturday, April 4th will be a big day in Kingsland. Start off with the Lions Club pancake breakfast at the Kingsland Community Center, 3451 Rose Hill Dr, serving from 7 AM to 11 AM and then go to the Kingsland House of Arts and Crafts Spring Sale behind Wells Fargo Bank on Chamberlain St. featuring the Annual Kingsland Garden Club Plant Sale. We will be on the East side. Get good home grown Hill Country plants at very reasonable prices. Come early for best selection. Open only on Saturday 10-4. Bring your extra 4 inch and one gallon pots and we will recycle them.

Later at 11 AM, Jessica Robertson, will present “Create Your Own Beautiful Containers and Baskets” from 11 AM to 2 PM, at the Backbone Valley Nursery. Click here for more information 3 hr AT for MG

The Burnet Middle School Plant Sale will be on Tuesday, April 7th. You can get great plants at good prices and help out this great program at the same time. It will be 8 AM to 4 PM. Go north on 281 past hwy 29 to 3rd street and turn right to about the third entrance marked "Food Service". Proceed right to the greenhouse.

The Green Thumb program originally scheduled for April 8th is canceled.

Enjoy the many activities of the Burnet Bluebonnet Festival, Thursday thru Sunday, April 9th -12th. Click here for full information about the fun events at this years festival. Don't miss the free wildflower displays and other activities with the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society show at the Herman Brown Free Library on the Square on Friday from 2 to 5 and Saturday from 9 to 5.

On Saturday, April 11th, Lothar Benthke of Weeks Roses will teach you everything you need to know to grow beautiful roses. Program is at Backbone Valley Nursery from 2:00 to 3:30, just in time for the arrival of the roses at the nursery! Click here for full information. AT for MG

On Friday-Monday, April 24th - April 27th , enjoy the tours and activities at the Balcones Songbird Festival. The tours may sell out, so sign up now. Get full information and registration info here.

You can always check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

www.yantislakesidegardens.com

Gardening Event Reminder

Special Notice

The "Monarch Butterflies and Milkweed" program scheduled for Thursday, March 5th at a meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society at 10:00 AM at the Marble Falls Library has been canceled because of dangerous weather conditions. Cathy Downs has to drive from Fredericksburg and it is not safe. We will reschedule this program for June 4th.

It looks like the weather will be decent for our Friday photography program. On Friday, March 6th, Marvin Bloomquist, past president of Highland Lakes Native Plant Society of Texas and the Highland Lakes Master Naturalists, and avid photographer will help us get the most out of our cameras. Marvin will present "The Digital Camera as a Tool for Flower Identification". This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. There is a nice article in today's edition of the picayune. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. The Club meeting is at 1 PM. Click here for more information. AT credit for MG

The Burnet Middle School will be having an early plant sale at the Middle School greenhouse on Tuesday, March 10th from 8 AM to 4 PM. This is a great way to get some healthy plants at reasonable prices and also help the kids. This is always a very popular sale. They will have a good selection of tomatoes, peppers, eggplant as well as tropical milkweed, hanging baskets and more. Go north on 281 past Hwy 29 and turn right on 3rd St. Look for the third entrance which will be marked "food service". Turn right to the greenhouse.

The Native Plant Society program with Justin Bush has been rescheduled for the May meeting. The Saturday, March 21st Meeting of the Native Plant Society at 1:30 at the Marble Falls Library, will feature Diane Sherrill who will talk about “Native Landscaping, Maintenance and Restoration Basics" More info here on Diane and her program. AT credit for MG.

You can always check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

We have some programs that you don't want to miss in March. We have a very important program on our endangered Monarch butterflies. There are a lot of new developments in this area that we need to learn about from the chair of the Bring Back the Monarchs to Texas organization. Please join us on Thursday, March 5th at a meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society at 10:00 AM at the Marble Falls Library. Cathy Downs from NPSOT will present "Monarch Butterflies and Milkweed". Click here for more info. AT for MN and MG

On Friday, March 6th, Marvin Bloomquist, past president of Highland Lakes Native Plant Society of Texas and Past President of Highland Lakes Master Naturalists, and avid photographer will help us get the most out of our cameras. Marvin will present "The Digital Camera as a Tool for Flower Identification". This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. The Club meeting is at 1 PM. Click here for more information. AT credit for MG

The Highland Lakes Master Gardeners will present two Green Thumb programs on Wednesday, March 11th. The first is at the Bertram Library, 140 S. Gabriel, Bertram. Master Gardener Rosalyn Lackey will present "How to Treat Your Soil to Make it Rich and Those Pesky Insects to Make Them Gone" in a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at 10:30 - 11:30 AT credit for MG

At 12 Noon on the 11th, Master Gardener Violet Carson will present "Growing #1 Tomatoes" in a free Highland Lakes Master Gardener Green Thumb Program at the Kingsland Library, 125 W Polk. Click here for the Green Thumb Page. AT credit for MG

On Saturday, March 21st at a Meeting of the Native Plant Society at 1:30 at the Marble Falls Library, Justin Bush of the LBJ Wildflower Center will discuss "Texas Invaders". More info here. AT credit for MG This event has be rescheduled for May. Click here to read about our new program.

The Hill Country Lawn & Garden Show, presented by the Highland Lakes Master Gardener Association at the Burnet Community Center, will be on Saturday, March 28th from 9 AM to 4 PM. Click here for more information.

You can always check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

February is filled with many great learning experiences to get a jump on Spring.

On Thursday, February 5th, Jessica Robertson of Backbone Valley Nursery will speak on "When, How, Where and Why to Plant WildflowerSeeds" at a meeting of the Birding & Wildflower Society 10:00 AM at the Marble Falls Library. More info here. AT for MN and MG.

The next day, Friday, February 6th, Wade Hibler, former AgriLife Extension Agent for Burnet County, will present a very interesting program on "Identifying and Dealing with our Hill Country Bugs". Learn about the good ones and how to deal with the others. This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Everyone is invited to the Club meeting at 1 PM. Click here for more information. AT credit for MG.

Speaking of Jessica, she will be presenting free classes each Saturday afternoon in February at 2 PM at Backbone Valley Nursery on pruning, orchids, turf grasses and spring vegetable gardening. Click here to find out about these free classes. If that link has expired, try this. AT credit for Master Gardeners on all these programs except orchids if you have already taken credit for her class.

On Wednesday, February 11, Master Gardener Violet Carson will present a program on "From Dirt to Soil" at 12 Noon at the Kingsland Library in a free Green Thumb program presented by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners. Click here to learn about the Green Thumb programs. AT credit for MG.

On Thursday, February 12th, Master Gardener and Certified Landscape Design Consultant Sheryl Yantis will present an interesting and beautiful program on "Sustainable Landscapes" at a meeting of the Highland Lakes Garden Club. The public is invited. Social at 1:00, program at 1:30 at the Marble Falls Library. More info here. AT credit for MG.

There are only a few spots left for the annual certification classes to become a Master Gardener. The classes will begin in February but you will need to sign up now to reserve your spot. Click here for full information on the classes. If you know someone that might qualify for a Highland Lakes Master Gardener college scholarship, check here for full information.

You can always check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

Gardening Event Reminder

We Want to Wish You a FUN AND HEALTHY 2015

Hello Gardeners,

We have two excellent and very knowledgeable speakers giving programs in January.

On Friday, January 9th, Michael Warriner from Texas Parks and Wildlife will present a program on "Native Texas Bees". This free program is presented by the Kingsland Garden Club at the Kingsland Library, 125 W. Polk. The public is invited to the program which starts at 1:30. Everyone is invited to the Club meeting at 1 PM. Click here for more information. AT credit for MG

On Saturday, January 17th, Kelly Conrad Simon (formerly Kelly Conrad Bender), TPWD Urban Wildlife Biologist and author, will present "Wildscaping and Native Hill Country Habitat & Future of Conservation in Texas" at a meeting of The Native Plant Society at 1:30 at the Marble Falls Library. More info here. AT credit for MG

This is your last chance to sign up for the Plant Taxonomy classes that will resume again in January. Click here to learn about these fun and educational classes and to reserve your spot now. AT credit for MG and MN.

It's also time to sign up for the annual certification classes to become a Master Gardener. The classes will begin in February but you will need to sign up now to reserve your spot. Click here for full information on the classes. If you know someone that might qualify for a Highland Lakes Master Gardener college scholarship, check here for full information.

The Christmas Bird Count is coming soon. The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society will be counting this year on Friday, January 2nd. You do not need to be an expert to help out on these counts so come out to learn about our local birds. Master Naturalist Sammye Childers is heading up the count this year. Please contact Sammye to volunteer for this important and fun activity. You can reach Sammye at 830-693-5061 or sammyenmike@yahoo.com More info on HLBWS and pictures from our latest field trip here.

You can always check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849

Gardening Event Reminder

Hello Gardeners,

It's time to sign up for the Plant Taxonomy classes that will resume again in January. Click here to learn about these fun and educational classes and to reserve your spot now. AT credit for MG and MN.

The Christmas Bird Count is coming soon. There are two wonderful groups that will be conducting these counts this year. The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society will be counting this year on Friday, January 2nd and the Balcones group will count on Monday, December 15th. You do not need to be an expert to help out on these counts so come out to learn about our local birds. Master Naturalist Sammye Childers will give a program on "The Christmas Bird Count" this Thursday, December 4th at 10 A.M. at a meeting of the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society at the Marble Falls Library. AT for MN. More info and pictures from our latest field trip here. Get full information on the Balcones Canyonlands Christmas Bird Count here.

Remember that December is still a good time to plant container roses and trees so they are ready for spring.

We look forward to some wonderful programs on native bees and wildscaping coming up in January.

Sheryl and I want to wish everyone a wonderful holiday season.

You can always check out upcoming gardening events and access other interesting pages at www.yantislakesidegardens.com/events

Regards, Robert

Robert Yantis

(325) 388-8849