Whether you are an experienced gardener or still figuring out how to use an auger, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service has many resources available. With its rich history in education and research, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service provides educational outreach programs (Ellis County Master Gardeners) and services to the citizens of Texas.
Please take a moment to review some of the resources listed below. If you have specific questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us directly via phone at (972) 825-5175 or email ecmgahelpdesk@gmail.com
2023 Plant Hardiness Zone Map
Click HERE for a readable/printable version.
Informational Resources
Resources: Lawn & Turf
Resources: Aquatic Plants – Ponds
Resources: Backyard Chickens
Resources: Bees & Beekeeping
Resources: Flowering Plants Gardening & Landscaping
Resources: Insects
Resources: Livestock – Horses
Resources: Mammal – Rodent – Aviary – Reptile Control
Resources: Trees – Fruit Trees – Ornamental Trees
Resources: Vegetable – Herb Gardening
Texas Superstar®: Strong & Stunning Plants for Texans 2023 Publication
Click here to access the Texas Superstar® resource
For a printable version, Click HERE.
You can access the Texas Superstar® website, Here!
Earth-Kind® Publications
Creating an Earth-Hind Landscape involves using various environmentally friendly practices ranging from design considerations to irrigation. This series of publications from Texas AgriLife Extension Service covers the essentials.
CLICK HERE to access these publications that provide additional information on Earth-Kind principles and practices for the urban landscape.
Firewise Landscaping
Firewise Landscaping is based on creating a defensible space on your property, with a 30′ zone around your home that is cleared of flammable materials, including your landscape plants, to limit or even prevent the loss of your home and property.
The Firewise program is a national, cooperative effort between the US Forest Service, the US Department of the Interior, the National Association of State Foresters, and The National Fire Protection Association.
Knowing which types of plants to use and in what part of your landscape could mean the difference between having your home go up in flames, or not. Clearing a 30-wide perimeter around your home by keeping tree limbs pruned from the house, clearing gutters of debris; removing flammable materials such as firewood and gas cans, and many other easy-to-do steps are well worth your time. Depending on the size of your property, you want to have up to a 100′ space that is cleared and landscaped correctly. Also, be sure your street address numbers are visible so Firefighters can find your house.
If you live in an area prone to wildfires, be prepared and have prescriptions, important papers, and clothes ready to go in case of an evacuation. You should also have a plan in place to get pets to safety. Remember, if a MANDATORY evacuation order is issued and you ignore that order, you can be arrested and removed for your safety. Police and Fire officials should only be fighting fires, not dealing with uncooperative citizens.
Texas A&M Forest Service
URBAN & COMMUNITY FORESTRY
To access the Texas A&M Forest Service online resources, Click Here!
To find your Regional Urban Forester, please refer to the Community Forestry Program map.
Services for Residents/Homeowners – Click Here!
Blogs
Our Blog page offers a plethora of information that you can peruse.
Click here to access the Blog page!
