by Lydia Holley April 29, 2024
Henderson County Master Gardener Association (HCMGA) won three awards at the state level in three separate categories. These awards were presented by Texas Master Gardener Association on Wednesday, April 24, during their annual conference. The Search for Excellence awards are graded by three judges against other association entries for the program or presentation’s contribution and impact within the community.
HCMGA presented a total of three projects and programs and won in every category submitted in the Redbud group. This group represents 0-49 Master Gardeners in the association.
HCMGA’s Harvest Garden earned first place in the Teaching Site category. The Harvest Garden is a demonstration and educational garden created and maintained by HCMGA. It is located within the fairgrounds at the Henderson County Regional Fairpark Complex. The Harvest Garden has vegetable gardens, fruit trees, grapes, and several other features for teaching the public about horticulture.
In the Written/Recorded Educational Content category, HCMGA’s Online Plant Library won second place. This extensive library of plant information can be found on the HCMGA website, txmg.org/hendersonmg. Over 300 plants are listed, with their growing conditions, mature height, and other information given. More plants are being added annually. Many of these are plants that have been offered to the public at HCMGA’s annual plant sale.
In the Workshop/Presentation category, HCMGA won third place for the presentation “How to Build a Water Garden.” This presentation was given in person at the home of Master Gardener and Landscape Architect Dub Hirst. His water garden delighted and enchanted visitors. During the presentation, attendees learned the steps needed to complete a pond and received information on filling a water feature with beautiful plants.
HCMGA is a 501-(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to educate the public on proper horticultural techniques. It is a volunteer organization organized under Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and through the County Extension Office.
For more information, call 903-675-6130, email [email protected].
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