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What's new? Scroll down to see recent activities.

(1) If you missed the Cement Party in July, here's the recipe for making homemade planters. Browse photos of (2) the Garden Tour on May 17 and (3) the Plant Sale on April 26. (updated August 7, 2008)

CEMENT PARTY

Ever wanted to make a planter out of cement? Don't ask. Just try it. Here's Katie's recipe:

1 part peat moss
1 part perlite   
1 part cement  (not quickcrete)
1 part water

It's easy.  Mix dry ingredients first (in a cement mixer or a wheelbarrow), then add water a little at a time. Like baking a cement cake. Mix until mixture will clump in your hand and hold a form.

Line a container (old dishpan, bucket, crate, etc.) with plastic wrap. Pat mixture at least 1 inch thick all the way around. Leave in shade for 24 to 48 hours. Take out of container. Takes about 1 month to cure

 

GARDEN TOUR 2008: JIM AND WES
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First stop on the tour was the yard of Jim and Wes where we viewed their lovely landscaping, learned about their watering system, and met some unusual plants such as smoke tree and red hot pokers.
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GARDEN TOUR 2008: JIM AND KAREN
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Second stop on the tour was Karen and Jim's to see their great combination of a greenhouse (click the greenhouse photo in the second row to see it packed with flourishing house plants), raised beds (that's a lot of work, Jim!), and the shadecloth-covered garden areas of Karen and Jim. The Star Jasmine in the first photo greets you as you enter the dappled tomato zone.
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GARDEN TOUR 2008: MIKE AND BARBARA
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The last stop of the tour was the natural-looking, landscaped yard of Mike and Barbara. They have transformed their mesquite and cactus yard into a wonderland of wildflowers, succulents, adapted plants, and outdoor living.

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PLANT SALE 2008
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The 2008 Plant Sale was a lively success. Held in the parking lot at Coronado Plaza on Hwy 87 south of FM700, it was well advertised, well attended, well organized, and we actually made some money. There was a fine selection of plants (mostly in bloom, which the buying public appreciated). An informative reference sheet was provided that helped steer buyers to annuals / perennials, sun / shade, the proper height, and a suitable growing habit.
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  (c) 2007 - 2008 Howard County Master Gardeners