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Mercer Announces Return of Texas Gulf Coast Gardener Program

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Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is teaming up with The Mercer Society (TMS), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, to bring back the popular Texas Gulf Coast Gardener (TGCG) program. Classes, held onsite at Mercer for a 12-week period, begin the third week in September. Registration is open from August 1 through September 6, so please call 281-443-8731 or visit the park to enroll.

The TGCG curriculum was developed by Mercer staff with guidance from Dr. David Creech, professor of horticulture at Stephen F. Austin State University, and staff from Mast Arboretum in Nacogdoches. The program will give participants the knowledge and skills needed to start, develop and maintain their own gardens through a variety of gardening and horticulture topics specifically designed for the pleasures and challenges of the Texas Gulf Coast climate.

The curriculum includes exciting lessons and lectures presented by Mercer staff and horticulture/botany experts from the greater-Houston area, plus hands-on learning activities for skills such as plant propagation, site development and garden care.

Designed for beginner- and intermediate-level gardeners and horticulturalists, Tier 1 covers the basics of horticulture, botany, lawn care and soil types, as well as the uses and applications of gardening equipment, irrigation systems and pest/disease control. Once Tier 1 is completed, gardeners will have the tools they need to successfully get their own home garden up and running.

Tier 2 will focus on the plants that can be successfully cultivated and utilized in home gardens and landscapes in the Texas Gulf Coast climate. Classes will cover everything from traditional garden staples and landscape essentials such as roses, bulbs, trees and shrubs to more exotic plant types like palms, cycads and tropicals. Tier 2 is a great course for those who may have established gardens of their own, but want to learn about new and exciting plants to add to their collection while improving their horticultural skills.

Classes will be held on Tuesdays (Tier 1) and Thursdays (Tier 2) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a one-hour break for lunch. The cost of enrollment for TMS members is $200; enrollment for non-members is $225. Participants will receive a text book, T-shirt or tote bag, and a 1-year membership to TMS.

With leadership from Commissioner R. Jack Cagle, Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is a Harris County Precinct 4 Parks facility located one mile north of FM 1960 at 22306 Aldine Westfield Road in Humble, 77338. Harris County Precinct 4 programs serve people of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, sex, religion, national origin, or physical ability. Anyone seeking additional information, or requiring special assistance to participate in any program, should contact Mercer at 281-443-8731 or online at www.hcp4.net/mercer.

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