Chilly Workday

by Catherine Johnson

It was chilly and misting on this month’s Wildscape workday. If you were wearing the right clothing, the weather was refreshing. 

Amazing workers showed up and accomplished all chores for this month. Neil cleared Rock Rose from around the frog pond, Carolyn removed the Cypress vines from the arch where most want the Malabar Spinach to be again. Kim and Patricia pruned bushes and hauled away debris as Debra was again an expert pruner of the Gulf Muhly and other grasses. New student, Terri tackled plants including Sage and Passion vines. We all cut down the Turk’s cap. 

Most plants, bushes and trees are leafing out just in time for the next freeze. 

Wildscape Has a New Bench

by Catherine Johnson

We were able to make a quick trip to the Wildscape during a warm day. Gary Johnson, friend of the Wildscape, delivered the new bench which he made from a free queen headboard and old wood. He also attached a panel to the “portal” which will be covered in coral honeysuckle. 

The next workday will prepare the garden for Spring and new native plants. Still green were Evergreen Sumac, Southern Wax Myrtle, Skeleton Leaf Goldeneye, and Nolina. 

Visit the garden and search for Winter creatures.

Seed Packaging Is Going Great

by Linda Burgess

WOW! On Tuesday afternoon, 17 volunteers working together (Master Naturalists and Master Gardeners) enjoyed our united project and friendship as we packaged seeds for the Seed Library (located in the Cameron Public Library).

I know it’s been cold, but this next week’s weather will get us excited as we plan for Spring planting.

We have free seeds available to the public at the library, and also don’t forget about the Master Gardeners’ Plant sale coming up on Saturday, March 1st.

El Camino Real Texas Master Naturalists Launch Community Seed Library

by Linda Burgess

[This article was submitted to the Cameron and Rockdale weekly newspapers.]

The El Camino Real Texas Master Naturalists, in partnership with the Cameron Public Library and the Little River Basin Master Gardeners, are thrilled to announce the launch of a new and exciting initiative: the Community Seed Library. This innovative program, housed at the Cameron Public Library, is designed to inspire the community to embrace native gardening and contribute to a healthier, more vibrant local ecosystem.

The Community Seed Library offers a wide variety of seeds, all available for free to the public. Residents can pick up seeds and plant them in their own gardens, encouraging the growth of native plants specifically adapted to thrive in the local environment. By growing these plants, community members can enjoy numerous benefits, including:

● Supporting Native Pollinators: Native plants provide essential nectar and habitat for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are critical to maintaining biodiversity.

● Improving the Ecosystem: Native vegetation helps create a balanced ecosystem, promoting healthy soil, clean air, and vibrant wildlife.

● Preventing Soil Erosion: The deep roots of many native plants help stabilize soil and reduce erosion, particularly in areas prone to heavy rain or wind.

● Beautifying the Landscape: Native plants create a stunning, natural aesthetic that reflects the unique beauty of our region.

The Community Seed Library is more than just a place to pick up seeds; it’s an opportunity to learn about the importance of native plants and how they benefit the environment. By participating in this program, residents can help create a greener, more sustainable future for Cameron and the surrounding areas.

“Linda Burgess, a Texas Master Naturalist, has been a driving force behind getting this project off the ground and ready to go. This project is a labor of love for our community,” said Carolyn Henderson, President of El Camino Real Master Naturalists. “We hope the Community Seed Library will inspire people to reconnect with nature and take an active role in preserving our local environment.”

The El Camino Real Texas Master Naturalists are deeply grateful to the Cameron Public Library and the Little River Basin Master Gardeners for their support in bringing this project to life. Their shared vision and collaboration have made it possible to provide this valuable resource to the community.

The Community Seed Library is open during regular library hours. We encourage everyone—from seasoned gardeners to those planting for the first time—to stop by, pick up some seeds, and start growing!

El Camino Real Texas Master Naturalists Launch Community Seed Library

The El Camino Real Texas Master Naturalists, in partnership with the Cameron Public Library and the Little River Basin Master Gardeners, are thrilled to announce the launch of a new and exciting initiative: the Community Seed Library. This innovative program, housed at the Cameron Public Library, is designed to inspire the community to embrace native gardening and contribute to a healthier, more vibrant local ecosystem.

The Community Seed Library offers a wide variety of seeds, all available for free to the public. Residents can pick up seeds and plant them in their own gardens, encouraging the growth of native plants specifically adapted to thrive in the local environment. By growing these plants, community members can enjoy numerous benefits, including:

● Supporting Native Pollinators: Native plants provide essential nectar and habitat for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are critical to maintaining biodiversity.

● Improving the Ecosystem: Native vegetation helps create a balanced ecosystem, promoting healthy soil, clean air, and vibrant wildlife.

● Preventing Soil Erosion: The deep roots of many native plants help stabilize soil and reduce erosion, particularly in areas prone to heavy rain or wind.

● Beautifying the Landscape: Native plants create a stunning, natural aesthetic that reflects the unique beauty of our region.

The Community Seed Library is more than just a place to pick up seeds; it’s an opportunity to learn about the importance of native plants and how they benefit the environment. By participating in this program, residents can help create a greener, more sustainable future for Cameron and the surrounding areas.

“Linda Burgess, a Texas Master Naturalist, has been a driving force behind getting this project off the ground and ready to go. This project is a labor of love for our community,” said Carolyn Henderson, President of El Camino Real Master Naturalists. “We hope the Community Seed Library will inspire people to reconnect with nature and take an active role in preserving our local environment.”

The El Camino Real Texas Master Naturalists are deeply grateful to the Cameron Public Library and the Little River Basin Master Gardeners for their support in bringing this project to life. Their shared vision and collaboration have made it possible to provide this valuable resource to the community.

The Community Seed Library is open during regular library hours. We encourage everyone—from seasoned gardeners to those planting for the first time—to stop by, pick up some seeds, and start growing!

For more information about the Community Seed Library or to learn how you can get involved, visit the Cameron Public Library or contact the El Camino Real Texas Master Naturalists at elcaminorealmasternaturalist@gmail.com. Together, we can cultivate a healthier environment and a stronger community, one seed at a time.

A Sunny Day for Wildscape Work

by Catherine Johnson

We were surprised by the sunny and pleasant weather as we cleaned some bird, bee, and butterfly water features at the ECRMN Wildscape.

Fire ants were eliminated and delicate plants protected from the upcoming hard freeze. Next chores will include cleaning the frog pond and cutting back grasses.