Nature Along the El Camino Real
Blog of the El Camino Real Chapter, Texas Master Naturalists, Milam County, Texas
by Catherine Johnson
The Wildscape is especially dry for this time of year. Good news is a lot of weeds have shriveled. The pictures include super tough Elbow Bush, Evergreen Sumac, Inland Sea Oats, Sideoats Grama, and the Bug Patrol. We started with 20 roots of native purple Tall Asters and now have thousands to give away. Contact me if you want any.
by Catherine Johnson
During the recent Wildscape Workday, a small but focused group moved remaining donated items into the garden to be reused or repurposed. This leaves a lovely, shaded area for Community Outreach events. Our first children’s program was held there with Lisa and Donna teaching Girl Scouts about clean air and water.
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.
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.
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.
