Tag: Catherine Johnson

Wildscape Facelift

Sue Ann (Suna) KendallLeave a comment

by Catherine Johnson

The Wildscape had a major facelift thanks to the Reks and employee Brandon. 

Upcoming events include a full moon gathering to observe moths and nature at night.  The improved space will be easier for people to walk thru each month learning about the Master Naturalist program. 

Birds have built nests in the mailboxes and the Mason bees are active. 

The pictures include our State grass, Sideoats Grama. It is a short clump grass that provides nutrition for wildlife and erosion control. It is drought tolerant, with oat-like seeds and orange and purple flowers.

Honeysuckle
sideoats grama
Gray hairstreak
There are lots of chickens at this chicken farm!

Antique Rose Emporium

Sue Ann (Suna) KendallLeave a comment

by Catherine Johnson

On the way home from Washington-on-the Brazos, a group of Master Naturalists stopped by to visit the Antique Rose Emporium garden, which was stunning.  The new owners are continuing to add structures, add educational programs, and partner with NPSOT to stock many native plants.

One of the caretakers told of how they created a continuous flowing “creek” around the Cypress trees.  Available outdoor seating and refreshments help provide a peaceful experience in a Shire-like setting.

Happy May Day! Celebrate with flowers!

Happy Wildscape Surprises

Sue Ann (Suna) KendallLeave a comment

by Catherine Johnson

There were surprises at the Wildscape discovered on a quick trip to assemble a donated shade arbor.  The Mexican Plum trees that looked dead for a long time are back, as are thought-dead Blackfoot Daisy and Desert Mallow. 

Pink primroses are back, too. They bloom the second year from seed.  The grasses Debra cut are already two- to three-feet high. Rough-leaf Dogwood and Arroya Sweetwood are fine, but the tallest Anacacho Orchid suffered major damage. 

Some of the beauty you can see at the Wildscape

Gaillardia and Thistles are taking over as all manner of “Belly Botany” wildflowers. Come see the Wildscape before some of it has to go so that we can safely walk the paths!

Outreach to Rockdale Rotary

Sue Ann (Suna) KendallLeave a comment

by Catherine Johnson

We had a good time at the Rockdale Rotary meeting this week, where we had lunch and shared information about our chapter.

They are a nice bunch of people working for the community. We appreciate the opportunity to tell the community a bit more about the Texas Master Naturalist program.

Alan shows the attendees our impressive textbook.
Catherine explains our many activities.
Attendees