Horticulture

Howdy Webb County!

Welcome to the Webb County Texas A&M AgriLife Horticulture Page! Our goal is to bring you the most recent information that’s happening in the agriculture industry to help answer your questions! On this page, you will find helpful links that will lead to important research-based information! If you don’t find it here, then reach out because I am sure we can find the answers to your questions somewhere!

Here Serving You,

Jeffrey D. Hester

County Extension Agent for Ag & Natural Resources

Horticulture Upcoming Events Calendar!

Events to Think About:

2023 Monthly Issues

October 2023

September 2023

The Master Gardener Program is a volunteer development program offered by Texas AgriLife Extension Service and is designed to increase the availability of horticultural information and improve the quality of life through horticultural projects. Program objectives are implemented through the training and “employing” local volunteers, known as Master Gardeners. They aid Extension by conducting school garden projects; answering telephone requests for horticultural information; establishing and maintaining demonstration gardens; working with special audiences in the community; and designing and implementing community improvement projects, as well as coordinating Master Gardener projects.

Program Objectives

The objectives of the Master Gardener Programs include:

to expand the capabilities of Texas AgriLife Extension Service to disseminate horticultural information to individuals and groups in the community
to develop and enhance community projects related to horticulture, including: horticultural therapy projects, community gardens, and demonstration gardens
to develop a Master Gardener network to assist in administration of the local Master Gardener Program
to enhance 4-H programs through the establishment of 4-H horticultural clubs and Junior Master Gardener groups

Texas Master Gardener Title Defined

The title, Texas Master Gardener, is to be used only by individuals trained in the Texas Master Gardener program to assist Texas AgriLife Extension Service. A trainee must receive a minimum of 50 hours of instruction, pass an examination administered by Extension and volunteer a minimum of 50 hours of service to earn the title of “Texas Master Gardener.” Once a trainee completes the instruction and examination phase, the individual gains the title of “Master Gardener Intern.” From that point, the Intern has a maximum of one year to complete a minimum of 50 hours of volunteer service. Master Gardener trainees, Interns and Master Gardeners are encouraged to participate in local Master Gardener associations/groups and to attend State/Regional Master Gardener Conferences.

It is important to note that the State training and volunteer requirements are minimums. County Extension Agents have the authority to increase these requirements. Documentation requirements and validation of training and volunteer service hours are under the purview of the County Extension Agent or individual designated by the agent. Modifying Master Gardener Association by-laws regarding certification (or recertification) does not supersede State or County Master Gardener Program Guidelines.