Herbs, herbs and more herbs. The Harrison County Master Gardener Plant sale, this coming Saturday, March 29 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (or earlier if we sell out), will have plenty of herbs for the lowest price possible, just for you.
It is interesting to note that there is a difference between an herb and a spice. An herb is the leafy portion of a plant. A spice is the other part of the plant, to include bark, seeds, flowers, buds, berries, roots and stigmas. Using herbs to flavor foods has been in practice for thousands of years. We know which herbs are used in Mexican, Italian, Thai and other cultural dishes, as well as the ones mom used in her meatloaf or chicken stew. Mints are well known for their place in a glass of Southern iced tea, whether it is spearmint, or a twist in the flavor using the newer pineapple or strawberry mint.
Available, to name just a few, will be several types of basil, catmint, catnip, chives, dill, fennel, lavenders, lemon balm, lemon grass, lemon verbena, parsley, rosemary (three kinds), stevia, sage and thyme. Again, this is just a small portion of herbs that will be waiting for you. Joann, Beth, Lisa and other Master Gardeners will be more than excited to help you select your herbs.
Research shows that herbs can have medicinal rewards as well, Consuming herbs may help prevent and manage heart disease, cancer and diabetes, according to the Better Health Channel. Herbs consumption may also help to reduce blood clots and provide anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. It could help lower cholesterol, reduce mildly elevated blood pressure, and protect against cancer. Fresh herbs often contain higher antioxidants levels compared to processed or dried herbs. Remember to add fresh herbs at the end of your cooking cycle to get the best benefits.
We hope to have a few recipes available for you, approved by Texas A&M.
The herb station will be located right beside the greenhouse that will house the enormous selection of vegetables, including 58, I repeat, 58, types of tomatoes alone. Come early, shop our best selections and get the best buys around.
The Harrison County Master Gardener Greenhouse is located on Harrison County property, 1309 Warren Drive, Marshall, Texas 75672, right across from Republic Industries. Please be a good neighbor and not block the driveways to this Industry. Also, please remember that there are large trucks and 18-wheelers frequenting the driveways of this plant.
The push this week is to get enough colorful, beautiful, outstanding hanging baskets for all who want them this year. We have doubled our efforts as we sold out so quickly last year, disappointing many of you, which also broke our hearts. We try to meet your needs, as you have gone out of your way to support us, as we raise money for scholarships for our high school and college students, as well as our 4-H youth.
See you this Saturday, beginning at 9 a.m. Come ready to shop with cash, check or card.
Pineywoods CEU Conference Set for April 4 at Enoch Stomp Vineyard & Winery
East Texas agricultural professionals and pesticide applicators will have the opportunity to earn essential continuing education units (CEUs) at the upcoming Pineywoods CEU Conference on April 4. Hosted at the scenic Enoch Stomp Vineyard & Winery, this event promises a day of valuable training, networking, and industry updates for those in the agricultural sector.
Organized by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, the conference will offer five CEUs in various critical categories, including General, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Laws & Regulations, and Safety. These credits are crucial for maintaining pesticide applicator licenses and staying updated on the latest best practices in the field.
Key Topics and Expert Presentations:
The conference will cover a range of relevant topics tailored to the needs of farmers, ranchers, land managers, and pest control professionals. Attendees will gain insights into the latest strategies and regulatory requirements through expert-led sessions, including:
Weed Identification and Control with IPM Strategies – Learn how to identify and manage invasive weeds effectively using integrated pest management techniques.
Control of Aquatic Mammals with IPM Strategies – Addressing challenges posed by aquatic mammals and implementing sustainable control measures.
Laws and Regulations – Updates on state and federal regulations impacting pesticide use and compliance requirements.
Pesticide Safety – Best practices for handling, applying, and storing pesticides safely to protect both humans and the environment.
External Parasite Control – Managing pests that affect livestock and domestic animals to maintain healthy herds and flocks.
Registration and Event Details:
The cost of attendance is $35, payable at the door. Attendees must RSVP by March 31 to secure their spot. Registration can be completed by calling (903) 935-8413.
Harrison County Cattlemen’s Association Spring Meeting
The Harrison County Cattlemen’s Association Spring Meeting is Thursday, April 10 at 6 p.m. at Carthage Livestock Auction LLC, 1914 Highway 79, Carthage, TX 75633.
Maximizing Your Herd Value: Join us for an informative evening focused on maximizing the value of your cattle. This program is brought to you by the Harrison County Cattlemen’s Association and the Harrison and Panola AgriLife Extension Offices.
Featured Speakers and Topics:
• Kevin McDonald, Owner, Carthage Livestock Auction – Factors Affecting Calf Value (Live examples of varying quality)
• Dr. Thach Winslow, DVM, Elanco Animal Health – Setting Up Calves to Increase Profit
• Q&A Session with AgriLife Extension Agents Matt Garrett and Lee Dudley
RSVP by April 1 to: Ann Harris at (903) 930-7248 or Susan Goode at (903) 930-0829.
Meal provided for members and spouses with current membership Dues renewal will take place at the Fall Meeting.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and network with fellow cattle producers. We look forward to seeing you there!
Texas Department of Agriculture Private Applicator License Training
Do you need to obtain your Texas Department of Agriculture Private Applicator License? This license allows you to purchase and use State Limited Use Pesticides and Herbicides.
Join us for the required Private Applicator Training on Friday, April 11 at the Harrison County AgriLife Extension Office, 20054 Warren Drive, Marshall.
Cost of training is $35.
Important Information:
• Study Materials – Must be ordered before class ($45)
• Exam Fee – $64 (Administered at a certified PSI testing center in Tyler)
• TDA License Application Fee – $100
• Total Cost: $244
This training will prepare you to take the exam at a certified PSI testing center in Tyler. Upon passing the exam, you will receive your TDA Private Applicator License, allowing you to purchase and safely use Restricted Use and State Limited Use pesticides and herbicides.
RSVP today! Call (903) 935-8413 to secure your spot.
Remember: The label is the law!