Kaufman County Master Gardeners won two first place awards at the Texas Master Gardener Association State Convention in late May for projects completed in 2024. Kaufman County competes in the Small Association category for associations with 49 or fewer members. 

“Learn at the Library,” an annual program done in conjunction with the Ritter C. Hulsey Library in Terrell, got the first place award in the Workshop/Presentation category. The series featured programs for children and adults, some of which were combined when topics allowed. Topics included three programs on gardening with kids, two on cacti, and these additional topics: bees and beekeeping, mushrooms, garlic, plants in the bible, Texas Arbor Day, and what’s in dirt.

In the Written/Recorded category, our 2024 Horticultural Calendar, “Niche Gardening,” also received first place. The calendar featured way to landscape small, sometimes troublesome areas like mailboxes, air conditioner motors, or garbage cans. Other niche areas covered included corners, blank walls or fences, and arbors. Water efficiency and low maintenance were emphasized. Native plants, which generally meet both those requirements were suggested for each landscape. Tips for increasing success were also included.