Montgomery County Master Gardeners

08/24/2026

Reminder of our Open House September 1 at 5:30 pm. Guest speaker is Monty Coffman from the Arkansas Forestry Division. He will be speaking about the Firewise USA program.

04/25/2026

Due to health issues, Ray Young will not be able to sharpen knives or tools this year. Saturday's weather promises to be spectacular during our plant sale. Come shop with us !

04/17/2026

Are you interested in cultivating your green thumb and bringing some freshness into your life? If you ever wanted to start an herb garden from scratch, this is a fantastic resource to dive into and learn all about it! From choosing the right herbs to plant, to learning about the different soil types and watering techniques, this guide has got you covered. Get ready to transform your outdoor or indoor space into a lush oasis and start enjoying the many benefits of having your own herb garden!

Growing herbs in Arkansas is made easier with our free herb gardening resources. Your local county extension agent has more information.

04/13/2026

Vegetable of the Month:
Watermelon
Watermelons are tender, warm-season vegetables. The fruit of the watermelon is one of the largest vegetables we eat. Watermelons commonly weigh 18 to 25 pounds,
with the world’s record melon tipping the scales at 291 pounds. They can be grown in all parts of Arkansas. Melons are usually planted in the field around April 15 to May 1 in south Arkansas and between May 10 and 15 in north Arkansas. Watermelons do not transplant well bare-rooted, but they may be started in containers three to four weeks before field planting to promote early development. Mulching with black plastic film also promotes earliness by conserving moisture and warming the soil.

days to maturity – 70 to 130

Companion Plants: Corn and Sunflowers for wind protection. Radishes to deter cucumber beetles, while herbs (dill, basil, oregano) and flowers (marigolds) attract pollinators and beneficial insects

04/06/2026

Flower of the month:
Calibrachoa

Calibrachoa plants produce little to no seed so plants are propagated from vegetative cuttings. They require full sun and are very sensitive to pH levels. Calibrachoa produce abundant blooms all season long and have a trailing habit. They perform best in hanging baskets or containers rather than in garden beds. Common floral colors: Violet, blue, pink, red, magenta, yellow, bronze, white.

This plant is native to South America and typically grows to a height of 6-12 inches and a width of 12-24 inches due to its trailing habit, which makes it suitable for hanging baskets.

04/03/2026

Garden Chores for April

Be prepared for an unexpected cold snap or other unpredictable weather and have frost protection handy for your plants.

Regularly scout plants for pests like spidermites, slugs, bagworms, and aphids.

Assess plants for winter damage and begin cleaning any damage.

There is still some time to plant your cool-season vegetables like lettuce, broccoli, greens, and onions, but get these in the ground by mid-April.

Plan out your warm-season garden.

Stake perennials and vines that risk falling over from their own weight later in the spring or summer.

Prep annual beds with additives like well-rotted manure, processed manure, peat moss, or compost.

Watch for honey bee swarms. If you see a swarm, contact your local county extension office for removal options in your area.

04/02/2026

03/23/2026

Herb of the month: Basil

Predatory wasps love to make their home near basil plants. And, while they may sound scary, predatory wasps will rid your garden of enemies, including hornworms, aphids and beetles. While also drawing pest like whiteflies and aphids away from more tender crops like tomatoes.

Avoid planting basil near cucumbers as they can negatively affect their flavor