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| Wanda White (left) from Pecan Gap picks a door prize from a Fannin Co. Master Gardener |
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Fannin County Master Gardeners’ 2009 Garden, Lawn & Home Expo draws large crowd
By Allen Rich
Mar 30, 2009
Bonham - There was something to interest everyone at the fifth annual Fannin County Master Gardeners’ 2009 Garden, Lawn & Home Expo held March 28 in Bonham. Wanda White (left) from Pecan Gap picks a door prize from a Fannin Co. Master Gardener
A slate of talented speakers informed listeners how to make a shady garden spot come to life, produce beautiful roses, raise EarthKind™ vegetables, harvest rainwater and even why it is important to buy locally-produced honey.
It would have taken more that the cold front that sent temperatures plummeting over the weekend and brisk north winds to keep away fans of this informative expo and this event seems to get more popular every year.
In addition to the impressive list of featured speakers, the Fannin County Master Gardeners’ 2009 Garden, Lawn & Home Expo also features dozens of knowledgeable craftsmen, gardeners and environmentalists that are happy to share their expertise. From Ivan Burton's practical and functional hummingbird feeders to Jack Phillips' innovative bluebird houses, every booth seemed to offer something that can make those gardens come alive this spring.
Of course, the featured speakers provided interesting and educational presentations. Noted author and Grayson County Master Gardener Jessie Gunn Stephens subject was, “What Can I Grow in the Shade?”
Greg Church, Ph.D., Collin County Extension Agent - Horticulture discussed “EarthKind™ vegetable gardening.
Dotty Woodson, Ph.D., Extension Program Specialist - Water Resources, Dallas Research & Extension Center brought several beautiful orchids and gave a presentation on “Rainwater Harvesting.”
The final speaker Saturday afternoon was Blake Shook, who happens to be owner of Desert Creek Honey, president of Collin County Hobby Beekeepers Association, director of Texas Beekeepers Association and yet, despite all his accomplishments, still only 19 years old.
Shook gave his thoughts on everything from large-scale commercial beekeeping to what it would cost for a novice to get started in the business--approximately $150 if you can find used equipment.
It is important to really study the label if you want local honey, but Shook says even that can be misleading.
"When you buy honey," Shook told the audience, "I recommend you know the beekeeper."
Honey produced in your region should help you develop antibodies that counteract allergies.
Wanda White (left) from Pecan Gap picks a door prize from a Fannin Co. Master Gardener
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