This time of the year it is common for us to think about improving our landscapes. It is also a time of the year when new home purchases are common. New home buyers may have a whole landscape to plan and complete.

There are several routes available to plan landscape improvements. One desirable option is to enlist the help of a professional landscape designer or landscape architect.

If you are more into the do-it –yourself mode you can help prepare yourself by reviewing available literature and/or attend a landscape design class.

My favorite landscaping book is “Home Landscaping Texas” by Greg Grant and Roger Holmes. It divides the home landscape into manageable pieces and provides landscape ideas to address each piece. Find it at area nurseries, local bookstores and on Amazon.

If you want to attend a landscape design class, the Gardening Volunteers of South Texas (GVST)  offers  a program at the Bishop Jones Center in Alamo Heights. CLICK HERE for more information. Programs offer lectures on landscape principles and plant materials with an emphasis on environmentally appropriate landscaping.  Both classes also provide time at the end of the session for personal consultation on your preliminary plans, photos, and specific questions.

RSVP for the class of your choice. For the GVST class visit their website or call 210-251-8101.For more information on the Wilson County event, visit the Wilson County News website, the Floresville Chamber of Commerce, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension,  Pfeil’s Garden Supply or Color Me Green in Floresville. In San Antonio, Milbergers, or Fanicks have information.  You can also call Dr. Jerry Parsons or me at our Gardening South Texas Radio Show at 210 308 8867 on Saturday or Sunday from noon to 2pm. We will both be making presentations at the Floresville Program and can answer your questions.

Written by Calvin Finch
Dr. Calvin Finch is the retired Urban Water Program Director for the Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources.You can ask Calvin question and hear his answers on the air as he co-hosts the Gardening South Texas on the air at KLUP (AM 930) Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 to 2:00pm.