Landscape designer Luke Hoy presents how to grow confidence and understanding of the garden design process. In this presentation and hands-on workshop, participants can discover how to translate inspiration into a design plan by combining design visualization skill building and horticultural recommendations. Come ready to explore personal inspirations and to make them into a garden […]
Solve all your projects in one place in one weekend at the 38th Annual San Antonio Fall Home + Garden Show! This is the show you know – featuring thousands of square feet of exhibits. You’ll find the products and services for your home and landscape: builders, remodelers, contractors, building materials, decks, pools, spas, entertainment […]
After a Saturday morning of making a difference at the 30th annual Basura Bash, keep the momentum going with a Sunday of celebration, community, and impact! 🗓 Date: Sunday, February 23, 2025 📍 Locations: ✨ Community Fair – 12 PM - 3 PM | Cypress Pavilion, Brackenridge Park 🎶 Enjoy local vendors, nonprofit partners, food, […]
Grassland restoration is at the heart of Audubon’s mission to protect and sustain vital ecosystems, and Mitchell Lake Audubon Center is proud to play a key role in this effort. In this presentation, Corina Solis, Land and Conservation Coordinator, will explore the grassland restoration projects underway at Mitchell Lake, including implementation of prescribed burns to […]
Are you ready to transform your lawn and conserve water? This session is designed for beginners who want to learn how to navigate the San Antonio Water System (SAWS) Water Saver Program and create a thoughtful plan for their new garden of native plants. In this hands-on workshop, you'll receive an introduction to the various […]
Join David as he shares a wealth of knowledge on growing resilient lawns that can face the gardening challenges of Bexar County and the surrounding area. He will focus on watering techniques with conservation in mind, appropriate fertilization, weed and insect control methods, mowing, and other best practices for lawn care.
Greg Grant, Smith County Horticulturist for the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Tyler, Texas, is an award-winning horticulturist, writer, conservationist, and a seventh-generation Texan. Join Greg as he shares his five basic principles of landscape design along with dos and don’ts for creating a beautiful home landscape.
Lee Marlowe, Sustainable Landscape Ecologist with the San Antonio River Authority is a restoration ecologist and ecological designer with over 25 years of professional experience. Are you listening! Your landscape will tell you what it needs – all you have to do is pay attention. Join Lee as she shares how to listen to your […]
Earthwise Living Day is the longest-running environmental event in Bexar County, filled with eco-friendly fun and education on Saturday, March 1 from 9am - 1pm at the Leon Valley Community Center Events grounds. Get ready for a day filled with eco-friendly fun and education. Plus, don't miss your chance to drop off wine corks, textiles, […]
Spring planting time is almost here! Come learn how to have a successful garden at the 2025 South Texas Gardening Expo and enjoy FREE community classes on topics including drip irrigation, rain barrels, fruit for SA, composting, vermiculture, container gardening, beekeeping, canning, herbs, raised beds, tool sharpening, seed starting and more.
Brad Wier is a San Antonio Water Systems (SAWS) Conservation Planner. Years in South Texas landscaping and public horticulture gave him a lasting enthusiasm for plants that don’t die when sprinklers — and gardeners — break down. Drought has been the new normal in San Antonio lately – so what lessons can a water utility […]
The Parks & Recreation Department, Council District 5, The United Way, and Healthy Neighborhoods are working together to distribute shade and fruit trees to District 5 residents. This initiative connects the community with valuable resources through strong partnerships and collective efforts to increase tree canopy through the city's tree giveaway program.
Master Gardener, Lou Kellogg will use a powerpoint presentation to educate attendees about the benefits to capturing rainwater for use in the home garden or landscape. Lou gives a brief history on rainwater catchment and explains the different types of rain barrels that are available for a homeowner. Lou explains how to convert a barrel […]
Bill Swantner is a Bexar County Master Gardener with extensive training and experience in plant propagation and starting plants from seed. Starting plants from seed allows you to grow a large number of plants economically as well as being able to grow plants you may not have access to in the nurseries. Join Bill as […]
Molly Keck is an Integrated Pest Management Program Specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension in Bexar County with a Master’s degree in Entomology. With 20 years of experience with the AgriLife Extension Service, Molly is our go-to person for all things insect related. What’s wrong with my lawn??? This is a common question by homeowners […]
Join us for a hands-on food demo and plant giveaway celebrating the rich culinary traditions of Indigenous peoples in Texas. Participants will not only learn to prepare dishes that honor the land and its native plants but will also receive plants to grow at home, empowering them to cultivate their own ingredients. This immersive experience […]
Tackle food waste at home -- maybe even start your own composting project(s)! Come learn about various types of composting and how each method can be utilized to tackle food waste at home and all the way up to restaurant and school levels. At the end of the workshop we will all take a quick […]
Gardening is one of the most exciting and rewarding lifestyle changes one can implement. But where do you start? There is so much to know and learn. For this in-person workshop we will start with the basics: Learn about the most common types of gardens, soil types, amendments, and we will answer as many questions […]
Hardscape refers the “hard” surfaces of your landscape such as sidewalks, patios, decks, and pathways, which play a key role in water conservation by reducing runoff and managing rainwater. In this workshop Lynn Cox, Bexar County Master Gardener, will cover a variety of materials available to use in the home landscape, and how to select […]
San Antonio is a great place to garden for wildlife. From birds to bees and butterflies, the Alamo City has it all. But did you know that gardens also play a crucial role in supporting local bat species? Join Green Spaces Alliance and Bat Conservation International to learn all about the funky flying mammals that […]
The 30th Annual Basura Bash takes place on Saturday, March 9, 2025 (rescheduled from February 22 due to weather.) Basura Bash is the largest river cleanup in Texas: a one-day, all-volunteer event to clean the entire San Antonio Watershed. Let’s all clean it like we mean it! Volunteers will collect trash from the banks of […]
Make a difference for the birds and join Mitchell Lake staff and other members of the community to help manage our garden habitat! This can involve trail maintenance, removal of invasive species, and planting native plants for birds and butterflies, depending on the tasks of the day. All training provided. This is a great way […]
Get ready to "bee" the boss of your landscape when SAWS Spring Bloom bursts on the scene Saturday, March 8! This year's event is all about "bee-ing" mindful of your water use – and learning how the plants you choose for your landscape can save water and help pollinators thrive. SAWS is ready to help […]
Discover over 200 varieties of native plants, succulents, grasses, and pollinator-friendly plants during the 2025 March Plant Sale. Each participant must register for a 30-minute slot to shop for plants. The reservation fee is non-refundable but will be applied toward plant purchases at the sale. Plants will be continuously restocked throughout the two-day sale, based […]
Learn how to use your leaves, grass clippings and vegetable scraps to strengthen the soil in your garden, beds, and lawn. Join Bill Swantner, Bexar County Master Gardener as he reveals the tips, techniques, and benefits of backyard composting. Butch will also discuss the various methods and requirements for backyard composting.
Earth-Kind Landscaping uses research-proven techniques to provide for a beautiful and resilient landscape while preserving and protecting the environment. Lynn Cox, Bexar County Master Gardener, will share these principles and explain about our region’s unique climate and how it affects gardening as well as how to implement the methods in an individual landscape.
Get outside and enjoy free entry all day at Mitchell Lake Audubon Center. Does your dog need some time in nature, too? Bring them along on your visit to Mitchell Lake! For one day only, bring your canine companion to stroll in our native plant gardens or along our walking trails. We will highlight specific […]
Join us for an exciting and informative Seed Saving Seminar with Kay Brouillette, author of Seed Saving Simplified. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener, this seminar will equip you with the knowledge to harvest, store, and preserve seeds for a thriving, sustainable garden—season after season! Kay will share foolproof techniques for seed collection, […]
Learn how to use your leaves, grass clippings and vegetable scraps to strengthen the soil in your garden, beds, and lawn. Join Karen Gardner, Bexar County Master Gardener, as she reveals the tips, techniques, and benefits of backyard composting. Karen will also discuss the various methods and requirements for backyard composting.
Ground covers can be an important element in your home landscape. They can serve as a “living mulch”, retaining moisture, suppressing weeds, and moderating soil temperatures. They provide an alternative to turfgrass, particularly when it is in shade. And they can provide habitat for your butterflies, bees, and other pollinators! Join Lynn Cox, Bexar County […]
Mitchell Lake Audubon Center is excited to bring back Migratory Bird Fest as we kick off spring migration with a free community festival filled with live birds and animals, games, crafts, 20+ vendors, native plant sale, nature book sale, food trucks, nature walks and golf cart tours of the wetlands. All proceeds from this event […]
Temporarily car-free, Síclovía opens the road to pedestrians, bicyclists, and recreationalists. Síclovía is a free, annual event organized by the YMCA of Greater San Antonio that turns city streets into a safe place for exercise and play. The family-friendly event encourages residents and visitors to get out, get active, and explore their city through car-free […]
How can mushrooms help us live more sustainably? Eco Centro is offering a 3-part engaging, hands-on workshop series taking you on a fungal journey in 2025. In Part 1, you will be introduced to how fungi functions in nature and its potential to combat environmental challenges, enhance soil quality to promote plant growth, decompose organic […]
This 32-hour course has four sessions. It is designed to prepare professional arborists for the ISA Certification exam. This course is also ideal for nonprofessionals who want to stay safe while caring for trees. The course covers tree biology, installation, nutrition, and fertilization. It also covers plant disorders, diseases, and worker safety. Participants receive a […]
SAWS ensures our beautiful city always has a safe, reliable and quality supply of water at every turn of the tap. YOU play a huge role in how our city manages water resources successfully. We are excited to share more about the sources of our drinking water and where it goes "after the flush." Please […]
The Beatitudes Prayer Walk Committee, San Antonio River Authority, Native Plant Society SA, Garden Volunteers of South Texas, and others will host a day of workshops, tours, and presentations including: SA River Authority interactive watershed demo; Electric Vehicle demos, native seed bombs; native plant giveaways, a plant based food demo, and other events. A free […]
Unearth the grand world of Texas native grasses and learn how to properly identify them. On this walk through the San Antonio Botanical Garden and the Texas Hill Country Trail, you will learn the many benefits of planting native grasses in your home garden to conserve water and boost biodiversity. Fee: Free with SABOT membership […]
Of the thousands of firefly species found worldwide, more than 200 reside in North America. But did you know that firefly populations are in decline? Here’s the good news: you can help support healthy firefly habitat! Green Spaces Alliance is joined by firefly expert Ben Pfeiffer (founder, Firefly Conservation & Research) for an engaging workshop […]
Join Eco Centro for the newest addition to our propagation series, presented by Rose Flores, Eco Centro Director. This workshop will dive into the anatomy and physiology of native herbaceous plants and what steps and materials you will need to propagate them. Springtime is the perfect time of year to start thinking about adding to […]
Discover the the wondrous lives of honeybees and their positive contribution to the environment! Join us for an exciting evening delving into the fascinating world of honeybees! Learn about their intricate social structures, their vital role in pollination with native plants, and how we can help protect these essential pollinators. Get up close and personal […]
Explore many sustainable gardening practices in the San Antonio Botanical Garden on this seasonally changing walking tour. Learn about native plants, rain gardens, and sustainable architecture. Explore more ways to conserve our local resources through sustainable practices. $15 ($10 SABOT members.) Registration open until tour fills.
Whether you are designing a home landscape from scratch or reimagining an existing landscape, having a design plan can help you end up with a pleasing result while saving you time and money. In this workshop, Lynn Cox and Anna Vogler, Bexar County Master Gardeners, will provide you with the basics of landscape design as […]
Whether you are designing a home landscape from scratch or reimagining an existing landscape, having a design plan can help you end up with a pleasing result while saving you time and money. In this workshop, Bexar County Master Gardeners will provide you with the basics of landscape design as well as techniques to help […]
Join Green Spaces Alliance staff and Master Naturalists for a walk on the 1-mile out-and-back trail to see the bird blind, stock pond, pollinator meadow, and wildlife. As you hike, play a game of bingo with us to help you identify native plants that are suited to our area and can help you conserve water […]
Zachary Ritchie, Conservation Manager, will discuss the unique ecological relationships found across the native plants of Bexar County. From the various ecoregions to animal life, learn how native Texas plant species play a role in sustaining the ecosystem by preventing soil erosion, retaining water, and preventing flooding. Admire how these plants are exceptionally adapted to […]
Gardening in Texas can be tough! Texas gardeners need plants that tolerate extremes. Searing summer heat, drought, and winters that can feel like a deep freeze. Thanks to research lead by Texas A&M University researchers and AgriLife Extension horticulturists, we have identified plants that have what it takes to be in our Texas gardens. Join […]
Join us and other members of the community to help us clean up our habitat! Mitchell Lake Audubon Center depends on our amazing volunteers to help manage habitat. This can involve trail maintenance, removal of invasive species, and planting native plants for birds and butterflies depending on the tasks of the day. This is a […]
Taking a little time to research which plants to put into your latest landscape project will save you time, money, and disappointment. But where can you go to find the information you need? Join Alisa Travis, Bexar County Master Gardener, as she shares some of the best resources, and how to use them, to find […]
Learn the value of pollinator gardens that can benefit both pollinators and your community. Explore how you can create a native, drought-tolerant wildlife habitat that is safe and educational for children. Participants will leave with a butterfly host plant and the knowledge to care for it.
In this program Master Gardener, John Vann will use a powerpoint presentation to explain our region’s unique climate and weather patterns as they relate to gardening and how homeowners can overcome those challenges in their landscapes. John will cover gardening techniques to develop a resilient garden; Including the aspects of soil, irrigation, design and plant […]
A beginners guide to do-it-yourself rainwater harvesting from putting up a gutter system, to collection techniques, to water distribution, and available rebates. Harvesting your own collected rainwater conserves drinking water, saves on your water bill and is a nitrate-rich source of water for plants. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn about an eco-friendly […]
What does, “organic gardening” even mean and how do you start? Adding soil supplements such as compost, humates, soil activator, and various types of organic fertilizer will result in a healthier and more resilient soil that will use less water and handle our tough Texas climate. Come learn these techniqes from Extension certified Master Gardener, […]
Igo Library hosts a celebration of nature education, from gardening and conservation to field science and learning, with organizations from all around Texas to table and present crafts and activities for all ages.
Dr. Megan Clayton, Professor & Extension Range Specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, will present two workshops: 1. Native Plant Restoration 2. Soil Limitations due to Site Conditions, adapted for small or large acreage
Dr. Calvin Trostle will highlight ornamental sunflowers and focus on the varieties that can be grown in Texas, their characteristics, ideal growing conditions, care, harvesting, and personal experiences with these vibrant blooms. Dr. Trostle has been a Professor & Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agronomist in Lubbock, Texas since 1999 for alternative crops. He explains, “I […]
There is nature all around us, even in our cities! Bring your smartphone and help us participate in the City Nature Challenge Community Science Event and document the species living here at Mitchell Lake Audubon Center. There also will be information on the native plant gardens and how to attract birds, butterflies and pollinators to […]
Join David Rodriguez, Bexar County Extension Agent - Horticulture from Texas A&M AgriLife to learn about water conservation, planting, and pruning, along with general growing information to maintain your lawn and landscape plants going into summer. Whether you are just beginning or a seasoned gardener, come out and learn the latest research-based information that will […]
San Antonio Parks and Recreation is celebrating Earth Day 2024, an official Fiesta event, at Woodlawn Lake Park on Saturday, April 20 from 10am-2pm. Connect with representatives from local organizations whose work focuses on conservation; there will be music, dance, a tree adoption, and fun-filled family activities.
Learn how to create a pollinator patch or pocket prairie that can help local native flora and fauna while conserving water. Join avid native plant gardener and restoration ecologist Lee Marlowe as she teaches the basics for planning, designing, installing, and maintaining a little patch of pollinator paradise. Fee: $20 ($15 SABOT members). Advance registration required.
Master Gardener Linda Cace will present the best methods and practices for growing herbs: which to select for the best results, how to plant, and how to water and care for them.
Join Green Spaces Alliance for a hands-on workshop exploring the deep-rooted traditions of herbs in Indigenous cultures. Discover the history, medicinal properties, and sustainability of plants like sage, lavender, and lemongrass through interactive learning, storytelling, and a guided tea tasting experience. Special guests from the San Antonio Food Bank will be present to lead a […]
From Spanish Colonial acequias to gushing artesian wells, San Antonio has a unique and colorful water history like no place on Earth. Come join us for a delightful presentation by Gregg Eckhardt of San Antonio Water Systems, who will take you on a engaging exploration of San Antonio's water history. Discover the rich heritage of […]
An attractive and water-efficient landscape starts with the right plant in the right place and smart design practices to create a polished, sustainable look. In this workshop, Lynn Cox and Anna Vogler, Bexar County Master Gardeners, will cover the basics of selecting plants suited for our region and design strategies that promote water conservation and […]
Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) should never be placed inside any cart for curbside collection and should always brought to HHW Drop-Off Centers. (See San Antonio's Solid Waste Management calendar for upcoming monthly and quarterly drop-off events and locations.) Accepted materials at drop-offs include: auto fluids, batteries; cooking oil; E-waste; fluorescent light fixtures and ballasts; household […]
Bees are some of our most important pollinators in Texas. However, the loss of habitat, pesticide use, and other causes have put pressure on their population. Join Liana Benavides, Bexar County Master Gardener, to learn how you, as a home gardener, can make a difference for these special pollinators.
Earth-Kind Landscaping uses research-proven techniques to provide for a beautiful and resilient landscape while preserving and protecting the environment. Join John Vann, Bexar County Master Gardener, at Great Northwest Library as he shares these principles and explains about our region’s unique climate -- how it affects gardening, as well as how to implement methods in […]
Master Gardener Grace Emory will present the best methods and practices for growing herbs: which to select for the best results, how to plant, and how to water.
Learn why and how to build healthy soil on your property! You will learn how a healthy soil : can remove as much carbon dioxide from the air as a tree and store it enhances groundwater, creeks and aquifer recharge while improving water quality captures more stormwater, reducing runoff and preventing erosion and also what […]
Bring the whole family to the Garden for a day filled with hands-on nature play and outdoor exploration! From building bug hotels to imagining forts in our Family Adventure Garden, we have educational activities and crafts perfect for every type of explorer. Enjoy a fun, screen-free day that celebrates the magic of outdoor play in […]
Shade and ornamental trees are the most valuable plants in your landscape and live the longest. Selecting the right tree for your space, getting them off to a good start and caring for them properly will extend their lives and provide your landscape with trees that are both functional and beautiful. Master Gardener Lynn Cox […]
Rainwater harvesting has so many benefits, from happy plants to money in your wallet. With so many things to consider, it can be hard to know where or how to start. This short workshop will touch on all of the basics of Rainwater Harvesting, and questions to ask yourself. This class is good for those […]
Get outside to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day and enjoy free entry all day at Mitchell Lake Audubon Center. Take home native plant educational material to learn what plants would work best in your space to benefit birds.
Join us and other members of the community to help us clean up our habitat! Mitchell Lake Audubon Center depends on our amazing volunteers to help manage habitat. This can involve trail maintenance, removal of invasive species, and planting native plants for birds and butterflies depending on the tasks of the day. This is a […]
The time is finally here! After one year of master planning, we are ready to reveal our plan for the future. This community celebration marks the culmination of a year-long collaboration where YOUR voice shaped the future of Arboretum San Antonio. The design you will see reflects our diverse community's collective passion and vision. […]
Learn valuable techniques to develop landscapes that are made to last and function sustainably with local ecosystems -- landscapes that work! Learn valuable techniques to develop landscapes that are made to last and function sustainably with local ecosystems. A properly designed sustainable landscape should be beautiful and eco-friendly, while saving resources and requiring minimal maintenance. […]
Master Gardener Candy Roach will present on the best methods and practices for successfully growing herbs: how to select and plant them, how to water them, and how to care for them.
Master Gardener Grace Emery will present on the best methods and practices for successfully growing herbs: how to select and plant them, how to water them, and how to care for them.
In this program Master Gardener, Karen Gardner, will explain our region’s unique climate and weather patterns as they relate to gardening and how homeowners can overcome those challenges in their landscapes. Karen will cover gardening techniques to develop a resilient garden; Including the aspects of soil, irrigation, design and plant choices.
Have you ever wanted to get involved in a local gardening or outdoor group? Are you curious about what programs, classes and activities are going on around town in the plant and outdoor world? Join us for an exciting day to meet local Societies and community groups and members. Our fourth annual Society Saturday 2025 […]
Celebrate Basil, The Herb of Summer - OR ANYTIME. Stop by Fanick's on for info on basil and all herbs, plants to purchase, cooking demonstrations, and a children's potting center.
David Rodriguez, our Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent, gardening expert and local radio personality will speak at Rainbow Gardens Society Saturday about simple, smart tips for helping your plants stay strong during the hottest time of year. Learn timely tips for sustainable gardening in high heat, water-wise practices, and plant care strategies that can make […]
Spring is in full bloom at Mitchell Lake Audubon Center! Join this laid-back walk as Mitchell Lake staff showcases some of our native wildflowers and how their blooms support the biodiversity of this region. Walk amongst our native plant gardens to learn ways to incorporate some of these beneficial plants in your space.
Taking a little time to research which plants to put into your latest landscape project will save you time, money, and disappointment. But where can you go to find the information you need? Join Candy Roach, Bexar County Master Gardener, as she shares some of the best resources, and how to use them, to find […]
Bees, including honeybees and our native bees, are one of our most important pollinators. Loss of habitat, pesticide use and more have caused stress of their population. Join Candy Roach, Bexar County Master Gardener, as she shares tips on how you, as a home gardener, can make a difference for these special pollinators.
This month GVST is having a field trip to the North American Friendship Garden located at Confluence Park. SARA personnel will give a presentation about the garden in the Estela Avery Classroom and then lead the group through the garden. NOTE: Advance registration is required due to classroom capacity. (A waitlist is available to notify […]
Explore native plants on the Texas Native Trails and throughout the Garden. Learn how native plants conserve water and adapt to their local environment. And learn how to grow these resilient plants in your home garden. Fee: Free with membership or San Antonio Botanical Garden admission (adults $15, children 3-13 $13.)
Encouraging our feathered friends to take up residence, or at least visit our gardens, benefits both birds and gardeners. Birds add life, song, and color to our garden. They consume thousands of plant-eating insects. And some even pollinate our flowers. Join Master Gardener Lynn Cox as she walks us through the birds we can attract […]
Be inspired at the Botanical Garden and learn about the best seasonal plants and design tips for creating a beautiful, drought-tolerant landscape. Fee: Free with garden admission and/or SABOT Garden membership.
The State of Texas encourages all taxpayers to support and buy from Texas businesses while saving money on tax-free purchases of certain water-efficient and water-conserving products during the annual Texas Water-Efficient Products Sales Tax Holiday. There is no limit on the number of qualifying items you can buy, and you do not need to give […]
Discover the beauty and importance of trees in urban green space during this seasonal tour. Learn how healthy urban forests benefit our environments and community and learn practical tips for caring for these vital ecosystems. As we journey through the garden, we’ll highlight both rare and native trees, showcasing their role in creating thriving, and […]