We need to address the elephant in the room…or the hog in the garden.
The arboretum is a sanctuary for wildlife, Texans, and guests from all over looking to connect to nature. Sometimes that includes learning how to live cohesively with less than desirable wildlife. While I love all animals, it is time to take action against some very destructive inhabitants of the 104 acres. We are undertaking a project to protect the gardens, trails, and guests from a group of feral hogs that have been destroying our gardens and trails at night. To properly fence the arboretum and then remove the hogs, all while still allowing for the more admirable wildlife to come and go will be an extensive and expensive project. Please consider supporting our efforts to repair and protect the gardens and trails from feral hog destruction.
Via Paypal: Use this link to donate online via paypal
Via Check: Checks Payable to East Texas Arboretum PO2231 Athens, TX 75751
Are you a business that wants to contribute to hog repair and mitigation? Email arboretum@easttexasarboretum.org
Upcoming Programs and Events
Check out what is on the calendar for the Arboretum and be sure to sign up online to save your spot.
Wreath Building Workshop: Saturday, February 17th
Let's spruce up our homes and doors with a home made wreath!
Nature provides a lot of wonderful decorative elements, even in winter. Join us on a brief winter nature walk to collect natural elements to decorate your own wreath to take home.
Guided Nature Hike: Saturday, February 24th
Join our executive director for a guided nature hike on the Hickory and Dogwood trails. This is about a 2 mile mild unpaved trail that is a great way to explore the trails for novice hikers, new comers, or those looking to meet new friends! Pets are welcome but must be friendly and kept on a leash at all times.
Gardening Conversations with Jay White: Friday February 23rd
Let's get ready to garden! Jay White, publisher of Texas Gardener the magazine will join the Arboretum to discuss spring gardening with award winning tips and guidance. Talk about star struck, we are so excited! You won’t want to miss this.
Spring Fest and Bi-Annual Plant Sale is on the books!
Bring family and friends to welcome in spring on Saturday, March 23rd from 10:00am -2:00pm. The Arboretum will be filled with color, games, food trucks, music, and local vendors that celebrate the earth, art, and community!
$10 per car. Food available for purchase.
East Texas Arboretum Members will have special access to a VIP, Members only pre-event plant sale on Friday, March 22nd at the Arboretum.
Save the Date for the Annual Style Show and Mimosa Brunch: Saturday, April 27, 2024
Tickets are now available. This event sells out, so be sure to secure your tickets early.
Sponsorships are available for the event. Learn how your company can celebrate in a special way.
Secure your tickets and sponsorships here.
Gardening To-Dos for February
Now is the time to start your seeds. Some windows may have already closed in January, but you can still get in on the February action! Here are some plants that you can get started with right now. There are a lot more to pick from. Head over to botanicalinterests.com for a more complete list.
6-8 weeks before the average last frost (psst its about March 29th in this area)
Aster
Balsam
Bluebonnets (Yep! There still a tiny bit of time!)
Coreopsis
Delphinium
Foxglove
Milkweed - A Monarch favorite!
Phlox
4-6 weeks before the average last frost
Amaranth
Cosmos
Forget-Me-Not
Marigold
Zinnia
2-4 weeks before the average last frost
Gourd
Nasturtium
Sunflower
Happy Gardening and See you on the Trails!
Jennifer
Jennifer Garcia
Executive Director
East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society
