Southern peas and okra are two crops that can be grown during the summer in East Texas.
July 9, 2026 - The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and the Smith County Master Gardeners invite you to join their second Edible Gardening Workshop on Tuesday, July 9, at the Rose Garden Center’s Camellia Room in Tyler. Check‑in begins at 8:30 a.m., and the program runs from 9:00 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. This free event is open to the public and offers a full morning of practical, regionally relevant gardening wisdom.
The day begins with Clint Perkins, AgriLife’s Smith County Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, who will present Water‑Wise Gardening Techniques. Clint will explain how East Texas soils accept, move, and retain rainwater and irrigation, and share tips for soil amendments, garden design, and watering strategies that help crops thrive even in dry spells. His talk will be especially useful for those managing vegetable gardens through our unpredictable summer rains.
Next, Dr. Jenna Anding, Professor and Extension Specialist in Nutrition, will guide participants through Food Preservation. She’ll cover safe, tested methods for canning and storing summer produce, emphasizing food safety and reliable recipe sources so gardeners can enjoy their harvest long after the season ends. Her presentation will help attendees avoid the pitfalls of unverified online recipes and ensure that their preserved foods are both delicious and safe.
Following a short break, I will take the stage for Summer Harvest and Planting. I will share advice on proper harvesting, choosing the right plants for summer success, and how to make the most of the hottest months. I’ll offer practical solutions for when things don’t go as planned or skipping the summer entirely, because every gardener knows that even the best‑laid plans can wilt under a Texas sun.
The program concludes with a special look at the Shade Garden Water Project at the Tyler Botanical Garden. Master Gardener Katy Barone will explain how volunteers have tackled water‑retention challenges on the sloping site, and Master Gardener Dan Gerber will lead a short tour showcasing the improvements. For several years, the Shade Garden has struggled to keep moisture where it’s needed, but through clever planning and hard work, the team has made great strides. The walkway is shaded, and drinking water will be available for those joining the tour.
This workshop is a wonderful opportunity to learn from local experts, connect with fellow gardeners, and see firsthand how thoughtful design and community effort can transform a landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just starting your first pea patch, you’ll leave with new ideas and inspiration for your own garden.
For details or to register, visit https://form.jotform.com/261554572103149, visit the Smith County Maste Gardeners website or Facebook page, or call the Smith County AgriLife Extension office at 903-590-2980.
