Business Details
Your Trusted Source for Horticultural Education in Seguin, TX
Guadalupe County Master Gardeners is a voluntary service organization dedicated to advancing horticultural education through community outreach and partnerships with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Since our founding, we have focused on equipping residents with practical gardening knowledge through hands-on classes, demonstration gardens, and public events like plant sales and seed exchanges. Our team of certified volunteers provides research-based guidance on sustainable gardening practices, plant selection, and ecosystem stewardship tailored to Central Texas conditions.We maintain a robust calendar of educational programs, including monthly lectures, workshops, and seasonal gardening initiatives, while also supporting local food security efforts through community gardens and food pantry donations. Our commitment to accessibility is demonstrated through free public resources, bilingual outreach, and accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
Services
Horticultural Classes
Plant Sales
Seed Exchange
Community Gardens
Gardening Consultations
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of combined horticultural expertise through certified Master Gardener volunteers
- Our research-based programs align with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension's scientific standards
- We maintain 10+ community demonstration gardens showcasing Central Texas-adapted plants
- Our seed exchange program preserves 200+ heirloom varieties suited to local climates
- We provide bilingual educational materials and outreach to serve diverse communities
Associations and certifications
- Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
Services
Horticultural Education Programs
Our educational programs deliver research-based horticultural knowledge through monthly lectures, hands-on workshops, and seasonal gardening courses. Certified Master Gardeners teach techniques for Central Texas climates, covering plant selection, soil health, and sustainable practices. Participants gain practical skills for home gardening and landscape management.
Community Demonstration Gardens
We maintain 10+ demonstration gardens showcasing regionally appropriate plants and sustainable landscaping techniques. These gardens serve as living classrooms for water conservation, native plant cultivation, and ecosystem-friendly gardening practices. Each site includes educational signage and volunteer-led tours.
Seed Exchange
Our seed exchange preserves 200+ heirloom and adapted plant varieties suited to Central Texas conditions. Gardeners can access free seeds during weekly hours and learn proper saving techniques. The program promotes biodiversity, food security, and climate-resilient gardening practices through community participation.
Plant Sales
Seasonal plant sales offer regionally adapted ornamental and edible plants propagated by Master Gardeners. Proceeds fund community education programs. Sales feature expert guidance on plant selection, care, and climate-appropriate landscaping solutions for home gardeners.
Ask a Master Gardener
Our helpline and in-person consultations provide research-based solutions to gardening challenges. Certified volunteers answer questions about plant diagnostics, pest management, and soil testing through email, phone, and weekly office hours at the AgriLife Extension office.
People
Travis W. Franke
County Extension Agent
Travis Franke serves as the County Extension Agent for Guadalupe County Master Gardeners, overseeing horticultural programs and community outreach initiatives. With 15+ years of agricultural extension experience, he specializes in sustainable landscaping and urban agriculture education.
Karen Brkich
Advanced Master Gardener
Karen Brkich coordinates educational workshops and gardening classes as an Advanced Master Gardener. She leads volunteer training programs and develops curriculum materials focused on Central Texas horticulture and sustainable practices.
Paul Prince
Volunteer Coordinator
Paul Prince manages volunteer operations and technology initiatives for Guadalupe County Master Gardeners. He oversees event filming, digital content creation, and training for new volunteers in photography and educational media production.
Clara Mae Marcotte
Master Gardener
Clara Mae Marcotte contributes to gardening education through research articles and public demonstrations. She specializes in native plant cultivation and serves as a resource for local gardeners seeking advice on climate-adapted landscaping.
Ernestine Sykes
Master Gardener
Ernestine Sykes supports community outreach programs and maintains demonstration gardens. She focuses on food security initiatives and educates residents about sustainable vegetable gardening techniques for Central Texas conditions.
Questions
What volunteer opportunities are available with the organization?
Volunteer roles include gardening projects, event coordination, seed exchange management, educational outreach, and technology support. Contact board members for specific opportunities.
What plant hardiness zone is Guadalupe County located in?
Guadalupe County falls within USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 9a, with minimum winter temperatures ranging from 20-25°F, suitable for subtropical plant species.
When are the Master Gardener certification classes offered?
New certification classes begin annually in January. The program includes horticultural training and volunteer requirements to become a certified Master Gardener.
Where can I access gardening resources specific to Central Texas?
Visit our website for region-specific guides, monthly gardening tips, and access to the Master Gardener research library containing over 200 gardening resources.
What community projects does the organization support?
We maintain 10+ community gardens, operate a seed exchange program, support food pantries through produce donations, and organize educational events like plant sales and workshops.
Videos
