Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service : East Texas Fruit and Vegetable Conference set Feb. 23 in Lufkin

• Writer: Adam Russell, 903-834-6191, [e-mail]
• Contact: Dr. Joe Masabni, 903-834-6191, [e-mail]

LUFKIN - The East Texas Fruit and Vegetable Conference Feb. 23 will offer professional and amateur producers tips on everything from fruit and nut tree grafting and weed control to critter and pollinator management, coordinators said.

[Attachment]

Vegetables displayed at the farmers' market in Tyler. Learn tips from professionals and specialists at the East Texas Fruit and Vegetable Conference Feb. 23 in Lufkin. (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo by Adam Russell)

The conference, presented by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, will be at Pitser Garrison Convention Center, 601 N. 2nd St. Lufkin.

Dr. Joe Masabni, AgriLife Extension horticulturist, Overton, said the program is a great opportunity for producers and gardeners to learn about a wide array of popular topics from top experts.

'It's a wonderful opportunity to learn some tips and tricks from our specialists and growers on how to be successful,' he said. 'It's a chance to see what successful producers are doing to grow better quality and quantities of fruit and vegetables as wellas how to safely manage pests, diseases and, most importantly, promote pollinator health.'

There is a $30 fee for individuals and $50 for couples. The deadline to register is Feb. 16. There is an additional $10 charge for registration after that date.

The program offers four Texas Department of Agriculture continuing education units, three integrated pest management and one general.

Registration begins at 8 a.m., followed by sessions starting at 8:30 a.m. Lunch and snacks are included.

Onsite registration with cash or checks is accepted. To preregister, please make checks to 'East Texas Fruit and Vegetable Conference - South' and mail to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Angelina County Horticulture Committee, 2201 S. Medford Dr. in Lufkin, 75901.

Topics include:

- Fruit and Nut Tree Grafting.

- Honey Bees and Pollinators.

- Identification of Garden Insects and their Control.

- Weed Control in Orchards.

- Seed Saving.

- Disease Control in Tomatoes.

- Disease Control in Watermelons.

- Tree and Vine Planting.

- Building a Collapsible Raised Bed.

- Hügelkultur.

For more information, contact Masabni at [e-mail].

-30-