Preserving the Harvest - NEW!


Saturday, September 11, 10am

Houston's own Dining Diva, Molly Fowler will show you how easy it is to enjoy your fresh harvest throughout the year. Canning, freezing, infusions and more will be covered in this informative and entertaining class.

Molly combines her years of catering expertise with her wide-ranging experience as a cooking instructor to demonstrate entertaining with ease, flair and impact.


 



Floral Beauty


Saturday, September 11, 10am

Join Laurie Humble for Floral Beauty. Cost: $65 due upon registration.

Laurie Humble is the author of the best-selling book, Watercolor Depth & Realism. Her watercolors have appeared in more than Fifty National and International Exhibitions garnering numerous awards. She holds signature memberships in seven watercolor societies and a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Texas State University.

Her work was the subject of a feature article, in American Artist Magazine, and has appeared in Southwest Art, and International Artist. Laurie's work appeared on the cover of the October 2008 issue of Watercolor Artist, accompanied by a feature article. Her work is included in the new book, Splash 10, a North Light publication, as well as the F & W media 2009 calendar.

She teaches at The Art League of Houston, conducts workshops across the United States, and on the internet with www.artacademylive.com were she also has three instructional DVD's available. Laurie's latest work and current events can be found on her website www.lauriehumble.com.


 



Bulbs and Buddies Bash, A Festival of Bulbs and Their Companions - NEW!


Saturday, September 18, 10am-3pm

10am seminar featuring Heidi Sheesley of Treesearch and Chris Wiesinger of The Southern Bulb Co.

"Pre-release" book signing with Chris Wiesinger

This is an extraordinary event not to be missed. The festival will showcase bulbs, perennials and shrubs that will offer years of beauty in your garden. Chris and Heidi will share their extensive knowledge and love for these treasured gems, as well as show you how to use them in your landscape for vigorous carefree color. Chris' new book will be available in limited quantities.

Heidi Sheesley is the owner of Treesearch Farms, a premier provider of perennials, natives, unique and unusual plants for the Gulf Coast region. Look for Heidi's weekly article in Sunday's Real Estate section of the Houston Chronicle.

Chris is a 2004 graduate of Texas A&M University, where he majored in horticulture and floriculture, and was a member of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets. Chris founded the Southern Bulb Co. from a college project upon graduation.


 



Garden Themed Still Life


Thursday, September 23, 10am

Join Laurie Humble for Garden Themed Still Life. Cost: $65 due upon registration.

Laurie Humble is the author of the best-selling book, Watercolor Depth & Realism. Her watercolors have appeared in more than Fifty National and International Exhibitions garnering numerous awards. She holds signature memberships in seven watercolor societies and a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Texas State University.

Her work was the subject of a feature article, in American Artist Magazine, and has appeared in Southwest Art, and International Artist. Laurie's work appeared on the cover of the October 2008 issue of Watercolor Artist, accompanied by a feature article. Her work is included in the new book, Splash 10, a North Light publication, as well as the F & W media 2009 calendar.

She teaches at The Art League of Houston, conducts workshops across the United States, and on the internet with www.artacademylive.com were she also has three instructional DVD's available. Laurie's latest work and current events can be found on her website www.lauriehumble.com.


 



Fall Vegetable Gardening


Saturday, September 25, 10am

Bill Adams and Tom LeRoy's informative and entertaining approach to gardening make this one of our most popular events. Learn vegetable gardening from the pros. Tom and Bill will also be on hand after the seminar for a signing of their popular The Southern Kitchen Garden book.

Tom is currently the Extension Agent for Montgomery County while Bill is a well known professional photographer and Extension Agent Emeritus for Harris County. Together, they have co-authored Vegetable Gardening for the South.


 



Iron Framed Fused Glass Garden Stake


Saturday, September 25, 1pm

Add light and color to your garden with this one of a kind work of art. Let your creative juices flow!! Designs by Char, Iron Framed Fused Glass Garden Stake. Cost: $110 due upon registration.


 



Bugs: The Good and The Bad


Sunday, September 26, 1pm

Seth Knight, Professor of Horticulture, ret., was a horticulturist with the state of Texas for six years and a Professor of Horticulture with Houston Community College for 30 years. Seth taught courses in many different areas of horticulture, entomology and working with insects and plant health problems. He was Department Chairman of the Agriculture/Science program with Houston Community College and worked with local school district's Horticulture Programs.


 



Attracting Bluebirds to Your Garden


Thursday, September 30, 10am

Linda Crum

Learn the habitat and nesting habits and how to protect Bluebirds with this popular presentation by Linda Crum, Texas Master Naturalist. You may join the Texas Bluebird Society, and with a new membership receive a free nest box.

Linda is a Texas Master naturalist and has monitored bluebirds in her backyard for years. She also monitors a bluebird trail at a nearby State Forest and reports all data to Cornell Laboratories, NestWatch program.


 



Uniquely You-Fun with Flowers Floral Design - NEW! - Class A


Saturday, October 2, 10am

Join Loela Barry of JoLoe Art & Academy for floral designs from your own garden. The key in these lectures and demonstrations are to show you how you can develop a special touch of your own with floral designs which specifically include your own grown plants. Learn what to plant to get useful material for the arrangements. The ultimate in floral design is when you have grown the flowers too!


 



Growing Your Own Herbal Teas - NEW!


Tuesday, October 5, 10am

Herbs thrive in our gardens. Henry Flowers of McAshan Gardens will show how to use these tough plants in combinations for your afternoon tea.

Henry is a native Texan and a graduate of Texas A&M University. He holds both Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Horticulture.
He is the 2009 recipient of the Herb Society of America's Joanna McQuail Reed Award for the Artistic Use of Herbs.


 



From the Garden to the Table


Saturday, October 9, 10am

Jeremy Kollaus's extensive vegetable gardening experience coupled with Chef Chris Crowder's creativity in the kitchen, promises to be an entertaining and informative addition to our schedule.

Jeremy Kollaus' low key approach to gardening appeals to the laid-back gardener in each of us. Not only an experienced vegetable gardener, Jeremy is a great cook!

Chef Chris Crowder is a professional chef and long time friend of The Arbor Gate. He prepares delicious dishes for many of the Arbor Gate events and specializes in herbal recipes.


 



Herbs: A Matter of Choice - NEW!


Tuesday, October 12, 10am

Ann Wheeler, Log House Herbs

So many wonderful herbs flourish in our year-round growing season--choosing the ones you want to devote valuable garden space to can be a challenge. Especially when we view the enormous range of choices available this time of year in the Arbor Gate Herb House!

This class will focus on two topics: first, the general basics of growing our most popular herbs, and second, how to choose what's best for your particular garden (especially during the cool season). So if you don't really want to plant 15 varieties of thyme, Ann Wheeler will help you choose and then grow your favorites successfully.

Be sure to bring your herb gardening questions--gardening is an ongoing learning experience!


 



Painting Fruits and Vegetables


Thursday, October 14, 10am

Join Laurie Humble for Painting Fruits and Vegetables (great to hang in your kitchen). Cost: $65 due upon registration.

Laurie Humble is the author of the best-selling book, Watercolor Depth & Realism. Her watercolors have appeared in more than Fifty National and International Exhibitions garnering numerous awards. She holds signature memberships in seven watercolor societies and a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Texas State University.

Her work was the subject of a feature article, in American Artist Magazine, and has appeared in Southwest Art, and International Artist. Laurie's work appeared on the cover of the October 2008 issue of Watercolor Artist, accompanied by a feature article. Her work is included in the new book, Splash 10, a North Light publication, as well as the F & W media 2009 calendar.

She teaches at The Art League of Houston, conducts workshops across the United States, and on the internet with www.artacademylive.com were she also has three instructional DVD's available. Laurie's latest work and current events can be found on her website www.lauriehumble.com.


 



The Weekend Herb Gardener - NEW!


Saturday, October 16, 10am

Ann Wheeler, Log House Herbs

In the best of all possible worlds, avid gardeners would have time for their plants every day of the week. But in the real world most of us are weekend gardeners, and even on weekends we divide our time between numerous items on our to-do list. So how can herbs be managed in this fashion? The perception that herbs are somewhat mysterious and difficult to grow makes it seem a daunting task.

This class will provide several approaches to successful growing even for the weekend herb gardener. Ann Wheeler will provide tips on a variety of issues from planning and organizing for fall and winter herbs, maximizing available resources (like space, water, sunlight, time, etc.) and even thinking ahead to spring.

Be sure to bring issues of particular interest to you--we learn best practices from sharing experiences and ideas with fellow herb gardeners!


 



Basic Pruning and Training


Sunday, October 17, 1pm

Angela Chandler

Join Angela Chandler and learn how to enhance the beauty and health of your trees and shrubs. Participants will learn basic pruning techniques, tools and safety procedures. Shade, Ornamental, Fruit, and Citrus trees will all be covered. Samples will be pruned in class.

Angela Chandler is a life-long hobby gardener. She is a Past-President of the Harris County Master Gardener Association and was the Texas State Master Gardener of the year in 2004. She enjoys teaching a variety of garden subjects and co-authors a monthly gardening article in the Houston Chronicle. She is currently a consultant to Treesearch Farms.


 



Fall Vegetable Container Gardening


Tuesday, October 19, 10am

Learn what varieties thrive in containers for ease of maintenance and harvest. Jeremy Kollaus demonstrates how vegetables in containers add beauty and function to your patio or landscape.

Jeremy Kollaus' low key approach to gardening appeals to the laid-back gardener in each of us. Not only an experienced vegetable gardener, Jeremy is a great cook!


 



Not Tonight, Deer - NEW!


Thursday, October 21, 10am

Jason McKenzie

Those cute little brown-eyed friends can wreak havoc in your landscape. Join Jason McKenzie of Pineywoods Nursery to learn about great plants to prevent your garden from being an all night buffet.

Jason McKenzie, owner of The Pineywoods Nursery and Landscaping in Shenandoah, Texas. He specializes in native Southeastern plants with focuses on reforestation of woodlands and native habitat gardening. Jason is a past chapter president of the Native Plant Society, and has traveled the southeastern U.S. collecting and growing rare and unique natives of landscape and habitat value. Working to educate, Jason speaks to many garden clubs and professional events.


 



Gardening and Grilling with Herbs


Saturday, October 23, 10am

Get ready to grill! Join Ann Wheeler and Chef Chris Crowder as they teach the many ways to bring your herbs from the garden to the grill. Learn great techniques on how to grow the best herbs for cooking.

Chef Chris Crowder is a professional chef and long time friend of The Arbor Gate. He prepares delicious dishes for many of the Arbor Gate events and specializes in herbal recipes.

Ann Wheeler, Log House Herbs


 



Gunter's Heirloom Vegetables


Saturday, October 23, 10am-1pm

Pam and Leah Gunter's knowledge and selection of these garden gems is unsurpassed!!!


 



Tailgate Like a Pro - NEW!


Saturday, October 23, 1pm

Tailgating is a popular sport in the fall. Join Chef Chris Crowder and don't let this season catch you unprepared for the challenge!!

Chef Chris Crowder is a professional chef and long time friend of The Arbor Gate. He prepares delicious dishes for many of the Arbor Gate events and specializes in herbal recipes. Chef Chris will have you "tailgating like a pro".


 



Basic Gardening Techniques - NEW!


Sunday, October 24, 1pm

Perfect for the first time gardener! Come and learn the 1-2-3's of getting your garden started. Get the basics from Angela Chandler on everything from bed preparation to planting and from watering to pruning. If you are a first time home owner, new to gardening in Texas or if you are an experienced gardener needing a refresher course then this is the class for you!


 



Lite The Nite - Class A


Tuesday, October 26, 10am

Rob Greening of NiteLites will give you the tools you need for adding a new dimension to your landscape. Whether you have existing lighting or are planning installation let Rob take you through the steps.

NiteLites is a locally owned and operated landscape lighting company.


 



Lite The Nite - Class B


Saturday, October 30, 10am

Rob Greening of NiteLites will give you the tools you need for adding a new dimension to your landscape. Whether you have existing lighting or are planning installation let Rob take you through the steps.

NiteLites is a locally owned and operated landscape lighting company.


 



Fused Glass Herb Markers


Saturday, October 30, 1pm

Custom design fused glass markers to make your herbs glow. You will leave with five creations. Space is limited. Class fee is $65.

This class is hosted by Designs by Char.


 



"Not So Scary" Halloween Painting


Saturday, October 30, 1pm

Join Laurie Humble for Not So Scary Halloween Painting (for children 8 and over). Cost: $65 due upon registration.

Laurie Humble is the author of the best-selling book, Watercolor Depth & Realism. Her watercolors have appeared in more than Fifty National and International Exhibitions garnering numerous awards. She holds signature memberships in seven watercolor societies and a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Texas State University.

Her work was the subject of a feature article, in American Artist Magazine, and has appeared in Southwest Art, and International Artist. Laurie's work appeared on the cover of the October 2008 issue of Watercolor Artist, accompanied by a feature article. Her work is included in the new book, Splash 10, a North Light publication, as well as the F & W media 2009 calendar.

She teaches at The Art League of Houston, conducts workshops across the United States, and on the internet with www.artacademylive.com were she also has three instructional DVD's available. Laurie's latest work and current events can be found on her website www.lauriehumble.com.


 



Fused Glass Funky Faces


Sunday, October 31, 1pm

Back by popular demand!! Design your own fun, colorful, fused glass funky face garden stake! Space is limited. Class fee is $65.

This class is hosted by Designs by Char.


 



Deck the Halls


Thursday, November 4, 4pm-7pm

This event continues to inspire and inform. Join us for your holiday entertainment and decorating guide.


 



Fused Glass Christmas Ornaments - Class A


Thursday, November 4, 5pm

This was a huge hit last year . Each participant will create three separate pieces to keep or give away as gifts. However, last years participants loved their creations so much they kept them for their very own trees! This is one of Char's very favorite classes to teach. All supplies are provided as well as sample ornaments to start your creative juices flowing. $65.

Designs by Char


 



Grafting 101


Saturday, November 6, 10am

Bill Adams shares his knowledge and experience of grafting with the home gardener.

Bill is a well known professional photographer and Extension Agent Emeritus for Harris County.


 



Fused Glass Christmas Ornaments - Class B


Saturday, November 6, 10am

This was a huge hit last year . Each participant will create three separate pieces to keep or give away as gifts. However, last years participants loved their creations so much they kept them for their very own trees! This is one of Char's very favorite classes to teach. All supplies are provided as well as sample ornaments to start your creative juices flowing. $65.

Designs by Char


 



Uniquely You-Fun with Flowers Floral Design - NEW! - Class B


Thursday, November 11, 10am

Join Loela Barry of JoLoe Art & Academy for floral designs from your own garden. The key in these lectures and demonstrations are to show you how you can develop a special touch of your own with floral designs which specifically include your own grown plants. Learn what to plant to get useful material for the arrangements. The ultimate in floral design is when you have grown the flowers too!


 



Handpainted Christmas Cards - Class A


Thursday, November 11, 10am

Join Laurie Humble for Handpainted Christmas Cards. Cost: $65 due upon registration.

Laurie Humble is the author of the best-selling book, Watercolor Depth & Realism. Her watercolors have appeared in more than Fifty National and International Exhibitions garnering numerous awards. She holds signature memberships in seven watercolor societies and a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Texas State University.

Her work was the subject of a feature article, in American Artist Magazine, and has appeared in Southwest Art, and International Artist. Laurie's work appeared on the cover of the October 2008 issue of Watercolor Artist, accompanied by a feature article. Her work is included in the new book, Splash 10, a North Light publication, as well as the F & W media 2009 calendar.

She teaches at The Art League of Houston, conducts workshops across the United States, and on the internet with www.artacademylive.com were she also has three instructional DVD's available. Laurie's latest work and current events can be found on her website www.lauriehumble.com.


 



Handpainted Christmas Cards - Class B


Saturday, November 13, 10am

Join Laurie Humble for Handpainted Christmas Cards. Cost: $65 due upon registration.

Laurie Humble is the author of the best-selling book, Watercolor Depth & Realism. Her watercolors have appeared in more than Fifty National and International Exhibitions garnering numerous awards. She holds signature memberships in seven watercolor societies and a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Texas State University.

Her work was the subject of a feature article, in American Artist Magazine, and has appeared in Southwest Art, and International Artist. Laurie's work appeared on the cover of the October 2008 issue of Watercolor Artist, accompanied by a feature article. Her work is included in the new book, Splash 10, a North Light publication, as well as the F & W media 2009 calendar.

She teaches at The Art League of Houston, conducts workshops across the United States, and on the internet with www.artacademylive.com were she also has three instructional DVD's available. Laurie's latest work and current events can be found on her website www.lauriehumble.com.


 



Fused Glass Christmas Platters


Saturday, November 20, 10am

In this class you will create your very own colorful 8" tray just in time for the holidays. Wow your friends with your creativity and add that personal touch to your holiday table. Char's love of colors shows through with her choices for you to experiment with. $65.

Designs by Char


 



Birds in the Garden


Thursday, December 2, 10am

Join Laurie Humble for Birds in the Garden. Cost: $65 due upon registration.

Laurie Humble is the author of the best-selling book, Watercolor Depth & Realism. Her watercolors have appeared in more than Fifty National and International Exhibitions garnering numerous awards. She holds signature memberships in seven watercolor societies and a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Texas State University.

Her work was the subject of a feature article, in American Artist Magazine, and has appeared in Southwest Art, and International Artist. Laurie's work appeared on the cover of the October 2008 issue of Watercolor Artist, accompanied by a feature article. Her work is included in the new book, Splash 10, a North Light publication, as well as the F & W media 2009 calendar.

She teaches at The Art League of Houston, conducts workshops across the United States, and on the internet with www.artacademylive.com were she also has three instructional DVD's available. Laurie's latest work and current events can be found on her website www.lauriehumble.com.


 



Christmas Open House


Saturday, December 4, 4pm-7pm

Music, food and fun, that is the recipe for this event. Our annual "Thank you" to all of our friends.