The History of the Smith County Master Gardeners’ Garden Guide and Calendar

We launched the East Texas Garden Guide and Calendar project in 1997 to create an educational gardening calendar in 1998. Right from the start, the project served a dual purpose: it provided valuable gardening tips to buyers while raising vital funds for the Smith County Master Gardeners.

Because the venture was an instant success, we upgraded the 1999 edition by featuring a beautiful watercolor painting on the cover. In fact, a talented Master Gardener painted a brand-new piece for the cover every year for the next several years.

As the publication evolved into a comprehensive Guide, we packed it with even more practical gardening insights. Today, our team completely revises and updates this information every year to ensure the gardening community receives the best advice. Additionally, we transitioned from painted covers to stunning local photographs chosen annually by our committee.

Discover the 2026 Garden Guide and Calendar

The 2026 Garden Guide and Calendar focuses entirely on the art of container gardening. Inside, you will find expert advice on growing mixed containers, shrubs, trees, flowers, and vegetables.

Specifically, this year’s guide teaches you how to succeed with containers by covering:

• Pot Selection: How to Choose the Perfect Container.
• Soil Quality: Which soil blends yield the best results.
• Efficient Watering: Smart techniques to save water and keep plants healthy.
• Plant Varieties: A curated list of plants that thrive in pots.

Furthermore, the guide includes a local event calendar, helpful gardening websites, and monthly garden checklists.

Where to Buy Your Copy

You can purchase your copy at the Texas A&M Extension Office in Tyler or at various other retail locations throughout Smith County. If you want to find a shop near you, click HERE to download a printable list of retailers.

Best of all, the calendar costs just $10 again this year. Because it is packed with timeless advice, it serves as an excellent reference guide for years to come.

Do you have questions? Call us at (903) 590-2994 for more information.

Take a look below at some of the beautiful container gardens featured in our 2026 calendar articles!