The LSU AgCenter and the St. Tammany Master Gardeners will hold their annual garden show and plant sale March 16-17 at the St. Tammany Fairgrounds in Covington.

“This year’s show will feature free plant and gardening information by local Master Gardeners, hourly presentations by experts in their field, more than 35 exhibitor booths, children’s activities and food concessions,” said Rusty Batty, LSU AgCenter county agent.

Speakers and topics for Friday, March 16, include Eileen Gremillion on basics of butterfly gardening, Nick Singh on plant diagnosis, Curt Bowman on irrigation for small gardens, Ron Strahan on weeds vs. lawns vs. man and Ned Edwards on recommended fruits in the South.

The March 17 program will include Nancy McDonald and Karla Patridge on composting: the world of worms, Patrick O’Connor on Louisiana irises, Dan Gill on can’t miss colorful plants, Diane Quinn on water gardening and Eric McQuiston on lessons in landscaping for beginners.

Gates will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p. m. each day. Admission is $3 for adults. Children under 12 may enter free.

The event will be held under a pavilion, so weather will not be a problem. Parking is free.

Proceeds from the garden show will benefit the Bobby Fletcher Sr. College Scholarship Fund.

For additional information, contact Rusty Batty at 985-875-2635. The complete program is available on the LSU AgCenter website, www.LSUAgCenter.com, and clicking on March 16 on the calendar.

Johnny Morgan