The Hammond Spring Garden Day is set for March 12 at the LSU AgCenter Hammond Research Station from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“The program will provide valuable information to homeowners and to gardeners,” Sandra Benjamin, LSU AgCenter county agent, said. “AgCenter faculty members and Master Gardeners will present sessions on Super Plant selection, backyard ponds, colorful foliage plants for summer gardens and a session entitled, all about camellias.”

The program also will include LSU AgCenter recommendations on gardening and related topics and feature garden products and services available in the area.

New to the program this year will be a plant swap. The event also will feature the annual plant sale, kid’s activities, commercial and educational exhibits, educational presentations and the plant diagnostic center.

Tours of the station at 10 a.m. and at noon will showcase some of the research at the station, Benjamin said.

Participants also may bring soil samples for testing. The cost for each one-pint soil sample is $10, payable by check or money order.

Concessions will be available, and singer Kevin Patrick will provide musical entertainment from noon to 1 p.m.

Visitors are asked to bring nonperishable food items to donate to the Tangi Food Pantry.

The event is sponsored by the LSU AgCenter and the Tangipahoa Parish Master Gardeners Association.

Admission is $5 per vehicle. More information is available from Sandra Benjamin at 985-748-9381 or 985-748-5462.

The research station is located at 21549 Old Covington Highway (Highway 1067 off of La. Highway 190).


Johnny Morgan