Recently, there has been increased interest in home gardening, not just locally but nationwide.

Much of this renewed interest in vegetable production can be attributed to a desire to save money, as well as the satisfaction one receives nurturing a plant from a seedling to harvest.

The cold, damp, and windy weather conditions of the past two weeks have made it difficult to visualize spring gardening activities. However, in order to have those juicy and flavor filled vegetables on the table this spring and summer, Kingsville area residents need to start developing their garden plans now.

Several garden favorites should be planted on or before the average date of the last spring frost. Depending on the information source, the last spring frost for the Kingsville area will occur sometime between February 5 and February 12.

With this in mind one quickly realizes that now is the time for 2010 gardening plans to be finalized. When planning a garden it is suggested that it be mapped out on paper first.

Location and size need to be two major considerations. Remember, a small weed-free garden will produce more than a large messy one. Gardening should also be enjoyable.

Therefore, having an expansive site that can’t properly be maintained will quickly become a frustrating and discouraging chore. Garden sites need to be placed near a water source. Easy access to irrigation will insure that plants receive adequate moisture in a timely fashion.

This is extremely important in South Texas since early spring temperatures can bump the century mark zapping the soil of moisture and placing the plant in a stressed situation early in the growing season. Although, garden catalogs make all produce appear tasty and delicious, there is no value in taking up space, time and effort producing vegetables that no one in your family eats. Poll family members and make a list of favorites.

This information will be useful in deciding what vegetables to plant and how much will be needed. Popular family favorites may even require successive planting for a longer harvest period and increased yield.

Are you wanting to learn more about planning and planting a home garden? On Tuesday, January 19, 2010, Kleberg Master Gardener Inez Tunon, will be conducting a home garden workshop.

Some of the topics that will be covered include fertilization, soil types, variety selection, and pest identification. Experienced Kleberg County Gardeners are encouraged to attend and share their secrets for success with first time gardeners.

Due to limited space, participants are asked to preregister by contacting the Kleberg-Kenedy Extension Service Office at 595-8566.

The workshop will be held in the Extension Office, 729 East Yoakum at 6 p.m. It should last approximately one hour.