Livingston

Town of Livingston Beautification and Demonstration Beds

Master Gardeners partnered with the town of Livingston to rehab and install new landscaping beds along a three-block long sidewalk section through the middle of town. Initial planning for the project came about after one of the master gardeners discussed possibilities of a site in town for a landscape demonstration bed. The town, along with Keep Livingston Beautiful, provided funding for soil amendments, plants, fertilizer, herbicides, and mulch. Livingston Master Gardeners and the parish coordinator worked with wholesale nurseries on plant selection and layout. Plant selection focused on the use of native landscape plants and Louisiana Super Plant selections. Master Gardeners, town employees, and volunteers worked on bed preparation, planting, and mulching. Currently the mayor’s office is soliciting bed sponsorships from local businesses and individuals which will be used to supplement ongoing maintenance costs. Part of the funds from each sponsorship will be used to purchase permanent plant markers for identification of each plant.

Livingston Master Gardeners work on bed preparation of beautification and demonstration beds along Bloss Street in the town of Livingston. Photographer: Livingston Parish Master Gardener Volunteer

Eastside Elementary Fruit Orchard Rehabilitation

The principal of Eastside Elementary School in Denham Springs, LA had contacted the horticulture agent in Livingston Parish for advice on care and management of a newly installed fruit orchard on the school campus. After inspection of the site and soil testing, it was determined that work needed to be done to improve growing conditions. Master Gardeners worked with the principal to provide recommendations, formulate a plan of action, and assist in making site improvements. Recommendation of continuing care and maintenance of the orchard were also provided.

Existing blueberry bushes and citrus trees replanted and mulched with pine straw in the fruit orchard at Eastside Elementary school in Denham Springs, LA. Photographer: Livingston Parish Master Gardener Volunteer

Monarch Butterfly Garden

The Livingston Master Gardener Association voted to sponsor one of the beds in the Livingston Beautification and Demonstration project for the purpose of planting a monarch butterfly garden that meets the North American Butterfly Association certification guidelines. Master gardeners selected appropriate plants, purchased, and planted them in a landscape bed that is part of the Bloss Street project. Master Gardeners are volunteering to oversee maintenance for the bed. Certification paperwork was submitted and the projected has been recognized as a certified monarch butterfly habitat. A sign will be installed on site.

Livingston Master Gardeners planting plants in the monarch butterfly garden bed along Bloss Street in Livingston. Photographer: Livingston Parish Master Gardener Volunteer