The floral design workshop offered by Stephen F. Austin State University is one of the programs designed by the Mast Arboretum to provide practical information to gardeners. The next workshop is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan 24.

A workshop at Stephen F. Austin State University on Jan. 24 will give participants an introduction to floral design. Dr. Michael Maurer, SFA assistant professor of horticulture, will teach the class.

"Participants will learn how to prep their plant material and then create three classic floral designs - linear, round and their choice of symmetrical or asymmetrical," according to Elyce Rodewald, educational program coordinator for the SFA Mast Arboretum. "They may bring a sack lunch, enjoy a full day of designing, and take home three arrangements to show off to friends and family."

Because space is limited, participants are encouraged to register early. The workshop is from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. in Agriculture Building, Room 118 on Wilson Drive. Cost is $55 for members of Friends of the SFA Gardens and is $65 for non-members.

To register, contact the education office at (936) 468-1832 or e-mail erodewald@sfasu.edu. Payment may be sent with name, address, daytime phone number and seminar title to: SFA Mast Arboretum-Garden Seminars, P.O. Box 13000 SFA Station, Nacogdoches, TX 75962-3000.

In-depth programs sponsored by the SFA Mast Arboretum provide practical information to gardeners in all stages of growth-from beginner to experienced. Seminar space is limited, so advance registration is required.

On Feb. 21, Dr. Craig Morton, assistant professor of agriculture, will present "Garden Tool Maintenance for the Mechanically Challenged." Morton will demonstrate how to sharpen a hoe, maintain a lawnmower and make the Weedeater "purr like a kitten." The workshop is from 9 a.m. until noon in the Ag Mechanics Shop beside the Military Science Building on College Street. Cost for members is $20; non-members pay $30.

Dr. David Creech, SFA Professor Emeritus, will teach the basic plant propagation techniques in "A Scion of the Times-All About Budding and Grafting" on March 12. Participants will practice on a variety of plants and should bring a small, sharp pocket knife. The class lasts from 6 until 8 p.m. in Agriculture Building, Room 118 on Wilson Drive. Cost for members is $20; non-members pay $30.

To learn more about becoming a member of the Friends of the SFA Gardens, call the education office at (936) 468-1832.