THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS (September 10, 2010) – A free, how-to event, Woodlands Landscaping Solutions will present water-wise gardening methods with booths, demonstrations, garden tours and a plant sale on Saturday, September 25, 2010, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Millennium Forest Gardens, 8203 Millennium Forest Drive.

An annual offering of The Woodlands Township, this year’s water-wise event focuses on habitat gardening with a special appearance by Marya Fowler with National Wildlife Federation. Gaining in popularity for their charm and ease of care, habitat gardens add life to the landscape by enticing hummingbirds, butterflies and songbirds. The non-profit organization offers resources for creating habitats in small spaces, backyards and school grounds, maintaining a national registry of certified landscapes.

Specializing in butterflies and bluebirds, nature enthusiasts from North American Butterfly Association and the Texas Bluebird Society will suggest plants and give hints for attracting the winged beauties. A chimney swift tower on site will offer a rare glimpse of the elusive species while pond tours will introduce aquatic plants and animals.

Whether a habitat garden or more formal setting, a beautiful landscape begins with healthy soil according to Montgomery County Master Gardeners. The gardening experts will give ongoing demonstrations teaching the basics of backyard composting and reveal the secret to achieving healthy soil. Other displays will feature water-wise irrigation and rainwater harvesting, the latest trend in water conservation.

A plant sale will feature hard-to-find, native perennials, vines, shrubs and understory trees. Montgomery County Herb Gardeners will sell culinary and ornamental herbs, and Chris Weisinger, the “Bulb Hunter” will offer heirloom bulbs for southern gardens.

Free to the public, the outdoor event is organized by The Woodlands Township and sponsored by Waste Management, Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, Montgomery County Master Gardener Association, The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. and Hilton Garden Inn. For information, call 281-210-3900 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

For more information on The Woodlands Township government, please call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Photo: With water-wise tips for landscaping from the ground up, Woodlands Landscaping Solutions offers booths, demonstrations and a plant sale on Saturday, September 25, 2010, from 9 a.m. to noon.