History and Development of the DIG

The first demonstration garden was dedicated on June 20, 1998 (view dedication brochure). It consisted of 14 raised beds planted with perennials, annuals, herbs, vines and vegetables. The main purpose of this garden was to demonstrate basic and environmentally sound gardening practices. Selected plants were locally adapted, watering was done with efficient techniques, pesticide and herbicide use was minimal and garden wastes were recycled into compost.

See images of our previous garden here.

See images of our Demonstration Idea Garden during development here.

Renovation of this garden began in 2006 when construction of a covered and electrified outdoor meeting area, the pavilion, was deemed necessary. A new vegetable garden, consisting of five raised beds was installed, as was the Earth-Kind Rose Field Trial garden. In 2008 the garden was expanded to include a butterfly garden and Texas Superstar garden. The first of two rainwater harvesting tanks was installed and composting area relocated and enlarged. Trees adapted to the growing conditions of the Brazos Valley were planted in the spring of 2009 and dedicated as the Brazos County Arboretum on Arbor Day, April 30, 2010. The second rainwater tank was installed in the summer of 2010 as was an improved, accessible pathway around the main gardens. The DIG continues to grow and expand, providing a variety of opportunities for Master Gardeners and the general public to expand their horticultural knowledge and beautify our community.

In Appreciation

This project was made possible through the donations of City of Bryan Composting Facility, College Station Electric Inc., Coufal-Prater Equipment Ltd - Bryan, TX, Omega Delta Phi, Brazos County Maintenance, the Brazos County Road and Bridge Department, Texas AgriLife Extension Agents, Extension Specialists and Brazos County Master Gardeners. Thank you for your contributions.