April 16 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Seeds of Texas: Practical Propagation for Native Plants with Jacob Martin
This presentation draws on over a decade of experience managing the greenhouse at Mercer Botanic Gardens to explore practical methods for growing native Texas plants from seed. We will cover proven propagation techniques, including seed collection, handling, and pre-treatment methods required to break dormancy. The talk will also highlight lessons learned through trial and error—what works, what doesn’t, and why. Special attention will be given to challenging species and select rare Texas natives, offering insight into both horticultural success and conservation-minded propagation.
About the Speaker: Jacob Martin
Jacob Martin is the Head of Horticulture at Mercer Botanic Gardens, where he has managed the greenhouse operations for the past ten years. He oversees extensive botanical collections consisting of thousands of plants and directs the production of over 20,000 seasonal annuals twice each year. His work includes active seed collection, seed banking, and propagation efforts to support both horticultural display and conservation. Jacob also conducts field-based seed collection of native Texas species and recently completed a 2025 Piney Woods seed collection project under permit with the Angelina National Forest, contributing to the expansion of Mercer’s native plant collections.
Our monthly chapter meetings are held on every 3rd Thursday, January – November. Our meetings are free and open to the public thanks to our members and sponsors.
The presentation will start at 7:00 pm, but come at 6:45 pm for a meet and greet with snacks.
Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
610 Entrance (preferred)
120 W Loop N Fwy
Houston, TX 77024
Woodway Entrance
4501 Woodway Drive
Houston, TX 77024
Meetings will also be live-streamed and recorded for later viewing.
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