Grower, horticultural agent tout region's fruit, vegetable conference

By KARI KRAMER | East Texas Edition

Many of East Texas' favorites, such as sweet potatoes, will be discussed at the Feb. 15 conference in Tyler. The day's agenda also include informational presentations about production of grapes, watermelon, and onions, and farmers' markets. -- Staff photo

Jan. 27, 2005 - Bob Wells understands the Texas fruit and vegetable market, for over a 100 years, his family has been in the business.

At Bob Wells Nursery in Lindale, in addition to grape vines, an assortment of fruit, nut, and shade trees are grown. Wells runs the nursery just as others in his family did before him. It started as a family affair and still remains one today. His family and a handful of hired employees keep the business running. He credits his success to quality plants, trees, and personal service.

Every year Wells is one of many area producers to visit the East Texas Fruit and Vegetable Conference. The conference helps several entities in the area learn and explore the fruit and vegetable market. Speakers discuss topics relevant to area production, and commercial exhibits are on site. Wells believes the event helps producers, and even those who may have just a few trees or small garden.

"It gives the orchardist the benefit of obtaining varieties suited to our area," said Wells.

Keith Hansen is the horticulture agent for Smith County and helped organize the event.

"It is a multi-county event that brings in highly qualified speakers in various subject areas from across Texas and other states. There is no other similar conference of this magnitude in this region," said Hansen.

The large show gives people the chance to trade ideas and ask questions.

"There is currently no Extension horticulture specialist headquartered in East Texas who helps agents and growers with these issues, so this is an opportunity for growers to interact with the speakers, exhibitors and other growers," he added.

The one-day event is set for Tuesday Feb. 15, at the Rose Garden Center in Tyler. This year speakers will specifically discuss onions, sweet potatoes, watermelons and grapes.

"There has been increasing interest in grape and wine production in all of Texas, and agents in East Texas are frequently asked about the potential for grape and wine production in this area," explained Hansen.

The conference does address the changing fruit and vegetable market in East Texas. These changes are little to fear, according to Hansen.

"In general, the industry is stable, and there is always people interested in starting small and large operations. On farm marketing and farmer's markets seem to be growing in popularity, with producers and consumers," said Hansen.

The East Texas Fruit and Vegetable Conference costs $15 per person and can be paid at the door. For more information on the event, call Hansen at (903)535-0885. To learn more about Bob Wells Nursery, visit www.bobwellsnursery.com