NATCHEZ — “How to Get More from Your Garden than a Backache” is the topic of a lively presentation by renowned garden expert P. Allen Smith. The charismatic landscape designer, author and television personality will appear at the Natchez City Auditorium at 6 p.m., Friday, May 1. The event is $10 per person and proceeds will benefit Grow Natchez Gardens, a non-profit organization dedicated to beautification through gardening. The event is co-sponsored by Stine Home and Garden Center.

Smith is an award-winning garden designer and host of the public television program, “P. Allen Smith’s Garden Home” and the syndicated 30-minute show “P. Allen Smith Gardens.” He has emerged as America’s most recognized and respected garden design expert, providing ideas and inspiration through multiple media venues.

Smith, who lives and gardens in Little Rock, Ark., grew up with plants. He studied landscape design in England, where he was fascinated with Old Garden Roses and perennials. He designs gardens with a painterly approach, creating colorful gardens filled with flowers and foliage. He will share some of his secrets for success with his Natchez audience.

His wisdom includes starting “with small successes and building over time.” By this he means pick a choice place, make it beautiful, and experiment with different plants. Good gardens begin with great plants, and his presentation will include his favorite plants that beat the heat even in regions where “it’s hotter than the hinges of hell,” he said with a laugh. “There are so many more choices than pass-along plants. What’s exciting is that lots of good things are going on with plant breeding and plants are more durable.”

His talk emphasizes easy gardening techniques and approaches. His books will be available for sale and signing will follow his presentation.

For tickets, contact visitnatchez.org or call 1-800-647-6724.