Ask Us
Got Gardening Questions?
Visit or call the Hotline
Tuesday 9am-12pm
Call: 530-552-5812
Or drop by: The Butte County Cooperative Extension Office
5 County Center Drive
Oroville, CA 95965
Email Us
Email your questions to us at mgbutte@ucanr.edu. Include a description and photos of the problem. See "Help Us Help You" below for what to include.
Catch us in person
Look for us at local farmers markets or at one of our information booths at community events. Check out where we'll be on the Events page.
Help Us Help You
You never can tell what's at the root of the problem. Below are some questions we may ask when you contact us:
- Name of plant
- Age of plant
- Soil type (loam, sandy, clay)
- Current watering methods (drip, sprinkler, hand)
- Frequency of watering
- Sun exposure
- Evidence of insects or other damage – check on both sides of leaves
- Recent changes that may effect the plant (watering, fertilizing)
Samples and photos related to your question are strongly encouraged. Drop them by the office any time, or email them to: mgbutte@ucanr.edu
What’s Hot Now?
My bearded irises look shabby after all the heat. They didn't bloom much last spring. Is there anything I can do to revive them?
At this time of year, irises are slowing down and preparing for winter. The lackluster blooming is likely due to overcrowding, and this is the right time of year to divide your plants. Use a shovel or digging fork to carefully lift the clump of surface rhizomes. Using your hands or a knife, break the clump into 2-4 smaller pieces, each with healthy roots. Shake off most of the dirt. Remove any diseased/rotted roots and rhizome parts and trim the tops of the foliage by half (so each piece looks like a fan). Trimming the foliage is important because it directs more energy into necessary root development before winter. Dip the healthy rhizome/root portions in a 50:50 beach/water solution (or use a spray bottle). Replant in a sunny, well-draining area, keeping the rhizomes slightly above the soil and leaving plenty of room between the plants for future growth. Water well. In the late autumn, dust some bone meal around the plants. It will seep into the soil during the winter rains, fertilizing the shallow root system. Plan for a glorious spring show, and remember to divide your bearded irises every three to five years to keep that show going!