HOrT COCO-UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa

Note: We are running this previously published article because it's important to be ready to protect sensitive plants. Don't get taken by surprise! It's time to get ready for cold winter temperatures and to start preparing protection for citrus trees and other frost-sensitive plants.

Halloween creeping up on you?

The Mediterranean climate of Contra Costa County has us spoiled for choices in growing handsome perennials and shrubs, including many native plants that attract local beneficial insects and nourish our ecosystems.

Irrigation is not a set and forget' thing. Your watering schedule should be adjusted each season (at least four times each year) as water needs in the landscape vary greatly from season to season.

Q: Can I use the graywater from my washing machine to water my vegetable garden and fruit trees? A: There are two key considerations, discussed below, relating to the use of graywater in the garden: what is meant by the term graywater and on what plants to use it.