The Real Dirt

By Jeff Oster, UC Master Gardener of Butte County, October 5, 2018 The Asteraceae is a very large and widespread family of plants which includes many very common species of garden flowers, such as asters, daisies, zinnias, chrysanthemums and sunflowers.

By Brent McGhie, UC Master Gardener of Butte County, September 21, 2018 With just under 1000 varieties, Salvia is the largest genus in the mint family (Lamiaceae). Commonly known as sages, Salvias come in a dizzying variety of forms and colors.

By Laura Lukes, UC Master Gardener of Butte County, September 7, 2018 You've seen these terms often: drought tolerant, and water-wise. For water conservation and sustainable gardening, Master Gardeners recommend plants that are adapted to the long, hot, dry summers of the Mediterranean climate.

By Laura Lukes, UC Master Gardener of Butte County, August 24, 2018 Sideritis. It sounds like a medical condition, but it is actually the name of a plant genus known for its medicinal properties.

By Jeanette Alosi, UC Master Gardener of Butte County, August 10, 2018 Puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris) is an attractive green plant with small yellow flowers commonly seen growing prostrate along the side of the road. A native to Southern Europe, it's also referred to as goathead.