Under the Solano Sun

golden yellow sunflower highlighted in a field of sunflowers against the blue sky

Seasonal observations by UC Master Gardeners of Solano County

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Echibeckia 'Blazing Fire'. photos by Heather Hamilton

Rudbeckia

August 15, 2024
There are several cultivars of this perennial flower commonly known as the Black Eyed Susan. One of the cultivars you have most likely seen in the landscape and nurseries is R. hirta Indian Summer' which gained popularity in 1995 as a winner from the All-American Selections.
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TopHat and visitor. photo by Karen Metz

Cozy Neighbor or Invader?

August 13, 2024
I have grown blueberries, Vaccinium sp., in containers for several years. I lost one plant and had to replace it. I found Top Hat' a variety that is dwarf, which is perfect for containers or in a small garden.
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various plant labels, plastic, metal all with question marks on them with a backdrop of a creeping verbena that is purple

Life Without Plant Labels (or

August 9, 2024
Long ago, I learned the importance of labeling my plants even when I was confident that I would remember what I planted and where. It turns out that my confidence was gravely misplaced too many times.
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Tis been a cruel summer indeed... by unprose is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Caring for Container Plants During Heatwaves

August 8, 2024
I have quite a few potted plants, and right now I wish they were all in the ground. The heat and the UV are stressing them and me. This summer's weather has tested my methods of trying to keep potted plants alive in ways that no other summer seems to have accomplished.
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