The Stanislaus Sprout

California’s climate is a citrus grower’s dream, but beyond the familiar oranges, lemons, and limes lies a fascinating world of lesser-known citrus. Many of these fruits have deep cultural roots, unique flavors, and surprising uses — from culinary delights to ornamental beauty. Here are some of the most…

During my time as the Horticulture Advisor for UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) in Stanislaus County (1978-2011), I frequently received questions from gardeners asking what to do about neglected and/or overgrown deciduous (trees that lose their leaves each year) fruit trees such as peach, plum, and cherry…

In October I attended “Connecting with Nature,” a free event held by the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) and sponsored by the UC Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners of Stanislaus County. at We viewed an inspirational video by Doug Tallamy, a professor in the Department of Entomology and…

The poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is an iconic symbol of the holiday season; its vibrant, colorful leaves—known as bracts—bring cheer to homes and businesses around the world. While the plant is synonymous with modern winter holidays, its story is a rich tapestry that begins centuries ago in the…

I love winter gardens. While most gardeners think of spring as the season for flowers, November in Stanislaus County offers an excellent climate for vibrant and colorful blooms. Cooling weather and shorter days are ideal for a variety of annuals, perennials, and shrubs that provide much-needed color to the…