–  Incorporate plants suited for the climate and space

–  Conserve water

–  Nurture and protect soil

–  Prevent/reduce pest problems (IPM practices)

–  Conserve energy/reduce Pollution

–  Encourage wildlife

Do we teach or give information out about organic gardening as Master Gardeners?

Actually we promote Integrated Pest Management (IPM).  It is a strategy that uses environmentally sound, yet effective, ways to keep pests from invading your home, damaging your plants, or annoying you. Successful IPM usually combines several methods for long-term prevention and management of pest problems without harming you, your family, or the environment.  In IPM, using pesticides may be an option, but when other nonchemical methods are used first, pesticides are often not needed.  The determining factor of pesticide recommendations by UC IPM are based on choosing least harmful/toxic products to humans, animals and beneficial insects and protecting groundwater.

How do I know which plants are invasive?

Go to this website: http://www.cal-ipc.org/

Where does our UCCE funding come from?

The University of California (State of California), County of San Luis Obispo, Federal, Grants and Gifts/Donations.