Cut Flower Workshop

By Jutta Thoerner   UCCE Master Gardener

I want to grow flowers to have in vases in my home but have never had a flower garden. Any suggestions? Karen D. Atascadero

Do you love flowers, particularly roses? Many relish the thought of adorning their tabletops with cut flowers, freshly cut from their own garden, but never quite get around to planting a flower garden. Still others try their hand at photo-ready blooms but...

Berries

By Tami Reece  UCCE Master Food Preserver

It looks like I am going to have an overabundance of berries this year. How can I preserve them other than making jam?  Courtney M. Paso Robles

Jam or jelly always seems to be the go-to for berries and can make great birthday and holiday gifts. But sometimes you want something different in the pantry or the...

Sweet Broom 

By Andrea Peck  UCCE Master Gardener

Common Name: Sweet Broom

Latin Name: Genista x spachianus

Size of Plant: This plant grows 6'-8' high and 5'-6' wide.

Bloom Description: Profuse bright yellow flowers clustering along the end of the stem.

Exposure: Full Sun.

Pruning Needs: Yearly, when flowering ceases in late spring.

Water Needs: Low water needs once established.

Zones: USDA Hardiness Zone 8-10

Description: Sweet broom...

Oleanders

By Linda Lewis Griffith  UCCE Master Gardener

Nerium oleander

Planting Zone: Sunset zones 8-16, 18-23; USDA 8-10

Size:  8-12 feet tall and wide.  However, plants can be as small as 3-4 feet or as tall as 20 feet. 

Bloom Season:  May or June to October

Exposure: Most varieties thrive in heat and strong...