By Peyton Ellas, UC Master Gardener of Tulare/Kings County
After the frightening "summer is here too early; no, wait, it's going to freeze tonight" weather we had in March, April was lovely with its perfect spring blend of warm days, cool nights, moderate humidity, and a spattering of rain and snow. I hope this continues right through May, with a gradual warming…
Container Gardening can be an optimal solution for both shade- and sun-loving plants. Learn the benefits and secrets to happy, healthy plants living the good life in a container. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of types of containers, which soil to use, and water and fertilizer requirements for a variety of…
The Palo Alto Demonstration Garden‘s edible and waterwise areas are open and staffed by Master Gardeners every Saturday morning, 10 am to noon, from May through October (weather permitting). Come explore the gardens, ask questions, and get plant and garden advice.
Vegetable Gardening - Handbook for Beginners Chapter 2.5.The ideal time to water is before mid-morning. This avoids water waste through evaporation, and enables foliage to dry by sunset, thus precluding disease development.Fungal diseases thrive when temperatures remain between 70 and 80 degrees; they need…
Vegetable Gardening - Handbook for Beginners Chapter 2.4.Composting is a method of producing a nutrient rich soil amendment (plant food) by using naturally occurring beneficial fungi and bacteria to break down organic waste. The simple process of composting allows large amounts of household, yard, and/or…
Vegetable Gardening - Handbook for Beginners Chapter 2.3.Most vegetables transplant well. Exceptions include those with long tap roots like carrots, parsley, and cilantro, and also potatoes and corn, which should be sown directly outdoors where they will mature.Choose plants in 6-packs and 4” pots. The small…
Vegetable Gardening - Handbook for Beginners Chapter 2.2.Starting vegetable seeds indoors early can reduce the cost of transplants and allow you to grow varieties that may be difficult to find in the nursery as transplants. To start you will need a soilless mix; growing containers; and the proper…
Vegetable Gardening - Handbook for Beginners Chapter 2.1. Soil structure Garden soil provides plants with air, water, and mineral nutrients. Soil in good physical condition (good structure or tilth) can hold and provide plant roots with adequate quantities of nutrients, water, and air; it will…
