Ongoing research

UC Master Gardeners of Sacramento County: Page

Lawn care

Lawn Removal Methods - go beyond lawn to a more water-efficient garden. (GN 161) Videos Maintaining a Weed-Free Lawn (3:15 min.) - UCCE Master Gardeners of Sacramento County PDF files open in a new window/tab.
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UC Master Gardeners of Sacramento County: Page

Managing weeds

Dandelions Weed Identification Tool - Weed Research and Information Center at UC Davis. Weed Photo Gallery - UC IPM. Includes many weed species commonly found in California farms and landscapes. Weeds in California lawns - UC Guide to Healthy Lawns law weed identification key.
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UC Master Gardeners of Sacramento County: Page

Soil

Building healthy soil builds healthy plants and can save water. Healthy soil acts like a sponge and soaks up much of the water that would otherwise run off the landscape.
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UC Master Gardeners of Sacramento County: Page

Natural enemies--the good guys

Beneficial insects - click to enlarge Natural enemies, beneficials, good guys--whatever you call them, these are organisms that kill, reduce the ability to reproduce, or otherwise reduce the numbers of another organism. They are important for managing pest insects using the least toxic methods.
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UC Master Gardeners of Sacramento County: Page

Master Gardener Training

We will hold Master Gardener training in 2025. The application period has closed. This page is updated each July with training status for the following year. Sacramento County is an exciting place to call home and the UC Master Gardener volunteers are proud to be involved in our vibrant communities.
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UC Master Gardeners of Sacramento County: Page

Grapes

Grapes are a popular choice to grow in the home garden. Grapevines not only produce tasty fruit that can be used in many ways, but the vines can be trained to provide shade or privacy in the landscape.
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UC Master Gardeners of Sacramento County: Page

Fair Oaks Horticulture Center

The UC Master Gardeners maintain a beautiful horticulture center in Fair Oaks where we invite the public to visit and learn about growing vegetables, fruits, herbs and water efficient plants. We also demonstrate composting techniques.
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UC Master Gardeners of Sacramento County: Page

FOHC Workshops and Open Gardens

Fair Oaks Horticulture Center Inspired by Chuck Ingels 11549 Fair Oaks Boulevard (Map/Directions) Fair Oaks, CA 95628 The Water-Efficient Landscape garden at the Fair Oaks Horticulture Center is open to the public 7 days a week from sunrise till sunset for self-guided tours.
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UC Master Gardeners of Sacramento County: Page

Fruit thinning

Because fruit trees often set more fruit than they can support and develop to full size, fruit should be thinned in the spring. Leaving too much fruit on a tree can also lead to limb breakage or alternate bearing.
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UC Master Gardeners of Sacramento County: Page

Planting fruit trees

Dig or rototill the soil to a depth and width that will accommodate tree roots. Roots can grow 2 to 3 times the width of the tree canopy. If the soil is compacted, find ways to loosen it or consider using raised mounds or planters.
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