Ongoing research

UC Master Gardeners of San Luis Obispo County: Page

Native Solitary Bees

By Karen Russu and Aline Cullen, UC Master Gardeners There are 20,000 known species of bees worldwide with 4000 species native to the U.S. - 1600 in California and 400 in California urban areas.
View Page
UC Master Gardeners of San Luis Obispo County: Page

Nest Boxes for Native Birds

By Aline Cullen and Claudia Coleman, UC Master Gardeners Natural habitat for birds has decreased primarily due to land development and natural disturbances. Nest boxes can be beneficial for over 50 species of birds, both for local use and during migratory activity.
View Page
UC Master Gardeners of San Luis Obispo County: Page

Gardening for Birds with Native Plants

By Peggy Burhenn, UC Master Gardener We enjoy attracting birds to our landscapes as they bring many benefits. Bird watching is a fun and educational experience for all ages.
View Page
UC Master Gardeners of San Luis Obispo County: Page

Blackberries

By Linda Lewis Griffith, UC Master Gardener Planting Plant blackberries in the dormant season, mainly in December and January. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots. Prune off any damaged roots. Spread healthy roots within hole. Plant so that base of stalk is 1 higher than level of soil.
View Page
UC Master Gardeners of San Luis Obispo County: Page

Landscape Trees During Drought

By Kim Wilson and Nicki Edwards, UC Master Gardeners Californians concerned about water resources during the drought are making tough choices involving home irrigation. Reducing irrigation takes a toll on landscape trees already struggling through the drought.
View Page
UC Master Gardeners of San Luis Obispo County: Page

Citrus Cultural Practices

Here are two articles on citrus cultural practices from knowledgeable UC Master Gardeners. The first, by Charles Davis, focuses on citrus history and Southern California-specific advice. The second, by Thorv Hessellund, offers practical, step-by-step tips for home gardeners?s.
View Page
UC Master Gardeners of San Luis Obispo County: Page

Yellow Citrus Leaves

By Sandy Daly and Kim Wilson, UC Master Gardeners Yellow citrus leaves are often due to root dysfunction caused by issues related to irrigation, disease or nutritional deficiencies.
View Page
UC Master Gardeners of San Luis Obispo County: Page

Asian Citrus Psyllid and HLB Disease

By Kim Wilson and Linda Robertson, UC Master Gardeners Asian Citrus psyllid (ACP) and the devastating citrus disease Huanglongbing (HLB) are a serious concern for all California residents who enjoy citrus, whether from their yards or the market.
View Page
UC Master Gardeners of San Luis Obispo County: Page

Growing Citrus in Pots

By Linda Robertson, UC Master Gardener There is a long tradition of growing citrus trees in pots. In the 17th and 18th centuries, European gentry had orangeries and gardens lined with citrus trees in containers that were moved into heated greenhouses for the winter.
View Page
UC Master Gardeners of San Luis Obispo County: Page

Composting Basics

By Ray Festa and Andy Tupper, UC Master Gardeners Composting is a great way to recycle kitchen and yard waste and produce a beneficial soil amendment for your garden. With the proper tools, materials, and knowledge of basic rules, gardeners can produce quality compost.
View Page