Ongoing research

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Leaves and twigs make excellent additions to the compost pile. J.C. Lawrence
The Real Dirt: Article

Garden Jobs for Fall and Winter

September 27, 2024
It's not too soon to start thinking about fall garden clean-up. As days begin to shorten and temperatures begin to cool (fingers crossed!), the pace of gardening slows along with plant growth. But there is still plenty to be done during the fall and winter months.
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Figure 1. Young branches dying. Photo courtesy of UCANR.
UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa County: Article

Invasive beetle known for killing trees spotted in the Bay Area

September 26, 2024
by Dorothy Abeyta The headline above appeared recently in the SF Chronicle, on Facebook, X, and local news sources, but the Invasive Shot Hole Borers (ISHB) have been in the Bay Area since last year when they were spotted in north San Jose.
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Classic “urban drool”. Photo courtesy of QWEL.net
UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa County: Article

Planting the Rain: A Guide for Passive Rainwater Harvesting

September 26, 2024
by Lori Palmquist Autumn has arrived, and we anticipate (actually, hope for) a healthy bounty of liquid refreshment from the sky this season and the next. We all know that fall is the best time to plant. Its also the best time to start planting the rain.
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Arroyo or Succulent Lupine (Lupinus succulentus). Photo courtesy of Annie’s Annuals & Perennials.
UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa County: Article

Plant Natives this Fall

September 26, 2024
by Robin Mitchell Because California is a biodiversity hotspot, that is threatened by many factors, it is important to plant native plants in our gardens, even in urban and suburban areas.
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Two people sifting raw compost using a bike propelled trommel screen, one loading with a shovel, the other peddling the bike

Feature on UCCE Compost Demonstration Site

September 26, 2024
By Michael Cohen
Our site at Martial Cottle Park for demonstrating small-scale composting and vermicomposting was the focus of this recent feature article and video by UCANR Strategic Communications: News & Events - Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources...
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