Ongoing research

The plant family Asteraceae contains over 32,000 distinct species of flowering plants that sport the traits known best as herbal: edible (or toxic) parts, aromatic leaves and flowers, and historical culinary, medicinal, and ornamental use with economic value derived from its uses.

The Fourth of July is a time of patriotic celebration and is also a target date for starting transplants for a cool season vegetable garden.

Every plant has a sole purpose in its life: it must propagate or become extinct. This interesting horticultural term highlights one of the more extraordinary means of seed dispersal. Elaiosome, e-lay-o-zome, n. (Greek: elaio = oil + soma = body) meaning oil body'.

As the warm, sun-drenched days of summer arrive, our gardens and landscapes burst into full bloom. However, along with the vibrant growth and beauty come unwelcome visitors that can threaten the health and productivity of our plants.

It's National Pollinator Month, and what better time to find a tiny speck of a bee on a seven-foot tower of jewels, Echium wildpretii? This is a sweat bee of the family Halictidae, the second largest family of bees, comprised of some 4500 species.

The classic answer is, It depends. Some of the variables to consider are soil texture and structure, plant choice, season, weather, amount of sunlight and wind, and how well established the plant is. With so many variables, the answer to this question is not simple.

Are you dreaming of a front yard transformation? Are you eager to embrace water-conscious landscaping and bid farewell to your traditional lawn? If so, you're in good company! Like many homeowners, I found myself yearning for a fresh start for my front and backyard landscapes.

Today on In The Garden with UC Master Gardeners, MG and KUCI host Bill Brooks meets with John Kim, Master Gardener and President of the Southern California Carnivorous Plant Enthusiasts (SCCPE or Skippy for short). Your mind might go right away to a Venus Flytrap.

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