Ongoing research

MMG trainees
UC Marin Master Gardeners: Article

Cultivating expertise - your path to Master Gardener status

August 18, 2025
By Bonnie A Nielsen
 During a chat with a friend 19 years ago, I heard there was an opportunity to learn more about one of my lifelong passions--gardening. She said after certifying in this UC Marin Master Gardener program, I could not only learn more about plants, soil, and sustainable gardening to improve my own success…
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Gulf Fritillary in flight. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)
Bug Squad: Article

The Host Plant Is Just That--A Host

August 18, 2025
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
 The Gulf Fritillary, Agraulis vanillae, seems like two different butterflies rolled into one. When it spreads its wings, it's as orange as a pumpkin. When it's resting, it's silver spangled, drawing the same kind of attention as a colorful flag flying in the wind.Its host plant is the passionflower…
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Familias comprando productos frescos en un mercado de granjeros
Blog de Alimentos: Article

Haz crecer tu negocio vendiendo en los mercados de granjeros locales

August 18, 2025
By Diana Cervantes
 En agosto celebramos a los mercados de granjeros, a quienes cultivan, cosechan y llevan alimentos frescos a nuestras mesasEn el norte de la Bahía de Monterrey, Lupita Quintero se dedica con pasión a cultivar flores en su pequeño rancho. Cada semana, se prepara para llevar lo mejor de su cosecha a los…
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Bees. Butterflies and other Pollinators
UC Master Gardeners of Orange County: Event

Bees, Butterflies and Other Pollinators - Irvine

Aug 23, 2025

Get your garden prepared to host some of our favorite pollinators Late Summer is the time to plan for new plantings in the Fall. Even if you don't have a large garden space, some plants in pots can help with habitat for these garden helpers. Come and learn how you can make small changes in your garden…
UC Master Gardeners of Orange County
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Horn Worm on a tomato plant
UC Master Gardeners of Orange County: Event

Garden Scene Investigator - Irvine

Aug 27, 2025

Is it a bug, a fungus or a four legged pest?  Having problems in your garden?  Learn how to be more observant and gather information that can lead you to a diagnosis and treatment. You'll learn how to use your powers of observation and trusted internet resources to solve garden problems, identify…
UC Master Gardeners of Orange County
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closeup of many foxtail seedheads ready to disperse
Over the Fence (Alameda County): Article

“Foxtail”: A Fearsome Weed of Many Names

August 18, 2025
By Judy Quan
 Weeds are a perennial problem for gardeners.  One of the most feared weeds for pet owners is the “foxtail”.  The “foxtail” is the seed from a variety of different grassy weeds, and the seed has barbed awns (stiff bristles) with a sharp point that goes in easily and barbs that prevent the…
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closeup of many foxtail seedheads ready to disperse
Over the Fence (Alameda County): Article

“Foxtail”: A Fearsome Weed of Many Names

August 18, 2025
By Judy Quan
 Weeds are a perennial problem for gardeners.  One of the most feared weeds for pet owners is the “foxtail”.  The “foxtail” is the seed from a variety of different grassy weeds, and the seed has barbed awns (stiff bristles) with a sharp point that goes in easily and barbs that prevent the…
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The Stanislaus Sprout: Article

SEPTEMBER IN THE GARDEN – What Bees Might You See?

August 18, 2025
By Anne E Schellman
 Honeybees (Apis mellifera) are the only bees you may see in your garden year-round. Other bees are seasonal, with different species appearing at different times of the year. Here are three of the California native bees you may see in your garden during September; all are important pollinators:…
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UC Master Gardeners of Orange County: Page

Integrated Pest Management - Orange County

What is IPM? Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an ecosystem-based approach that prioritizes long-term pest prevention through methods like biological control, habitat modification, and using resistant plant varieties. Pesticides are used only when necessary, after monitoring determines they are needed…
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