Ongoing research

It's Spring planting time, but most gardeners want to know which plants best suit Tulare and Kings Counties. Home gardeners will have more success when choosing plants for their yards if they consider the climate, amount of available water, amount of shade, and location within the state of California. Not…

I’m reading a fascinating book, “Nature’s Best Hope,” by entomologist Douglas W. Tallamy (2019, Timber Press, Inc.). It suggests remedies to our disappearing natural habitats and the wildlife that depends on them.Tallamy proposes a revolutionary idea: transform our private yards into a massive,…

Protect Water ResourcesPlease protect our water resources from waste and pollution. We are in a severe drought with mandatory water restrictions.Repair heads and breaks as soon as you discover them.Learn to be a Smart Controller by learning how to operate your irrigation timer and adjust it to the seasons…

History of the Project The Growing Gardeners Program was adapted from the Grow L.A. Victory Garden Initiative, a program of the UC Master Gardener Program of Los Angeles County, which was started in 2010 to support beginning gardeners. The initial project in L.A. was named after the World War II-era…

IntroductionContra Costa County has a Mediterranean climate characterized by long, hot, dry summers, and most landscape plants should be watered to survive under these conditions. We must learn how to use water more efficiently as demand rises and drought conditions continue.Prioritize Your PlantsBe aware…

 While the hogs sleep, goats bleat, and roosters crow in the Livestock Barns at the Dixon May Fair, UC Master Gardeners from Solano County are inside the Southard Floriculture Building answering about plants and insects.“Why did my plant die?”"How can I grow great tomatoes?”"What can I do about all the…

IntroductionFrom garden to kitchen, there are many chances for bacteria, viruses, and parasites to contaminate produce. Water, tools, animals, and manure-contaminated soil may spread harmful organisms in your garden. Clean SoilFor greatest safety, do not use manure when growing leafy vegetables or other…

What is Collaborative ToolsThe Collaborative Tools is a tool developed by UC ANR’s Communication Services and Information Technology (CSIT) team to allow groups within ANR to both communicate and collaborate. Once you are enrolled in a Collaborative Tools workgroup you will receive email notification when…