Gardening News and Articles for Merced County

By Pat Shay, UC Master Gardener of Merced CountyHarvest herbs – cut sprigs just before bloom for best taste. Continue to monitor pests and remove with spray from hose. Try to avoid unnecessary chemical controls. Mulch to help retain moisture in soil and slow weeds. Leave ground open from base of plant to…

By Marc Medefind, UC Master Gardener of Merced CountyWhen’s the best time to plant a tree? It’s a great question and I always smile at the answer: “20 years ago.” The answer to the ensuing question — When’s the second best time to plant a tree?” is even better: “Today!”Right now (even today!) before the…

By Pat Shay, UC Master Gardener of Merced CountyIt’s the time of the year we’ve all been waiting for, right!? Warmer temps, so we can start planting. Loads of marked up catalogs and seed packets ready for use. A couple of bags of fresh potting soil to start the seeds and pot up starts either from our own…

  Why Container Gardening?By Dennis B, UC Master Gardener of Merced CountyWe often are asked how to grow vegetables and herbs when conditions are limited. Container Gardening is the answer!Works in poor or compacted soilsIs portable and flexibleIdeal for apartments and patiosHelps avoid invasive…

By Pat Shay, UC Master Gardener of Merced CountyIt’s the time of the year we’ve all been waiting for, right!? Warmer temps, so we can start planting. Loads of marked up catalogs and seed packets ready for use. A couple of bags of fresh potting soil to start the seeds and pot up starts either from our own…

By Denise Glassett, UC Master Gardener of Merced CountyIn March around St. Patrick’s Day you can find shamrock plants for sale in stores and nurseries. What is it about these plants that intrigues us?The shamrock plant holds a special place in Irish culture, recognized worldwide as a symbol of luck and…