Test PB Collection: FTE

By Kim Wilson, UC Master Gardener Home grown tomatoes, home grown tomatoes What would life be like without homegrown tomatoes Only two things that money can't buy That's true love and home-grown tomatoes.

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By Mark Zigelman, UC Master Gardener Tomato gardeners searching for new and great tasting tomato varieties may be hampered by limitations of their garden, namely disease, poor soil, salinity or temperature extremes. There is a possible solution to these problems: grafted tomatoes.

By Kim Wilson, UC Master Gardener The Small Guys Tomato or Tobacco Hornworm Identification The larva is a pale green caterpillar with white stripes and a distinctive horn on its rear end. It can reach 4 inches in length.

Adapted from the UC Master Gardeners of Santa Clara County Website Basics Yearly Inspection. A yearly inspection is a good idea. Do this at a quiet time of year gardening-wise. Check the sharpness of all tools, check the handles, and do any appropriate maintenance. Handle Replacement.

By Karen Russu and Aline Cullen, UC Master Gardeners There are 20,000 known species of bees worldwide with 4000 species native to the U.S. - 1600 in California and 400 in California urban areas.

By Aline Cullen and Claudia Coleman, UC Master Gardeners Natural habitat for birds has decreased primarily due to land development and natural disturbances. Nest boxes can be beneficial for over 50 species of birds, both for local use and during migratory activity.

By Peggy Burhenn, UC Master Gardener We enjoy attracting birds to our landscapes as they bring many benefits. Bird watching is a fun and educational experience for all ages.

By Linda Lewis Griffith, UC Master Gardener Planting Plant blackberries in the dormant season, mainly in December and January. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots. Prune off any damaged roots. Spread healthy roots within hole. Plant so that base of stalk is 1 higher than level of soil.

By Kim Wilson and Nicki Edwards, UC Master Gardeners Californians concerned about water resources during the drought are making tough choices involving home irrigation. Reducing irrigation takes a toll on landscape trees already struggling through the drought.