The annual UC Marin Master Gardener Tomato Market is our major fundraiser for the year. It provides the financial resources for our support of educational programs at schools, community gardens, public seminars and education throughout the county. And of course, we get to sell you the best varieties chosen specifically for Marin gardens! Free expert growing advice.
I love spring anywhere, but if I could choose, I would always greet it in a garden.
~ Ruth Stout
PLANT SHOPPING
When choosing plants for your Marin garden, focus on five key factors: function (privacy, shade, or food), cultural fit (sun exposure and soil type), ecological benefit (native or drought-tolerant options), mature size (to avoid future problems), and pest resistance. Matching plants to both your needs and your garden's conditions ensures long-term success. Check out our plant lists for suitable options.
KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR NESTS
As spring approaches, many birds and other animals will be starting to nest. As you wrap up your dormant winter pruning and cleaning your landscape of dense plant material to reduce fuel for fires, be vigilant in spotting any nesting activity. Help protect the wildlife by avoiding the disturbance of these nests. See more at discoverwildcare.org.
PROTECT YOUR SOIL!
When you step on, dig, or till soggy soil, you compress vital air pockets between soil particles that plants need for root growth. Compressed soil restricts root development, water absorption, and nutrient availability. To test soil readiness, squeeze a handful - if it forms a tight ball that doesn't crumble when poked, it's too wet to work.
TRANSFORM YOUR LAWN into something more sustainable.
Lawns consume vast amounts of water and resources while their maintenance can harm local ecosystems. Consider replacing unused lawn space with low-water native plants to save money or replace with a walkable alternative option such as white clover to create a more eco-friendly landscape that suits our climate.
PREPARING YOUR GARDEN BEDS
When your soil is dry enough to start working, there is a long list of things to do before you plant your edibles. Test your soil to ensure it is suitable for growing vegetables and address any nutrient deficiencies with soil amendments and compost. After you’ve prepared your soil and cleared your planting site of any weeds, it's time to start growing! Get a monthly planting schedule here.
BEING FIRE WISE
Landscaping is an important component in protecting your home from wildfire. When thinking about a fire-smart landscape, there are 3 zones to consider, Zone 0 (0-5 feet around structures) being the most critical where you want to remove as much combustible, organic material as possible. Learn more about the different zones and the strategies for each zone to help protect your home from fire.
Make a tax-deductible donation to support our program!
Find out more about University of California Cooperative Extension in Marin (Marin UCCE) and its mission to sustain a vital agriculture, environment and community.
