Welcome to the UC Master Gardener Program of Solano County
Since 1986, trained volunteers have helped Solano County residents grow healthy, thriving gardens using research-based information from the University of California. We are part of University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR), bringing the latest horticultural science directly to home gardeners in our community.
Our mission is to share research-based knowledge on home horticulture, pest management, and sustainable landscape practices. In Solano County’s Mediterranean climate—hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters—we help gardeners grow vegetables, care for fruit trees, manage pests, and create water-wise landscapes.
Last year, our 136 active volunteers contributed more than 5,300 hours of service. We answered over 1,100 gardening questions, taught dozens of workshops, maintained four demonstration gardens, and reached thousands through community outreach. Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds but share a passion for gardening and education.
We serve Benicia, Dixon, Fairfield, Rio Vista, Suisun City, Vacaville, Vallejo, and unincorporated areas of Solano County.
Contact
Jennifer Baumbach
Program Coordinator
707-389-0645 (texts welcome)
jmbaumbach@ucanr.edu
Jennifer joined University of California Cooperative Extension after volunteering with the UC Master Gardener Program beginning in 1998. She enjoys helping people problem-solve and identify plants, insects, and weeds. A California native, Jennifer holds a B.S. in Ornamental Horticulture from California Polytechnic State University and an M.S. in Horticulture & Agronomy from the University of California, Davis. She enjoys gardening, watercoloring, and cheering on her son at basketball games.
Joanna Solins
Environmental Horticulture Advisor
916-875-2409
jsolins@ucanr.edu
Joanna joined UC Cooperative Extension after a decade studying urban ecosystems at UC Davis. Her research has focused on plant communities, urban tree canopy, soils, green stormwater infrastructure, and urban forest water use across California. Originally from the East Coast, she began her career leading outreach education programs for the New England Aquarium and writing educational materials. Joanna enjoys exploring both urban neighborhoods and wild landscapes.
2023 &2024 UC Master Gardener Impact Report
Discover the inspiring stories and statewide impact of the UC Master Gardener Program in our 2023 & 2024 Impact Report. This biennial publication highlights the incredible work of volunteers who are transforming communities through sustainable gardening, environmental stewardship, and science-based learning.