UC Marin Master Gardeners

pumpkins, sunflowers, red corn and apples

October

“Even if something is left undone, everyone must take time to sit still and watch the leaves turn.”

~Elizabeth Lawrence, garden writer and landscape architect

Black-Eyed Susan Flowers
Photo credit: Circe Denyer, PublicDomainPictures

Clay soil? No problem! How to amend it and what to plant in it

If you need a jackhammer to bust into your soil, you've got clay. If you dig a hole and fill it with water and it doesn't drain, you've got clay soil. If you pick up a chunk of your damp soil and it feels like you could use it for a ceramics class, you've got clay soil. Although it can be frustrating at times, clay soil can actually be your friend. We promise.

 

 

watering green herb
Photo credit: Anna, Pixabay 

How Much Water Does Your Garden Really Need?  How much should you water? The answer depends on your plants, soil, weather, and irrigation system. Learn how to determine your garden's water needs, irrigate more efficiently, and encourage deep, resilient roots that thrive through Marin's dry season. Read our guide to take the guesswork out of watering.

 

 

 

What to do this month:

Upcoming events

Plant & garden care list for October

Prune evergreen, summer-flowering shrubs

 

MARIN IJ ARTICLES

 

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Upcoming Events

Seed packets
Event Date
October 7, 2026

South Novato Seed and Plant Exchange

Program: There will be a seed and plant exchange, information about what to plant now in Marin, CA native plants and planting activities for all ages.Cost: FreeSponsors: Marin Master Gardeners and…
asian greens
Event Date
October 8, 2026

Grow Asian Greens

Program: Two Master Gardeners, Bonnie Marks and Mamie Yee – one living in Point Reyes and the other in San Rafael, will discuss why you may want to grow Asian greens in your garden. They will teach…
garden bed with a variety of plants
Event Date
October 14, 2026

Prepping for Spring

Program: Forgotten all the details of how to prepare for a successful spring planting? Sometimes we do too, so we decided to write it all down. Learn some tips on what can be done now to increase…

Mission Statement

UC Marin Master Gardeners are University of California-trained and certified volunteers who provide research-based knowledge and information on sustainable landscape practices, pest management and home horticulture to gardeners in Marin County.