Contact Us

Call a Helpline:
Arroyo Grande (805) 473-7190
San Luis Obispo (805) 781-5939
Templeton (805) 434-4105

Send us an email: anrmgslo@ucanr.edu

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Support System Plots

Support System plots facilitate the development of soils and plants in our demonstration gardens.

Composting

The compost system involves separate bins for brown and green plant materials which are then shredded and mixed into a compost pile. The process involves adding the correct ratio of brown to green material into a pile of approximately three by three feet and maintaining uniform moisture. The pile is turned regularly to aid aeration. This compost is used throughout our demonstration garden to increase the soil water holding capacity, improve soil structure, promote soil fertility, and aid in erosion control.

Plant Propagation

Master Gardeners participating in plant propagation emphasize drought tolerant perennials, many grown from seeds and cuttings collected from the beautiful plants throughout our garden.

These plants have low water requirements and are pest and disease resistant. Many of our stock plants surround the shade structure where plants are tended after being moved from the greenhouse. Due to the interest by homeowners in drought tolerant landscape plants, the ornamental propagation team offers plants for sale that are adapted to dry climates. Plant information slips are provided with pertinent information including botanical name, cultural and planting requirements, size, zone and flower color and bloom time.