Wildfire Preparation

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A person's arm wiping a white marble kitchen countertop with a white disinfectant wipe.

Spring Cleaning: Where Indoor Pests Could Be Hiding

April 1, 2026
By Lindsey Hack
Spring has arrived! Along with warmer weather and blooming flowers (and seasonal allergies for some of us!), you may have also noticed more insects and spiders roaming your home. If these unwanted houseguests have you thinking about cleaning and clearing up some clutter, join the UC IPM Urban & Community…
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Defensible space zones. Cal Fire
The Real Dirt: Article

Be Firewise with Fire Resistant Landscaping

March 16, 2026
It’s finally springtime, and many of us are adding new plants to our gardens. That means it is also a good time to review the principles of creating defensible space around our homes. Fire is a normal part of the natural environment in California, so if you live in the wildland-urban interface (WUI), it’s…
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Ground-level view of a grape harvest scene with scissors and bags of harvested grapes
Food Blog: Article

Can a simple spray protect grapes from wildfire smoke?

February 23, 2026
By Emily C. Dooley
Smoke from wildfires can alter grapes and affect the taste and sensory experience of wine. Researchers are applying a calcium spray to grapes to see if the treatment can protect the fruit from smoke exposure.
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green laminaria seedlings with small round leaves
UC Master Gardeners of San Mateo & San Francisco Counties: Article

Time to Start Vegetable Seeds

February 10, 2026
By Cathrin Callas
 Starting vegetable seeds indoors can reduce the cost of transplants and allow you to grow varieties that may be difficult to find in nurseries. To get started, you will need a soilless mix; growing containers; and the proper moisture, light (like a south-facing window) and temperatures between 65-75°F…
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A small brown mouse poking it's head and front paws out from a hole in the ground.
Pests in the Urban Landscape: Article

Management of Urban Rats and Mice

November 21, 2025
By Niamh M Quinn
Let’s be real—California's rodent issue is extensive. In some areas, it may seem like an infinite sea of rats and mice. Commensal rodents, those that live among and benefit from association with humans, significantly affect public health, environmental sustainability, and urban infrastructure.  …
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