The application process for the UC Master Gardeners of Merced County's 2026 Training Class is now open. Any Merced County adult resident with an interest in horticulture (plants, lawns, trees, vegetables and more) and public service are encouraged to apply for the Master Gardener Program.
Whether you are a novice or an expert gardener, health and safety precautions are important to protect yourself, your family, and your pet as you head out to your garden.
Texas A&M University During the winter months, bare root (aka no soil) ornamental trees, shrubs and roses, vines, and many edibles are available at nurseries. Bare root plants are dug from the field when dormant and separated from the soil.
Plant painted lady gladiola corms (Gladiolus carneus) in spring for a beautiful summer display. Photo: Creative Commons Maintenance and prevention Troubleshoot irrigation system for missing or clogged emitters and broken spray heads. Begin irrigation as rainy season ends.
Redwood trees need moisture from rain and fog. Photo: Public Domain Coast redwood trees (Sequoia sempervirens) only grow on the Pacific coast from Big Sur to southern Oregon, where their need for mass quantities of water is met from winter rain and summer fog.
Some perennials bloom exuberantly in the heat of summer. Photo: Creative Commons When temperatures rise, everyone feels the heat even your garden. If you live in a hot summer area, be sure to use strategies to avoid heat stress in plants.
Spring Garden Fair native plants descriptions. California native plants have evolved to be well adapted to our dry summer/wet winter climate, and they support native birds and insects. They are generally water-wise choices for landscaping.
When to plant: March–April (after last frost date)
Harvest window: Varies widely depending on variety
Fertilization: Nitrogen throughout the growing season; iron, zinc, and other nutrients may be needed
Train young trees to promote lateral growth.
Asparagus is a perennial plant that can produce for years if grown with care. Choose a site in full sun and prepare the soil well. The plants send up 5-foot tall, ferny growth over the summer, so plant them where they won't undesirably shade other plants.
Asparagus plants will be either male or female. The…
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