Gardening

Plumerias! Maybe the most coveted of the tropical flowers grown and blooming now in Southern California! While more likely identified as Hawaiian being a favorite flower for leis, they are actually endemic to Mexico and Central America. But any tropical environment in the world is ideal for the growing…

La temporada de los mosquitos sigue en su apogeo en California y el mortal virus de Nilo Occidental continúa abriéndose camino por el estado. Los funcionarios de salud han identificado la presencia del virus en 17 condados y confirmado una muerte humana en lo que va del año. El virus del Nilo Occidental es…

In Part 1 of this story, we covered some basics of biological control. Now let’s talk about some of the good bugs helping to control invasive pests in California. Controlling yellow starthistle one weevil at a timeYellow starthistle (YST) is a harmful invasive plant that is established and widespread in…

On our hot summer days, shady garden areas can offer welcome respite from the heat. One of the challenges of gardening in shade, though, is adding interest through color, because it can be difficult to find plants that bloom in shade. Incorporating native plants in your garden can greatly increase the…

Mosquito season is in full swing in California, and the deadly West Nile virus is making its way around the state. Health officials have identified the virus in 17 counties and there has been 1 confirmed human death so far this year. West Nile virus is one of several diseases that can be transmitted to…

A virus can reduce a plant’s growth, lower its yield, and result in inferior fruit, vegetables and flowers. Viruses are often very host specific. Recognizing symptoms can help you take appropriate action, where possible, to manage a virus and hopefully prevent its spread. The following are several viruses…

July! Getting hotter right? This week on In the Garden with UCCE Master Gardeners radio show, Teena and Katrina bring you another new monthly tips and tricks program with things to plan for this month of July.  Each month, we talk about the changing water requirements in your garden. More so this…