Irrigated Pastures

Image of the yellow flower of oblong splurge.
UC Master Gardeners of Tuolumne County: Article

Euphorbia Oblongata: Oblong Splurge in Tuolumne County

July 18, 2026
Noxious weed! This “cute” perennial plant grows about 3 feet tall, displaces desirable vegetation, and reduces the biodiversity of our native ecosystems. It was introduced from southern Europe as an attractive ornamental. But it has no natural deterrents, takes over natural habitats, and is quite invasive…
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A spiky bush with yellow flowers stands in a dry empty lot under a bright blue sky with wispy clouds with buildings in the background.

Yellow Starthistle

July 9, 2026
By Belinda Messenger-Sikes
Yellow starthistle is a spiky, fast-growing, invasive weed in home landscapes, parks, rangelands, roadsides, and natural areas. It outcompetes other plants by growing in impenetrable stands and depleting soil moisture. It's also highly flammable which increases the risk of wildfires where it's growing. …
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Text reads "Pest Tips for July". In the background you see a picture of a summer garden, abundant with flowers and fruit trees.

July Pest Management Tips

July 1, 2026
By Yulie Velez
Summer is in full force and while it's been quite hot in many parts of California, it's been very cool in others. That's why UC IPM's Seasonal Landscape IPM Checklist is a useful tool to help you figure out what to do in your region each month! Here are some general tips for keeping your landscape…
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UC Master Gardeners of El Dorado County: Article

Central Sierra: Don't Plant a Pest

June 16, 2026
Protect your environment from invasive plants Pests in the garden are not always creepy crawlers, they can also be plants, and some are very attractive. However, attractiveness does not always mean good, and you may be surprised to learn that some plants in your landscape should not be present at all…
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Four sections showcasing tools for pest management and identification with corresponding images. Transcribed Text reads: Plant Problem Diagnostic Tool: Identify 650+ plant pests, diseases, and abiotic problems across 300+ species by narrowing down issues by plant and affected part. Seasonal Landscape IPM Checklist: A monthly IPM checklist helping landscape professionals and gardeners manage common ornamental and fruit tree plant pests with a list of actions. Wildlife Pest Identification Tool: Identify Calif

UC IPM Tools are Back Online!

June 15, 2026
By Yulie Velez
Last month, we shared on our blog that UC IPM's website was undergoing changes to redesign and update the content to improve not only the overall look, but accessibility for those with disabilities to be in compliance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).   We also…
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UC Master Gardeners of the Lake Tahoe Basin: Article

Central Sierra: Smart Water-Saving Tips for Tahoe Gardens

May 28, 2026
Beat the Heat: Smart Water-Saving Tips for Tahoe GardensJen Cressy, South Tahoe PUD Water Efficiency Technician and UC Master GardenerGardening in Tahoe is rarely simple. High elevation, sandy and rocky soils, low humidity, intense sunlight, and summer heat waves can all place stress on landscape plants…
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agricultural field shows rows of plants alternating with drip irrigation lines
UC Master Gardeners of El Dorado County: Article

Central Sierra: Save Water with Drip Irrigation | El Dorado County

May 22, 2026
Drip irrigation is well-suited to the El Dorado County landscape. It is doubtful that anyone living in El Dorado County, or the whole of California for that matter, is not aware of drought conditions impacting everything from household water use, home gardening, commercial agriculture, new home…
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