Summer 2022
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Drier Doesn’t Have to Be Dire
As our magnificent hills and open spaces turn from green to golden brown, the grasses seem to be waving goodbye to spring. And it feels like we need to fortify ourselves to face the coming summer. Ever-present drought and the threat of wildfire are calling us to action as spring slips away.
by Lori D. Palmquist
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Add a Flowmeter to Monitor your Water Usage
An Efficient Step to Monitor your Water Usage
by Cynthia Engers
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Living with Wildfire - Firescaping Plant Lists
by Marilyn Saarni
Firewise Plant Lists are being removed from websites by many Firesafe Councils and Wildfire Preparedness agencies. This movement has occurred because these lists were often based on anecdotal evidence, “just a feeling," and ...
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Summer Tasks and Wildfire Preparedness
Here is your Summer Checklist for your garden and landscape, including how to monitor pests and diseases (IPM).
Our California landscape is prone to wildfires, especially during the summer. Here are some great resources to help you prepare your home and landscape against devastating wildfires.
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Ask a Master Gardener
Have you been to a farmers' market lately? You will find an ‘Ask a Master Gardener (AAMG)’ table staffed with UC Master Gardener volunteers at many Contra Costa County farmers' market locations. Most markets are held on Saturday or Sunday.
by Kathy Gage
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Gophers, Moles, and Voles
Interview with “Mr. Gopher” Bob Archer, including a video clip demonstration of the 'Gopher Hawk' trap.
by David George
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Earwigs - Good Bug? Bad Bug? Which is it?
The European earwig, Forficula auricularia, known by children everywhere as a “pincher bug”, has become the most abundant earwig in California since it was first seen here in 1923.
by Janice Winsby
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Container Gardening Pests
Container gardens often have fewer pest issues than in-ground plants. However, just about any insect pest that is a problem for plants grown in-ground can also attack container grown plants!
by David George.
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Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
New Entry-Level Pest Pro Certification Provides Better Public Safety. An interview with Dr. Andrew Sutherland, the SF Bay Area Urban Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Advisor.
by David George
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News and Events
We have an exciting summer ahead of us with upcoming webinars, Growing Gardeners classes and In-person Garden Talks at our demonstration gardens in Walnut Creek and Rivertown.