Written by Greg Dunn – MARIPOSA – If you’re a foothill-area landscaper, gardener or would-be gardener, let the University of California Master Gardeners of Mariposa County help you with university-based research on gardening in our foothill locale. The UC Master Gardeners offer workshops, a free helpline, a website and a Facebook page (both overflowing with great tips and event notices) ...

By Helen Willoughby-Peck (UC Master Gardener, Mariposa) It is a good idea to take a walk in your garden every day. It is good for you, but more importantly, it is good for your plants. Observing your plants on a regular basis can help control pests beginning to enjoy your tomatoes before you can. When caught early, pests are usually ...

Everyone I know has been breathing a sigh of relief for the rain that has once again filled our wells and reservoirs, while bracing for the impact of summer sunshine on the landscape. If you haven’t already lined someone up to take care of the weed whacking, you may want to get that on your “to do” list. And while you’re ...

MARIPOSA – There are dozens of diseases, insects and other pests that attack fruit trees. With that in mind, the UC Master Gardeners of Mariposa County are offering a free “Fruit Tree Pest Management” workshop on Saturday, June 23, from 10 a.m. to noon in the Board of Supervisors Chambers at 5100 Bullion Street in Mariposa (see map below). Maxwell ...

COARSEGOLD — At the time, Buford didn’t know any better. He sure does now — and we think he wants you to know, as well. On Tuesday, May 15, little Buford the Chihuahua went out to potty. He’s a six-month-old pup who weighs about 6.5 pounds. His humans, Lisa and Todd Lawrence, were out of town on vacation, and Buford ...

CALIFORNIA — As the warm weather returns, humans are not the only species coming out to enjoy the sun. Snakes, too, can be found basking in the sun’s rays. Although most snakes in the state are harmless, the Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) reminds the public to steer clear of the venomous rattlesnake and know what to do if ...

MARIPOSA — Good news for green thumbs. Mariposa Master Gardeners have been propagating since last fall and seed-germinating since February in preparation for their annual spring plant sale and now the time has come. Stop by on Saturday, Apr. 28, starting at 8 a.m. in the Amigo Picnic Area at the Mariposa County Fairgrounds, located at 5007 Fairgrounds Road. The event lasts ...

MARIPOSA – Recent rains and warm sunshine have fueled vegetation growth, which fuels wildfires. With fire season fast approaching, failing to manage vegetation around your home can create hazardous conditions. While firefighters are busy performing fire prevention projects and training for this upcoming fire season, it’s critical that residents do their part to prepare for wildfires by maintaining their 100 ...

MARIPOSA – UCCE Master Gardeners of Mariposa County spring plant sale, “Treasures From Our Garden,” is growing like a weed. The annual event is scheduled for Saturday, Apr. 28, from 8 a.m. to sell-out, at the Amigo Picnic Area at the Mariposa County Fairgounds. The Master Gardeners will have more than ever to offer. They have propagated hundreds of edible ...

By Brian David —  Efficient transplanting is a gradual process. Changing a plant’s environment and routine shocks them. Hardening off new container seedlings may take two weeks. So, place container seedlings outside for a couple hours their first day, increasing their stay by two hours each consecutive day. If you are gone during the day, place the seedlings in a ...