Marin Independent Journal

So much to share

Master Gardeners, your go-to resource for all things for your garden

- By Dot Zanotti Ingels >> IJ correspond­ent

The mission of your Marin Master Gardeners is “to extend to the public research-based informatio­n verified by UC experts about home horticultu­re and pest management.” We work to meet this goal in many ways, including our Saturday IJ articles like this one.

One of the ways we bring so much good informatio­n right into your home is through our newsletter, the Leaflet, a free enewslette­r for Marin gardeners delivered quarterly via email. All Marin gardeners are eligible for a free subscripti­on, and it is so easy to make that happen.

The Leaflet arrives seasonally, so you know what you need to know right when you need the informatio­n. In addition, there are lots of colorful photos that make it a fun read.

Each leaflet issue includes advice backed and vetted by the University of California Agricultur­e and Natural Resources. The emphasis is on Earth-friendly and sustainabl­e techniques that help you be a gardener who knows how to build your soil, choose the right plant for the right place in your garden, and conserve water and energy.

You will always find strategies that protect our shared environmen­t and our wildlife.

There are answers to many of the frequently asked questions, such as gardening through drought and recognizin­g signs of plant stress. We offer identifica­tion of and solutions to the dreaded pest and disease problems that vex our homes and gardens.

Part of helping choose plants is providing informatio­n on:

• How to choose healthy plants

• Finding plants that are native to our area, including many low- and no-water choices

• Lawn replacemen­ts

• Pollinator plants

• Succulents

• Ground covers

• Annuals, perennials and bulbs

• Plants that attract birds, bees, butterflie­s and other beneficial­s

And so much more. You get the idea.

There are so many tricks and techniques to help you garden more efficientl­y and safely. We have them for you.

We provide detailed instructio­ns for choosing and growing fruits, vegetables and herbs. There is informatio­n to help you make your garden more productive, no matter the size.

There are so many classes and events taught and hosted by the Master Gardeners. The Leaflet is the easiest way to stay up to date with the offerings and how to attend.

The fall issue includes a gardener’s checklist for fall, how to invite amphibians and reptiles into the garden, introducti­on to a native California grape and what to prune in autumn.

Go to marinmg.ucanr.edu/ ASK_US/THELEAFLET to sign up now. You will be glad you did. Sponsored by UC Cooperativ­e Extension, the University of California Marin

Master Gardeners provide science- and researchba­sed informatio­n for home gardeners. Email questions to helpdesk@marinmg.org. Attach photos for inquiries about plant pests or diseases. The office is closed for drop-in visits. Subscribe to the Leaflet, UC Marin Master Gardener’s free quarterly e-newsletter, at marinmg. ucanr.edu

 ?? PHOTOS BY JAMES CAMPBELL ?? A mixture of native plants like Heuchera and succulents like Calandrini­a make great additions for a low-water garden.
PHOTOS BY JAMES CAMPBELL A mixture of native plants like Heuchera and succulents like Calandrini­a make great additions for a low-water garden.
 ?? ?? Native plants like Pacific iris can flourish without any irrigation.
Native plants like Pacific iris can flourish without any irrigation.

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