Question: While walking by a home recently, I noticed a very strong, nauseating smell and thought maybe it was coming from a dead animal. Much to my surprise, the source of this rancid smell was a huge purple flower! Can you identify it and give me any information about this strange plant?
Question: I have been cooking at home so much more this past year and have been experimenting with recipes that call for fresh herbs. They are expensive to purchase in the grocery store, and I like the idea of picking my herbs fresh on an “as needed” basis. So, I would like to plant a culina…
Question: What are the recommended techniques for growing basil in the Umpqua Valley?
Question: It’s finally spring and we found the most beautiful wildflowers on our walk this morning. They look like wild orchids. Can you tell us about them and is it possible to grow them in our garden?
Douglas County is home to over 18 school gardens in various stages and uses.
Question: How can I collect some of my heirloom pepper and tomato seeds and have them produce the same fruit?
April’s Arbor Day is an annual reminder of how important trees are to our lives. Trees shade our homes, clean the air, sequester carbon from the atmosphere, offer habitat to wild life and provide beauty to our landscapes.
Question: With all the warm weather we’ve recently been experiencing, I’ve noticed the grass in my lawn is really taking off. Could you give some advice on how to successfully manage my turf so it’s healthy and less weedy?
If you have been to the farmers market, grocery store or several local restaurants this year, chances are you have seen microgeens. You may be curious what these tiny, edible plants are, or what makes them different from sprouts. Maybe you have tried to grow them at home or want to but are n…
Question: Each year I try to grow something new and different in my garden. This year, I have decided to grow sunflowers. Looking through an Oregon-based seed catalog, I noticed that there are over a dozen varieties that will grow locally. Not only will sunflowers be a beautiful addition to …
Question: What are the recommended techniques for growing great cucumbers in the Umpqua Valley?
Question: I’ve noticed a pretty plant called heather for sale at the local nursery. What is the difference between heath and heather, and are they good plants for my garden?
The relatively mild climate of Western Oregon allows gardeners to have a very long planting season, depending on what you are planting.
Question: What are some ways that I can attract beneficial insects to my garden?
Question: I have purchased my first home and have room to plant my favorite flower, roses. I need a type of rose that is low maintenance and disease resistant. Someone suggested that I plant Knockout Roses. What are Knock Out Roses?
Question: What are the recommended planting techniques for growing great peas in the Umpqua Valley?
For forestland owners in Western Oregon, winter is the time to get out on the land to plant the next generation of trees. There are many important things to keep in mind when planting seedlings, whether you’re planting 10 or 10,000. Keep these things in mind and refer to the publications lis…
During our wet cool, winter in Oregon we have one plant that flourishes, especially in shady areas, and that’s moss.
Question: It’s almost Valentine’s Day and I would like to surprise my sweetie with a plant or tree that would feature heart-shaped leaves or flowers. Do you have any recommendations?
Question: My grandchildren are coming to visit soon, and I generally like to engage them in some sort of gardening activity. However, they will be here in the middle of our cold, dark, rainy season so I’m at a loss for ideas. Do you have any suggestions that can expand their gardening know-h…
One thing you can count on every year is that noxious weeds continue to grow and proliferate in every corner of Douglas County. They grow in pastures and forests, yards and gardens, parks and school yards, and sidewalk cracks and roadways. Controlling these weeds takes an integrated pest man…
Question: I would like to plant a deodar cedar in our home landscape. What can you tell me about this beautiful tree and its care? Why is it called a “true” cedar? Can you explain the difference between “true” cedars and “false” cedars?
Question: Are radishes a winter or summer crop, and are they easy to grow?
Part of my responsibilities as an OSU Extension horticulture agent is to teach Douglas County Master Gardener volunteers the art and science of sustainable gardening.
Question: I have a lavender plant that has a lot of dead wood on it. I’d like to cut out the unsightly wood, but is this a good time to do so? And do you have any tips on caring for lavender?
Question: When should I seed leeks? I see some sources saying early February while others say April. Which is right?
Question: I’ve been given several orchids as a gift. What do I need to consider in keeping them beautiful and healthy?
Question: I was given a potted Christmas fern for the holidays. Can you give me some advice on the care and maintenance of this lovely plant?
Question: I have some fruit trees that seem to get hammered by disease and insects every year. What can I do to protect them this winter?
Handmade gifts, trinkets and treats help make the holiday season special. Although cookies and other baked goods are some of the most popular homemade creations this time of year, gift-givers young and old can put their talents to use with various craft projects.
Question: Tell me about crabapple trees. Are they related to apple trees? Are they a good choice for my yard?
Question: What are these colorful growths I see on some of my oak and maple trees, and are they harmful to the tree? Can you tell me about them?
It’s been 11 weeks since my fifth child entered the world. I am so glad he’s here, but some naive part of me thought that his arrival would somehow be easier than being pregnant.
Question: My summer garden is completely done and it was a successful year for me. One area I struggle with is remembering what grew well and what didn’t, what varieties I planted, when I planted, and the outcome. I attempted to keep seed packets and jot down notes as I went through the seas…
Question: I have recently moved to this area and am currently in an apartment with a small patio, surrounded on three sides with dirt and fencing. I miss not only my garden and my fruit trees but I miss gardening. Any tips for me?
Question: Hostas are such pretty plants. Are they difficult to grow?
