Monthly Archives: October 2024

Biweekly Update – October 31

Posted on by

Change in Policy Regarding Pesticide Use by Volunteers – The use of pesticides by Extension Master Gardener volunteers in their volunteer role is governed both by state law and by Virginia Cooperative Extension and Virginia Tech policies. You may have heard that there has been a change in the state law to allow use of herbicides by volunteers under very limited and specific circumstances. The Extension Master Gardener program leaders and the Virginia Master Naturalist program leaders have worked together with the Virginia Tech Pesticide Programs director and the Virginia Tech Office of Risk Management to revise the policy in order to match the new law. The revised policy is attached here. You can consider this policy effective as of today, but we will be adding it to the upcoming new version of the Volunteer Handbook. Please read it thoroughly and feel free to ask questions as needed. 

 New Announcements

  1. Webinar Series
    • November 18 2:00 pm | Peach Basics with Andy Rollins – In this session, Andy Rollins of South Carolina Extension will cover peach growing basics for home gardeners. For EMGs who provide plant troubleshooting services to your locality, this session will improve your ability to solve peach challenges for your stakeholders. Peaches are a great choice for Virginia gardeners interested in fruit production–Andy will give us all tips for a successful peach crop!

                                                              i.      About the Speaker: Andy Rollins is the Horticultural Agent for the upstate of SC. He is specialized in commercial fruit and vegetable production and assists new growers with problem diagnosis and multiple decisions including soil testing/preparation, location/size of the planting, spray choices, calibration, and variety selection. Andy is actively involved in research projects with Clemson University as well as USDA-ARS specialists, and also does some new product testing.

                                                             ii.      Register for the November webinar here

    • December 3 2:00 pm | Invasion Biology Wrap-Up with Jacob Barney

                                                              i.      Jacob Barney currently serves as the Director of the Invasive Species Collaborative (ISC). The ISC is a faculty collaborative that began in the Global Change Center at Virginia Tech with support from the Fralin Life Sciences Institute and the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost. The ISC nurtures transdisciplinary collaborations and partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, industry, and communities to promote a deep understanding of the impacts of invasive species on ecosystems and society and foster an inclusive environment where science and policy meet to tackle this global challenge. Dr Barney also teaches several courses at Virginia Tech, including “Biological Invasions,” a course on the causes, consequences, and epidemiology of invasive plants, animals, and microbes.

                                                             ii.      Register for the Dec 3 webinar here

                                                           iii.      Land Stewards: This content is good quality CE for your Advanced EMG certification.

    • December 19 2:00 pm | Invasive Plants, Restoration and the Sound of Urban Streams with Gabrielle Ripa – In this presentation, Gabrielle will present her PhD work on acoustic monitoring of stream ecosystems and the impact invasive species have on the acoustic landscape.

                                                              i.      Gabrielle Ripa is a PhD student at Virginia Tech who is studying how to limit invasive plants on stream restoration projects in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Because of her background in wildlife ecology, Gabrielle is also seeking to connect the changes to the stream environment, due to invasion and restoration, to the animal community through acoustic monitoring. She hopes her work can inform the design of restoration projects that are better at recovering both plant and animal communities.

                                                             ii.      Register for the Dec 19 webinar here

                                                           iii.      Water Stewards: This content is good quality CE for your Advanced EMG certification.

  2. VMGA November Educational Event November 9th: Register now
    • The Virginia Master Gardener Association (VMGA) is excited to announce its Fall Continuing Education Day, scheduled for Saturday, November 9th, from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the Washington VA Volunteer Fire Meeting Hall, located at 10 Firehouse Lane, Washington, VA 22747.
    • This event will feature a lineup of expert speakers, each bringing a wealth of knowledge in their respective fields:

                                                              i.      Janet Davis of Hill House Nursery will delve into the Propagation of Woody Plants, with a special focus on native species. Janet’s expertise in nurturing and multiplying these essential plants will provide valuable insights for anyone interested in expanding their garden or landscape.

                                                             ii.      Matt Bright from Earth Sangha will speak on the importance of Keystone Plants and Plant Communities. Keystone plants play a critical role in supporting local ecosystems, and Matt will guide us in understanding which species are vital for the health and biodiversity of our natural surroundings as well as how you create Plant Communities with them.

                                                           iii.      Pat Lust, Professor Emerita from Longwood University, will share her extensive knowledge on Seed Propagation. Pat’s session will cover the fundamentals of starting plants from seed, offering both practical tips and a deeper understanding of the science behind successful propagation.

    • Following the morning lectures, participants will have the opportunity to visit Hill House Nursery, located just 15-20 minutes from the Fire House. This field trip will allow attendees to see many of the propagation techniques discussed during the lectures in action and explore the nursery’s diverse collection of plants. (We will carpool to and from the nursery). This event promises to be an enriching experience for all attendees, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning your journey in horticulture. Don’t miss this chance to learn from some of the best in the field and connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts. Mark your calendars for November 9th, and join us for a day of education, inspiration, and community! 
  1. Danville Master Gardeners’ 12th annual Spring to Green (STG) conference will be held on February 8, 2025. Registration is now open, and STG shirts are available for purchase! To register, go to Eventbrite.com and look for Spring to Green. If you want to register by mail, go to Danvillemastergardeners.org and download a registration form and mail the completed form to 326 Taylor Dr, Suite 100, Danville, VA 24541.

Old November Announcements

  1. Heart of Virginia Lunch & Learn Series Prince Edward Extension Office, 100 Dominion Dr., Farmville, VA
    1. 11/21/24 12-1 pm Bring your lunch and join us for a session of fun holiday decoration make and take with Prince Edward Extension Agent, Erin Small.  The class is limited in size and registration is required. Call to register 434-392-4246.
  2. Salt Tolerant Plants: November 4, 2024 |VIRGINIA BEACH MASTER GARDENERS PRESENT GARDENING TALKS: Join us on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 7 pm via ZOOM for a Gardening Talks presentation on:  Salt Tolerant Plants    Speaker: Liz Maurer, VBMG
    • Our proximity to the ocean means our landscape plants are subject to salt spray that can drift inland during high winds. Salt can accumulate on plant surfaces as well as in the soil. In some areas, brackish flood waters may contribute to challenges the plants face. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and possible ways to help your plants survive as well as suggestions for plants that can best withstand these conditions
    • Gardening Talks is presented via Zoom and is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.  No registration is required.   Gardening Talks are one hour. 
    • Go to VBMG.org and click on the Zoom link!  Check out upcoming Gardening Talks for 2024 as you explore our website!

 

 

Biweekly Update – October 17

Posted on by

New Announcements

 

  1. Webinar Series
    • The Coreopsis That Died Probably Wasn’t Your Fault: Growing Reliable Perennials In and For the Garden with Paul Westervelt, Annual & Perennial Production Manager and Head Grower, Saunders Brothers, Inc. Register here.

                                                              i.      In this session, Paul Westervelt of Saunders Brothers Inc. will share his extensive knowledge and expertise on choosing perennials for your landscape. Paul will discuss perennials for fall planting and/or fall color.

  1. Tell us about your specialized expertise!  Help us gather insights from EMG volunteers about specialized horticultural skills. https://utk.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bQacDM4S86ExXjE
    • The survey should take approximately 12-15 minutes to complete.  The survey will close at the end of the day on Sunday, October 20.  (As a footnote, the survey will be conducted through the University of Tennessee and not Virginia Tech so the Qualtrics URL will reflect a UT-Knoxville and UT Extension origin.)
  2. Use this QR code to direct people to “invasive species” tagged material on the pubs.ext.vt.edu site: get the qr code here
  3. Salt Tolerant Plants: November 4, 2024 | VIRGINIA BEACH MASTER GARDENERS PRESENT GARDENING TALKS: Join us on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 7 pm via ZOOM for a Gardening Talks presentation on:  Salt Tolerant Plants    Speaker: Liz Maurer, VBMG
    • Our proximity to the ocean means our landscape plants are subject to salt spray that can drift inland during high winds. Salt can accumulate on plant surfaces as well as in the soil. In some areas, brackish flood waters may contribute to challenges the plants face. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and possible ways to help your plants survive as well as suggestions for plants that can best withstand these conditions
    • Gardening Talks is presented via Zoom and is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.  No registration is required.   Gardening Talks are one hour. 
    • Go to VBMG.org and click on the Zoom link!  Check out upcoming Gardening Talks for 2024 as you explore our website!
  4. NATIVE FLOWERS, FRUITS & FOLIAGE FOR FALL | October 23, 2024, 6:30 PM-8:00 PM | NATIVE FLOWERS, FRUITS & FOLIAGE FOR FALL – ZOOM: October marks a slowing down of the growing season, but there are still many native plants you might consider adding to your garden to introduce long-lasting blooms and colorful foliage to the fall landscape. Join Virginia Cooperative Extension with Extension Master Gardener and Wildlife Sanctuary Ambassador Elaine Mills as she discusses over 40 plants native to the Mid-Atlantic region, including perennials, ground covers, vines, shrubs, and trees that offer important support for local wildlife as well as beauty. She describes characteristics, attributes, and maintenance tips specific to these native plants and offers ideas for landscape uses.  To receive the Zoom link please register at: https://vce.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1H5uOuuFbU1awB0

 

Old October Announcements

  1. Hanover Home Gardening Series: Join us for engaging presentations that will broaden your gardening know-how, introduce you to new concepts, and help you connect with the Hanover Master Gardeners. Everyone is welcome, regardless of age or experience.  Our Home Gardening Series is tailored for Hanover County’s home gardeners. Atlee Library | 9212 Rutlandshire Dr, Mechanicsville, VA 23116  Learn more and register
    • October 19 | Tree Stewards and Gardening Help Desk
    • November 16 | GROWING MUSHROOMS & BOKASHI COMPOSTING
    • January 18 | Gardening Tools and Invasives
    • February 15 | Seed Starting and Garden Planning
    • March 15 | Soil Testing and Bats, Dragonflies and Mosquitos
  2. Louisa Extension Master Gardeners’ Backyard Gardening Seminars:
  1. 2024 PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY PUMPKIN CONTEST Prince George Farmers Market Join the Prince George Master Gardeners for our 2024 Pumpkin Contest on October 26, 2024.

 

Old November Announcements

 

  1. VMGA November Educational Event: SAVE THE DATE!  November 9th
  • The Virginia Master Gardener Association (VMGA) is excited to announce its Fall Continuing Education Day, scheduled for Saturday, November 9th, from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the Washington VA Volunteer Fire Meeting Hall, located at 10 Firehouse Lane, Washington, VA 22747. WATCH FOR INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION SOON.  https://vmga.net/vmga-education-events/
  • This event will feature a lineup of expert speakers, each bringing a wealth of knowledge in their respective fields:
    • Janet Davis of Hill House Nursery will delve into the Propagation of Woody Plants, with a special focus on native species. Janet’s expertise in nurturing and multiplying these essential plants will provide valuable insights for anyone interested in expanding their garden or landscape.
    • Matt Bright from Earth Sangha will speak on the importance of Keystone Plants and Plant Communities. Keystone plants play a critical role in supporting local ecosystems, and Matt will guide us in understanding which species are vital for the health and biodiversity of our natural surroundings as well as how you create Plant Communities with them.
    • Pat Lust, Professor Emerita from Longwood University, will share her extensive knowledge on Seed Propagation. Pat’s session will cover the fundamentals of starting plants from seed, offering both practical tips and a deeper understanding of the science behind successful propagation.
  • Following the morning lectures, participants will have the opportunity to visit Hill House Nursery, located just 15-20 minutes from the Fire House. This field trip will allow attendees to see many of the propagation techniques discussed during the lectures in action and explore the nursery’s diverse collection of plants. (We will carpool to and from the nursery). This event promises to be an enriching experience for all attendees, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning your journey in horticulture. Don’t miss this chance to learn from some of the best in the field and connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts. Mark your calendars for November 9th, and join us for a day of education, inspiration, and community!
  1. Heart of Virginia Lunch & Learn Series Prince Edward Extension Office, 100 Dominion Dr., Farmville, VA
  • 11/21/24 12-1 pm Bring your lunch and join us for a session of fun holiday decoration make and take with Prince Edward Extension Agent, Erin Small.  The class is limited in size and registration is required. Call to register 434-392-4246.

 

Biweekly Update – October 4

Posted on by

 New Announcements  

  1. Webinar Series 

·      October 24 – Fall Planted Perennials with Paul Westervelt, Head Color Grower at Saunders Brothers Register here. 

                                i.Join Paul Westervelt for an informative talk on past winners of “Perennial Plant of the Year” and his favorite garden additions you can make this fall. 

·         As with all the webinars in the EMG CE Webinar Series, this webinar will be recorded and posted at: https://mastergardener.ext.vt.edu/webinar-archive/  

  1. Tell us about your specialized expertise! The State EMG Office is working with Dave Close, former VCE Volunteer Engagement Specialist, and Pat Lust, an active VCE MG volunteer, on a follow-up survey to the 2022 project titled “Happy EMG Volunteers & Thriving EMG Unit.”  Dave currently serves as the Volunteer Specialist with the University of Tennessee Extension and continues to collaborate with VCE on special multi-state projects.  

·      This new survey, titled “EMGs with Specialized Expertise,” aims to gather insights from EMG volunteers about specialized horticultural skills. 

·     The survey should take approximately 12-15 minutes to complete.  The survey will close at the end of the day on Sunday, October 20.  (As a footnote, the survey will be conducted through the University of Tennessee and not Virginia Tech so the Qualtrics URL will reflect a UT-Knoxville and UT Extension origin.) 

·     Take the survey: https://utk.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bQacDM4S86ExXjE 

  1. Updated Lawn and Garden pages on Extension website! We’ve added information and updated the horticulture-relevant pages on the Extension website (ext.vt.edu/lawn-garden.html). If you’re interested (or if you’ve previously visited these pages and thought “wow they should really update this”) please take a look and let us know your suggestions or corrections! 
  1. The Virginia Master Gardener Association (VMGA) is excited to announce its Fall Continuing Education Day, scheduled for Saturday, November 9th, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Washington VA Volunteer Fire Meeting Hall, located at 10 Firehouse Lane, Washington, VA 22747.  

This event will feature a lineup of expert speakers, each bringing a wealth of knowledge in their respective fields: 

·     Janet Davis owner of Hill House Farm & Nursery will delve into the Propagation of Native Woody Plants, including trees, shrubs and vines. During her lecture, Janet shares her experience in nurturing and multiplying these essential plants and provides valuable insights for anyone interested in expanding their garden or landscape. 

·      Maddie Bright from Earth Sangha will speak on the importance of Keystone Native Plants and Plant Communities. Keystone native plants play a critical role in supporting local ecosystems, and Maddie will guide us in understanding which species grow well together and are vital for the health and biodiversity of our natural surroundings. 

·       Pat Lust, Professor Emerita from Longwood University, will share her extensive knowledge on Seed Propagation. Pat’s session will cover the fundamentals of starting native plants from seed, offering both practical tips and a deeper understanding of the science behind successful propagation. 

·     Following the morning lectures and lunch, participants will have the opportunity to visit Hill House Nursery, located just 15-20 minutes from the Fire House. This field trip will allow attendees to see many of the propagation techniques discussed during the lectures in action and explore the nursery’s diverse collection of plants. (Carpooling will be required and numbers will be limited for the afternoon Field Trip – more details to follow.) Following the tour, attendees may also purchase plants.  

                                            i.     Morning coffee, tea and refreshments are being furnished thanks to the local Master Gardeners of Fauquier/Rappahannock. Bring your refillable coffee mug. In order to be able to offer a timely afternoon field trip, we ask that attendees bring their own bag lunch and a refillable water bottle. Water and cookies will be provided. 

                                           ii.      This event promises to be an enriching experience for all attendees, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning your journey in horticulture. Don’t miss this chance to learn more about propagation and native plants from some of the best in the field and connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts. 

·      Mark your calendars for November 9th, and join us for a day of education, inspiration, and community! Register and pay here. https://vmga.net/education-event-saturday-may-182024/ 

·      Cost to attend:  $10.00 for VMGA Member, $20.00 for Non-Members. If you’d like to join VMGA, and take advantage of the member registration rate, please submit a VMGA Membership Application. Dues are just $15 paid annually or $135 for continuing membership. 

·      For registration, you will need to register and pay on the VMGA website with PayPal/Credit card.  The other option is mailing a check to our treasurer, Betsy Brown.  Please, do not wait to last minute to register this way. Email treasurer@vmga.net ; to enquire about your registration. 

  1. Hanover Home Gardening Series: Join us for engaging presentations that will broaden your gardening know-how, introduce you to new concepts, and help you connect with the Hanover Master Gardeners. Everyone is welcome, regardless of age or experience.  Our Home Gardening Series is tailored for Hanover County’s home gardeners. Atlee Library | 9212 Rutlandshire Dr, Mechanicsville, VA 23116  Learn more and register 

·         October 19 | Tree Stewards and Gardening Help Desk 

·         November 16 | GROWING MUSHROOMS & BOKASHI COMPOSTING 

·         January 18 | Gardening Tools and Invasives 

·         February 15 | Seed Starting and Garden Planning 

·         March 15 | Soil Testing and Bats, Dragonflies and Mosquitos

Old October Announcements 

  1. Louisa Extension Master Gardeners’ Backyard Gardening Seminars: 

·         Saturday, October 5, 2024, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon – Cold Planting and Winter Sowing 

·         Saturday, October 19, 2024, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon – Greenhouse Basics – How to set up and utilize a greenhouse for beginners 

·         Location for all BYG: Louisa County Public Library, 881 Davis Highway, Mineral, Virginia.  Contact: LouisaMG@gmail.com 

  1. New River Valley Master Gardeners For the Love of Foraging | 10/5/2024 | Blacksburg Community Center, Community Room, 725 Patrick Henry Dr, Blacksburg, VA 

·         For the Love of Foraging with Em. Learn about foraging wild foods throughout the entire year. Saturday, October 5th 11:00am – 12:30pm Register here: tinyurl.com/foragingwithEm 

  1. 2024 PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY PUMPKIN CONTEST Prince George Farmers Market Join the Prince George Master Gardeners for our 2024 Pumpkin Contest on October 26, 2024. 

 

Old November Announcements 

 

  1. VMGA November Educational Event: SAVE THE DATE!  November 9th 

·         The Virginia Master Gardener Association (VMGA) is excited to announce its Fall Continuing Education Day, scheduled for Saturday, November 9th, from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the Washington VA Volunteer Fire Meeting Hall, located at 10 Firehouse Lane, Washington, VA 22747. WATCH FOR INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION SOON.  https://vmga.net/vmga-education-events/ 

·         This event will feature a lineup of expert speakers, each bringing a wealth of knowledge in their respective fields: 

o    Janet Davis of Hill House Nursery will delve into the Propagation of Woody Plants, with a special focus on native species. Janet’s expertise in nurturing and multiplying these essential plants will provide valuable insights for anyone interested in expanding their garden or landscape. 

o    Matt Bright from Earth Sangha will speak on the importance of Keystone Plants and Plant Communities. Keystone plants play a critical role in supporting local ecosystems, and Matt will guide us in understanding which species are vital for the health and biodiversity of our natural surroundings as well as how you create Plant Communities with them. 

o    Pat Lust, Professor Emerita from Longwood University, will share her extensive knowledge on Seed Propagation. Pat’s session will cover the fundamentals of starting plants from seed, offering both practical tips and a deeper understanding of the science behind successful propagation. 

·         Following the morning lectures, participants will have the opportunity to visit Hill House Nursery, located just 15-20 minutes from the Fire House. This field trip will allow attendees to see many of the propagation techniques discussed during the lectures in action and explore the nursery’s diverse collection of plants. (We will carpool to and from the nursery). This event promises to be an enriching experience for all attendees, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning your journey in horticulture. Don’t miss this chance to learn from some of the best in the field and connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts. Mark your calendars for November 9th, and join us for a day of education, inspiration, and community! 

  1. Heart of Virginia Lunch & Learn Series Prince Edward Extension Office, 100 Dominion Dr., Farmville, VA 

·         11/21/24 12-1 pm Bring your lunch and join us for a session of fun holiday decoration make and take with Prince Edward Extension Agent, Erin Small.  The class is limited in size and registration is required. Call to register 434-392-4246.