New Announcements – State Office:

1. Submit a digital brag board for College 2024! Showcase your unit’s amazing projects by creating a short presentation for us to play at virtual EMGC. Deadline: May 30: Submit your brag board here!
   • Save the date! Master Gardener College (EMGC) 2024 will be held virtually June 5-9. Registration opens early-mid April.
2. Giving Day 2024 – Save the date for Virginia Tech Giving Day – Noon February 21-22. Donations benefit our micro-grant program!
   • Check Winter 2024 In Season (sent 1/29) for information on Early Giving.
3. EMG Webinar Series 2024: All webinars will be recorded and posted to our website (https://mastergardener.ext.vt.edu/webinar-archive/). Please register for each webinar:
   • February 16, 11:00 am | Gravel Bed Planting – Barb Bailey, Loudoun Extension Master Gardener Coordinator: Loudoun Extension Master Gardeners maintain a gravel bed planting project where they raise trees that will be planted at Tree Steward sites. Gravel beds are irrigated bed or pile of gravel where woody plants are planted for several months to increase fibrous root systems. Register now
   • March 18, 11:00 am | Piedmont EMGs and Habitat for Humanity Partnership – Ralph Morini and Rozanne Oliver, Piedmont Extension Master Gardener: Piedmont EMGs have successfully worked with their local Habitat for Humanity to ensure that new homeowners have the skills and materials they need to succeed with their new landscapes. Learn about their program and partnership. Register now
4. “Volunteering with the EMG program” document available in BI: The old handbook’s chapter 1 “Intro to Master Gardenering” is not present in the new version of the handbook. Until we produce a replacement document, please see an adaption of old chapter 1 in BI titled “Volunteering with the EMG Program.”
   • To locate: Select files” from the dropdown menu on the My Profile button.  The document is then located in the EMG Documents folder.

New Announcements – Events:

5. Garden Expo with Seed Share – February 17: Save the date and join the Louisa Extension Master Gardeners for the Garden Expo with Seed Share!! (Formerly known as Seed Swap).

1. • The Expo will be held at Louisa Baptist Church, 305 East Main Street, Louisa, VA. The event will provide free seeds, free gardening presentations, community organizations, door prize giveaways and a basket raffle. Bring your dried, labeled seeds if you have them to share. However, bringing seeds is NOT required. We hope to see you there! For more Information, please go to: https://www.louisacvmg.org/ or the Louisa Extension Master Gardeners Facebook Page.

6. Patrick County Master Gardeners Spring Symposium: Master Your Garden – March 9, 2024 Patrick & Henry Community College 212 Wood Brothers Drive, Stuart VA 24171

1. • Registration: $10 payable by check or money order via mail or at the door 8:30am Doors Open 9am – Welcome 9:15-10:45am – Eli Roberson – “Using Container Gardens to Lower Your Grocery Bill” 10:45-11:30am – Break – coffee, tea, snacks, and vendors 11:30am-12:50 – Eric Johnson – “Old Salem Heirloom Gardens & Their Legacy Today” 12:50pm – Closing

7. GROW THE GOOD LIFE – Bedford Area Master Gardeners – March 9 @ 9:00 am – 3:00 pm

1. • As you begin your garden plans for 2024, the Bedford Master Gardeners offer some helpful instruction and advice with our annual Grow The Good Life program. This year’s seminar will be three presentations on gardening with a focus on the environment. The seminar will be on March 9, 2024, in-person at Bethlehem United Methodist Church, 13586 Old Moneta Road, Moneta, VA from 9AM to 3PM. The speakers for this year’s Grow The Good Life are Joe Lamp’l, Jim McCormac, and Jim McGlone.
   • The registration fee for attending the event in person covers the three speakers, your choice of lunch, and plenty of time to visit with our wonderful vendors, including Justin Kelley — a professional tool sharpener. The lunch selection options will be given during registration checkout.
   • More information here: https://www.bedfordareamastergardeners.org/event/grow-the-good-life-bedford-area-master-gardeners/

8. VIRGINIA BEACH MASTER GARDENERS PRESENT GARDENING TALKS: Join us on Monday, March 11, 2024, at 7 pm via ZOOM for a Gardening Talks presentation on: Plant This, Not That with Stacie McGraw, VB Master Gardener

1. • Looking for reliable, easy to grow perennials and shrubs? Thinking about planting natives, but worried that your garden will look weedy? This talk will explore tried and true native alternatives to common landscape plants with a focus on natives that behave and perform well in a variety of growing conditions and garden styles. 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!

Old Announcements – February:

9. Spring to Green 2024, February 3rd, 2024, Olde Agricultural Center

1. • “Spring to Green” is Back!!!! Come join us for the Danville Master Gardeners 11th annual Spring to Green ” Work Less, More Garden ” 9am to 3pm on February 3rd 2024.@ Olde Agricultural Center 19783 US HWY 29 Chatham, VA 24531. Speakers are Pat Lust, Bryce Lane and Mary Ann Hansen. To register https://www.eventbrite.com/manage/events/718731554427/preview_publish or go to danvillemastergardeners.org to get a mail in registration form or to get more information.

10. 6th Annual Prince William Native Plant Symposium – Saturday, February 10, 2024
    9:00 am – 4:00 pm Featuring keynote speaker Keith Tomlinson, Smithsonian Associates Study Leader  https://vnps.org/princewilliamwildflowersociety/events/6th-annual-prince-william-native-plant-symposium/
11. GreenScapes Symposium 2024 – Join Brookside Gardens for a day of virtual lectures on Friday, February 16, 2024, as industry experts share valuable lessons from the field that fill in the gap between sustainable design theory and practice. Learn how to create masterpieces for all season interest using naturalistic planting designs with strong perennials and grasses. Lectures will reimagine traditional landscapes with native plants and offer the latest in ecologically focused management strategies. Take advantage of the Early Bird fee of $50 that ends on Friday, January 12. All sessions will be recorded and made available online to registrants. For more information and to register online, visit www.brooksidegreen.org.

Old Announcements – March:

12. Northern Shenandoah Valley 2024 Symposium – March 2, 2024 – Middletown, VA https://nsvmga.org/events/symposium/

Old Announcements – April:

13. Save the Date! The Northern Neck Master Gardeners and Virginia Cooperative Extension Invite You to the 30th Annual Gardening in the Northern Neck Seminar “Creating Outdoor Spaces-Defining Your Lifestyle”. Saturday, April 13, 2024. Lancaster Elementary School, 191 School St., Kilmarnock, VA. Registration Opens February 1, 2024.
14. MGACRA 2024 Spring Symposium “Sustainable Gardening – Growing a Greener Future” – 4/13/2024 – Gari Melchers Home & Studio, 224 Washington St., Fredericksburg, Virginia, 22405.

1. • The Master Gardener Association of the Central Rappahannock Area invite you to join us for our 12th Annual Spring Symposium “Sustainable Gardening – Growing a Greener Future.” We have three guest speakers: Dr. Leonard Githinji presenting Introduction to Sustainable Gardening, and, back by popular demand, Bryce Lane presenting two sessions “So You Want A Garden: First Steps to Growing Your Own Food.” and “Is it Warm in Here?: New Approaches to Gardening in a Changing Climate”, and Jenny Rose Carey presenting Become the Ultimate Flower Gardener! All attendees will be able to explore the gardens at the Belmont Estate, spend time in their outstanding museum gift store, and visit with fellow Master Gardeners. Tickets are $85.00 which includes a full day of thought-provoking lectures focusing on purposeful gardening and includes morning coffee/tea & light breakfast, a delicious buffet lunch, and afternoon cookies. Registration is now open. You can get a registration form online at https://www.mgacra.org/spring-symposium.html

Old Announcements:

1. VT Sweet Satisfaction Survey – Did you receive edamame seeds from the VT Sweet research program? If so, please fill out this survey and let the researchers know your thoughts:  https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/t/AYGGxZza1e
   1. Want to request more edamame seeds for an EMG project (community or school garden)? Email Patrick at pwb@vt.edu.

New Announcements

1. Save the date! Master Gardener College (EMGC) 2024 will be held virtually June 5-9. This will be a 5-day conference with one day of regional, in-person tours, 4 days virtual with one keynote and one concurrent each day. Sessions will be recorded and available to registrations after the conference as well.
2. Giving Day 2024 – Save the date for Virginia Tech Giving Day – Noon February 21-22. Donations benefit our micro-grant program!
3. EMG Webinar Series 2024: All webinars will be recorded and posted to our website (https://mastergardener.ext.vt.edu/webinar-archive/). Please register for each webinar:
   1. February 16, 11:00 am | Gravel Bed Planting – Barb Bailey, Loudoun Extension Master Gardener Coordinator: Loudoun Extension Master Gardeners maintain a gravel bed planting project where they raise trees that will be planted at Tree Steward sites. Gravel beds are irrigated bed or pile of gravel where woody plants are planted for several months to increase fibrous root systems. Register now
   2. March 18, 11:00 am | Piedmont EMGs and Habitat for Humanity Partnership – Ralph Morini and Rozanne Oliver, Piedmont Extension Master Gardener: Piedmont EMGs have successfully worked with their local Habitat for Humanity to ensure that new homeowners have the skills and materials they need to succeed with their new landscapes. Learn about their program and partnership. Register now
4. VT Sweet Satisfaction Survey – Did you receive edamame seeds from the VT Sweet research program? If so, please fill out this survey and let the researchers know your thoughts:  https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/t/AYGGxZza1e
   1. Want to request more edamame seeds for an EMG project (community or school garden)? Email Patrick at pwb@vt.edu.

Spring symposiums and educational opportunities:

5. Phenology: Tracking Seasonal Changes in Plants and Animals, January 22 – Zoom – VIRGINIA BEACH MASTER GARDENERS PRESENT GARDENING TALKS: Join us on Monday, January 22, 2024, at 7 pm via ZOOM for a Gardening Talks presentation on: Phenology: Tracking Seasonal Changes in Plants and Animals Speakers: Lisa Wallace, Associate Professor of Biology; and Robert Stiffler Distinguished Professor of Botany, Old Dominion University Climate change is shifting the natural world in many ways. You’ve perhaps experienced the tidal changes felt across Hampton Roads with rising sea levels, but did you know that plants and animals are changing their yearly growth patterns too? Scientists around the globe are eager to understand these responses of plants and animals to a warming climate and rely on a network of volunteers who regularly observe species at their homes and in local parks and botanical gardens. In this talk, I’ll explain what phenological research is, discuss some of the findings scientists have made recently, and show you how you can become an observer and help us learn more about the changes happening in Southeastern Virginia. 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!
6. Spring to Green 2024, February 3rd, 2024, Olde Agricultural Center
   1. “Spring to Green” is Back!!!! Come join us for the Danville Master Gardeners 11th annual Spring to Green ” Work Less, More Garden ” 9am to 3pm on February 3rd 2024.@ Olde Agricultural Center 19783 US HWY 29 Chatham, VA 24531. Speakers are Pat Lust, Bryce Lane and Mary Ann Hansen. To register https://www.eventbrite.com/manage/events/718731554427/preview_publish or go to danvillemastergardeners.org to get a mail in registration form or to get more information.
7. 6th Annual Prince William Native Plant Symposium – Saturday, February 10, 2024
   9:00 am – 4:00 pm Featuring keynote speaker Keith Tomlinson, Smithsonian Associates Study Leader  https://vnps.org/princewilliamwildflowersociety/events/6th-annual-prince-william-native-plant-symposium/
8. GreenScapes Symposium 2024 – Join Brookside Gardens for a day of virtual lectures on Friday, February 16, 2024, as industry experts share valuable lessons from the field that fill in the gap between sustainable design theory and practice. Learn how to create masterpieces for all season interest using naturalistic planting designs with strong perennials and grasses. Lectures will reimagine traditional landscapes with native plants and offer the latest in ecologically focused management strategies. Take advantage of the Early Bird fee of $50 that ends on Friday, January 12. All sessions will be recorded and made available online to registrants. For more information and to register online, visit www.brooksidegreen.org.
9. Save the Date! The Northern Neck Master Gardeners and Virginia Cooperative Extension Invite You to the 30th Annual Gardening in the Northern Neck Seminar “Creating Outdoor Spaces-Defining Your Lifestyle”. Saturday, April 13, 2024. Lancaster Elementary School, 191 School St., Kilmarnock, VA. Registration Opens February 1, 2024.
10. MGACRA 2024 Spring Symposium “Sustainable Gardening – Growing a Greener Future” – 4/13/2024 – Gari Melchers Home & Studio, 224 Washington St., Fredericksburg, Virginia, 22405.
    1. The Master Gardener Association of the Central Rappahannock Area invite you to join us for our 12th Annual Spring Symposium “Sustainable Gardening – Growing a Greener Future.” We have three guest speakers: Dr. Leonard Githinji presenting Introduction to Sustainable Gardening, and, back by popular demand, Bryce Lane presenting two sessions “So You Want A Garden: First Steps to Growing Your Own Food.” and “Is it Warm in Here?: New Approaches to Gardening in a Changing Climate”, and Jenny Rose Carey presenting Become the Ultimate Flower Gardener! All attendees will be able to explore the gardens at the Belmont Estate, spend time in their outstanding museum gift store, and visit with fellow Master Gardeners. Tickets are $85.00 which includes a full day of thought-provoking lectures focusing on purposeful gardening and includes morning coffee/tea & light breakfast, a delicious buffet lunch, and afternoon cookies. Registration is now open. You can get a registration form online at https://www.mgacra.org/spring-symposium.html
11. Northern Shenandoah Valley 2024 Symposium – March 2, 2024 – Middletown, VA https://nsvmga.org/events/symposium/

Old Announcements:

1. Extension Master Gardener handbook (2023 edition) now available!

1. 1. Revisions and updates to the EMG Training Handbook have been completed. The 2023 edition of the handbook can be downloaded by visiting: http://hdl.handle.net/10919/112743. The digital textbook version has been published and can be found here: https://pressbooks.lib.vt.edu/emgtraining/. The print version is available here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1957213426

New Announcements

1. EMG Webinar Series 2023: The EMG monthly webinar series has returned! We look forward to bringing you a wide range of new and interesting topics. All webinars will be recorded and posted to our website (https://mastergardener.ext.vt.edu/webinar-archive/). Please register for each webinar:
   1. November 17 at 1:00 pm – Landscaping for Birds – Dr. Robin Puffenbarger – Register for November webinar here
2. VMGA Education Event – November 11, 2023 The Nelson Center, 8445 Thomas Nelson Hwy. Lovingston, VA
   1. Join us November 11th for three lectures designed to increase your plant disease diagnostic skills. From 9:00 am to 12:30 pm, you will hear about the process of problem solving regardless of the plant or pest, Growing Degree Days and Plant Phenological indicators, and apply your knowledge to problem solving issues with the popular boxwood landscape plant. There will be an optional lunch at Saunders Brothers Nursery Farm Market, 12:45 – 1:30 pm (with the option of shopping). There is an optional tour if their growing fields and greenhouses, 1:30-3:00 pm for the first 35 folks registrants. Details and information to register is at https://vmga.net/wordpress/vmga-education-events/  Lunch selections must be made by November 2, 2023. Registration is just $5.00 for VMGA members, $20.00 for non-members – another reason to join VMGA! (Registration webpage gives you the option to click to become a member.)
3. 30^th annual Gardening in the Northern Neck Seminar – April 13, 2024
   1. The Northern Neck Master Gardeners and Virginia Cooperative Extension Invite you to the 30^thannual Gardening in the Northern Neck Seminar Saturday, April 13, 2024. The Theme this year is “Creating Outdoor Spaces: Defining Your Lifestyle”. The location is the Lancaster Elementary School, 191 School St., Kilmarnock, VA. The three featured speakers are: Mary Palmer Dargen, Barbara W. Ellis, and Lorraine Ballato. Registration opens February 1, 2024 at www.nnmg.org

Old Announcements:

Other old announcements:

4. Save the date! Master Gardener College (EMGC) 2024 will be held virtually June 5-9. This will be a 5-day conference with one day of regional, in-person tours, 4 days virtual with one keynote and one concurrent each day. Sessions will be recorded and available to registrations after the conference as well.

1. 1. Join a planning committee for EMGC! Help us plan by joining our speakers, in-person tours, or marketing committee. Requires agent approval: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSer3jNH7OfGU2LTfnLvOSF9gjpC8UGHms8Wp34CZlUUlvXLUQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
   2. Submit a topic idea for EMGC: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefttFX0IGrKODU3JD6Gtt_XCqznAL4Q2EfBNmHHoOEYFwn_Q/viewform?usp=sf_link
2. Extension Master Gardener handbook (2023 edition) now available!

1. 1. Revisions and updates to the EMG Training Handbook have been completed. The 2023 edition of the handbook can be downloaded by visiting: http://hdl.handle.net/10919/112743. The digital textbook version has been published and can be found here: https://pressbooks.lib.vt.edu/emgtraining/. The print version will follow shortly, more details will be provided in April.
   2. Many thanks to all who assisted in this undertaking. We appreciate all our editors, authors, and contributors!
   3. Link to order print handbook: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1957213426  When you get it, turn to page 20 and add “+ 6O2” to the end of the photosynthesis equation. We’re addressing this in the next edition, and it is being fixed online now.

New Announcements

1. Save the date! Master Gardener College (EMGC) 2024 will be held virtually June 5-9. This will be a 5-day conference with one day of regional, in-person tours, 4 days virtual with one keynote and one concurrent each day. Sessions will be recorded and available to registrations after the conference as well.
1. Join a planning committee for EMGC! Help us plan by joining our speakers, in-person tours, or marketing committee. Requires agent approval: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSer3jNH7OfGU2LTfnLvOSF9gjpC8UGHms8Wp34CZlUUlvXLUQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
2. Submit a topic idea for EMGC: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefttFX0IGrKODU3JD6Gtt_XCqznAL4Q2EfBNmHHoOEYFwn_Q/viewform?usp=sf_link
2. EMG Webinar Series 2023: The EMG monthly webinar series has returned! We look forward to bringing you a wide range of new and interesting topics. All webinars will be recorded and posted to our website (https://mastergardener.ext.vt.edu/webinar-archive/). Please register for each webinar:
1. Wednesday! October 18 at 11:00 am – Virginia Native Trees – Adam Downing, Northern District Forestry agent, joins us to celebrate Virginia Native Trees! Register for October webinar here
2. November 17 at 1:00 pm – Landscaping for Birds – Dr. Robin Puffenbarger – Register for November webinar here
3. Fermentation webinar series from Master Food Volunteers – October 26 at 10 am – Learn about fermented dairy foods. Please register for that webinar using this link: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEsc-6qrzIqHNxtQz2ardhFYsoT2Xg7X2Ue#/registration 
1. The purpose of this webinar is to cover aspects of fermented dairy foods. Specifically, the webinar will address: 1) The science supporting dairy fermentation 2) Methods of preparing some fermented dairy foods 3) Considerations when preparing fermented dairy foods for retail sale Additionally, a portion of this webinar will be dedicated to open discussion to identify if/how fermented dairy foods can be incorporated into home food preservation programming.

Old Announcements:

October events:

1. Bats! 10/16/2023 – Zoom – VIRGINIA BEACH MASTER GARDENERS PRESENT GARDENING TALKS: Join us on Monday, October 16, 2023, at 7 pm via ZOOM for a Gardening Talks presentation on: BATS!
1. Presented by Leslie Sturges, President, Bat Conservation & Rescue of Virginia. Often the stuff of myths, legends, and spooky stories, bats are actually a crucial part of our natural ecosystems. This talk discusses bat habitat, how our gardens can support them and the pest control benefits bats provide. 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 2023 as you explore our website!

November events:

2. Lunch & Learn series – Prince Edward County – Prince Edward Extension Office, 100 Dominion Dr., Farmville, VA – Bring your questions and lunch! Questions – email: erins96@vt.edu.
1. Holiday Decorating 11/2/2023 – Join the Heart of Virginia Master Gardeners for Holiday Decorating ideas! Our very own Barbara Wheeler and Glenda Harris will be sharing their years of experience with you.

Other old announcements:

3. Extension Master Gardener handbook (2023 edition) now available!

1. Revisions and updates to the EMG Training Handbook have been completed. The 2023 edition of the handbook can be downloaded by visiting: http://hdl.handle.net/10919/112743. The digital textbook version has been published and can be found here: https://pressbooks.lib.vt.edu/emgtraining/. The print version will follow shortly, more details will be provided in April.
2. Many thanks to all who assisted in this undertaking. We appreciate all our editors, authors, and contributors! 
3. Link to order print handbook: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1957213426  When you get it, turn to page 20 and add “+ 6O2” to the end of the photosynthesis equation. We’re addressing this in the next edition, and it is being fixed online now.

New Announcements

1. Save the date! Master Gardener College (EMGC) 2024 will be held virtually June 5-9. This will be a 5-day conference with one day of regional, in-person tours, 4 days virtual with one keynote and one concurrent each day. Sessions will be recorded and available to registrations after the conference as well.
1. Join a planning committee for EMGC! Help us plan by joining our speakers, in-person tours, or marketing committee. Requires agent approval: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSer3jNH7OfGU2LTfnLvOSF9gjpC8UGHms8Wp34CZlUUlvXLUQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
2. Submit a topic idea for EMGC: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefttFX0IGrKODU3JD6Gtt_XCqznAL4Q2EfBNmHHoOEYFwn_Q/viewform?usp=sf_link
2. EMG Webinar Series 2023: The EMG monthly webinar series has returned! We look forward to bringing you a wide range of new and interesting topics. All webinars will be recorded and posted to our website (https://mastergardener.ext.vt.edu/webinar-archive/). Please register for each webinar:
1. October 18 at 11:00 am – Virginia Native Trees – Adam Downing, Northern District Forestry agent, joins us to celebrate Virginia Native Trees! Register for October webinar here
2. November 17 at 1:00 pm – Landscaping for Birds – Dr. Robin Puffenbarger – Register for November webinar here
3. Link to order print handbook: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1957213426
1. When you get it, turn to page 20 and add “+ 6O2” to the end of the photosynthesis equation. We’re addressing this in the next edition, and it is being fixed online now. My apologies for this mistake!
4. Loudoun County Master Gardeners’ 13th Annual Gardening Symposium 10/14/2023 – Academies of Loudoun, 42075 Loudoun Academy Dr., Leesburg, Virginia – Join us on Saturday, October 14, 2023 for a full day Gardening Symposium.
1. Four expert speakers – Bryce Lane, Ian Caton, Madeline Potter, and Peggy Riccio – will provide inspiration, ideas, and information on garden basics that will appeal to all as we prepare our gardens for the winter and subsequent growing season. Please join us for this educational event. We look forward to learning and socializing with you in Leesburg. Buy your tickets early – this event often sells out. For more information and to register, visit our website at: https://www.loudouncountymastergardeners.org/events/annual-symposium/
5. Bats! 10/16/2023 – Zoom – VIRGINIA BEACH MASTER GARDENERS PRESENT GARDENING TALKS: Join us on Monday, October 16, 2023, at 7 pm via ZOOM for a Gardening Talks presentation on: BATS!
1. Presented by Leslie Sturges, President, Bat Conservation & Rescue of Virginia. Often the stuff of myths, legends, and spooky stories, bats are actually a crucial part of our natural ecosystems. This talk discusses bat habitat, how our gardens can support them and the pest control benefits bats provide. 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 2023 as you explore our website!

Old Announcements

1. Lunch & Learn series – Prince Edward County – Prince Edward Extension Office, 100 Dominion Dr., Farmville, VA – Bring your questions and lunch! Questions – email: erins96@vt.edu.
1. Holiday Decorating 11/2/2023 – Join the Heart of Virginia Master Gardeners for Holiday Decorating ideas! Our very own Barbara Wheeler and Glenda Harris will be sharing their years of experience with you.
2. Extension Master Gardener handbook (2023 edition) now available!

1. Revisions and updates to the EMG Training Handbook have been completed. The 2023 edition of the handbook can be downloaded by visiting: http://hdl.handle.net/10919/112743. The digital textbook version has been published and can be found here: https://pressbooks.lib.vt.edu/emgtraining/. The print version will follow shortly, more details will be provided in April.
2. Many thanks to all who assisted in this undertaking. We appreciate all our editors, authors, and contributors! 

New Announcements

1. EMG Webinar Series 2023: The EMG monthly webinar series has returned! We look forward to bringing you a wide range of new and interesting topics. All webinars will be recorded and posted to our website (https://mastergardener.ext.vt.edu/webinar-archive/). Please plan to register for each webinar:
   1. Sept 14, 10:00 am “Fall” into Your Lawn, Dr. Mike Goatley will cover the most important steps in rejuvenating cool season lawns and preparing warm season lawns for the winter. Register for September webinar here
2. Generation Next – Preparing for Generation NEXT Workshops will get you started on the right path. These workshops provide free legal information and landowner stories about successful estate planning steps and strategies they have used. Speakers include legal and financial experts experienced in estate planning as well as natural resource professionals and rural landowners. More info: https://sites.google.com/vt.edu/generationnext/home/workshops
3. While the date isn’t set, EMG College 2024 will be here before we know it, and we need your help! What speakers would you love to hear? What topics interest you most? Have you heard a great speaker that others would enjoy? With Zoom, speakers can join us from any part of the country. Share your ideas with us at this survey link: https://forms.gle/H1cK3UJdgDkbbBNS9

Old Announcements

1. Lunch & Learn series – Prince Edward County – Prince Edward Extension Office, 100 Dominion Dr., Farmville, VA – Bring your questions and lunch! Questions – email: erins96@vt.edu.
   1. All About Gardening and Tool Care 10/5/2023 Noon-1pm – Prince Edward Extension Office, 100 Dominion Dr., Farmville, VA – The topic is Gardening and Tool Care. Jackie Fairbarns, an HOVMG, will share her vast knowledge with us.
   2. NEW! Holiday Decorating 11/2/2023 – Join the Heart of Virginia Master Gardeners for Holiday Decorating ideas! Our very own Barbara Wheeler and Glenda Harris will be sharing their years of experience with you.
2. Extension Master Gardener handbook (2023 edition) now available!

1. 1. Revisions and updates to the EMG Training Handbook have been completed. The 2023 edition of the handbook can be downloaded by visiting: http://hdl.handle.net/10919/112743. The digital textbook version has been published and can be found here: https://pressbooks.lib.vt.edu/emgtraining/. The print version will follow shortly, more details will be provided in April.
   2. Many thanks to all who assisted in this undertaking. We appreciate all our editors, authors, and contributors!

New Announcements

1. We want your feedback on Master Gardener College! Are you unable to attend? Let us know why! Have you attended for years and have suggestions for improvements? Let us know! Help us make our College event more accessible to everyone. Take the survey here. https://vce.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8kNBuPMEaQIwd5s
1. The brag board slideshow from EMGC 2023 is available here: https://youtu.be/S3se5DBwcAE
2. EMG Webinar Series 2023: The EMG monthly webinar series has returned! We look forward to bringing you a wide range of new and interesting topics. All webinars will be recorded and posted to our website (https://mastergardener.ext.vt.edu/webinar-archive/). Please plan to register for each webinar:
1. August 18th at 10am – Forest Health Update, Lori Chamberlin VDOF. Learn about the most common pests and diseases in Virginia’s forests. This presentation will teach participants how to identify forest health disturbance agents, and how to prevent damage. Our speaker, Lori Chamberlin, is the Forest Health Manager for the Virginia Department of Forestry. Register for August webinar here
2. Sept 14, 10:00 am “Fall” into Your Lawn, Dr. Mike Goatley will cover the most important steps in rejuvenating cool season lawns and preparing warm season lawns for the winter. Register for September webinar here
3. Gloucester Extension Master Gardeners’ 21st Annual Plant Extravaganza – September 8 & 9, 2023 – Moose Lodge 886 Family Center, 6565 Moose Drive, Gloucester, VA 23061 –
1. Join the Gloucester Extension Master Gardeners for our 21st Annual Plant Extravaganza on Friday, September 8, 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, September 9, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The sale will feature native plants, perennials, trees, shrubs, herbs, house plants, gently used garden tools and more at great prices! Proceeds benefit the Gloucester Extension Master Gardeners Scholarship Fund. Admission and parking are free.
4. Edible Ornamentals for Fall – Zoom – August 28, 2023 7:00 pm – VIRGINIA BEACH MASTER GARDENERS PRESENT GARDENING TALKS: Join us on Monday, Augusts 28, 2023, at 7 pm via ZOOM for a Gardening Talks presentation on: Edible Ornamentals for the Fall: Presented by Lynn Francois, VCE Virginia Beach Master Gardener.
1. It’s fall garden time – the easiest gardening of the Year! Let’s have some fun starting a beautiful and edible garden using the vast array of vegetables, lettuces, kales and ornamentals available to us in our 757 area for fall! We’ll take the simple route, focusing on the quick starts and bug avoiding crops that will fade out with a big freeze to close out your gardening year. 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 2023 as you explore our website!

Old Announcements

1. Lunch & Learn series – Prince Edward County – Prince Edward Extension Office, 100 Dominion Dr., Farmville, VA – Bring your questions and lunch! Questions – email: erins96@vt.edu.
1. All about perennials! 9/7/23 Noon-1pm – The topic for September is All About Perennials. Pat Lust, HOVMG, will share her vast knowledge with us.
2. All About Gardening and Tool Care 10/5/2023 Noon-1pm – Prince Edward Extension Office, 100 Dominion Dr., Farmville, VA – The topic is Gardening and Tool Care. Jackie Fairbarns, an HOVMG, will share her vast knowledge with us.
3. NEW! Holiday Decorating 11/2/2023 – Join the Heart of Virginia Master Gardeners for Holiday Decorating ideas! Our very own Barbara Wheeler and Glenda Harris will be sharing their years of experience with you.
2. Extension Master Gardener handbook (2023 edition) now available!
1. We are still working on making a print version available ASAP.

1. Revisions and updates to the EMG Training Handbook have been completed. The 2023 edition of the handbook can be downloaded by visiting: http://hdl.handle.net/10919/112743. The digital textbook version has been published and can be found here: https://pressbooks.lib.vt.edu/emgtraining/. The print version will follow shortly, more details will be provided in April.
2. Many thanks to all who assisted in this undertaking. We appreciate all our editors, authors, and contributors! 

New Announcements

1. Thank you to everyone who attended Master Gardener College! Please be on the lookout for our conference follow-up survey.
1. The brag board slideshow is available here: https://youtu.be/S3se5DBwcAE
2. Bumblebee Jamboree 2023, June 17 – Maymont Children’s Farm 1000 Spottswood Rd Richmond VA 23220
1. What: Kick off National Pollinator Week with free family-friendly activities buzzing with fun! The 11th annual Bumblebee Jamboree provides an opportunity for children to better understand the role pollinators play and what each of us can do in our own backyard to protect natural resources. Families are invited to participate in hands-on experiences at this free event that encourages kids to learn about birds, butterflies, bees, beetles, and bats. Children will enjoy pollinator-related crafts, snacks, games, and other interactive activities. They can get close to pollinators by watching enclosed observation beehives.
2. When: Saturday, June 17, 2023, 10:30 am–2:30 pm Information: Free admission. This event is hosted by the Chesterfield County Master Gardeners and the Chesterfield County office of the Virginia Cooperative Extension. Contact: For more information, call (804) 751-4401 or visit bit.ly/2023BBJ. View flyer here.
3. EMG Webinar Series 2023: The EMG monthly webinar series has returned! We look forward to bringing you a wide range of new and interesting topics. All webinars will be recorded and posted to our website (https://mastergardener.ext.vt.edu/webinar-archive/). Please plan to register for each webinar:
1. July 20 at 10:30 am – Hydroponics: Industry to Home Use, Dr. Josh Kardos, VT SPES. This talk will introduce hydroponics, discuss the pros and cons, describe various systems used and crops grown, highlight the industry, and describe how you can grow hydroponically at home. Register for the July webinar here
2. August 18th at 10am – Forest Health Update, Lori Chamberlin VDOF. Learn about the most common pests and diseases in Virginia’s forests. This presentation will teach participants how to identify forest health disturbance agents, and how to prevent damage. Our speaker, Lori Chamberlin, is the Forest Health Manager for the Virginia Department of Forestry. Register for August webinar here

Old June Announcements

4. Louisa County Backyard Gardening Seminar Series
1. The Louisa County Master Gardeners present their 2023 Backyard Gardening Seminar Series. These seminars take place one Saturday a month from 10:30 – 11:30am at the Louisa Co. Public Library. The next sessions include:

• April 15: Planning a cut flower garden
• May 20: Container Gardening
• June 17: Irrigation and Water Conservation
• July 15: Vegetable Garden Diseases and Stress
• August 19: Native, Invasive and Riparian Gardening
• For more information call, 540-967-3422 ext 7619 or email: louisamg@gmail.com 

5. Gardening in the Valley Garden Tour – Northern Shenandoah Valley – June 24, 2023 – Tickets are now on sale for the 2023 Gardening in the Valley Tour, hosted by Virginia Cooperative Extension with support from the Northern Shenandoah Valley Master Gardener Association. The tour is June 24, 2023, from 9am–4pm, rain or shine.

1. The gardens on this year’s tour include formal garden spaces, herb gardens, native plant areas, pollinator gardens, water features, art, and more. The featured gardens are: Warren Heritage Society Gardens (101 Chester St., Front Royal), The Blue House (Downtown Front Royal), Tall Oaks (approx. 1.5 miles east of I-81 in Frederick County), Montevento (approx. 5 miles west of Berryville in Clarke County)
2. Additional information and advance tickets ($10 each) are online at http://nsvmga.org/events/garden-tour/
1. Henrico County Celebration of Pollinators – June 1-30, 2023  Recognizing National pollinator Week (June 19-25, 2023) and reinforcing many of its own strategic initiatives in supporting pollinator health in Virginia, the Henrico County Virginia Cooperative Extension office , and its contingent of volunteer Extension Master Gardeners have planned a month-long celebration of pollinators commencing in June to educate, enlighten, and inspire Henrico County citizens about pollinators and their vital place in our daily lives and world. The events are free to attend:
1. Thursday, June 22, 7 p.m.: Screening of the documentary film My Garden of a Thousand Bees in the Board Room at Henrico County Government Center, 4301 E. Parham Road; and
2. Sunday, June 25, 1-3 p.m.: Pollinators at the Park in the Butterfly Garden at Armour House & Gardens at Meadowview Park, 4001 Clarendon Road. In addition, residents will be able to take advantage of several programs and activities that will last throughout June: • Pollinator Lego Expo: Youth ages 5 to 19 are encouraged to assemble a pollinator-inspired Lego creation and submit a digital image and description. Prizes will be awarded in three categories; • Pollinator Displays at the Tuckahoe, Libbie Mill, Fairfield and Varina libraries
3. Henrico Master Gardeners Plant Clinics, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays at Strange’s Florists, Greenhouses and Garden Centers, 12111 W. Broad St.
4. For more information, visit: https://henrico.ext.vt.edu/news/celebration_of_pollinators_2023.html and view the flyer here

Old Announcements

6. Results Released for First Survey of Native Plants at Roanoke Nurseries Gardeners now have a snapshot of where to find native plants in the Roanoke area. Members of the Roanoke Master Gardeners, Roanoke Master Naturalists, Blue Ridge Wildflower Society, Plant SWVA Natives, and other dedicated gardeners surveyed all independent general nurseries, not including big box stores, within the Roanoke Valley who offer native plants for sale.

1. The survey was conducted in Spring 2022 to include plants native to the SWVA mountain region, as well as some plants native to nearby regions, such as North Carolina and the eastern portion of Virginia. The survey included cultivars (cultivated varieties of native plants) offered for sale. Each cultivar was evaluated by the team to determine whether the cultivar appeared to have a similar ecological benefit for pollinators. These results were then compiled for the benefit of the public and can be found here: https://www.plantvirginianatives.org/native-plant-nursery-survey
2. Other groups are welcome to use the materials developed for this project to conduct a survey in their area. For more information, contact Sharon Burnham at 540-343-0080 or at seabird66@cox.net.

7. “BMPs in Turfgrass” Trainings: Dr. Mike Goatley, Extension Turfgrass Specialist, has recorded and posted best management practices in turfgrass training material divided into two sections (Part 1 and Part 2) on the Virginia Tech Turfgrass web site: https://turf.spes.vt.edu/.  To access these trainings, go to the Turf webpage (turf.spes.vt.edu/). Click on the Menu drop down and then expand the Extension Tab. Select the “VCE Master Gardener Volunteer Training” tab to access the recordings and accompanying handouts. You can also go to the MG page directly: https://turf.spes.vt.edu/Extension/VCE-MGVolTraining.html 

3. Many more updates etc. are planned in the coming weeks and months. You can bookmark the VT Turf website and check back periodically for these improvements!

8. Extension Master Gardener handbook (2023 edition) now available!

4. Revisions and updates to the EMG Training Handbook have been completed. The 2023 edition of the handbook can be downloaded by visiting: http://hdl.handle.net/10919/112743. The digital textbook version has been published and can be found here: https://pressbooks.lib.vt.edu/emgtraining/. The print version will follow shortly, more details will be provided in April.
5. Many thanks to all who assisted in this undertaking. We appreciate all our editors, authors, and contributors!