This session will provide a brief overview of the reported uses, identification, and culture of medicinal plants and select essential oils; the history of phytomedicinals; the role of horticulture in the advent of modern pharmaceuticals; and how to explore the benefits of medicinal plants safely. Dr. Andrew King is an assistant professor of ornamental horticulture…
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Wildland fire is a natural part of a large portion of both North American and global ecosystems. The current conversations on how to prepare homes, neighborhoods and broader landscapes are spanning the globe. No matter where a person lives, the basics of how wildland fire burns and what residents can do to protect their homes…
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Volunteers make a significant impact beyond their time contributed, yet reports about service tend to focus on volunteer numbers, hours, and financial value. To bridge this gap, this session integrates research with practice to identify meaningful ways to capture volunteer value. It provides a holistic approach to sharing tangible and intangible volunteer impact by linking…
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Earth-Kind Landscaping promotes a balanced ecosystem that conserves water and protects the environment through the judicious use of irrigation, pesticides and fertilizers. Earth-Kind Landscaping stands upon twin pillars: Soil Management and Plant Selection. Soil Management uses the additions of organic matter, which helps build soil structure to improve aeration and plant-available water, and shredded hardwood…
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Gardening experts advocate for four seasons of interest, but rarely champion 24-hour gardens. In recent decades, as opposed to flowers, foliage, and pollinators, hardscape frequently dominates evening spaces. By focusing vespertine/daybreak gardens on plants, serenity, intimacy, and connection to nature are maximized. These gardens offer refuge from urban heat and intense sun, while employing a…
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Do deer consider your landscape to be an all-you-can-eat buffet? These beautiful but ravenous creatures are a problem in many gardens. Join Extension Master Gardener Kathie Clements to learn effective strategies for dealing with deer. Deer browsing pressure requires creative thinking about home landscapes. She discusses deer behavior and how knowing their habits can help…
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