|
|
|
Master Gardeners of
Greene County Newsletter
January 2024
| |
TABLE OF CONTENTS - JANUARY 2024
All of Your Gardening Questions
Planning Your 2024 Vegetable Garden
Cultivating Change Webinar - FREE
Eagle Days in Missouri
Where Can I See Bald Eagles
Leave the Leaves for Pollinators and Other Beneficial Insects
Dead Trees are Filled With Life
Buy Native Trees and Shrubs (MDC)
Organic Gardening Online Course
Conventional Vegetable Production Series - Zoom Classes
The Differences Between Potatoes
Potato Cages for Growing
Food Preservation Ongoing Online Classes
Weekly Lawn and Garden Hour with MU Extension
Home Gardeners: Webinar Series Classes
Researched Based Articles
Nuts
Native Plants
Flowers and More
Forcing Bulbs for Indoor Bloom
Newsletters of Interest
MORE Classes and Courses
Garden Links
Get Your Soil Tested Now
One Last Thought
Previous Month's Newsletter Link
Need a Speaker for One of Your Meetings or Groups?
Gardening Questions Hotline - Phone, Email and Web Questionnaire
Subscribe to the Newsletter
(Forward this newsletter on to a friend)
| |
|
Winter/Spring Gardening Questions?
Readers statewide can pose questions by calling 417-874-2963 and one of the trained volunteers staffing the Master Gardener Hotline will call you back. Please leave a message at 417-874-2963 or email us at hotline@mggreene.org with your question and information to contact you or fill out an 'Ask A Master Gardener' form. This is our off season and Master Gardeners check the Hotline several times per week to answer calls. Learn more here. There will be someone in the office on Thursdays to collect soil samples for testing. Call before coming in.
| |
Planning Your 2024 Vegetable Garden | |
|
It is already that time of the year! The new seed catalogs are available and/or will be arriving, giving you plenty of time to start planning you spring garden. If you are a new or seasoned gardener, the University of Missouri Extension program has valuable information available for your review to assist with making the 2024 gardening season productive. Below are some guides to get you started. More will follow monthly, or you may do an online search by topic at this MU Extension website here.
New USDA Revised Plant Hardiness Zone Map
By David Trinklein MU Plant Science & Technology Dec. 19, 2023: For decades, the USDA plant hardiness zone map has been the gold standard for gardeners and other growers wanting to know if a perennial plant will survive the typical winter in their area. Recently, the USDA unveiled a revised version of the map, updating the 2012 edition of the document. Learn more here.
Vegetable Gardening
By James Quinn & David Trinklein, MU Division of Plant Sciences: Vegetable gardening is a rewarding activity that can provide fresh, flavorful produce. It offers many of the same benefits as other gardening activities, including exercise, fresh air, landscape beautification and enjoyment. In addition, it promotes a varied and nutritious diet at a lower cost by reducing food expenditures more than the costs associated with growing the vegetables. Learn the basics plus more here.
Raised-Bed Gardening
By David H. Trinklein, MU Extension, Horticulture State Specialist, Division of Plant Sciences: Raised-bed gardening is a popular technique for growing plants in Missouri. Vegetables, fruits, flowers, trees and shrubs may be grown in raised beds, which can be attractive as well as useful. Contents of this guide include: Advantages of raised-bed gardening; Types of raised beds; Construction materials; Raised-bed design; Soil mix; Maintenance of raised beds. Read here.
Starting Plants Indoors From Seeds
Revised by David H. Trinklein, MU Division of Plant Sciences: Many flowers and vegetables may be started from seeds indoors. Vigorous plants started indoors flower sooner and produce an earlier harvest than plants started outdoors. Seeds of certain species, however, are best sown directly outdoors when weather conditions permit and are actually delayed by transplanting. Continue reading here.
Vegetable Planting Calendar
Both first time gardeners and seasoned professionals can benefit from the 'Vegetable Planting Calendar' available from MU Extension. The guide provides a complete list of planting dates and varieties that do well in Missouri." If you live within the Ozarks plateau, you may want to follow the north Missouri planting dates due to the possibility of late spring frosts,” said Patrick Byers, MU Extension. “If you follow the south Missouri planting dates for spring plantings, be prepared to cover plants for frost protection.” The guide also provides information on the following: how much to plant per person; how much seed to purchase for a 100-foot row; row spacing; inches between plants in the row; depth of planting; days from planting to eating; and vitamin content of the vegetable. You may read and obtain a copy of the Vegetable Planting Calendar guide sheet online here.
Garden Journal and Calendar
This is a must have for every gardener. You can tell from year to year what is going on with your garden. You can record what you planted and how well it did or not and whether or not there was a drought or too much rain.
From Seed to Harvest and Beyond: 'Garden Journal and Calendar' by MU Extension is a garden journal for Missouri gardeners, as well as a how-to guide and information resource. It provides a place to keep all gardening information, plans and notes together. Learn more details and order your copy online today here.
Building and Using Hotbeds and Cold Frames
Revised by David Trinklein MU Horticulture Extension State Specialist: Consider constructing a low tunnel, cold frame or hot bed to grow salad greens during the cold months to extend the growing season. Learn more here.
Hobby Greenhouses
By Univ. of GA Extension Topics Include: Introduction; Types of Greenhouses; Locating Your Greenhouse; Designing Your Greenhouse; Types of Frames; Beds for Growing Small Plants; Greenhouse Heating; Greenhouse Ventilation and Cooling; Other Greenhouse Necessities; Plans; References. Continue here.
Lasagna gardening
'Layers and layers of goodness' by Linda Geist for MU Extension: Lasagna gardening is no-till, no-dig gardening that uses materials typically thrown away such as kitchen and yard waste. Learn how to layer organic materials to create a garden with minimum work here.
Square-Foot Gardening
'Square Foot Vegetable Gardening for Beginners' by MU Extension Clinton County Master Gardeners:
Grow fresh vegetables in a small space with less work including weeding and digging. For square foot gardening you need as little as 16 square feet per person for fresh eating and about 32 square feet per person to have enough for preserving! Learn more (pdf) here.
What is Integrated Pest Management?
'Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Missouri’s Agriculture' by Fred Fishel MU Department of Agronomy: IPM has different meanings to everyone who works in the agricultural environment. It can be thought of as a systematic approach to solving pest problems by applying our knowledge about pests to prevent them from damaging crops.
Also review related publications, Integrated Pest Management in Missouri’s Green Industries and in Missouri’s Urban Environment, links included. Continue reading here.
Consider Becoming a Master Gardener
Volunteer in partnership with MU Extension. More than 2,000 active Missouri Master Gardeners are serving as Extension volunteers in towns and cities throughout Missouri. Thus, you are welcome to become part of an active program that is “helping others learn to grow.” More details and topics on the list of class guides covered in the online training are included here.
Online Missouri Master Gardener Training Begins Jan 14, 2024
Gardening is an activity with many rewards. “One of them is the satisfaction of sharing your plant knowledge with others... The Extension Master Gardener program was initiated to do just that,” David Trinklein said. Its motto, “helping others learn to grow,” emphasizes service to others as the program’s main objective, he said. A new spring session of online Missouri Master Gardener core training begins Jan 14, 2024. Registration deadline is Jan 12, 2024. Complete details (see Syllabus) and registration link here.
Online and In-person Vegetable Gardening Workshops Throughout the Year
Home Vegetable Gardening Webinar and In-person Workshops are held across the state by University of Missouri Extension and Master Gardener Chapters. For more information, check with your local county MU Extension office, or check online here.
Gardening Questions Answered Online Statewide
Of course, you are welcome to contact your local county University of Missouri Extension office with any unanswered gardening questions or online using the topic search box here: https://extension.missouri.edu/ In addition, for all of your gardening questions statewide, you may also contact the Master Gardeners of Greene County Hotline. For more information about contacting them by phone or email this time of year, visit their webpage, here: https://mggreene.org/hotline/
Agriculture Workshops
Sponsored by Springfield Community Gardens (SCG) & USDA: Couldn't make it to a previous Workshop? No worries, our list with 63 videos was updated Dec 7, 2023! You can access recordings of our Zoom Workshops on our YouTube channel anytime. Workshops presented by Patrick Byers, MU Extension, plus Justine Francesca, Ben Tegeler, Alyssa Hughes, Adam Millsap, Curtis Millsap and others. Review the topic list, watch one or all here.
| |
|
Cultivating Change
Thursday, January 25th at 6 PM (CT)
A FREE Webinar with Lorraine Johnson.
Presented by Wild Ones: Explore how native gardening can address climate challenges in our next Wild Ones national webinar, “Cultivating Change” with author and activist Lorraine Johnson.
Learn about the pivotal role of gardening as an act of stewardship in the face of climate and ecological challenges. Discover the profound connections between individual gardens and the broader world and learn how these green spaces can serve as catalysts for positive ecological and social change.
Join Wild Ones for a practical and insightful discussion on gardening’s positive impact on the environment and our future. Learn more details and register free here.
| |
|
Eagle Days in Missouri
Still going on.
By MDC: Best places for winter eagle viewing Missouri's winter eagle watching is spectacular. If you can’t make it to one of our many Eagle Days events (check out the calendar using the link below), browse our best-places list for locations to enjoy eagle-viewing on your own (use link below). From late December through early February, watch for eagles perched in large trees along the water’s edge. Get out early in the morning to see the eagles flying and fishing. More details about 'Eagle Days' local events and best places for winter eagle viewing here.
| |
|
Where Can I – See Bald Eagles?
Online FREE Program Jan. 10, 2024 - from noon-12:30 p.m.
Learn where to see bald eagles in Missouri? MDC offers a FREE virtual program. Program will have information about sites that have eagle-viewing potential. Seeing a bald eagle in the wild is always a head-turning occurrence. Bald eagles can be seen across Missouri in winter, but some locations are better than others.
Learn more details and register here.
| |
Leaving the Leaves Saves Pollinators | |
|
'Leaving the leaves saves pollinators, other beneficial insects' Writer Katherine Foran for MU Extension Dec 15, 2023: “The leaves that fall in your yard are a wonderful resource for habitat, providing food and shelter for many helpful pollinators like butterflies, moths, native bumblebees and other ground-nesting insects,” Manoj Chhetri said... there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach to leaving the leaves.
“You use different methods for different parts of your yard”... Learn more here.
| |
|
Buy Native Trees and Shrubs
From Missouri Dept of Conservation (MDC) State Forest Nursery. Place orders now here.
PLUS: Need trees and shrubs for your landscape? Go native with tree and shrub seedlings from the Missouri Dept of Conservation (MDC). They can help improve wildlife habitat and soil and water conservation while improving the appearance and value of property. Continue reading here. Pictured is the American Fringe Tree.
| |
|
ORGANIC GARDENING ONLINE COURSE
Access anytime (Still available)
Information shared by David Trinklein, MU Extension, Missouri State Master Gardener Coordinator July 31, 2023: Oregon State University Extension has just announced the availability of a new online course in organic gardening.
The course builds on the basics of gardening and provides students with a better understanding of organic gardening techniques & methods and how to apply them to your own garden.
On demand, access any time, 15-30 hours online, price $250. For additional details, go here.
| |
|
Veterans Can Learn Beekeeping Skills for Peace and Income
Heroes to Hives - Veterans find peace, skills and income with MU Extension FREE program.
This program seeks to address financial and personal wellness of military veterans through professional training and community development centered around beekeeping.
Learn more details about MU Extension’s 'Heroes to Hives' program here.
| |
Potato Cages for Growing Potatoes | |
This is a great way to grow lots of potatoes in a smaller space than hilling them. | |
|
This ongoing self-paced course provides research based information needed to safely and successfully preserve food at home. Participants of all levels of food preservation experience are welcome, including individuals with little or no previous food preservation experience. This course covers pressure canning, boiling water bath canning, steam canning, dehydration, and freezing. Highlights include preserving salsas, pie fillings, pickling, sweet spreads, and harvesting and storage of produce.
Registration is $30.00
Click here for more information and registration.
| |
|
Get your Lawn and Garden Questions Answered
at the Garden Hour with MU Extension
| |
|
Virtual Town Hall: Mandy D. Bish - MU Extension Specialists will address lawn, garden, and insect questions during the 'Garden Hour' with MU Extension. NOW EVERY Wednesday of the month from 12-1pm. The virtual event is free. To register for the virtual event and/or ask a gardening question, please visit.
To see recordings from previous events, please check out the YouTube videos on the MU Extension IPM channel here.
For more information visit. Or contact Mandy D. Bish, MU Plant Science & Technology at (573) 882-9878 or email: bishm@missouri.edu
| |
|
HOME GARDENERS: Webinar Wednesday
A Series by Kentucky Extension Hort. News - Review the last 4 years of archived videos with home gardeners in mind. Take your time, watch the ones that are beneficial to your gardening needs:
FIRST: Click here to view Season Four Videos. (2023)
ALSO: Click here to view Season Three Videos. (2022)
ALSO: Click here to view Season Two Videos. (2021)
ALSO: Click here to view Season One Videos. (2020)
Or watch them all on our YouTube Channel here.
| |
Researched Based Articles | |
|
Average Annual Snowfall in Missouri The tables below give yearly averages for snowfall at cities, communities and other locations around Missouri... The snowfall totals are annual averages based on weather data collected from 1991 to 2020 for the US National Centers for Environmental Information. Continue here.
Bees and Wasps by Tamra Reall MU Extension Horticulture Specialist: The ability to sting, coupled with their great mobility, makes bees and wasps some of the most feared of all insects. Many species of bees and wasps are present in every geographic region of Missouri. These species vary in aggressiveness and other behaviors, however, and only a few need to be feared. Knowledge of their habits is the first step in reducing fear to a level of healthy respect and in deciding how to manage their presence around the home (and garden). Learn more here.
| |
|
TWO LINKS: Moles-Integrated Pest Management Strategies by Missouri Botanical Garden: Moles are a long-standing nuisance to the garden, known for unsightly tunneling and uprooting favorite plants. Moles are classified as insectivores but will also eat earthworms and other small animals in the soil. They only rarely consume plant material. Learn more here.
PLUS: How to get rid of moles in your yard by UMN Extension: Most experts agree that trapping is the most effective way to control moles in a garden. Although trapping moles is not difficult, it does require a general understanding of the mole's tunnel system and learning how to use the right trap effectively. Learn more here.
| |
|
TWO LINKS: Muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) by MDC Field Guide: Found across Missouri, the common muskrat is a medium-sized mammal that has short front legs with small feet, stronger hind legs with large feet... are semiaquatic, living in marshes, sloughs, streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes. Continue reading here.
PLUS: Pond and Lake Wildlife: Muskrats by PSU Extension Dec 18, 2023: Although muskrats are an important part of native ecosystems, their burrowing and foraging activities can damage farm ponds and lake impoundments. Learn more here.
| |
|
TWO LINKS: 'An Invasive (Asian Longhorned) Tick That Can Clone Itself Is Spreading Across the U.S., Threatening Livestock' by Margaret Osborne for Smithsonian Mag Nov 27, 2023: The Asian longhorned tick's (Haemaphysalis longicornis) arrival in Missouri was confirmed in 2021. Read more here.
PLUS: Asian Longhorned Tick Spreading Across Missouri by Lyme Disease Association, Inc. Nov 27, 2023: Read here.
| |
|
Get Crackin' on Winter Nuts by Michele Warmund MU Plant Science & Tech Dec 1, 2023: 'Tis the season for enjoying a variety of edible nuts. Pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, and pistachios are easy to crack and are plentiful this time of year. While a bit more challenging to crack, Brazil nuts provide a nutritious snack. Read on here.
| |
|
Native Easy Landscape Plans
By Grow Native! Here are a few design ideas for smaller scale plantings using native plants. If your growing conditions differ from those described here, please talk with a Grow Native! Nursery, garden center, or landscape designer about alternative native plants that will work for you. Learn more here.
Callicarpa americana, commonly called beautyberry, American beautyberry, or French mulberry, is a deciduous shrub native to forest edges, moist slopes, bluff tops, woodland openings, swamp margins, and fence rows in the southeastern U.S. The berries attract birds and small animals as a food source in the fall while the shrub also provides cover for birds and small mammals. Read on here.
| |
|
Mistletoe Through the Ages by Michele Warmund, MU Plant Science & Tech: Like poinsettia, holly, pine, and fir trees, mistletoe is also associated with the winter / holiday season. Partially-parasitic plants in the genera Viscum, Arceuthobium, and Phoradendron are all called mistletoe. American mistletoe is found in 16 counties in Missouri, mostly in the SE area of the state. Learn more here.
| |
TWO LINKS: The sparkling amaryllis by MU Extension: There are more than 600 varieties of this native South American bulb on the market... David Trinklein, offers tips for growing amaryllis here.
PLUS: Prep Your Waxed Amaryllis to Rebloom Next Year by Ann A. Delaware Master Gardener Jan 2022: After it blooms, read on to learn more here.
| |
Holiday cactus can provide years of color by MU Extension: “Given proper care, the holiday cacti have been known to outlive their caretakers and provide years of brilliant color around Christmas,” said David Trinklein. “The small effort required by these plants is well worth it when you consider the reward of seeing an ‘heirloom’ plant bloom year after year.” Learn more here.
| |
Picking & Care of Poinsettias Video on learning how to choose the perfect plant and care for it properly with these tips from David Trinklein, MU Extension Horticulture Specialist. View YouTube video here.
Poinsettia: America’s No.1 potted flower is relative newbie to the holidays by Linda Geist MU Extension: The interesting history of the poinsettia. The poinsettia's small flowers are surrounded by colorful leaves called bracts. Selecting a poinsettia. Contrary to the belief of some, poinsettias are not poisonous. Saving a poinsettia and re-blooming it the following year is no easy task. Learn more here.
| |
Forcing Bulbs for Indoor Bloom | |
Forcing Bulbs for Indoor Bloom MU Extension guide revised by David H. Trinklein, MU Div. of Plant Sci.: "Bulbs made to flower at other than normal times are said to be forced. The practice of forcing is commonly used to flower daffodils, hyacinths, tulips, crocus and other spring bulbs during the winter. With proper planning and care, bulbs can supply color for the home from late Nov until early April, when they begin to flower normally outdoors." P.S. This is a wonderful indoor project for kids, young and old! Learn more here. | |
The Garden Spade Newsletter December 2023 by MU Extension Hort. - Articles Include: Get Crackin' on Holiday Nuts + Navel Orange + Caring for a Live Christmas Tree + On Kelly McGowan's Bookshelf + Interesting Plants to Try in 2024 + Kids Ask Dr. Bug + Dec Gardening Tips & Tasks + Favorite Recipe + Upcoming Events & More, details here. | |
|
Missouri Produce Growers Video Newsletter by MU Extension Hort. Team Dec. 1, 2023 Articles: Year-End Sanitation for High Tunnels + Maple Sugaring in MO + Learn to Grow Sweetcorn & Popcorn + Create a Job Descriptions to Hire Farm Employees + Reduced Tillage Potato Production + Upcoming Class Offerings, New Publications + More for Growers here.
Natural Resources Newsletter Dec. 2023 by MU Extension Dec. 15th: Jan. & Feb. best to prune trees + MO's Changes in USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map + Providing Brush Piles + Soil & Water a Source of Life + Maple Sugaring in MO + Care for a Live Christmas Tree + Details, Classes, Events & More here.
Missouri Produce Growers Video Newsletter by MU Ext. Hort. Team Dec. 15, 2023: New USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map + Understanding Grow Lights + Pollination in Veg Crops + High Tunnel Construction + Agritourism Conference Cost Share + Class Offerings & Publications for MO Growers. Details & more here.
The Missouri Prairie Foundation continues sharing prairie and native landscaping information through the Missouri Prairie Journal, in publication for 44 years, visit our archives here and through our popular webinar and master class series YouTube archives here. These are enjoyed by thousands of people.
| |
Preserve It Fresh, Preserve It Safe - Newsletter 2024 No.1 Jan./Feb.: A newsletter for those who preserve food at home. Contents include: Home Canning for Family vs Home Canning for Sale + Canning for Variety in Meal Planning + Review 2023 Issues + Related Programs Include - Food Preservation & Food Safety. Details and more here. | |
|
Bird Enthusiast's Holiday Course Sale Sill Continuing
Lots of different classes for everyone. Check them out if you like birds. Learn their songs and so much more.
Cornell Lab News from Cornell Lab of Ornithology Nov. 24, 2023: There's something for every bird enthusiast at Bird Academy. Introduce yourself or a loved one to the wonderful world of birds, refine your bird ID skills, or pick up a new skill like painting, gardening, or photography with our self-paced, online courses. We'll provide the tools and resources you need to pursue your passion with confidence. Choose from courses for all knowledge levels and go at your own pace—with no deadline to complete. Access your courses from any browser, return to them for reference, and practice as often as you want. With nothing to ship, these fully online courses also make an eco-friendly gift! Pursue your love of birds with courses like those found here.
| |
|
Great Plains Growers Conference set for January in St. Joseph, MO – The Great Plains Growers Conference will be Jan. 12-13, 2024, on the Missouri Western State University campus in St. Joseph. The event includes optional pre-conference workshops on Jan. 11.
See registration information and link below.
“This conference is a great educational opportunity for new and established fruit and vegetable farmers, and folks really appreciate the networking opportunities to meet and talk with other growers in the region,” says MU Extension horticulturist Justin Keay, one of the organizers.
The conference is planned and hosted by extension professionals from Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota. “Extension professionals and regional farmers will present fruit and vegetable growers with research-based information to help their farms grow and thrive,” says Keay.
Topics include farm business, tree fruits, small fruits, vegetable production, integrated pest management, organic/regenerative agriculture, greenhouses/hydroponics, high tunnels, forest farming, cut-flower production and a SARE farmer forum.
All-day pre-conference workshops include agritourism, worker protection standards/produce safety, farm-to-school grower training, specialty corn and beekeeping.
Also, view this informative short YouTube video Great Plains Growers Conference 2024 here.
For additional details and registration, go to: www.GreatPlainsGrowersConference.org
| |
|
Get Your Soil Tested Now
Basic soil testing analysis is done by the MU Soil Lab in partnership with our Master Gardeners of Greene County. Results include fertilizer and lime recommendations. Additional tests are available for nutrient management plans, environmental issues, potting mixes, compost, manure and water usage.
Each sample should contain a total of 2 cups of dry soil and from 6 to 7 inches deep and about 5 or 6 different areas. Results are typically provided within two weeks.
Bring the soil sample(s) to the Greene (or your local county office) County Extension office between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Thursdays. Master Gardeners can complete the paperwork and submit your test. One of our extension specialists will review your results. In most cases, gardens, lawns and fields should be tested every two years.
The cost is $30 per sample. Feel free to call if you have any questions:
417-874-2963.
| |
A LAST THOUGHT Have you been to the Springfield Botanical Gardens at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, 2400 S. Scenic Ave, Springfield, MO? If not plan a group or family winter's visit today. In addition to the many beautiful floral and demonstration gardens, a number of gardening organizations are headquartered there, including MU Greene County Extension office and the Master Gardeners of Green County Hotline. Questions call 417-891-1515 or tour the gardens and all of the other attractions online. | |
|
Need a Speaker for a Meeting or Group?
Master Gardeners of Greene County are available at this time to speak to garden clubs, civic organizations, schools and other groups on a wide variety of topics within the world of gardening, horticulture, landscaping and the environment.
Please keep us in mind for a future date.
For more information.
Email Us
| |
|
For all your gardening questions,
please call our Hotline:
417-874-2963
The Hotline volunteers will be calling you back.
These are our winter hours and volunteers check calls several times weekly.
There should be someone in the office on Thursdays to collect soil samples.
Please call before coming in with a question, sample or pictures.
Questions welcome state wide.
Continue to call, email us or send pictures to hotline@mggreene.org
These are three separate ways of contacting us.
More Hotline Information
Be sure to LIKE us on Facebook and forward to a friend!
Thank you!!
Master Gardeners of Greene County, Missouri
417-874-2963
| |
|
OUR OFFICES ARE INSIDE
Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center
2400 S. Scenic Ave.
Springfield, MO 65807
|
|
| | | |
