When the United Nations observed this year’s International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22, its theme—Our Solutions Are in Nature—highlighted humanity’s dependence on vibrant ecosystems for our health, water, food, and other needs. It further emphasized the importance of…
On Arbor Day, the State Arboretum of Virginia at Blandy Experimental Farm announced its second Tree of the Year: the sassafras (Sassafras albidum). We agree with Arboretum Curator T’ai Roulston that this attractive and fast-growing native species is perfectly suited…
In this time of home isolation to curb the spread of COVID-19, the Piedmont Master Gardeners are encouraging local households to grow more of their own food. Call it a Virus Victory Garden, “Like the wartime Victory Gardens of the…
Roses can be a stunning element in the ornamental landscape, but their care needs make them intimidating even for experienced gardeners. Please join us at 3 p.m. Monday, May 18, when members of the Piedmont Master Gardeners will provide tips…
Join PMG to Celebrate International Compost Awareness Week: May 3-9, 2020 Compost is the best natural soil amendment there is. It’s easy and inexpensive to make from kitchen and yard waste and is available commercially. It reduces the need for…
How can home gardeners provide quality habitat for birds, butterflies, bees and other wildlife? Carol Heiser, habitat education coordinator for the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF), offers helpful guidance in her recent article “Earth Day Starts at…
April 22 marks the 50th anniversary of the first Earth Day, an event credited with launching the modern environmental movement. As the world observes this milestone, the Piedmont Master Gardeners are underscoring our efforts to educate the public about what…
Did you know that Piedmont Master Gardeners contributed 13,386 hours of volunteer service last year? Did you know that the estimated value of those efforts exceeded $388,000? Moreover, PMG’s volunteer educators made 16,259 contacts with members of the public, helping…
Planning what to put in your home vegetable garden? There is a wealth of information available on planning your garden, selecting the right plants, planting at the right time, and trouble shooting plant problems. Visit the home vegetable gardening page of…
Do you have the invasive weed, garlic mustard, on your property? Now is the time to act to stop this weed from taking over! Blue Ridge Prism reports that just this past week, garlic mustard has begun to bolt, and…