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Gardeners With Heart: Bridging Communities Through Connection

Watch the video on YouTube here.

 

As we enter the second week of National Volunteer Month, we are honored to recognize a remarkable group of UC Master Gardener volunteers nominated for their exceptional work as Community Connection Leaders. These UC Master Gardeners have demonstrated outstanding leadership and passion in fostering connections within their communities and helped strengthen relationships with audiences and community partners.

Join us as we celebrate these inspiring "Gardeners with Heart" for their contributions to building stronger, more connected communities. Leave a comment of gratitude below!

Kathy Sheesley, a UC Master Gardener from Sutter-Yuba Counties, developed and implemented an impactful partnership with Habitat for Humanity's Harmony Village helping bring gardening knowledge to a community of previously unhoused individuals. Kathy has developed and delivered 10 educational workshops on gardening basics and pest management. Through the assistance of grant funding, Kathy spearheaded the purchase and implementation of a community garden on the grounds complete with 15 raised garden beds and various tools needed to work in the gardens. The impact on the Harmony Village community has been immeasurable. Through thoughtful educational workshops and one-on-one mentoring, Kathy has brought hope and happiness to an otherwise forgotten population.

Kim Stempien, a dedicated UC Master Gardener of Shasta County, has been instrumental in mentoring the next generation of gardeners. Through her efforts in school gardens, she has empowered students to cultivate healthy, vibrant spaces for learning and exploration. Kim has taken the lead in organizing a group of UC Master Gardeners to be school garden champions. These volunteers adopt a school garden and mentor them. The program is currently active at 13 school sites thanks to Kim's vision and passion!

Edith Lin, a UC Master Gardener from Santa Clara County, has demonstrated the transformative power of gardening in unexpected places. Through her work with incarcerated women, she has provided healing and purpose. Edith is in her third year leading the Gardens Inside - at Elmwood Correctional in Milpitas, Calif. The program, designed for minimum security, women inmates, is evolving and growing thanks to Edith's leadership. In two years, the Gardens Inside program has reached over 110 incarcerated women and produced approximately 250 pounds of fresh produce. Many of the women plan to start their own garden when released, all thanks to Edith's training and support.

Cynda Vyas, a UC Master Gardener from Marin County, exemplifies the spirit of community connection through her partnerships with local organizations and her commitment to sustainable gardening outreach. In her leadership role, Cynda has made a huge impact. More than 3,000 youth have benefited from projects like Farm Day, Exploring Habitats, and school gardens, and close to 10,000 adults have participated in events, classes, or hands-on workshops. Cynda helps support project leaders and frequently attends activities and events to lend a helping hand.

Jeanne Anne Pine, has shown exceptional leadership in her efforts to cultivate community gardens. Through her many projects, she has brought together diverse groups, fostering unity and resilience in Mariposa County. She advocates for the UC Master Gardener Program at Board of Supervisor meetings and on local radio stations. She connects us with local organizations, including the local history museum, the food insecurity network, and the Chamber of Commerce. Jeanne Anne reaches out and connects even the most unlikely of partners and then steps in to ensure the partnerships are successful.

Marilyn Carne-Smith, has been a powerhouse for the UC Master Gardeners of Orange County. Marilyn has helped create many connections throughout her community including reviving a relationship that lay dormant during Covid-19. Marilyn is the driving force behind the relationship between the Sherman Library and Gardens in Newport Beach. She started running an informational booth, providing gardening-related coloring books for children, and bringing in garden experts to speak on a monthly theme. Through this work, she is able to share gardening knowledge with community visitors and tourists, while also helping to educate other UC Master Gardeners. Orange County is fortunate to have someone working so hard to keep their community connected to gardening.

Martha Carpenter, a UC Master Gardener from Santa Clara County, helped rebuild the UC Master Gardener Library Talks program. Once the local libraries were ready to reopen and offer public events Martha rallied to bring a variety of UC Master Gardener volunteers in to speak and be Library Liaisons. She is an organized and strategic leader who used those skills to relaunch a dormant program at dozens of libraries throughout Santa Clara. The UC Master Gardener Program of Santa Clara County is lucky to have Martha!

Julian Hoyle, has been an instrumental UC Master Gardener on the education committee in Ventura County. Julian's commitment to excellence in training can been seen in his dedication to teaching several of the more challenging courses like Introduction to Science-Based Gardening, Basics of Botany, and the Use of Pesticides and Herbicides. He trains volunteers for the county's Help Desk, and is an active member of the Speakers Bureau. Over 700 UC Master Gardeners have been trained by Julian! Having someone like Julian who is so deeply respected in the community is inspiring.

Clio Tarazi, is a driving force in the UC Master Gardeners of Sonoma County. She has shown exceptional leadership in developing educational gardens. Her vision and dedication have created spaces for learning and growth, enriching the lives of community members for generations to come. As project leader of the Los Guilicos demonstration garden, Clio oversaw fellow UC Master Gardeners who rehabilitated a large and challenging site that had been impacted by wildfire. Clio was able to connect with local companies to acquire needed supplies such as irrigation materials and wood mulch. She also created a new relationship with the local Rotary International who provided more labor making this project a true community effort. Clio's skills and talents in making community connections and building partnerships have been key to Los Guilicos demonstration garden's success and strengthening the UC Master Gardener community in Sonoma County.

Susan Angell and Sheila Mutter, champions in Sonoma County, have created magical spaces for children to connect with nature. Their dedication to the Children's Garden has inspired countless young minds, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. The UC Master Gardener Children's Garden is a 6 ½-acre farm on the east side of Sonoma managed by Sonoma Ecology Center (SEC). Hundreds of their young gardening visitors have benefited from this special place where families can come to play, taste, and learn about gardens.

We are incredibly grateful for the dedication, passion, and hard work of Cynda Vyas, Jeanne Anne Pine, Marilyn Carne-Smith, Martha Carpenter, Julian Hoyle, Kathy Sheesley, Clio Tarazi, Kim Stempien, Edit Lin, Susan Angell, Sheila Mutter, and their fellow UC Master Gardener volunteers, who have demonstrated in bridging communities and fostering connections through gardening and education. Their collective efforts have enriched the lives of individuals and families, creating stronger, more resilient communities for all. As we celebrate National Volunteer Month, let us express our heartfelt gratitude to these "Gardeners with Heart" for their invaluable service and commitment to building a brighter future for all.

About National Volunteer Month and Gardeners with Heart

During National Volunteer Month (April 1 - 30), the UC Master Gardener Program celebrates its incredible volunteers and their contributions to California communities. Gardeners with Heart volunteers were nominated for their outstanding work in fostering community connections and promoting gardening and education, highlighting their commitment to building stronger, more connected communities. Join us in honoring their dedication and passion for making a difference in the lives of others. If you would like to get involved and learn more about gardening in your community, you can find your local program here.

MG with heart color logo blue gloves gold trim

Gardeners With Heart: Growing Food and Communities

Watch the video on YouTube here. 

 

In celebration of National Volunteer Month, we are thrilled to spotlight a remarkable group of UC Master Gardener volunteers nominated for their outstanding contributions to food gardening and food access initiatives in their communities. These UC Master Gardeners have gone above and beyond to promote sustainable gardening practices, address food insecurity, and empower their communities to embrace healthier and more resilient food systems. Join us as we recognize and express our gratitude to these inspiring “Gardeners with Heart” for their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Grace Mahannah, a passionate advocate for composting and local food access in Butte County, has been pivotal in promoting sustainable gardening practices and food literacy within her community. Her efforts to connect people with fresh, locally grown produce have helped improve access to nutritious food and strengthen community ties, fostering a more resilient and equitable food system for all. The communities of Gridley and Butte County have benefited from Grace's contributions and efforts, with her successful implementation of projects that expand reach to the far corners of rural communities.

Ferol Conklin, a UC Master Gardener in Mariposa County, works tirelessly as the co-chair of the Plant-a-Row committee to provide excess produce to those in need. Her commitment to addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable food systems has made a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families, ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious food. With Plant-a-Row collecting more than 2,000 pounds of fresh produce from multiple home growers and local farms, Ferol's heart for the food insecure of Mariposa County knows no bounds.

Sharon Erickson, a UC Master Gardener in Palo Alto, has been a driving force behind various food gardening initiatives, including the Palo Alto Demonstration Garden and fruit tree pruning workshops. Her dedication to teaching people to grow their own food sustainably has helped build a community centered around the garden, inspiring others to take action and make positive changes in their lives. In the past year, the Palo Alto Demonstration Garden has donated more than 700 pounds of food.

Treva Valentine, an advocate for home vegetable gardening in Yolo County, has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability in continuing her outreach efforts during challenging times. Her commitment to educating and empowering individuals to grow their own food has helped improve food security and promote healthier eating habits within her community. Treva's proactive approach extends beyond Yolo County, has reached approximately 200 people over the past few years with valuable home food gardening advice.

Ann Liu, a dedicated volunteer in Yolo County, transferred to the county a few years ago with a wealth of knowledge and energy. Ann keeps everyone connected and helps feed and educate the community at large. Her involvement in promoting environmental education and community empowerment through her work with SEEDS and the Grace Garden has helped create a more inclusive and resilient community. The Grace Garden's harvest of 657 lbs. of vegetables and 317 lbs. of fruit in 2023, along with 1009 volunteers contributing over 280 hours of service, underscores Ann's impactful efforts.

John Wimer, a passionate advocate for sustainable gardening practices in Amador County, has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to environmental stewardship through his involvement in various food gardening projects and youth field trips. His efforts to empower individuals to embrace sustainable food production methods have helped strengthen community resilience and promote healthier, more sustainable lifestyles for all. John's contributions extend to every school in Amador County through school garden mentors and local farm visits, highlighting his commitment to education and community engagement.

Patti Joki and Gail Myers, both UC Master Gardeners in Alameda County, have played instrumental roles in organizing the Incredible Edible Plant Sale. This event not only raises funds but also provides valuable resources and education to the community. Through their leadership and dedication, they have fostered a culture of environmental stewardship and community resilience, inspiring individuals to grow their own food sustainably and contribute to a healthier food system.

We are incredibly grateful for the dedication, passion, and hard work that Grace Mahannah, Ferol Conklin, Sharon Erickson, Treva Valentine, Ann Liu, John Wimer, Patti Joki, and Gail Myers,  have demonstrated in promoting food gardening and food access initiatives in their communities. Their collective efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of individuals and families, serving as inspiring examples of how volunteers can make a positive difference in the world. As we celebrate National Volunteer Month, let us express our heartfelt gratitude to these “Gardeners with Heart” for their invaluable service and commitment to creating a healthier, more equitable food system for all.

 

About National Volunteer Month and Gardeners with Heart

During National Volunteer Month (April 1 - 30), the UC Master Gardener Program celebrates its incredible volunteers and their contributions to California communities. Gardeners with Heart volunteers were nominated for their outstanding work in food gardening and food access initiatives, highlighting their commitment to promoting sustainable food systems and community resilience. Join us in honoring their dedication and passion for making a difference in the lives of others. If you would like to get involved and learn more about gardening in your community you can find your local program here.

Keep your Garden Healthy as it Kicks into High Gear - April Garden Tips

As April unfolds, California gardeners eagerly anticipate the season's lush beauty. With frost receding into memory and temperatures climbing, it's time to welcome a fresh wave of blossoms and produce. Whether you reside in the north, south, or somewhere in between, here's a comprehensive checklist to help guide your April gardening activities:

 

1. Conceal Fading Bulb Foliage. Hide fading bulb foliage with shallow-rooted annuals like lobelia or sweet alyssum. This not only enhances the garden's appearance but also aids in vital nutrient transfer for next year's blooms.

 

2. Monitor Roses. As roses leaf out and bud, monitor them for aphids. If you find aphids, remove them from your plants with a strong stream of water. This practice helps manage populations so you don't end up with a large colony.  

 

3. Add Summer Annuals. Brighten flower beds with summer-blooming annuals, enriching the soil with organic compost to support vibrant growth and colorful displays.

 

4. Plant Summer Vegetables. Sow seeds or transplant summer vegetables as the weather gets warmer, ensuring they receive sufficient sunlight and nutrient-rich soil. Hold off on planting tomato starts until nighttime temperatures remain above 55?F to avoid frost damage.

 

5. Pest Control. Safeguard young plants from pests like snails, slugs, and earwigs by using traps. Regular monitoring and intervention help maintain garden health.

 

6. Mulch Application. Apply mulch around trees and in beds to retain soil moisture as temperatures rise. This helps conserve water and provides insulation to plant roots during warmer weather.

 

7. Plant Frost-Tender Species. Introduce frost-tender species appropriate to your growing zone. Ensure regular watering to keep the root zone moist but not waterlogged.

 

8. Care for Citrus and Fruit Trees. Prune frost-damaged branches to promote healthy growth and fruit production. Proper care ensures a bountiful harvest later in the season.

 

9. Weed Management. As weeds pop up after all the Spring rains, employ non-chemical methods like cultivation, handweeding, or mowing to manage weeds effectively. Keeping weeds in check helps maintain the health and aesthetics of your garden beds.

 

With this April garden checklist, you're well-equipped to embrace the season's abundance and nurture a thriving garden.

Ask your local UC Master Gardener Program

Have a gardening question? UC Master Gardener volunteers are available to help. Click here to Find a Program and connect with your local UC Master Gardener Program. You will be redirected to your local county website and contact information. UC Master Gardener volunteers are available to help answer questions for FREE. Happy gardening! 

1,800 Climate-Ready Trees Provided to Residents of Low Shade Neighborhoods

To date, over 1,800 climate-ready shade trees and tips on their planting and long-term care have been provided by UC Master Gardeners and over 20 partners to residents of low shade neighborhoods in San Bernardino and Riverside Counties through the “Trees for Tomorrow Start Today” project. Tree species given away are identified from research projects including the joint University of California/United States Forest Service (USFS) study at UC Riverside as well as from other research, local observations, and input from the green industry and academic colleagues.

The "Trees for Tomorrow Start Today" project was implemented in 2019 by Area UC Cooperative Extension Horticulture Advisor Janet Hartin with support from the Inland Empire Resource Conservation District. A "train the trainer" model provided education to Master Gardener volunteers from San Bernardino County on project elements and follow-up. Master Gardeners now manage many of the events. In 2023, the program expanded into Riverside County. Several other Master Gardener programs throughout the state have also expressed interest in implementing the "Trees for Tomorrow Start Today" project.

Why is this project so important? 95% of Californians now reside in cities and suburban environments. Resulting urban heat islands created by built environments coupled with impacts of climate change can be mitigated through nature-based solutions. Planting climate-ready shade trees now will help ensure cooler urban areas in the next several decades as trees mature and maximize their urban ecosystem benefits. Fortunately, the shade from a single well-placed tree can decrease surface temperatures of black asphalt and artificial turf by more than 70 degrees F in hot inland and desert cities. Studies show that surrounding air temperatures can also be reduced through the transpiration process.

A major goal of the"Trees for Tomorrow Start Today" project is to enhance tree canopy cover in low shade neighborhoods also plagued with much higher than average levels of air pollution and pulmonary and cardiovascular disease incidence. Events over the past month have occurred in Fontana, San Bernardino, and the Salton Sea.

Other partners include San Bernardino County, City of San Bernardino, California Climate Action Fellows, Tree People, Coachella Valley Resource Conservation District, Alianza Coachella Valley, Inland Empire Urban Conservation Corps, several water districts, and other groups.  

Thank you to all our partners and, especially, our tree recipients, for greening and cooling your yard and neighborhood! 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

Cultivating History and Community with The Heritage Rose Garden of Jackson, California

Cultivating History and Community with the Heritage Rose Garden of Jackson, California

Nestled in the heart of Amador County lies the Heritage Rose Garden, where the beauty of old roses meets the spirit of community. Here, UC Master Gardener volunteers have been hard at work, not only preserving the past but also teaching sustainable gardening practices to visitors from all walks of life.

The Heritage Rose Garden's story began with a mission to save a precious collection of heritage roses. Judy and Bob Dean, with their extensive collection of rare roses, narrowly escaped destruction during the Butte fire of 2015. Recognizing the need to protect these treasures, Bob Dean proposed the idea of creating a "backup" garden accessible to the public. This vision sparked a partnership between the UC Master Gardener Program and Mother Lode Land Trust (MLLT), aligning with their mission to preserve wildlife habitat and agriculture. Together, they laid the groundwork for a collaborative effort that blossomed into the Heritage Rose Garden located in Jackson, Calif. By 2023, the Heritage Rose Garden inspired continued partnership on the property with the completion of a propagation house, vegetable garden beds, fruit trees and compost education station. All of these new developments serve as a teaching space for the community. The Master Gardeners partnered in 2023 with Amador County Library to teach monthly hands-on, all-age workshops in this newly created space which is adjacent to the Heritage Rose Garden.

Guided by UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) environmental horticulture advisors, UC Master Gardeners meticulously designed the garden, incorporating integrated pest management (IPM) principles to create a sustainable, pesticide-free landscape. Today, the Heritage Rose Garden boasts not only a diverse collection of heritage roses but also native plants, and thriving pollinators, all flourishing under their stewardship.

However, the Heritage Rose Garden's significance extends far beyond its botanical beauty. It serves as a testament to the power of community collaboration, with UC Master Gardeners partnering closely with local gardening clubs, rose societies, nurseries, and youth groups to cultivate a shared sense of stewardship for the land. Situated within the community of Jackson, the Heritage Rose Garden serves as a welcoming gathering place for residents of Amador County and visitors alike.

Education is at the heart of the Heritage Rose Garden's mission. Through a wide array of classes, workshops, demonstrations, and open garden days, UC Master Gardeners have significantly expanded outreach, welcoming more than 800 visitors a year. Volunteers have logged thousands of hours, contributing to the garden's success and impact. The unique mix of old roses, natives, and heirloom plants showcases what visitors can achieve in their own gardens. Public education classes show tangible results, with more than 80% reporting improved “right plant, right place” and water conservation practices. The Heritage Rose Garden serves as a living classroom, demonstrating the benefits of sustainable gardening practices and inspiring visitors to create their own thriving gardens.

As visitors wander through the Heritage Rose Garden's winding pathways, they encounter a tapestry of history, community, and natural beauty. With each rose in bloom and each lesson shared, UC Master Gardeners are not only preserving the past but also sowing the seeds for a more sustainable and connected future.

To learn more about the Heritage Rose Garden or to plan a visit please visit:  ucanr.edu/sites/Amador_County_MGs/Heritage_Rose_Garden/

 

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