NC Cooperative Extension Updates


MULCH AVAILABLE FROM VANCE COUNTY LANDFILL
The Solid Waste Department has a limited supply of mulch and composted leaves to give away.  The giveaway will take place June 15th, 16th, and 17th from 8 to 4 PM and June 18th from 8 to 12 noon. The yard waste facility is located at 3181 NC 39 Hwy North.  Those interested would be able to load by hand for free. Loading is available by front-end loader at a cost of $5 per scoop. 
SUMMER EDITION OF “EXTENSION GARDENER” NEWSLETTER
Download the latest issue of this newsletter with articles by Horticulture Extension Agents from across the state. The current issue has articles on broccoli, permaculture, moles/voles, organic lawn care, and much more! Click here to download or view.
INSPECT APPLES & PEARS FOR FIREBLIGHT
Fireblight is a bacterial disease that causes the tips of branches to dieback. The leaves turn dark brown or black, but remain attached. It affects apples and pears, including ornamental pears (e.g. Bradford pear). The disease can be devastating to a tree, and is challenging to control. If you can catch it early, the infected portion of branches can be pruned out. Be certain to make your cut 12 inches or so below the point where you see symptoms, and to sanitize pruners before moving to another tree. Trees can also be sprayed with a bactericide (streptomycin) in the early spring when the blossoms first open as a protective/preventive measure. That being said, the most effective approach is to plant cultivars that are resistant to this disease. For more information, click here.