NC Cooperative Extension Gardening and Farmers Market Updates


THIS WEEK IN THE GARDEN (from the WIZS Home & Garden Show)
1. You can start your fall garden now! Consult this planting calendar for complete details: http://cals.ncsu.edu/hort_sci/extension/documents/AG-756.pdf
2. We are only about 5 weeks from tall fescue seeding time. If you plan to do a complete renovation, you will need to spray in the next week or so to kill off the existing weeds and grass. 
3. Vegetables that are no longer producing need to be taken out of the garden. Otherwise, the non-productive plants can cause insect and disease pests to build up.
4. Trim blossoms off crepe myrtles as needed to reduce “branch bowing” and encourage reblooming.
5. Be on the lookout for yellow jacket nests, especially if mowing in weedy areas.
6. Continue scouting flowerbeds on a weekly basis to pull weeds so they don’t get out of hand.
7. Properly applied insect repellants are the safest way to protect yourself against ticks and mosquitos when doing outdoor activities.
8. Water your plants several hours before applying pesticides, especially during dry weather. Drought stressed plants have less water in their plant tissues; the chemicals that enter the leaves will consequently be more concentrated and may burn the leaves.
9. Protect yourself from the sun when doing garden chores. Long sleeved shirt, Wide brimmed hat, sunscreen.
FARMERS MARKET UPDATES
The selection of produce at your local farmers markets is at the peak of the season! Also look for crafts, baked goods, plants and more!
Upcoming events at the Farmers Markets include:
  • Aug 6 – Master Gardeners on hand to answer plant questions, 8 am to noon (Vance)
  • Aug 13 – Pressure Canner Testing, 9 to 11 am (Vance)
  • Aug 13 – Seminar – “Planting and Caring for Lavendar” by Master Gardener Kay Nutt, 12 noon (Vance)
  • Aug 23 – The BIG SHOPPING CART from the NCDA&CS will visit the Warren County Farmers Market!
  • Aug 23 – Master Gardeners on hand to answer plant questions, 8 am to noon (Vance)
  • Aug 30 – Seminar – “Preparing Your Garden for Fall and Winter” by Master Gardener Marty Finkel, 10 am (Vance)