Gifted Gardner February 2015

Gifted Gardener F E B R U A R Y

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

SPRING IS COMING

UK re2 searchers find pesky lawn weeds good for pollinators

Spring will be upon us before we know it (the robins just stripped the Foster hollies of their berries) and the time to plan is now. With a month or so of continued unfriendly weather ahead of us we can take Healthy 4 this indoor time to plan. The Tips catalogs have been filling the mailbox lately providing us gar2015 6 deners with plenty of plant eye candy. I believe it is a fine idea Schedule to plot out your garden and of Classes know what space you have to plant before you even open the High tun- 8 catalogs. I still have to tell my nel webikids when they are filling their nar series plates to not to let their eyes a convenget bigger than their bellies. The ient option same holds true for seed and for growplant purchasing. I am guilty of ers buying way more than I can Annual 10 plant. Planning makes the proTurf and cess much easier. One of our Landscape UK specialist, Dr. Shawn Wright Managerecently shared some data with ment us referring to vegetable gardens. He said “As a rule of Short thumb a well‑planned and Course properly kept garden should Upcoming 11 produce 600 to 700 pounds of produce per 1000 square feet Events but you don’t need that much space if you use it wisely. “ In other planning news the Kentucky Home Master gar1

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deners are currently heavily involved in the planning of the Blooming Bardstown Garden Tour. A lot of committee work is taking place currently but perhaps the one that feels the most pressure this time of year is the garden selection committee. We are looking for a few more gardens to showcase this year. Your help would be greatly appreciated in helping find gardens. If you know of a beautiful garden, big or small, that would be willing to be on tour please let us know. You can call or email me at the Extension office.

Remember that if you have questions feel free to give me a call and we will work it through. Spring is wonderfully reinvigorating time of year for many of us so stay active, healthy, and safe.

SUPPORT 4-H WHEN YOU RENEW

YOUR AG TAG! Support Nelson County 4-H & FFA by accepting the voluntary donation of $10.00 when you renew you farm license plate. Last year 29% of eligible plates elected to donate. Help us reach our goal of 50%. Your donation goes to support 4-H programs and scholarships for 4-H graduating Seniors.

LAWN

UK RESEARCHERS FIND PESKY LAWN WEEDS GOOD FOR POLLINATORS

“I hope we are able to raise awareness of the numerous beneficial bees in our lawns and that a patch of clover can be beneficial,”

BY KATIE PRATT

For many homeowners, dandelions and white clover are nothing more than a nuisance, but University of Kentucky entomology researchers have found they are a welcome presence to many pollinator species.

UK entomologist Dan Potter and Jonathan Larson, University of Nebraska extension entomologist, then a UKAg doctoral student, sampled the weeds for bees and other pollinators in Central Kentucky lawns in the spring and summer of 2011 and 2012.

Their goal was to identify pollinator species that could be affected if the weeds were accidentally sprayed with lawn insecticides. These lawn weeds

bloom around the same time insecticides to control pests, such as grubs, should be applied. Lawns in the study were comprised of about 30 percent weeds.

“In the spring, a lot of native bees that are foraging on these weeds are queens and are very vulnerable, as their colonies are not yet established,” said Potter, a professor in the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. “If someone’s lawn is treated with certain insecticides in April or May and the bees come in contact with residues on weed blooms, then they’ve not only lost that colony but the potential for reproduction for next year.”

In addition, UK researchers tested whether bee species collected in urban and suburban lawns were just as numerous and diverse as bee species collected from rural lawns.

Larson and

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Potter collected and identified more than 2,100 total pollinators. Those pollinators were from 50 different species, including 37 bee species. Scientists consider two of the bumble bee species they found uncommon and possibly declining in population.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PRESERVING HABITAT FOR POLLINATORS: Habitat for pollinators is generally misunderstood by homeowners and farmers alike. We tend to look at those areas as weedy and unsightly but their importance is unequaled for the populations of native bees and other pollinators that call the areas home.

The most common species collected from dandelions were hover flies, honey bees, and wild native bees. Honey bees and native bumble bees were the most common visitors to white clover, especially during the late summer. They collected several species of butterflies including the common buckeye and fritillaries on the white clover in the late summer.

With what some call recreational mowing and fence to fence farming taking place at much higher rates, habitat destruction has also escalated substantially. I’m as guilty as any, I mow much more property now than I did 10 years ago because its easier than ever before. Batwing clippers and zero turn mowers cut the job of mowing in half which makes it easier to mow more. Just remember that a lot of what we call weeds are the food sources for many.

Larson and Potter found just as many pollinator species visiting urban and suburban lawns as visiting lawns in rural settings.

“I hope we are able to raise awareness of the numerous beneficial bees in our lawns and that a patch of clover can be beneficial, because those bees are the ones pollinating our gardens, flowers and trees that provide not only food for us, but for a variety of urban wildlife like birds,” Potter said.

Their paper was recently published in the Journal of Insect Conservation.

For more information on what you can do to increase habitat on your farm see this wonderful publication on Farm Management for Native Bees. http://dda.delaware.gov/

In a related study in 2013, Larson and Potter found that mowing down flowering weeds before or soon after treating a lawn for grubs or other pests greatly reduces bees’ exposure to the insecticide. Homeowners should read and follow the label directions when using any pesticide.

plantind/forms/publications/ FarmManagementforNativeBeesAGuideforDelaware.pdf

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FRUITS “Also consider these foods when you begin planning for your fruit and veggie plantings next spring. “

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.The pictographs on these two pages come from a twitter account I follow called Daily Health Tips : Ask a Doctor. I find these pictures easy to understand and help me make better decisions in my food choices. As we go into the holidays remember these pictures as you graze the endless snack assortment at your next party.

Also consider these foods when you begin planning for your fruit and veggie plantings next spring. Now we know we can’t believe everything on the internet but this source seems to have accurate and easy to understand information.

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LEARNING

TO REGISTER CALL: 1502-348-9204

March 4th at 5:30 pm EMERALD ASH BORER: WHEN SHOULD I DO WHAT?

Please register

With the dreaded emerald ash borer getting ever closer to our county it is now time to think about what we can do to save some of our prized shade trees. I’ll tell you what to look for and how to treat your trees to protect them.

for each class you would like to attend. This allows us to plan properly

April 7th at 6:30 pm BUILDING LOW COST RAISED BEDS FOR GARDENING Raised beds can be a very important aspect of a garden especially if you are not blessed to be on the best of soils.

Come learn some cost effective ways to create raised beds for aesthetics and practicality.

for resources and space. All meetings on pages 6 and 7 are at the

April 21st at 10:00 am “SUPER FOOD” GARDENING The popular catch phrase “Super Foods” gets a lot a buzz in the media these days. Many of these foods we can grow ourselves. We’ll explore what makes a food “Super” and probably have some to take home to continue growing in your garden.

Nelson County Extension Office

April 29th at 5:30 pm DEVELOPING A CULINARY HERB GARDEN Many herbs are even more enjoyable when they are fresh. In this class we will discuss the layout of a garden, the many uses of a variety of herbs and will even have some for you to take home for season long enjoyment.

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May 7th at 5:30 pm CUT FLOWERS FOR THE GARDEN There is nothing like bringing the outdoors inside in the form of a beautifully arranged vase of cut flowers. Choosing the right varieties will mean all the difference so we will explore some new plants and look at new varieties of old plants as well. There will be some take home seeds for you to test and trial in your garden.

May 21st at 10:00 am FERMENTATION FOR HEALTH AND FOOD PRESERVATION Fermenting your foods has been a method of food preservation for centuries. Many look at fermented foods as a essential part of healthy eating. During this class we will look at some of the safety issues, techniques, and what makes this type of preservation a healthy choice.

May 27th at 5:30 pm INCREASING HABITAT FOR OUR POLLINATORS AND OTHER WILDLIFE We can all do our part to help increase habitat for our pollinators and other wildlife. Many point to habitat loss as a contributing factor for Honey Bee decline. We will look at what makes good habitat and how you can establish a “Pollination Station” on your property.

Third Thursday of the Month at 5:00 pm MONTHLY SERIES OF TALKS AT THE BLOOMFIELD LIBRARY At the Bloomfield library each month a new topic will be presented different from the ones you see listed on this page. See the Community notes section of the KY Standard each month for the class offering.

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High tunnel webinar series a convenient option for growers.

LEARNING

BY AIMEE NIELSON

Many Kentucky growers are using high tunnels to extend their crop seasons.

While it offers a great opportunity, high tunnel production can be overwhelming without the right tools.

Growers can learn to navigate the ins-and-outs of high tunnel production through a series of six webinars offered in February and March.

“Growers can

The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment’s

learn to navigate the ins-and-outs of high tunnel production through a series of six webinars” Center for Crop Diversification, through the Barnhart Fund for Excellence, is sponsoring the series.

“We are trying to take the information to folks right in their homes, and share it with them at a convenient time,” said Miranda Hileman Combs, senior extension associate with the 8

UK Center for Crop Diversification. “Through the series, producers will gain information about crop considerations, market opportunities, construction tips and ideas as well as pest pressure and control.”

The webinars are all from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. EST. Offerings are as follows: • Feb. 17 -- Season Extension Opportunities + EQIP Funding -- an overview of season extension and the pros and cons of using seasonextension technology: high tunnels, low tunnels, row covers, marketing and planning for markets before building a high tunnel, an overview of the basics of high tunnel economics and a summary of the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) Seasonal High Tunnel Initiative.

• Feb. 24 -- Structure Options, Construction, and Ventilation and Temperature Control -- an introduction to structure options and layouts for high tunnels, stationary or moveable high tunnels, as well as construction tips and

ideas. Other topics include ventilation and temperature control within a high tunnel throughout the year.

• March 3 -- Organic Production and Certification in High Tunnels, Economic and Marketing Considerations in High Tunnels -- Adam Watson, organic marketing representative from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, will introduce organic certification and how it relates to high tunnel production.

Other topics will include economics and marketing of high tunnel crops throughout the year.

• March 10 -- Crop and Equipment Options and Nutrient and Irrigation Management in High Tunnels -- covers what and when to plant and crop options for continued high tunnel production in Kentucky climates. Other topics include types of equipment for high tunnel production, and nutrient and irrigation management in high tunnel production systems.

• March 17 -- Insect, Weed and Disease Control in High Tunnels -- High tunnels can protect crops from some insect, weed or disease pressures, but they can sometimes harbor and magnify pest problems. During this webinar, specialists will teach how to manage pest pressures with cultural and biological controls, and cover available pesticide and fungicides approved for use in high tunnels in Kentucky.

• March 24 -- Producer Views and Series Wrap-up -- high tunnel producers will share their successes and challenges along the way. Paul and Allison Wiediger of Au Naturel Farm in Smiths

HIGH TUNNEL FACTS: 586,000 acres of crops are under high tunnel cultivation China leads with 350,000 acres of production United States has 5000 acres in production (plenty of room for you to join) Tomatoes and Cut Flowers are the primary crops in the US High tunnels extend your season and extend your wallet

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Grove will discuss their 20-plus years of organic high tunnel production experience. Mark and Velvet Henkle of Henkle’s Herbs and Heirlooms in Nicholasville will share their story.

Before the webinars begin, make sure computers are correctly set up to view the series by visiting https:// connect.uky.edu/common/help/en/support/ meeting_test.htm. UK Agricultural Communications Services produced an educational video about high tunnel production.

To watch, visit http://youtu.be/ oZj35CFZV1c. You may view the webinar form home or join us at the Nelson County extension Office, either way registration will be required in order to get you the proper links for viewing.

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LEARNING

THE ANNUAL TURF AND LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT SHORT COURSE

“For those of us who need Continuing Education Units for pesticide recertification; this is the best opportunity all year to get what you need.”

is set for February 24-26, 2015! This event is held in Louisville KY at the Crown Plaza Hotel near the Fairgrounds. This event has become one of the best opportunities for turf and landscape professionals to get updated information on the business and to obtain continuing education units for their Kentucky Pesticide Certification.

TUESDAY, February 24 – This day is targeted to new employees wanting to receive training and take the Pesticide Certification Exam. The exam training session will be from 9 AM – 3 PM. Exams will be given at approximately 3:15 PM for Categories 3, 10, 12, 18, 19, and 20. If taking the exam, be sure to go online and study the Core Manual and category specific material. These materials can be found here. The cost for the training session on this day is $35 if paid before February 13, 2015.

Payment onsite is $50.

To take the PESTICIDE APPLICATOR EXAM(S): The initial certification exam will be given immediately after the training on Tuesday, February 24. To take exam you must pay, on site, $25.00 per person (check or money order ONLY; make check payable to “Kentucky State Treasurer”). DO NOT SEND THE EXAM FEE WITH YOUR PRE-REGISTRATION.

Seasonal Reminders

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25 AND THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26 – Three concurrent educational sessions are offered on Wednesday – Landscape Management, Commercial Lawn Care and Golf. An additional session, Sports Turf, is added on Thursday. Three or more credits will be awarded by the Department of Pesticides for each day.

TRADE SHOW - We anticipate excellent Trade Show participation on Wednesday and Thursday. New product literature will be available from about 25- 30 green industry exhibitors.

Registration and the program form can be found at the links below. http://www.uky.edu/Ag/ukturf/sc%20registration%20form% 2015.pdf http://www.uky.edu/Ag/ukturf/2015%20Short%20Course% 20Program%20Jan%2029.pdf

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THAT’S AN IDEA

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of color in

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the house cut stems of forsythia now, place in a vase of water and watch

Light is

perhaps the most important aspect of indoor seed starting.

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what happens.

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Noxious

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Time to get those garden tools ready to go, for spring will be  here before you know it.

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February 17th @ 6:30 pm- High tunnel greenhouse production series.

See more details on pages 8 and 9.

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February 19th @ 5:00 pm- Planning and planting an Edible Landscape.

Hosted at the Bloomfield Library

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February 19th @ 6:30 pm– Nelson County Beekeepers meeting with an educational opportunity: Planting for Honey Production: Exploring the Bee Plants of Kentucky. (This group meets the third Thursday of each month and has a $12 per year membership fee)

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Listen to us on the radio, WBRT 1320 and 97.1 every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month.

Remove fruit from fruit trees to lessen the disease load this season We test your soil and its only $5.00 and can save you a bundle.

Still time to get dormant fruit tree sprays on

UPCOMING MEETINGS

mummified

weeds are one thing but bee habitat is  another

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For a splash

Now is the best time of year to prune trees Lawn seed-

Robbie Smith County Extension Agent for Horticulture

ing's second best sowing season is now

Phone: 502-348-9204 Fax: 502-348-9270 email: robsmith@uky.edu Website: http://nelson.ca.uky.edu/ @hortagentrob NelsonCounty Extension

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RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

University of Kentucky Nelson County 317 South Third Street Bardstown, KY 40004

Cooperative Extension Service

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