Horticulture & Small Farms Programs, Placer & Nevada Counties

Foothill Horticulture

The Placer and Nevada County horticulture program serves a diversity of crops including tree and vine fruits, vegetables, cut flowers, Christmas trees, nursery and ornamental crops. Most horticultural producers in Placer/Nevada farm on small acreages, growing a variety of crops for direct market. Our UCCE horticulture programs address issues of soil management, Integrated Pest Management, crop production techniques appropriate for the foothills, farm business and direct market planning.

Farm Advisor Services

The Horticulture and Small Farms Advisor:

• assists new farmers in evaluating production sites and new crop opportunities, and in developing production experience.
• works with established farmers to improve production practices for quality produce.
• provides information and assistance to growers in implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices.
• works with grower associations to develop sound business plans and effective marketing strategies.
• promotes sustainable agriculture that protects the environment, contributes to the economic viability of small farmers and preserves farmland.
• conducts farm calls to evaluate specific opportunities or problems.
• works with University of California specialists to provide reliable research-based information for agricultural producers.

For more information on production of specific crops, use the links on the bar above or go to Foothill Farming and select the appropriate crop from the drop-down list.

For Commercial Growers or those considering commercial crop production: please call Cindy Fake at 530.889.7385 or e-mail cefake@ucdavis.edu for further information or assistance.

For assistance with home (non-commercial) gardens, vineyards, and orchards, please contact the UCCE Master Gardeners. In Placer County call 530. 889-7388; in Nevada County call 530.273.0919.