River-Friendly Landscaping workshops

These are River-Friendly Landscaping events that were held in 2012.

Saturday, March 31, 2012,  2:00-4:30 p.m.
Valley Hi Library
7400 Imagination Parkway
Sacramento, CA  95823

Valley Hi Library is located across from Cosumnes River College.  Free parking is available at the library, plus across the park next to the soccer field and at Cosumnes River College. 

UC Master Gardeners present:

Composting Tips and Tricks  2:00-3:30
Composting for the home gardener is a great way to recycle yard and some kitchen waste, improve the soil, and nourish the garden. The workshop covers basics of composting, troubleshooting compost pile problems, and additional information for those who have composting experience.

Tips for Creating Healthy Soil  3:30-4:30
Healthy soil is essential for growing successful gardens and landscapes.  Learn the basic principles of how soil effects plant growth, how to feed soil, and if your soil needs to be amended.

Bring a sample of your soil.  We’ll help you identify the type of soil in your landscape.   

Visit the information stations to learn how to:
  -determine the pH level of your soil
  -adjust the soil pH to fit specific plant needs
  -evaluate soil testing kits and soil amendments before spending your money 

Plant Clinic  Bring your insect and disease problems or garden questions.  Master Gardeners will be available to assist the public in diagnosing and solving garden problems.

Recycling yard waste and nurturing soils are key practices of the River Friendly Landscaping Program.  The workshops will feature key components of the 7 River Friendly Landscaping principles that enrich the home landscape, save water and reduce maintenance costs.

For additional information contact the UC Master Gardeners, 875-6913, http://cesacramento.ucdavis.edu, or www.riverfriendly.org.

Saturday, May 12, 2012, 9:00 a.m. - noon
Florin Creek Park and Recreation Center
7460 Persimmon Avenue, Sacramento, 95823

UC Cooperative Extension and the UC Master Gardeners present
Alternative Turf Species
Tips for Successful Landscape Planning

Presentations:
     • Alternative Turf Species
            Learn about the first year results of his turf demonstration project from Sacramento County Farm and Horticulture Advisor Chuck Ingels.  His research compared the performance of several turf grass species under different irrigation amounts, and evaluated the suitability of several California native grass species as turf. Learn how his findings can relate to your home landscape and save you time and money.

     • Right Plant for Right Place
            Learn how to select plants that will thrive in your unique landscape
            Microclimates – understanding how to utilize microclimates
            Create a plant community - learn about plant relationships and their role in a healthy garden
            USDA Zones - what do the new USDA climate zones mean

     • Beneficial Insects and Creatures
            Learn how your garden will thrive when beneficial insects and creatures come for a visit

Tour the University of California research plots featuring alternative turf species.  View alternative turf species including California native grasses as lawns. Learn how water-efficient turf can create a beautiful alternative to the typical thirsty lawn.

Bring your plant and insect questions.  Master Gardeners will be available to assist with diagnosing and solving garden problems.

For additional information contact the UC Master Gardeners, 875-6913, http://cesacramento.ucdavis.edu, or www.riverfriendly.org

Saturday, September 22, 8:30-11:30 am
Fair Oaks Horticulture Center
11549 Fair Oaks Boulevard
Fair Oaks, CA 95628

For a map and directions to the FOHC click here.

Learn herb pruning techniques and all about composting with worms.  Irrigation tools: focusing on meters, controllers, low volume systems, and scheduling.  Learn why mulching your garden is important.

BONUS!! Tour the water efficient gardens, view plant groupings featuring both seasonal and year round beauty and see examples of efficient irrigation.  The workshops will feature key components of the 7 River Friendly Landscaping Principles that enrich the home landscape, save water, and reduce maintenance costs.

Master Gardeners will be available to assist the public in diagnosing and solving garden problems.

Located outside – rain or shine!!!  For additional information contact the UC Master Gardeners, 875-6913, or www.riverfriendly.org.