By The Yard

Fayette County Extension

Pest Control: Insect Winter Survival Strategies - A Season of Arresting Development

2

Power Outages 3

February Quick Tips 5

Recipe: “Kickin’ Greens” 5

2019 Gardener’s Toolbox 6

Inside this issue:

Cooperative Extension Service

Fayette County Extension

1140 Harry Sykes Way

Lexington, KY 40504

Phone (859) 257-5582

Email: DL_CES_Fayette@email.uky.edu

February, 2019

HORTICULTURE NEWSLETTER

Planning an Onion Crop

Although we’re in the midst of winter, it is never too soon to think about next growing season. This is particularly true if you want to grown onions.

Onions are a good crop for Kentucky farmers. Typically in late winter it takes eight to 10 weeks to produce a reasonably sized transplant. If you want to plant in late March or the beginning of April, you should have seeded your transplants in late January. If you have not already seeded, it’s not too late for an onion crop this year. You can purchase transplants.

Be sure to buy intermediate day-long or day-neutral onion varieties. Onions can typically be categorized into short, intermediate and long day types.

Onions will bulb in response to day length. Short-day varieties need 11 to 12 hours of sunlight per day to bulb, intermediate-day varieties bulb with 12 to 13 hours of sunlight, and long-day varieties bulb with 13 to 14 hours.

The types of onions grown during the winter in the Deep South, such as Vidalias, are short-day types.

Unfortunately, Kentucky is far enough north that if planted here short-day onions will bulb very early in the spring when plants are still small. The result will be small golf-ball or tennis-ball size bulbs.

Instead, try to buy intermediate-day types such as the popular Candy onion. These will begin to bulb in mid-May and should mature by early- to mid-July.

Many growers report bulbs the size of softballs when growing Candy onions. If you decide to plant a long-day variety, such as Walla Walla or Sweet Spanish, your plants will begin to bulb in June and continue until early August when they will be mature. Although long-day types yield well in Kentucky, high summer temperatures may lead to an increased disease risk.

For more on growing onions and other vegetables, contact the Fayette County Cooperative Extension Service.

Source: Tim Coolong, University of Kentucky, Extension Vegetable Crops Specialist

2019 Gardener’s

Toolbox Class Information is included in this

issue of By The Yard.

One of the classes being

offered is on March 19th at 6:00 p.m.— “Onion

and Leeks”. Class fee is $10.00. Pre-registration

is required. Take a moment to learn

about this and many more topics being offered this year.

Page 2 By The Yard

Pest Control: Insect Winter Survival Strategies – A Season of “Arresting Development”

Continued on Page 3

Surviving Kentucky winters is a challenge for cold-blooded arthropods. A few species, such as the monarch butterfly, cede cold weather to the hardy and fly south for the winter. Those that remain use a state of arrested development called diapause to survive this inhospitable time of year. Clearly, they cope with their challenges more successfully than the media family whose term they share.

Diapause occurs at different stages of the life cycle, depending on the insect species. Preparations include increasing fat stores, producing antifreeze compounds, and moving to some sort of shelter. Their antifreeze allows “super-cooling” so body liquids can drop below freezing without the formation of lethal ice crystals.

The insect species that inhabit Kentucky vary in their susceptibility to winter conditions. Sudden early freezes, days when high temperatures do not climb above freezing, and icy rain without the protection of a blanket of snow can help to “reset” insect populations or distributions that have benefited from precious mild winters.

Understanding wintering strategies and recognizing wintering forms may allow the use of cultural practices to expose pests to the elements and predators or to protect beneficial species.

Arthropod Overwintering Strategies

While the above tactics are generally effective, the potential for survival varies depending on the

insect’s stage of development and degree of exposure to the elements. Here is a look at some overwintering strategies.

Eggs

Eggs are a particularly hardy stage in the life of insects. Hard “shells” or protective coatings produced by females can protect against both predators and temperature extremes (Figure 1).

Silk bags containing hundreds of eggs (Figure 2) would seem like an ideal wintering retreat but 24 hours at -1oF or below can reduce survival by 50%.

Eastern tent caterpillars are winter-hardy insects that are among the first to be active in spring. A varnish-like coating of spumaline, produced by the female moth, keeps eastern tent caterpillar eggs from desiccation and provides some protection from tiny wasps that parasitize the eggs. (Figure 3). Egg removal may be a potential management strategy on small

trees. On the other hand, preservation of praying mantid egg cases (Figure 4) can mean some more natural control during the spring and summer.

Underground Protection

Some insects spend winter belowground, protected by several inches of soil, where they can escape unusually cold winters. This tactic usually is only “uncovered” when turning ground during soil preparation.

May beetles, Japanese beetles, and green June beetles are among the beetles that spend the winter in the soil as white grubs. Even the harshest of winters are unlikely to have a great effect on them. Many of these species are “annual grubs;” most of their feeding was done in late summer so they will feed little if any in spring. A few species spend more than one year as larvae and will continue to feed.

Full grown tobacco and tomato hornworms burrow into the soil and pupate (Figure 6).

Figure 1. Bare egg masses of the predaceous wheel bug can be found on tree and shrub twigs. (Photo: W. Reid,

Kansas State University.)

Figure 2. A silk case protects bagworm eggs, but

they are still vulnerable to the cold

(Photo: Lee Townsend, UK).

Figure 3. A protected mass of the eastern tent caterpillar eggs (Photo: Lee Townsend, UK).

Figure 4. Praying mantid eggs are covered with a hardened foamy

substance (Photo: Lee Townsend, UK).

Figure 5. White grubs often are exposed when turning soil

(Photo: Lee Townsend, UK).

Figure 6. Soil-bound tobacco or tomato hornworm pupae come with “handles” that contain the characteristic long sucking mouthparts of the moths. (Photo: T. Missun, Oldham County

Extension agent)

Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may:

Disrupt communications, water, and transportation.

Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks, and other services.

Cause food spoilage and water

By The Yard Page 3

Pest Control: Insect Winter Survival

Strategies – A Season of “Arresting Development”,

Continued

Contiued on page 4

contamination.

Prevent use of medical devices.

Protect Yourself During a Power Outages:

Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.

Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.

Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.

Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.

Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.

If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling.

Check on neighbors.

How to Stay Safe When a Power Outage Threatens:

Prepare NOW

Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity.

Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.

Plan for batteries and other alternatives to meet your needs when the power goes out.

Sign up for local alerts and warning systems. Monitor weather reports.

They pass the winter in the soil near the site where their host plants were grown.

Little Protection

Colorado potato beetles and woolly bear caterpillars are examples of insects that spend winter in

relatively exposed places, such as under leaf litter or near the soil surface. They are more likely to be killed during cold snaps, especially if there is no snow cover or other protection.

Large numbers of lady beetles (Figure 8) and face flies congregate

Figure 7. A Colorado potato beetle

freshly emerged from its winter hiding place (Photo: Lee Townsend, UK).

Figure 8. Overwintering cluster of multicolored Asian lady beetles.

(Photo: J. Collins, Office of State Entomologist)

in sheltered voids for the winter months and remain active if their lair remains warm. However, they do not reproduce during that time and disperse in spring to resume their lives as predators.

Source: Lee Townsend, University of Kentucky, Extension Entomologist

Power Outages

By The Yard Page 4

Power Outages

Winter Weather Policy

When Fayette County Schools are closed, call the Fayette County Extension Office,

859 257-5582, to verify if class will be meeting.

Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home.

Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.

Review the supplies that are available in case of a power outage. Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member. Have enough nonperishable food and water.

Use a thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer so that you can know the temperature when the power is restored. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.

Keep mobile phones and other electric equipment charged and gas tanks full.

Survive DURING

Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Use coolers with ice if necessary. Monitor temperatures with a thermometer.

Maintain food supplies that do not require refrigeration.

Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators, camp stoves, or charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.

Check on your neighbors. Older adults and young children are especially vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

Go to a community location with power if heat or cold is extreme.

Turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment, or electronics. Power may return with momentary “surges” or “spikes” that can cause damage.

Be Safe AFTER

When in doubt, throw it out! Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40 degrees or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color, or texture.

If the power is out for more than a day, discard any medication that should be refrigerated, unless the drug’s label says otherwise. If a life depends on the refrigerated drugs, consult a doctor or pharmacist and use medicine only until a new supply is available.

Source: Department of Homeland Security

TYPE OF PLANT TIMING

Roses March

Crape Myrtles April

Blue/Pink Hydrangeas As blooms fade

All other hydrangeas March

Boxwood, Holly, Taxus,

Laurel, & all other evergreens March-July

Spring flowering shrubs After they bloom

Summer/Fall flowering shurbs March

Burning Bush/Privet/Hedges March-July

Fruit trees February-March

Shade Trees January-February

When to Prune?

By The Yard Page 5

February Quick Tips

The spring window for seeding

lawns is mid February through mid

March.

Continue to monitor house plants

for pest problems.

Don’t forget water for the birds in

winter!

Now is time to start seedlings

indoors. Wait until late February to

start quick crops like tomatoes.

Have your soil tested now for

spring gardens.

Bring branches of early blooming

spring shrubs indoors for forcing.

Good candidates are Forsythia,

Flowering Quince, Flowering

Cherries, and early blooming

Magnolias.

Prune large shade trees now. If

late in the month, some bleeding

may occur. This is no cause for

concern.

Plan to prune fruit trees this

month. A day with temperatures

above 40 degrees will allow you to

spray them with dormant oil,

which will take care of many

overwintering insect pests.

Shop local garden stores now for

best selection of seeds. Complete

any mail orders for seeds as newer

varieties will sell out quickly. Select

varieties with disease resistance

where possible.

Plan to rotate crops in this year’s

vegetable garden. You want to

avoid not only growing the same

plant in last year’s location but any

related plant from that family.

Ideally try to set up a four year

rotation for each family and plot.

(for example, grow other unrelated

crops for three years before you

plant tomatoes in the same

location again) This makes a big

difference in the amount of disease

pressure.

Enclosed is the 2019 Gardener

Toolbox Class Schedule. All the

classes are still available at this

time, subject to change. Sign up

today!

Please note: If you received the 2019

Gardener’s Toolbox Class Schedule in

January, there was an error on the

registration portion: 12/3 - ”Tips for

Decorating with Fresh Greenery” , the

cost is $10.00 not “Free” as it is noted in

the description portion. Sorry for any

inconvenience that this may have caused.

For More Plate It Up

Recipes, Visit:

http://fcs-

hes.ca.uky.edu/content/

plate-it-kentucky-proud

Limited seats available! Please call 859-257-5582 to RSVP

There are many great reasons to grow some of your own food. We will teach the very

basic concepts of growing vegetables. This class will focus on the early spring crops that

can be planted and harvested before the main spring planting window. It is far easier than

you might think. Participants will receive a copy of our vegetable growing guide and a

packet of seeds. Class will be led by Fayette County Horticulture Technician Carrie Spry.

Sponsored by our Friends at Lexington Southern States Cooperative

VEGETABLE GARDENING

FOR BEGINNERS: Early Spring Crops

Thursday, March 7th, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. at Southern States of Lexington

2570 Palumbo Dr.

Free but must RSVP

2019 CLASSES

We are happy to offer you the following opportunities to learn more about gardening. Please remember that many of the classes are limited. Please

register early to assure a spot in the classes you wish to attend. Please note, start time has changed to 6:00 p.m. Please read each description closely

to be sure of the time your class(es) begin.

Jamie’s Recommended Vegetable Varieties ~ Tuesday, January 22nd, 6:00 p.m.: We will

discuss the merits of numerous vegetable varieties that have proven easy to grow in central Kentucky. Many of these feature atypical colors or other things you may not have encountered. This is not a class on how to grow vegetables but a discussion of proven performers that are likely to end up on your list every year. We will send you home with several types of seed for your own garden. Cost: $10.00

Tips for Improving Your Internet Searches ~Thursday, January 24th, 6:00 p.m.: We all

search the internet for garden information but there are many sites that are not reliable sources. Rebecca Montano-Smith, Lexington Public Library and Extension Master Gardener, will seek to increase your knowledge of the search process related to gardening information. Learn tips to help you access the most reliable research based information. Cost: Free, but must pre-register to reserve a seat.

Seed Starting ~ Thursday, February 7th, 6:00 p.m.: Growing your own transplants indoors. Learn

tips and techniques to help you successfully grow healthy plants indoors under lights. We will discuss different lighting options for your consideration. Participants will receive materials to take home to grow their own transplants. We will use several of our seed starting props as door prizes. Cost: $5.00

Zinnias ~ Tuesday, February 26th, 6:00 p.m.: The wildly popular zinnia is a favorite no brainer but

often succumbs to disease problems. We will introduce you to improved varieties that will have friends and neighbors drooling. You will be amazed at the bloom size, disease resistance and super bright colors. We will also offer some smaller flowered types that make great bedding plants. You will take home seeds for several colors and types. Cost: $10.00

Vegetable Gardening for Beginners, The Early Spring Crops ~ Thursday, March 7th, 6:00 p.m.: There are many great reasons to grow some of your own food. We will teach the very basic

concepts of growing vegetables. This class will focus on the early spring crops that can be planted and harvested before the main spring planting window. It is far easier than you might think. Participants will receive a copy of our vegetable growing guide and a packet of seeds. Class will be held at Southern States Cooperative, 2570 Palumbo Drive. Cost is free, but please call the Fayette County Extension office, (859) 257-5582, to reserve a seat.

Cooperative Extension Service

Fayette County Extension

1140 Harry Sykes Way

Lexington, KY 40504-1383

Phone (859) 257-5582

Email: DL_CES_Fayette@email.uky.edu

http://fayette.ca.uky.edu/

Local Plant Societies and Garden Clubs Fair ~ Thursday, March 14th, 6:00 p.m.: We are

hosting a meet and greet for as many garden clubs and plant groups as we can assemble. Come learn more about these organizations and ask these experts questions about your favorite plants. Mingle with other gardeners who share your interests. We will provide light refreshments and ongoing door prizes at this event. Cost: Free, but must pre-register to reserve a seat.

Onions and Leeks ~ Tuesday, March 19th, 6:00 p.m.: This class will provide an overview of the

commonly grown onions and their relatives. We will provide transplants of newer, harder to find onions and leeks for your garden. You can have some form of onion for kitchen use year round with a little planning. Cost: $10.00

Vegetable Gardening for Beginners ~ Thursday, March 21st, 6:00 p.m.: There are many great

reasons to grow some of your own food. We will teach the very basic concepts of growing vegetables. While this class will focus on the early spring crops that can be planted and harvested before the main planting window, we will also touch on a few of the popular summer crops. It is far easier than you might think. Participants will receive a copy of our vegetable growing guide and a packet of seeds. Class will be held at the Northside Branch Public Library, 1733 Russell Cave Road. Cost is free, but please call the Fayette County Extension office, (859) 257-5582, to reserve a seat.

Favorite Flowers for Cutting ~ Tuesday, March 26th, 6:00 p.m.: Val Schirmer of Three Toad’s

Farm will present her favorite cut flowers and best choices to grow in your garden. In this informative session she will also cover cut flower basics, share tips and tricks to help you succeed, and field any questions. We will raffle a pair of pruners as a door prize. Cost is free, but please pre-register to reserve a seat.

Breaking Ground ~ Thursday, March 28th, 6:00 p.m.: Suppose you want a vegetable garden out back

or possibly to extend a landscape bed? Where do you begin when you have lawn or weeds? There are many options and we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each including methods of removing existing growth, options for improving soil and when raised beds are better choices. Cost: Free, but must pre-register to reserve a seat.

Pruning Trees and Shrubs ~Thursday, April 4th, 6:00 p.m.: Proper pruning is an integral part of

landscape management. Many homeowners are daunted by the task or plunge ahead hacking mercilessly. Join us to learn the basics of proper pruning including how to make proper cuts, appropriate timing, and even when to call a professional. Door prizes to consist of Felco pruners and a nice pruning saw. Cost: $10.00

Spectacular Sunflowers ~ Thursday, April 11th, 6:00 p.m.: One of the easiest and most rewarding

plants to grow. Did you know sunflowers now come in a wide range of colors and sizes, including pollenless types for cutting? We will cover how to plant and grow sunflowers and provide each class member a variety of unusual types to grow in your home garden. Cost: $10.00

Chicago Botanic Garden’s Plant Trial Program ~ Tuesday, April 23rd, 2:00 p.m.: Richard

Hawke, Plant Evaluation Manager and Associate Scientist, will discuss components of the plant evaluation program at CBG, such as comparative trials, plant exploration, and invasive species testing. A behind the scenes look at how better plants advance in the industry. Cost: Free, but please advance register to reserve a seat.

Top Performing Perennials from the Chicago Botanic Gardens Trials ~Tuesday, April 23rd, 6:00 p.m.: Richard Hawke will present a second talk featuring which perennials have performed best over the

years. He will discuss a number of newer varieties of several species. This information will be a valuable asset to any perennial gardener. Cost: Free, but please advance register to reserve a seat.

The Challenges of Dry Shade ~Tuesday, April 30th 6:00 p.m.: If you have trees, you have shade,

and the dry inhospitable areas under trees can give gardeners fits. This is not a long list of plants that will grow there, those are few in number and tolerate these conditions more so than thrive. We will discuss alternatives to planting, ways to assist plants along, and techniques to establish a few of the tougher options. This will not solve your problems but give you a few pointers to help in the battle. Take home a few of the tougher options to try. Cost: $15.00

Page 2

Growing Great Tomatoes ~ Thursday, May 2nd, 6:00 p.m.: A whole class about everyone’s favorite

summer vegetable. We will discuss techniques for growing great tomatoes and how to avoid common pitfalls. There will be an emphasis on disease prevention. Each class member will take home two great varieties for your own mini trial. Cost: Free but must pre-register to reserve a seat.

Unusual Large Annual Flowers that Wow ~ Thursday, May 9th, 6:00 p.m.: Not for timid

gardeners nor the space limited. There are some fascinating and beautiful annuals that reach large proportions and are barely known. Many are easy to start from seed. If you love to thrill garden visitors and invite queries like, “What on Earth is that?” this is the place for you. Barring any crop failures, I have secured a very special, late flowering monster (6-8’) for you to grow at home. Cost: $10.00

Vegetable Gardening for Beginners Part II, Maintenance and Summer Crops ~ Thursday, May 16th, 6:00 p.m.: This class will cover some of the most basic questions for any first time gardener when it

comes to maintaining the new plot. Topics will include things like watering, pest/weed management, and fertilizing. We will also cover some of the warm season crops like tomatoes, peppers, beans, and squash. Participants will receive a copy of our vegetable growing guide, a packet of seeds, and there will also be drawings for a few door prizes that any first time gardener will love. Class will be held at Southern States Cooperative, 2570 Palumbo Drive. Cost is free, but please call the Fayette County Extension office, (859) 257-5582, to reserve a seat.

Spring Herb Gardening ~ Tuesday, May 21st, 6:00 p.m.: Seeding and planting, early use and care of

herbs. Learn about perennial, annual, and biennial herbs, when to plant seeds, which herbs are better as transplants. This knowledgeable group will share many tips along the way. Participants take home seed packets of easy to grow annual herbs. Cost: Free, but must pre-register to reserve a seat.

Perennial Ferns ~ Thursday, May 23rd, 6:00 p.m.: Ferns are nice garden plants that should be

included in every shady landscape but their cultural needs vary widely. We will discuss the growing requirements for many of the species we encounter in garden settings. Some need wet areas, some tolerate dry, but all are astonishingly beautiful and easily grown in the right location. We will send you home with 3 different hardy ferns to trial in your own garden. Cost: $15.00

Perennials for Shady Gardens ~ Thursday, May 30th, 6:00 p.m.: We will cover numerous

perennials for shady spots. Most will require some degree of moisture but shade doesn’t have to limit gardeners excessively. We will share mulching and watering tips to help keep things looking their best. From Hosta and ferns to flowering plants, we hope to expand your list of options. We will provide small plants to try in your garden. Cost: $10.00

Late Flowering Perennials ~ Tuesday, June 4th, 6:00 p.m.: Color in the perennial garden tends to

nosedive around August 1st. Your garden doesn’t have to be drab into the fall. This is a list of perennial plants that flower in this window. There is a whole world beyond sedum and mums. We will also discuss the role grasses, shrubs and textures can play during the dog days of summer. Take home small plants to grow at home. Cost: $10.00

Figs Without the Fuss ~ Thursday, June 6th, 6:00 p.m.: Anyone who has ever tasted a ripe fig from

the tree would tell you there is nothing else like it. Did you know there is a variety of fig that can survive our winters without elaborate covers and still produce a few ripe figs? Come to our class to learn about growing figs in Kentucky’s climate and take home a “Chicago hardy” fig for your own landscape. Cost: $10.00

Primocane Blackberries ~ Tuesday, June 25th, 6:00 p.m.: Perhaps you have heard of these new

blackberries that bear fruit on the current season’s growth like fall bearing raspberries. Now available without thorns, these varieties extend our blackberry season into fall and are nice complements to summer varieties. The fruits have high sugar levels. Each participant will receive 3-“Prime Ark Freedom” berry plants for their backyard homestead. Cost: $15.00

Page 3

Growing Blueberries in Kentucky ~ Thursday, June 27th, 6:00 p.m.: Challenging, to say the least,

but you can be successful if willing to go the extra mile (or few). Blueberries do not thrive in heavy, poorly drained, high pH, Bluegrass region soils. Creating raised beds, amending soils with organic matter and summer watering can lead to success. Blueberries have few insect or disease issues if you can achieve suitable soil and drainage conditions. We will share requirements and tips for success. Take home two compatible varieties to try at home. Cost: $20.00

Starting New Plants from Cuttings ~ Tuesday, July 9th, 6:00 p.m.: Many common plants,

including shrubs, can be easily propagated from stem cuttings. We will discuss the importance of taking cuttings at the proper time, how to maximize success, and how to grow rooted cuttings to a larger size before planting. If you are a patient gardener you can save lots of money with this technique or you may simply want to start a plant of grandma’s old fashioned rose bush. Either way, learn how easy and rewarding this process can be. Cost: Free but please pre-register to reserve a seat.

Perennial Plants of the Year ~Thursday, July 18th, 6:00 p.m.: The Perennial Plants of the Year®

(POY®) program began in 1990 to showcase a perennial that is a standout among its competitors. Perennials chosen are suitable for a wide range of growing climates, require low maintenance, have multiple-season interest, and are relatively pest/disease-free. If you are looking for an excellent perennial for your next landscape project or something reliable for your gardens, this class you help you select known performers. We will provide more information on each variety and send you home with a small plant (or maybe two) to try at home. Cost: $5.00

Hydrangeas ~ Tuesday, July 30th, 6:00 p.m.: Not to burst your bubble, but those giant pink and blue

varieties tend to perform poorly in our climate. We hope to open your eyes to all the other wonderful hydrangeas that you might not know as well. And yes, we will offer some tips that may improve the odds of your being successful with the blue ones. Take home small plants of more durable varieties for your garden. Cost: $20.00

Low Input Lawn Care- Seeding and Renovation ~ Thursday, August 8th, 6:00 p.m.: We will

cover the basics of caring for a lawn with an emphasis on lower input, sustainable methods. Learn why late summer is the best time to renovate and how common fertilization practices are often not the best approach. We will also discuss alternatives to grass monocultures and share other tips. This is always hugely popular so sign up early. Cost: Free but please pre-register to reserve a spot.

Harvesting and Storing Herbs ~ Tuesday, August 27th, 6:00 p.m.: How to harvest, dry and store

herbs. Which herbs are perennial and will come back next year? Which ones can you take into your home, or grow from seed over the winter? Demonstrations on harvesting herbs, advice on putting the garden to bed for the winter. Demonstrate how to make herbal blends such as herbs de Provence and meat rubs from dried herbs. Take home cuttings to use at home and herb seed packets. Cost: Free, but must pre-register to reserve a seat.

African Violets– Tuesday, September 17th, 6:00 p.m.: Your grandmother (or someone you knew)

probably grew these on a windowsill. One of the easiest flowering houseplants to grow once you know what they require. These are relatively foolproof plants. We will cover culture, care and pitfalls. We will also discuss growing under lights, simple wick watering systems and propagation from leaf cuttings. Everyone will take home a couple to practice on. Cost: $10.00

Peonies ~ Thursday, September 26th, 6:00 p.m.: There are few perennials that you can plant and

forget but peonies certainly qualify. Peonies often exist in cemeteries without care for decades. Join us to learn about herbaceous peonies and take home three of these gorgeous plants for your own garden. Cost: $20.00

Tulips ~ Thursday, October 10th, 6:00 p.m.: Although they are not likely to return year after year like

some daffodils, Tulips are arguably the showiest of all the spring flowering bulbs. We will discuss the various types of tulips and which ones may be more likely to return for a few years. You will take home a sampler of unusual varieties for your home garden. Since retail stores rarely stock deep selections of bulbs you may be amazed at what is available from specialty suppliers. Anticipate roughly 25 total bulbs to plant with several varieties included. Cost: $20.00

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Unique Daffodils ~ Tuesday, October 22nd, 6:00 p.m.: Everyone loves the sight of the cheerful

spring daffodils with their promise of warmer days to come. We all know the large yellow trumpet varieties but there are 13 divisions of these amazing bulbs including miniatures, doubles, small cupped, double, etc. We will explore the genus with tips for planting and naturalizing. Each class member will take home a sampler of lesser known daffodil bulbs for their own garden. We will include a generous assortment. Cost: $15.00

Garden Clean Up with Emphasis on More Natural Approaches ~ Tuesday, October 29th, 6:00 p.m.: Honestly, a class more about not cleaning up in the fall. Dead plant material, fallen leaves, and

standing stalks all play a role in nature. We will discuss the benefits of less fall clean up. From building better soils to protecting insects and pollinators, natural approaches equate to more sustainable gardens with many benefits. Come and learn if these lower input strategies make sense for your property. Cost: Free, but please pre-register to reserve a spot.

Jamie’s Farm and Garden - A Virtual Tour ~Thursday, November 7th, 6:00 p.m.: I do not

love sharing my garden with folks. In reality, a weedy mess that is never as well maintained as I would like. However, your continual requests coupled with a worthy partner in need of fund-raising efforts has led us here. Our partner and beneficiary is Hope Spay and Neuter Clinic in Versailles. They will receive all registration monies from this class and start our program with a brief discussion of their mission and their work to diminish feral cat populations. I will follow with a fairly fast paced, image heavy slide show of gardens and animals with the usual rambling narrative. This will run longer than the usual one hour. Hope you will join us to support this worthy cause. Cost: $25.00 at the Fayette County Extension Office

Attracting Pollinators and Beneficial Insects ~ Tuesday, November 19th, 6:00 p.m.: As our

precious honeybees have struggled we have all become more aware of the importance of pollinators and beneficial insects in our home gardens. This class will discuss some of the best plants to attract and feed these welcome visitors and some common management practices you may want to avoid to favor these types of insects. Cost: Free, but please pre-register to reserve a spot.

Holiday Gift Ideas From Your Herb Garden ~ Thursday, November 21st, 6:00 p.m.: Need another holiday gift or just enjoy having fun creating beautiful herbal crafts? Join us in making gift items of lavender bath salts, hanging herb balls and other fun crafts. Cost: $5.00

Tips for Decorating with Fresh Greenery ~ Tuesday, December 3rd , 6:00 p.m.: You can

create beautiful holiday wreaths, garlands, swags and centerpieces using materials from your own yard. Jamie Dockery will demonstrate several items. Please be aware, this is NOT a “hands-on” workshop. We will share many tips and tricks along the way. Our demonstrations will be raffled as door prizes. Cost: $10.00

Page 5

Winter Weather Policy When Fayette County Schools are closed,

call the Fayette County Extension Office,

(859) 257-5582, to verify if class will be class.

Page 6

CLASS FULL

~ 2019 GARDENER’S TOOLBOX CLASSES ~ Keep this chart for your Records

Majority of the classes will be held at the Fayette County Extension Office,

1140 Harry Sykes Way at 6:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

Class and Time Class and Time

Tuesday, 1/22/19: Jamie’s Recommended Vegetable Varieties Thursday, 1/24/19: Tips for Improving Your Internet Searches

Thursday, 2/7/19: Seed Starting Tuesday, 2/26/19: Zinnias

Thursday, 3/7/19: Vegetable Gardening for Beginners, The Early Crop @ Southern States, 2570 Palumbo Drive, Lexington

Thursday, 3/14/19: Local Plant Societies and Garden Clubs Fair

Tuesday, 3/19/19: Onions and Leeks Thursday, 3/21/19: Vegetable Gardening for Beginners @ Northside Branch Public Library, 1733 Russell Cave Road, Lexington

Tuesday, 3/26/19: Favorite Flowers for Cutting Thursday, 3/28/19: Breaking Ground

Thursday, 4/4/19: Pruning Trees and Shrubs Thursday, 4/11/19: Spectacular Sunflowers

Tuesday, 4/23/19 @ 2:00 p.m.: Chicago Botanic Garden’s

Plant Trial Program

Tuesday, 4/23/19: Top Performing Perennials from the Chicago Botanic Gardens Trials

Tuesday, 4/30/19: The Challenges of Dry Shade Thursday, 5/2/19: Growing Great Tomatoes

Thursday, 5/9/19: Unusual Large Annual Flowers that Wow Thursday, 5/16/19: Vegetable Gardening for Beginners, Part II, Maintenance and Summer Crops @ Southern States Cooperative, 2570 Palumbo Drive, Lexington

Tuesday, 5/21/19: Spring Herb Gardening Thursday, 5/23/19: Perennial Ferns

Thursday, 5/30/19: Perennials for Shady Gardens Tuesday, 6/4/19: Late Flowering Perennials

Thursday, 6/6/19: Figs Without the Fuss Tuesday, 6/25/19: Primocane Blackberries

Thursday, 6/27/19: Growing Blueberries in Kentucky Tuesday, 7/9/19: Starting New Plants from Cuttings

Thursday, 7/18/19: Perennial Plants of the Year Tuesday, 7/30/19: Hydrangeas

Thursday, 8/8/19: Low Input Lawn Care: Seeding and Renovation Tuesday, 8/27/19: Harvesting and Storing Herbs

Tuesday, 9/17/19: African Violets Thursday, 9/26/19: Peonies

Thursday, 10/10/19: Tulips Tuesday, 10/22/19: Unique Daffodils

Tuesday, 10/29/19: Garden Clean Up with Emphasis on More Natural Approaches

Thursday, 11/7/19: Jamie’s Farm and Garden - A Virtual Tour

Tuesday, 11/19/19: Attracting Pollinators and Beneficial Insects Thursday, 11/21/19: Holiday Gift Ideas From Your Herb Garden

Tuesday, 12/3/19: Tips for Decorating with Fresh Greenery

2019 GARDENER’S TOOLBOX - REGISTRATION FORM Name: ________________________Phone: _____________E-Mail:________________________

Address: ______________________________City: ______________State: ____ Zip: _________

TOTAL Amount Enclosed $ ________

IMPORTANT REMINDERS!

Sign up early for classes to avoid being turned away because class is full.

ALL classes, including the “Free” ones are “PRE-REGISTRATION” only.

If you need to cancel, you must do so 2 weeks prior to the class time to receive a refund orcredit for a different class.

If handouts and/or plants are not picked up 3 days after class, items will be donated.

Please make check payable to: Fayette County Master Gardener Association Mail To: Gardener’s Toolbox ~ Fayette County Extension Office

1140 Harry Sykes Way ~ Lexington, KY 40504 For more information, call (859) 257-5582

~ 2019 GARDENER’S TOOLBOX CLASSES ~

Class and Cost Class and Cost

Tuesday, 1/22: Jamie’s Recommended Vegetable Varieties, Cost $10.00 Thursday, 1/24: Tips for Improving Your Internet Searches, Cost: Free

Thursday, 2/7: Seed Starting, Cost: $5.00 Tuesday, 2/26: Zinnias, Cost: $10.00

Thursday, 3/7: Vegetable Gardening for Beginners, The Early Crop @ Southern States, 2570 Palumbo Drive, Lexington, Cost: Free

Thursday, 3/14: Local Plant Societies and Garden Clubs Fair:, Cost: Free

Tuesday, 3/19: Onions and Leeks, Cost: $10.00 Thursday, 3/21: Vegetable Gardening for Beginners @ Northside branch Public Library, 1733 Russell Cave Road, Lexington, Cost: Free

Tuesday, 3/26: Favorite Flowers for Cutting, Cost: Free Thursday, 3/28: Breaking Ground, Cost: Free

Thursday, 4/4: Pruning Trees and Shrubs, Cost: $10.00 Thursday, 4/11: Spectacular Sunflowers, Cost: $10.00

Tuesday, 4/23 @ 2:00 p.m.: Chicago Botanic Garden’s Plant Trial Program, Cost: Free

Tuesday, 4/23: Top Performing Perennials for the Chicago Botanic Gardens Trials, Cost: Free

Tuesday, 4/30: The Challenges of Dry Shade, Cost: $15.00 Thursday, 5/2: Growing Great Tomatoes, Cost: Free

Thursday, 5/9/19: Unusual Large Annual Flowers that Wow, Cost: $10.00

Thursday, 5/16: Vegetable Gardening for Beginners, Part II, Maintenance and Summer Crops @ Southern States Cooperative, 2570 Palumbo Drive, Lexington, Cost: Free

Tuesday, 5/21: Spring Herb Gardening, Cost: Free Thursday, 5/23: Perennial Ferns, Cost: $15.00

Thursday, 5/30: Perennials for Shady Gardens, Cost: $10.00 Tuesday, 6/4: Late Flowering Perennials, Cost: $10.00

Thursday, 6/6: Figs Without the Fuss, Cost: $10.00 Tuesday, 6/25: Primocane Blackberries, Cost: $15.00

Thursday, 6/27: Growing Blueberries in Kentucky, Cost: $20.00 Tuesday, 7/9: Starting New Plants from Cuttings, Cost: Free

Thursday, 7/18: Perennial Plants of the Year, Cost: $5.00 Tuesday, 7/30: Hydrangeas, Cost: $20.00

Thursday, 8/8: Low Input Lawn Care: Seeding and Renovation, Cost: Free

Tuesday, 8/27: Harvesting and Storing Herbs, Cost: Free

Tuesday, 9/17: African Violets, Cost: $10.00 Thursday, 9/26: Peonies, Cost: $20.00

Thursday, 10/10: Tulips, Cost: $20.00 Tuesday, 10/22: Unique Daffodils, Cost: $15.00

Tuesday, 10/29: Garden Clean Up with Emphasis on More Natural Approaches, Cost: Free

Thursday, 11/7: Jamie’s Farm and Garden - A Virtual Tour, Cost: $25.00

Tuesday, 11/19: Attracting Pollinators and Beneficial Insects, Cost: Free

Thursday, 11/21: Holiday Gift Ideas From Your Herb Garden, Cost: $5.00

Tuesday, 12/3: Tips for Decorating with Fresh Greenery, Cost: $10.00

NONPROFIT ORG

US POSTAGE PAID

Lexington, KY

PERMIT 112

Newsletter

Enclosed

Fayette County

“By the Yard”

Fayette County Cooperative Extension 1140 Harry Sykes Way Lexington, KY 40504-1383

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

The College of Agriculture, Food and Environment is an

Equal Opportunity Organization with respect to education

and employment and authorization to provide research,

education information and other services only to individuals

and institutions that function without regard to economic or

social status and will not discriminate on the bases of race,

color, ethnic origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual

orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy,

marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or

physical or mental disability. Inquiries regarding compliance

with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964,

Title IX of the Educational Amendments, Section 504 of the

Rehabilitation Act and other related matter should be

directed to Equal Opportunity Office, College of Agriculture,

Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Room

S-105, Agriculture Science Building, North Lexington,

Kentucky 40546.

Jamie Dockery

County Extension Agent for Horticulture Cooperative Extension Service

Fayette County Extension Service 1140 Harry Sykes Way

Lexington, KY 40504-1383 (859) 257-5582

UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY, KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,

AND KENTUCKY COUNTIES, COOPERATING