Grow Your Knowledge

Access growing information and printable guides on caring for lawns, creating pollinator habitat, and fruit tree and berry plant care.

Plants for Birds

Plants for Birds

Feeding birds can be fun, but without the appropriate habitat the quantity and variety of birds showing up at feeders can be limited. Here are some recommendations of plants that provide birds with the food and shelter they need to thrive. Native plants are preferred,...

Bee & Pollinator Plants for the Pacific Northwest Garden

Bee & Pollinator Plants for the Pacific Northwest Garden

Planning a Multi-Pollinator Landscape Plant a wide variety of nectar plants with different colors, forms, and as wide of a bloom time as available. Plant pollen plants, as wide a bloom time as possible, for honey bees and native bees. Plant larval host plants for...

Fruit, Nut, and Ornamental Tree Spray Schedules

Fruit, Nut, and Ornamental Tree Spray Schedules

Regular seasonal spraying is very important for fruit production in Western Oregon. Timed sprays help to control fungal diseases, insects and some bacterial diseases. When spraying in Fall, Winter, and Early Spring, sprays should evenly coat all branches and the...

How to Restore a Troubled Lawn

How to Restore a Troubled Lawn

Is your lawn tired, stressed, patchy, or diseased? Take steps now to ensure a lush and healthy lawn. Healthy Soil = Healthy Lawn The foundation of your lawn is the soil. Especially in the Willamette Valley, where soils are generally heavy clay, it is important to take...

Plants for Hummingbirds

Plants for Hummingbirds

Transform your outdoor space into a vibrant haven for the most enchanting visitors – hummingbirds! These delightful creatures are not just a joy to watch; they also play a crucial role in pollination, contributing to the health of your garden. Choose These Plants for...

Got Deer? Choose Deer Tolerant Plants

Got Deer? Choose Deer Tolerant Plants

It must be noted - deer are browsers, and as such they are always taste testing. The best defense to deer is a 7 to 10 foot high fence. Other options include scent repellents, Liquid Fence. Also, motion activated sprinklers or lights may deter deer for a while. Other...