The Orange County Master Gardeners will be at the Carrboro Farmers’ Market on April 17 ready to help you solve your gardening and plant conundrums. Feel free to bring plants that need identification. You can also learn how to become a master gardener. A new class is starting in October 2010 for those interested in becoming one and volunteering to help the community with garden projects.
This week’s master gardener tip:
“When purchasing bedding annuals this spring, choose properly grown plants with good color (green, not pale yellowish). Buy plants with well-developed root systems that are vigorous but not too large for their pots. Transplant in the late afternoon if you have a choice. This allows the plant to establish overnight.
Avoid purchasing tomato or pepper transplants that are already in bloom. Once planted, they will focus on fruiting vs. growing and producing a strong root system. This can result in a small plant that bears less fruit.â€
Contact a master gardener at ocmgardeners@gmail.com. Gardeners are on call in Hillsborough Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to noon at 245-2061 and at the N.C. Botanical Garden Wednesday and Friday from noon to 2 p.m. at 962-0522.