PHOTO: Native Salvia dorrii, in bloom at Gateway Science Museum’s Native Plant Pollinator Garden. The garden has received no supplemental water since November of 2013.
It never seems to fail that despite plenty to do in the garden in January and February, there is a sense of waiting, and yet by March we are running to catch up. The season of seeding and plant sales and flower shows is upon us in a big way and this month holds some of the best public educational and entertainment events of the year. Despite our record low precipitation, March is a month that bursts at the seams with life.
It also rarely seems to fail in life that it takes the Universe giving us a good shove to get us to change our established ways and views on things. As devastating as this drought is and stands to be for us as gardeners, with the urgency it creates it also affords us an important opportunity to re-view our gardens and our gardening habits.
PHOTO: Native Mahonia ‘Golden Abundance’, is in bloom now, fragrant and bright, it is a pollinator magnet.
A few weeks ago, the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden Staff sent out these “7 tips for Landscape Survival During Drought Times”, which I appreciated seeing their responses to the situation as a large agency, and I appreciated the tips themselves as thoughtful and helpful.
7 TIPS FOR LANDSCAPE SURVIVAL DURING DROUGHT TIMES
With water reserves at all-time lows, water rates reaching all-time highs, and severe water rationing on the horizon, representatives from the staff at the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden compiled some quick tips for homeowners whose goal is to save water as well as their landscapes.
1. Mulch. “If I could only give one recommendation it would be mulch, mulch, mulch!” cites Cary Avery, associate director of grounds and landscape services. “Mulching not only keeps the ground moist, but as the mulch breaks down, it provides good nutrients for your plants, improves your soil quality, and looks attractive in areas where there’s little landscaping or your plants have not filled in.”
2. Compost. “Add compost! The sponge-like nature of compost means that rain or irrigation water will be absorbed and stay in your soil, where your plants need it, instead of trickling off into the gutter,” says Stacey Parker, GATEways horticulturist. “Add compost before you mulch to double the impact of your water investment.”
3. Focus on your trees. “In times like these you expect that your lawn will suffer, but don’t forget about your trees if you decide to turn off your irrigation altogether,” explains Ryan Deering, GATEways horticulturist. “Give your trees a deep watering with a hose about every two weeks. If you lose your lawn, it’s not the end of the world. In fact, it may be a good thing. But if you lose a tree, you’ve lost years of a shade canopy, and a nice wildlife habitat, not to mention it’s value in terms of home energy conservation.”
4. Tune up your irrigation. “With the recent freezing weather you’ll want to look at your irrigation system closely to make sure you aren’t losing water due to any broken pipes. Turn on your system and make sure water is going on the plants or turf you want to irrigate. An efficient well-tuned irrigation system will use less water if properly managed and maintained,” recommends Matt Forrest, irrigation supervisor. “Once that has been evaluated, talk to someone at your local hardware store about replacing old sprinkler heads with low-water-use heads for turf, and consider converting shrub and ground cover irrigation to drip or micro-spray. These small changes will help make sure you are watering your plants, not sidewalks or driveways.”
5. Reduce your watering schedule. “If you haven’t already, do it. It’s the simplest way to conserve,” says Andrew Fulks, director of the UC Davis Putah Creek, Riparian Reserve and campus naturalized landscapes. “If you are irrigating for 15 minutes, turn it down to 6. If you are watering four days a week, change it to two, and make sure you are watering in the early morning or late at night. Give the water a chance to seep into the soil before the sun comes out and you lose it to evaporation.”
What if you’ve already done these things? What’s next for the advanced water-saving homeowner?
6. Replace your plants (lawn) with California natives. “Many homeowners are interested in this type of landscape, but worry that the plants might be hard to grow. However, with right mix, you’ll have an easy-care garden, year-round interest and color in your landscape, long-term water-savings once the plants are established, and much-needed habitat for our pollinator friends,” explains Ellen Zagory, horticulturist. “In addition, people also worry they’ll have trouble finding the plants at their local retailer. Come to the Friends of the UC Davis Arboretum plants sales this season. We’ve got a great selection of native plants for this purpose, and we’ll point you in the right direction.”
PHOTO: Lady apple in bloom.
Monthly Gardening Tasks:
The luminous insistence of growing things – as described by Ansel Adams – navigates and is oriented by the particular quality of light at any one moment in a day, in a season, in a life. You, me, our gardens, photographers, poets, plants people and pansies – are calibrated to a certain amount of light – and of dark – in order to thrive. We need sufficient amounts of both. We rise and rest with the shifting of the light as with any other essential nutrient. By the moment of the Vernal Equinox, we will be receiving close to 2 hours and 40 minutes more daylight than we received on the Winter Solstice in December – and the whole world will energetically reflect this added luminosity and the benefits gained from the healing of winter’s rest.
Verbascum rosette on a frosty February morning
Onion seedlings
PHOTO: Spring harvested parsnips.
Gardening events around the North State this month support us in our own re-views of how and why we make gardening choices – from how to re-do your irrigation for greater efficiency to how to remove the areas of lawn you have never used and replace it with lively and lovely flowering and fruiting habitat for all manner of life – all while using a fraction of the inputs, water, maintenance, time and money – all precious natural resources.
The On-line Calendar of Regional Gardening Events at jewellgarden.com adds events throughout the month. I do my very best to keep the calendar up to date and accurate, please confirm all events with the event host. If you have an event you would like listed or if you are aware of a mistake on the calendar, please send all pertinent information to: Jennifer@jewellgarden.com! Thanks!
PHOTO: Welcome rains have finally come. We are still in a serious drought, but every bit helps.
MARCH 2014
March 1 – Chico: Mt. Lassen Chapter of the California Native Plant Society Field Trip: Yahi Trail in Upper Bidwell Park, Chico Meet at Parking Lot L (Diversion Dam, about 1.7 miles past Horseshoe Lake) at 9 am. Wear sturdy shoes. Bring a lunch, water, insect and sun protection., Hike the scenic Yahi Trail in a majestic canyon with spectacular vistas. We’ll walk about 2-1/2 miles to the trail’s end at 800 feet elevation, returning by the park road. The first mile is on a narrow uneven trail that must be negotiated with care. Call leader Gerry at 530-893-5123 for more information. For more information see website at mountlassen.cnps.org
March 1 – Chico: Friends of the Chico State Herbarium Workshop: Introduction to Lichen Identification with Tom Carlberg 9 am – 4 pm. Questionably plants, definitely native, unquestionably important, and usually small, lichens are an overlooked but present link in most ecosys- tems. Tolerant and intolerant of locales that are arid and inundated, pol- luted and pristine, responses to environmental stresses vary widely by species. There are reported to be slightly less than 5000 species in 646 genera in North America and more than 1600 species in California, yet few people are able to place names on even the most common lichens, which means that an essential component of most natural resource inven- tories is lacking. Opportunities to learn about identifying lichens are in- frequent, although the basic characters used in identification can easily be learned in a day. This one-day workshop will focus on identifying the lichens of the lower Sierra Nevada foothills to genus.The workshop will meet Saturday, March 1, 2014, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in Holt Hall room 129 at CSU Chico. Registration is $100.00 personal, $125.00 business, $90.00 for members of Friends of the Herbar- ium, $40.00 student (only 2 seats available at the stu- dent price). Please register in advance; class size is lim- ited to 16 participants, class cancelled without at least 10 participants. For more information about workshop content please contact Tom Carlberg at tcarl- berg7@yahoo.com. For more information about regis- tration please contact the Biology office at (530) 898- 5356 or at jbraden@csuchico.edu.
March 1 – Redding: McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Turtle Bay: Charlie Rabbit and His Friends 10:30 am. Join us the first Saturday of every month for an interactive program in the Gardens (or Greenhouse when it rains) for children, their siblings, parents and Grandparents. Join Charlie, our adorable jack rabbit puppet, in various gardening activities. Wear your favorite gardening clothes! Presented by Dennis and Sherrill Bambauer. Free with park admission! Meet at the Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Office (1135 Arboretum Drive next to Nursery Greenhouse)
PHOTO: Cherry blossoms.
March 1 – Redding: Wyntour Gardens: VICTORY GARDEN SERIES CLASS 1: THE BASICS 10 am and 1 pm, If you are new to vegetable gardening, this is the class for you. We cover everything from location, soil, planting, plants, watering & pests. Please call or email to reserve your seat! 8026 Airport Road – Redding, CA. 96002 – 530-365-2256 – Email Us: inform@wyntourgarden.com. Hours of Operation: Monday thru Saturday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sundays: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
March 1 – Davis: UC Davis Arboretum Guided Tour: All Things Acacia 2 p.m., Putah Creek Lodge. Enjoy an early spring display of yellow blossoms on this guided tour of the Eric E. Conn Acacia Grove. The grove features more than 50 different acacias from around the world. The event is free; limited free one hour parking is available along Garrod Drive near the Gazebo or in nearby Visitor Parking Lot 55 where parking can be paid by meter or by purchase of an $8 daily pass. For more information and directions, please call (530) 752-4880 or visit http://arboretum.ucdavis.edu/calendar.aspx.
March 1 – Chico: Wolfgang Rougle and Slow Food Shasta Cascade Wild Food Bounty of Lower Bidwell Park: 3 pm. Join Wolfgang Rougle and Slow Food Shasta Cascade for an easy ramble through Lower Bidwell Park and learn about the wild food bounty in our area. Wolfgang is an encyclopedia of knowledge about wild foods in the Sacramento Valley, including their historical uses by early settlers and indigenous peoples. This walk is sure to delight and inspire and is free. Space is limited, so please RSVP at slowfoodshastacascade@yahoo.com by February 26th. And, bring your camera! Wolfgang Rougle is both a local organic farmer and the author of Sacramento Valley Feast: How to Find, Harvest, and Cook Local Wild Food All Year Long. Her book will be available for sale at the hike (at a 20% discount from the shelf price) and is always available at Lyon Books (Chico) and at Enjoy the Store (Red Bluff and Redding). For those who prefer to shop online, Lyon Books ships anywhere: search for Wolfgang’s book at www.lyonbooks.com.
March 3 – Chico: Butte County Master Gardeners Talk Series “How to Help Your Garden Survive the Drought – Drought Management in Your Landscape: What to do now”: All talks are free and open to the public. Held at the Chico library, located at East First and Sherman avenues in Chico, from 10 to 11 a.m.
March 5 – Chico: Mt. Lassen Chapter of the California Native Plant Society regular Monthly Meeting & Program Susan Mason, “The Impact of Invasive Plants on our Landscapes” 7:30 pm Chico Butte County Library. Susan will also provide useful information on invasive plants and weeds for home gardeners. For more information see website at mountlassen.cnps.org
March 8 – Redding: Wyntour Gardens: VICTORY GARDEN SERIES CLASS 2: PLANTING 10 am and 1 pm, If you are new to vegetable gardening, this is the class for you. We cover everything from location, soil, planting, plants, watering & pests. Please call or email to reserve your seat! 8026 Airport Road – Redding, CA. 96002 – 530-365-2256 – Email Us: inform@wyntourgarden.com. Hours of Operation: Monday thru Saturday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sundays: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
March 8 – Redding: McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Turtle Bay: Planting for your Pooch 11 – 11:30 am. Saturdays in March. Pooches are happy in gardens, but sometimes having both a happy pooch and a happy garden can be a challenge. We will discuss gardening techniques and elements that promote happiness all around. Pooches are welcome! Sundial Bridge Amphitheater. Free with park admission! Meet at the Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Office (1135 Arboretum Drive next to Nursery Greenhouse)
March 8 – Red Bluff: The Nature Conservancy Spring Hike Series Vina Plains 10 – 12 noon. The Nature Conservancy will host a series of free public hikes on two breathtaking preserves in the Chico area. The 37,540-acre Dye Creek Preserve, located near Los Molinos, and the Vina Plains Preserve, 12 miles north of Chico. Because the preserves are working cattle ranches, the Conservancy’s semi-annual tours provide the public with an opportunity to view some of the region’s most spectacular landscapes with knowledgeable and entertaining guides, providing insight on many cultural, geological and biological points of interest. All events are held rain or shine, with the exception of a serious downpour. Sturdy footwear/hiking boots are a requirement. The weather may be hot, or humid and wet, so wear layered clothing, and bring waterproof clothing and a hat. Carry plenty of drinking water, and bring a lunch. Please arrive 15 minutes early. Space is limited to 25 persons, so visitors are advised to book early. To book a reservation or receive more information, contact Jackson Shedd of The Nature Conservancy at (760) 707-6942 or jshedd@tnc.org (e-mail preferred). During the spring the Vina Plains Preserve comes alive with colorful wildflowers which carpet the grasslands and ring the vernal pools in spectacular bands of color. The pools support many rare, threatened or endangered species and attract a large array of waterfowl and shorebirds that feast on small crustaceans that fill the pools this time of year. The one-mile hike is relatively flat, but the surface will be uneven, and may be wet and slippery in places, depending on the weather. The hike will be led by California Native Plant Society botanists, who are extremely knowledgeable about the flora of the site. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are a MUST! – See more at: http://www.nature.org/newsfeatures/pressreleases/spring-hikes-dye-creek-vina-plains.xml#sthash.aluGPnIE.dpuf
March 8 – Red Bluff: The Nature Conservancy Spring Hike Series Dye Creek 9 am – 2 pm. The Nature Conservancy will host a series of free public hikes on two breathtaking preserves in the Chico area. The 37,540-acre Dye Creek Preserve, located near Los Molinos, and the Vina Plains Preserve, 12 miles north of Chico. Because the preserves are working cattle ranches, the Conservancy’s semi-annual tours provide the public with an opportunity to view some of the region’s most spectacular landscapes with knowledgeable and entertaining guides, providing insight on many cultural, geological and biological points of interest. All events are held rain or shine, with the exception of a serious downpour. Sturdy footwear/hiking boots are a requirement. The weather may be hot, or humid and wet, so wear layered clothing, and bring waterproof clothing and a hat. Carry plenty of drinking water, and bring a lunch. Please arrive 15 minutes early. Space is limited to 25 persons, so visitors are advised to book early. To book a reservation or receive more information, contact Jackson Shedd of The Nature Conservancy at (760) 707-6942 or jshedd@tnc.org (e-mail preferred). The four- to five-mile hike follows the course of Dye Creek itself, which cuts through a pristine setting of volcanic buttes, hills and extensive blue oak woodlands, before flowing into the Sacramento River. Expect spectacular views, spring flowers and occasional wildlife sightings, such as deer, golden eagles and peregrine falcons (binoculars enhance the experience). You’ll also have a rare opportunity to explore a cave thought to be frequented by Ishi, the last survivor of the Yahi Indian Tribe. This hike is somewhat rigorous, and hiking boots and plenty of water are a MUST! Please note: A good level of fitness and agility is required to complete the hike. Hikers will have to traverse a creek and navigate steep, rocky terrain. Dogs are not allowed during these events. – See more at: http://www.nature.org/newsfeatures/pressreleases/spring-hikes-dye-creek-vina-plains.xml#sthash.aluGPnIE.dpuf. See more at: http://www.nature.org/newsfeatures/pressreleases/spring-hikes-dye-creek-vina-plains.xml#sthash.aluGPnIE.dpuf
March 8 – Chico: The Plant Barn Nursery & Gifts “Rethinking the Lawn” workshop with John Whittlesey of Canyon Creek Nursery & Design 11 am. John Whittlesey, garden designer, speaker and author will run a step-by-step workshop on why and how to replace unwanted or unused lawn with lovely, lively and welcoming garden areas. For more Information: The Plant Barn and Gifts 406 Entler Ave Chico, Ca 95928 530-345-3121/fax 530-345-5354 www.theplantbarn.com
March 8 & 9 – Chico: 1st Annual Local Nursery Crawl 9am to 4pm (both days). The purpose of this event is to get the public to visit and familiarize themselves with the many independent nurseries in the area and inspire loyalty and community support for local business. No need to go to the big box stores!How the event works: Community crawlers will have a map that includes all the participating local nurseries. To encourage crawlers to visit multiple nurseries, each location will be able to place a sticker on a designated spot of the map and crawlers who visit a designated number of nurseries will receive a free Chico Bag with the Local Nursery Crawl logo on it. (while supplies last) Most nurseries will be holding raffles, special deals and offering refreshments. Also, some will be offering Classes or workshops during the Local Nursery Crawl event hours. Check out more info at www.LocalNurseryCrawl.com
March 8 & 9 – Redding:Redding Spring Home & Garden Show: Redding Civic Auditorium Saturday & Sunday: 10am – 5pm. For more info: http://www.reddinghomeshow.com
March 9 – Daylight Savings – Clocks Spring Forward
March 10 – Paradise: Paradise Garden Club: General Monthly Meeting and Program – Public Welcome 12:30 pm, Terry Ashe Recreation Center, Paradise. General Membership Meeting follows program. Plant Sale, Benefit Drawing, Refreshments. For more info: www.paradisegardenclub.org
March 10 – Chico: Butte County Master Gardener Talk Series “How to Help Your Garden Survive the Drought – Replacing Your Lawn: Techniques for removing your lawn”: All talks are free and open to the public. Held at the Chico library, located at East First and Sherman avenues in Chico, from 10 to 11 a.m.
March 11 – Chico Seed Lending Library “Lettuce-Get-Together” 5 – 7 pm. Butte County Library, Chico. 1108 Sherman. Please join us in common interest and love of seed! * Become a member of CSLL (the only requirement is to be an existing library card holder; if you’re not it’s free and easy to do!) * Ask questions about the seed library and other seedy questions * Check out up to 5 seed packs for cold season gardens * Begin to package up WARM season seed varieties (we have tons!!) * Discussions always include timely local gardening tips. PLEASE NOTE: We will be meeting inside the library right next to the seed library near the reference desk. For more information email: chicoseedlibrary@gmail.com CSLL website: http://www.buttecounty.net/bclibrary/ChicoSeedLending.aspx CSLL blog: http://chicoseedlendinglibrary.wordpress.com/
March 12 – Davis: UC Davis Arboretum Walk with Warren: West-end Gardens 12 pm, Gazebo. Join Warren Roberts, the Superintendent Emeritus of the Arboretum and famous storyteller and punster for an always engaging noontime exploration of the UC Davis Arboretum’s west-end gardens. The event is free; limited free one hour parking is available along Garrod Drive near the Gazebo or in nearby Visitor Parking Lot 55 where parking can be paid by meter or by purchase of an $8 daily pass. For more information and directions, please call (530) 752-4880 or visit http://arboretum.ucdavis.edu/calendar.aspx.
March 14 – Anderson: Anderson Valley Garden Club Monthly Meeting 12 – 1 pm. Anderson City Hall COmmunity Room. Anderson: Anderson Valley Garden Club Monthly Meeting and Program 12 noon, public welcome. Anderson Valley Garden Club meets the 2nd friday of each month at the Anderson City Hall Community Room unless otherwise stated. Meeting begins at noon. For more information call Nancy: 530-365-2014.
March 15 – Redding: Shasta Chapter CNPS Field Trip Oregon Gulch Outing This fieldtrip will be on 385 acres of City of Redding-owned land in Oregon Gulch in southwest Redding. This area is an undeveloped urban island of native shrubs, trees, wildflowers, and animals. The walk is an easy 3 to 4 miles on undeveloped trails of uneven terrain with several short, steep climbs. Wildflowers that should be in bloom include blue dicks, hound’s-tongue, buttercups, pussy-ears, lacepod, spokepod, western bittercress, American winter cress, shining peppergrass, Indian warrior, naked buckwheat, and fiddleneck, among others. Walk leader David Ledger will identify native plants in the area and give participants a free plant list. We hope to have Wintu Audubon members along to identify birds. Meet at Redding City Hall’s south parking lot on Parkview Avenue at 9 AM. No dogs, please. For more information, call 355- 8542. For more info: http://www.shastacnps.org
March 15 – Redding: McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Turtle Bay: Planting for your Pooch 11 – 11:30 am. Saturdays in March. Pooches are happy in gardens, but sometimes having both a happy pooch and a happy garden can be a challenge. We will discuss gardening techniques and elements that promote happiness all around. Pooches are welcome! Sundial Bridge Amphitheater. Free with park admission! Meet at the Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Office (1135 Arboretum Drive next to Nursery Greenhouse)
March 15 – Redding: Wyntour Gardens: VICTORY GARDEN SERIES CLASS 3: CARE (Watering, Fertilizing, Compost & Pests) 10 am and 1 pm, If you are new to vegetable gardening, this is the class for you. We cover everything from location, soil, planting, plants, watering & pests. Please call or email to reserve your seat! 8026 Airport Road – Redding, CA. 96002 – 530-365-2256 – Email Us: inform@wyntourgarden.com. Hours of Operation: Monday thru Saturday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sundays: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
March 15 – Davis: Center for Urban Horticulture Conference: Pollinator Gardening Workshop on Saturday Learn from experts about pollinators in your garden. Class agenda and fees to be announced in early February. http://ccuh.ucdavis.edu
March 15 – Davis: UC Davis Arboretum Member Appreciation Plant Sale & 5-Year Anniversary Celebration 9 a.m.-1 p.m., UC Davis Arboretum Teaching Nursery (Garrod Drive near La Rue Road, across from Vet Med), UC Davis campus. Thanks to our members and support from our campus and community the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden is celebrating its 5th anniversary of operation at our expanded facility where we offer the public the area’s largest selection of attractive, low-water, easy-care, regionally-appropriate plants at our Teaching Nursery. At this sale we invite members of the Friends of the UC Davis Arboretum to replace their lawns or refresh their landscapes while enjoying 10% off all their purchases and an additional appreciation gift of $10 off their plant sale purchases. Not a member? Join at the door! New members who join at the door receive 10% off their purchases, a $10 off member appreciation coupon, as well as an additional gift of $10 off as a thank you for joining! For more information on the benefits of membership visit: http://arboretum.ucdavis.edu/join_the_friends.aspx. The event is free; parking is free and available in nearby. For more information and directions, visit http://arboretum.ucdavis.edu/calendar.aspx or call (530) 752-4880. Upcoming public plant sale dates: (See above for time and location. More information to follow.) Saturday, April 5 Saturday, April 26 Saturday, May 17 (Clearance Sale) For more information and directions, please call (530) 752-4880 or visit http://arboretum.ucdavis.edu/calendar.aspx.
PHOTO: Native red bud in bloom.
March 15 – Chico: Chico Permaculture Monthly Meeting 1 – 4pm, Butte County Library, Chico. CPG EDUCATION/WORKSHOPS: Permaculture design concepts: Over the next few winter months we will help members understand the permaculture design process. Bring maps of your property if you have them, even a quick sketch is great! We will spend approx. 45 minutes during each gathering (through March 2014) on this topic. The focus of this month (March) will be on learning about the importance of W-A-S design. Site assessment and analysis will be covered through the lens of how water, access and structures (W-A-S) are interrelated and how they function (or could function) for greatest abundance and land health.**MARCH: drawing the different types of design overlays that really complete the permaculture design process (sectors, zones, etc.). For more info:https://www.facebook.com/groups/chicopermacultureguild/
March 15 & 16 – Chico: Soroptimists Annual Home, Flower and Leisure Show 2014 For more info: http://www.chicohomeandgarden.com
March 16 – FULL MOON (Full Worm Moon)
March 16 – Chico: Mt. Lassen Chapter of the California Native Plant Society Field Trip: Nomlaki Trail, Mendocino National Forest Meet at Chico Park and Ride west lot at 9 am. Bring lunch, water, sturdy shoes, insect and sun protection and money for ride sharing. The hike is located about 27 miles northwest of Corning. The trail at elevation 1200 feet is an easy 3-4 mile walk rich with flowers, including scarlet fritillary, fawn lily and Indian warrior and. Call leader Marjorie at 530-343-2397 for secondary meeting site. For more information see website at mountlassen.cnps.org
March 16 – Chico: 5th Annual Seed Swap: Located at the Chico Grange Hall, 2775 Nord Ave, on Sunday, March 16th from 2-6pm, the 5th Annual Seed Swap is a celebration marking the arrival of Spring and the gardening season. The Seed Swap is a free event and will include the seed exchange itself as well as speaker presentations and community seed stories, local vendors and non-profits as well as food, music and other activities for people of all ages. Bringing our community together to promote gardening and seed saving is the focus of the Seed Swap events. In addition to the traditional exchange of seed there will be local vendors selling plants, seeds, vegetables, as well as garden tools. Chico Natural Foods will be selling food and drinks. Community non-profits and others will share information on seed saving, gardening and agriculture related resources. Ongoing activities for both children and adults, such as making seed balls, will happen throughout the day and live music will be performed in between the presentations. The speaker presentations will begin at 2:15 with Kalan of Redwood Seeds who will share seed saving tips and illustrate the benefits and types of drought-resistant crops. At 3:30 there will be a water panel of local experts describing the various ways to garden using less water. And at 4:45 our community will be invited to share their personal short stories about seeds and gardening. For more information about the 5th Annual Seed Swap on Sunday, March 16th visit the Chico Permaculture Guild website at http://chicopermaculture.wordpress.com/what-we-do/annual-seed-swaps/5th-annual-spring-seed-swap. About the Seed Swap Team of Organizers and Sponsors — The Chico Permaculture Guild and the GRUB Education Program are lead organizers for the Seed Swap. The Chico Grange Hall is generously hosting this event at their beautiful hall and the Chico Seed Lending Library (CSLL), Redwood Seeds, and Chico Natural Foods are sponsoring the 5th Annual Seed Swap.
March 17 – Cottonwood: Cottonwood Garden Club Monthly Meeting 10 am – 12 noon. The meetings are educational and social with a potluck following meetings. Different speakers teach a variety of topics from scarecrow making to attracting birds into your garden. Cottonwood Cummunity Center, 20595 Gas Point Road (behind the little league fields). Call 347-3852 for more information.
March 17 – Chico: Butte County Master Gardener Talk Series “How to Help Your Garden Survive the Drought – Efficient Irrigation: Installing drip irrigation; converting your existing system to drip”: All talks are free and open to the public. Held at the Chico library, located at East First and Sherman avenues in Chico, from 10 to 11 a.m.
March 19 – Redding: Shasta Rose Society Monthly Meeting 7 – 8 pm. The meetings are held for the purpose of presenting an educational program by an authority on roses and their cultivation. Meetings are open to the public. City of Redding Corporation Yard, 2055 Viking Way, Building 4, Room 401, Redding, California. For more info: http://www.shastarosesociety.org/Shasta_Rose_Society/Home.html
March 19 – 23: San Francisco Flower & Garden Show 2014 San Mateo Event Center. Fun, Inspiring, Educational – well worth the drive and ticket price. http://www.sfgardenshow.com
March 20 – Vernal Equinox – First Day of Spring
March 20 – Redding: Shasta Chapter CNPS Monthly Meeting and Program by Julie Kierstead Nelson, Forest Botanist at Shasta-Trinity National Forest and Instructor at Shasta College 7 – 9 pm. Chapter business followed by program:Julie Kierstead Nelson, Forest Botanist at Shasta-Trinity National Forest and instructor at Shasta College, will bring us some good local botanical news in her presentation, Forest Service Land Acquisitions on Mt. Eddy, New Endemic Species Polemonium eddyense, Other Rare Plants, and General Botanical Grooviness. Meet at 7 PM at the Shasta College Health Science & University Programs building in downtown Redding, 1400 Market Street, Community Room 8220 (clock tower building at the north end of the Market Street Promenade; enter on south side of building). A Board meeting will be held before the regular meeting, at 5:30 PM at Angelo’s Pizza Parlour in the Foundry Square, 1774 California Street, Redding. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend. For more info: http://www.shastacnps.org
March 22 – Redding: Shasta Chapter CNPS Wildflower Identification Class/Hike #1 of 3 Learn to identify wildflowers, shrubs, and trees by the plant family method. The Shasta Chapter will be offering three classes and fieldtrips on three consecutive Saturdays. Each will include one hour of “classroom” learning and a two-hour fieldtrip in the Redding area to identify the wildflowers discussed. Learning by plant families shortens the time needed to identify wildflowers. Families covered over the three weeks will include the mustard, mint, pea, sunflower, parsley, rose, and lily families. The class is free, but a magnifying glass and wildflower identification book are recommended. Class size is limited to 16 participants. March classes will start at 9 AM; the April 5 class will start at 11 AM. To reserve a space and for more information, call David Ledger at 355-8542. For more info: http://www.shastacnps.org
March 22 – Red Bluff: The Nature Conservancy Spring Hike Series Dye Creek 9 am – 2 pm. The Nature Conservancy will host a series of free public hikes on two breathtaking preserves in the Chico area. The 37,540-acre Dye Creek Preserve, located near Los Molinos, and the Vina Plains Preserve, 12 miles north of Chico. Because the preserves are working cattle ranches, the Conservancy’s semi-annual tours provide the public with an opportunity to view some of the region’s most spectacular landscapes with knowledgeable and entertaining guides, providing insight on many cultural, geological and biological points of interest. All events are held rain or shine, with the exception of a serious downpour. Sturdy footwear/hiking boots are a requirement. The weather may be hot, or humid and wet, so wear layered clothing, and bring waterproof clothing and a hat. Carry plenty of drinking water, and bring a lunch. Please arrive 15 minutes early. Space is limited to 25 persons, so visitors are advised to book early. To book a reservation or receive more information, contact Jackson Shedd of The Nature Conservancy at (760) 707-6942 or jshedd@tnc.org (e-mail preferred). The four- to five-mile hike follows the course of Dye Creek itself, which cuts through a pristine setting of volcanic buttes, hills and extensive blue oak woodlands, before flowing into the Sacramento River. Expect spectacular views, spring flowers and occasional wildlife sightings, such as deer, golden eagles and peregrine falcons (binoculars enhance the experience). You’ll also have a rare opportunity to explore a cave thought to be frequented by Ishi, the last survivor of the Yahi Indian Tribe. This hike is somewhat rigorous, and hiking boots and plenty of water are a MUST! Please note: A good level of fitness and agility is required to complete the hike. Hikers will have to traverse a creek and navigate steep, rocky terrain. Dogs are not allowed during these events. – See more at: http://www.nature.org/newsfeatures/pressreleases/spring-hikes-dye-creek-vina-plains.xml#sthash.aluGPnIE.dpuf. See more at: http://www.nature.org/newsfeatures/pressreleases/spring-hikes-dye-creek-vina-plains.xml#sthash.aluGPnIE.dpuf
March 22 – Chico: Butte Environmental Council “Rainwater Catchment Workshop” Our Watershed Program will be offering Water Conservation Workshops throughout the Spring, starting with our Rainwater Catchment Workshop on Saturday, March 22. Participants will learn how to calculate water yields from rooftops, how to distinguish appropriate conditions for catching rain, and different methods and structures for rainwater catchment. We’ll also be creating our own rain barrels from 55-gallon food grade surplus barrels, by putting a hole and a spigot in the bottom portion of the barrel. This is for you to keep, so you can begin to conserve rainwater at your home right away! Barrels are limited to 20 people. You can sign up online here. We will e-mail you a confirmation. For more information, email watershed@becnet.org or call the office at 891-6424. The event will be outside on the front patio of Bidwell Presbyterian Church Downtown Chico. For more info: http://www.becnet.org/events/rainwater-catchment-workshop
March 22 – Chico: Cultivating Community North Valley: Seed Saving Series Workshop #3 – Seeding Warm Season Crops 2:00 – 4:00 P.M. In the Heartseed Greenhouse at the GRUB Cooperative. 1525 Dayton Road Pre-Registration is required at cultivatingcommunitynv.org. Priority is given to Income-Eligible participants. Price for Income-Eligible participants: Free. Income-Ineligible participants may sign up for the waiting list: If there is space, we will contact you within one week of the event. Cost will be $10. Paid day of event at sign-in table. Class size is limited to 25. Address: GRUB Cooperative 1525 Dayton Rd Chico, California 95928
March 22 – Redding: McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Turtle Bay: Planting for your Pooch 11 – 11:30 am. Saturdays in March. Pooches are happy in gardens, but sometimes having both a happy pooch and a happy garden can be a challenge. We will discuss gardening techniques and elements that promote happiness all around. Pooches are welcome! Sundial Bridge Amphitheater. Free with park admission! Meet at the Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Office (1135 Arboretum Drive next to Nursery Greenhouse)
March 23 – Chico: Mt. Lassen Chapter of the California Native Plant Society Field Trip: Spotted Fawn Lily and McNab Cypress, Lassen National Forest Meet at Chico Park and Ride west lot at 9 am. Bring lunch, water, sturdy shoes ,sun and insect protection and money for ride sharing. We’ll hike about 1-1/2 miles down a serpentine slope to a head dam on the West Branch of the Feather River for lunch. Under the cypresses are masses of yellow and white spotted fawn lilies, with penstemon and fritillary along the trail. The return trip has an uphill elevation gain of 900 feet from the river. Not recommended for small children. Call leader Wes at 530-342-2293 for secondary meeting site. For more information see website at mountlassen.cnps.org
PHOTO: Native pink ribes in bloom – its foliage bears a fresh, astringent scent and its pendant blossoms on upright ipen branches light up the spring garden.
March 23 – Redding: Shasta Chapter CNPS Plant Propagation Session 10 am – 12 noon. Plant Propagation Session. Join us for our regular two-hour work session starting at 10 AM at the Shasta College greenhouses. The greenhouses are located toward the back of Shasta College, near the livestock barns. We will be potting up newly rooted materials from our December cuttings and seeds. Bring clippers and any other tools you might need. Please call Jay & Terri Thesken at 221-0906 for further information. Shasta College Greenhouse, near the livestock barns. For more info: http://www.shastacnps.org
March 23 – Mt. Shasta: Spring Hill Nursery & Gardens Workshop: “PRUNING FRUIT TREES” with professional orchardist Alex Hogstrum Repeated 1:30 to 3:30 pm. Professional Orchardist Alex Hogstrum demonstrates how, when, why and what to prune on fruit trees for maximum care and abundant harvest from 10 am to 12 noon. Due to high attendance last year, Micah Dobush will repeat the same information from 1:30 to 3:30 this same Sunday afternoon. If it is snowing heavily the workshop will be canceled so please call 926 2565 Saturday March 22 – opening day to confirm. Spring Hill Nursery & Gardens, 1234 Nixon Rd, Mt Shasta CA For more information: 530-926-2565. Remember to bring a chair.
PHOTO: Mt. Shasta finally snow-clothed.
March 24 – Chico: Butte County Master Gardener Talk Series “How to Help Your Garden Survive the Drought – Drought-Tolerant Plants: Choosing and caring for drought-resistant plants”: All talks are free and open to the public. Held at the Chico library, located at East First and Sherman avenues in Chico, from 10 to 11 a.m.
March 25 – Chico Seed Lending Library “Lettuce-Get-Together” 5 – 7 pm. Butte County Library, Chico. 1108 Sherman. Please join us in common interest and love of seed! * Become a member of CSLL (the only requirement is to be an existing library card holder; if you’re not it’s free and easy to do!) * Ask questions about the seed library and other seedy questions * Check out up to 5 seed packs for cold season gardens * Begin to package up WARM season seed varieties (we have tons!!) * Discussions always include timely local gardening tips. PLEASE NOTE: We will be meeting inside the library right next to the seed library near the reference desk. For more information email: chicoseedlibrary@gmail.com CSLL website: http://www.buttecounty.net/bclibrary/ChicoSeedLending.aspx CSLL blog: http://chicoseedlendinglibrary.wordpress.com/
March 25 – Chico: Butte Rose Society General Member Meeting and Program When: Meetings are held the last Tuesday of each month starting at 7 pm From: January through May and August through November. Location: Chico Veterans Memorial Hall at 554 Rio Lindo Avenue in Chico, California. Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Butte-Rose-Society/189382585776 Contact us by mail: Butte Rose Society at P.O. Box 8888 in Chico, CA 95927. For more info: http://www.butte-rosesociety.org
March 29 – Redding: Shasta Chapter CNPS Wildflower Identification Class/Hike #2 of 3 Learn to identify wildflowers, shrubs, and trees by the plant family method. The Shasta Chapter will be offering three classes and fieldtrips on three consecutive Saturdays. Each will include one hour of “classroom” learning and a two-hour fieldtrip in the Redding area to identify the wildflowers discussed. Learning by plant families shortens the time needed to identify wildflowers. Families covered over the three weeks will include the mustard, mint, pea, sunflower, parsley, rose, and lily families. The class is free, but a magnifying glass and wildflower identification book are recommended. Class size is limited to 16 participants. March classes will start at 9 AM; the April 5 class will start at 11 AM. To reserve a space and for more information, call David Ledger at 355-8542. For more info: http://www.shastacnps.org
March 29 – Redding: McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Turtle Bay: Walk with Horticultural Manager Lisa Endicott 10:30 am. Bring your notebooks and camera! We’ll make our way through the Gardens with frequent stops for discussions about (what else?) plants! Free with Park or Garden admission. Meet at West Garden Entrance. Take N. Market Street, turn on Arboretum Drive. Take the right fork. Parking lot and entrance are on the left.
March 30 – Chico: Mt. Lassen Chapter of the California Native Plant Society Field Trip: Butte Creek BLM Trail, Bureau of Land Management Meet at 9am at Chico Park and Ride west lot. Bring lunch, water, sturdy shoes, insect and sun protection and money for ride sharing. We’ll drive east on Highway 32 to the trailhead at 3000 feet elevation. This is an easy three mile round trip walk along a secluded section of scenic Upper Butte Creek. Staying close to the creek, we’ll walk through a narrow band of streamside plants with a variety of flowers. Call leader Gerry at 530-342-5120. For more information see website at mountlassen.cnps.org
Follow Jewellgarden.com/In a North State Garden on Facebook.
To submit plant/gardening related events/classes to the Jewellgarden.com on-line Calendar of Regional Gardening Events, send the pertinent information to me at: Jennifer@jewellgarden.com
Did you know I send out a weekly email with information about upcoming topics and gardening related events? If you would like to be added to the mailing list, send an email to Jennifer@jewellgarden.com.
In a North State Garden is a weekly Northstate Public Radio and web-based program celebrating the art, craft and science of home gardening in Northern California and made possible in part by the Gateway Science Museum – Exploring the Natural History of the North State and on the campus of CSU, Chico. In a North State Garden is conceived, written, photographed and hosted by Jennifer Jewell – all rights reserved jewellgarden.com. In A North State Garden airs on Northstate Public Radio Saturday mornings at 7:34 AM Pacific time and Sunday morning at 8:34 AM Pacific time. Podcasts of past shows are available here.
