Wayne County Extension Agent emphasizes importance of early soil preparation for next year’s growing season By Jessica Strickland, Wayne County Horticulture Extension Agent GOLDSBORO, N.C. — With the growing season winding down, Wayne County gardeners are being encouraged to take advantage of free soil testing services now available through the North Carolina Department of Agriculture…… read more »
As summer’s heat softens and daylight hours gradually wane, September marks a pivotal month for gardeners here in Eastern North Carolina. From sowing cool-season veggies to tidying up summer spent blooms, these tasks set the stage for a vibrant fall and a strong spring comeback. What to Plant and Sow Lawn and Soil Care Pruning,…… read more »
Extension Agent Warns Against Nitrogen-Based Fertilizers for Warm-Season Grasses By Jessica Strickland, Wayne County Horticulture Extension Agent As autumn temperatures arrive in Eastern North Carolina, homeowners may be tempted by advertisements promoting winter fertilizer products for lawns. However, a local extension agent is urging caution when selecting fall fertilizers, emphasizing that the wrong choice could…… read more »
By Jessica Strickland, Wayne County Horticulture Extension Agent As the seasons change and we spend more time observing our landscape trees, many gardeners notice unusual webs, bags, or silk structures appearing on branches. These formations often spark confusion about which pest is causing the problem and how to address it effectively. Understanding the differences between…… read more »
By Jessica Strickland, Wayne County Horticulture Extension Agent Extended Growing Season Offers Fresh Harvest Opportunities While summer remains at the forefront of many gardeners’ minds, agricultural experts are encouraging Wayne County residents to begin planning their fall vegetable gardens. The region’s favorable climate allows for continuous gardening and fresh vegetable harvests extending well into the…… read more »
Colorful caterpillars capable of completely defoliating shrubs spotted across the region By Jessica Strickland, Wayne County Horticulture Extension Agent WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. — Local gardeners are being urged to inspect their azalea plants for destructive caterpillars that typically emerge in late August and early September, earning them the nickname “Labor Day worms.” Identifying the Azalea…… read more »
By Jessica Strickland, Wayne County Horticulture Extension Agent As the sweltering heat of August settles across North Carolina, many gardeners find themselves retreating indoors during the hottest parts of the day. However, this month presents crucial opportunities for lawn care, plant maintenance, and fall garden preparation that shouldn’t be missed. “The hot summer days of…… read more »
By Jessica Strickland, Wayne County Horticulture Extension Agent Popular Shrubs Offer Unique Color-Changing Opportunity Hydrangeas have long been cherished as one of the most spectacular flowering shrubs in residential landscapes, delivering impressive bursts of color from late spring through early summer. These beloved plants captivate gardeners with their massive flower clusters, but what many don’t…… read more »
🌿 Gardening Tips: Watch Out for Common Tomato ProblemsBy Jessica Strickland, Wayne County Horticulture Extension Agent As summer approaches, gardeners across Wayne County are eagerly anticipating that first juicy bite from a homegrown tomato. But before those tomatoes reach peak ripeness, some common growing issues could appear—especially with unpredictable rainfall and fluctuating temperatures. 🍅 Blossom-End…… read more »
As we welcome summer, our gardens are thriving! But with warmer weather comes the need for consistent watering 💧 and careful monitoring for pests and diseases 🐛. Below are some timely tips to help your garden grow strong through the month of June. 🌿🌻 🌱 Lawn Care Tips ✅ Mow Smart, Grow Strong ✅ Sprayer…… read more »
