The full pdf copy of this edition is available here. PRESIDENT’S CORNER – By Jackie Kujawa Welcome to the start of a new gardening year. The drought has been declared over, and if your garden is like mine, all plants have suffered: perennials, annuals, trees, shrubs, and turf. Gardening has not changed in its basic philosophy but has been changed through the new hybridization of plants and scientific research. As Master Gardeners, we benefit from the efforts of these dedicated horticulturalists. Master Gardeners are the volunteer arm of the extension office. Last year in 2008, we, as a group, volunteered 10,302 hours, delivered to the community 2337 various programs, and answered almost 8500 questions. You can give yourselves a “pat on the back” for these efforts. I am sure that once the forms have been filled out, 2009 will be even more successful. When you volunteer for duty at the…

The other day, Martha Stewart and I were chatting in the Master Gardener’s office when we were interrupted by a telephone call from a lady asking how to preserve fall leaves. Weren’t we lucky to have the queen of crafts, food and entertaining, weddings, pets, home and garden, and the latest in prison fashion? Here is what the queen bee teaches. Glycerin Preservation: By preserving autumn leaves with glycerin, you can create a wreath that will last for months without drying out. The method will also work with green spring and summer leaves. Some leaves don’t take well to the glycerin method, so experiment. For best results, always cut the branches in the cool of the evening and never use leaves that have been through a frost. Tools and Materials: Pruning clippers or handsaw Hammer Deep bucket pH testing kit (lemons and powdered lime required) Glycerin (available at drugstores, craft…

I feed birds year round but I’m sure some “experts” will disagree with this practice. Providing food and water attracts a variety of birds that delight me with their presence, particularly in the winter. Remember that you will be taking on the responsibility for feeding these birds throughout the winter and early spring. They will come to depend on you since their natural food supply is limited. There are many different types of feeders on the market. Plastic, steel, or glass feeders are best since they are easy to clean. Feeders with porous surfaces, such as wood or clay, can be difficult to clean and can grow algae and fungi that may be harmful to some birds. Diseases such as salmonella can spread at feeders, especially where seeds and droppings mix. Ground-feeding birds, such as doves and finches, are especially vulnerable. To reduce the risk of disease, clean your  feeders…