Pat Shay, a University of California Master Gardener of Merced County, shared seasonal gardening advice on April 1 for local residents preparing their gardens for spring. Shay offered practical tips on soil care, plant maintenance, and upcoming community events as warmer temperatures arrive.
The guidance comes at a time when many gardeners are eager to begin planting after winter. Shay cautioned against tilling wet soil, especially heavy clay types, and recommended allowing the ground to dry before working it. For those with spring bulbs fading, Shay advised not to trim foliage back prematurely but instead let leaves decline naturally. Fertilizing camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas, gardenias and citrus trees was also suggested as blossoms fade.
Shay encouraged dividing overcrowded perennials and sharing starts with friends or relocating them within the yard. The update included reminders to tune up lawnmowers ahead of mowing season and adjust sprinklers if warm weather persists. Gardeners were urged to plant tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers from starts now and consider attending the Merced College Plant Sale scheduled for April 17-18.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) supports these educational efforts through public contributions that fund its programs according to the official website. UC ANR is part of the University of California system and manages Cooperative Extension services across all 58 counties in California according to the official website. The organization promotes sustainable practices designed to strengthen resilient ecosystems and economic vitality according to the official website.
UC ANR operates nine research and extension centers representing diverse ecosystems in California according to the official website, conducts over 33,800 educational events annually with more than 18,400 volunteers engaged in its initiatives according to the official website, and has gained recognition for connecting research directly with community needs according to the official website. Through workshops and partnerships focused on science-based information delivery, UC ANR aims at supporting environmental stewardship while addressing state issues related to agriculture and natural resources according to the official website.