Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteers​
​in Mecklenburg County
We're dedicated gardening enthusiasts who've expanded our horticultural education and skills to assist the public on a wide range of gardening topics.

​Another Lowe’s Library Festival is in the books! Matthews was October’s stop for the CHARLOTTE LIBRARY FOUNDATION ‘Around the World in 21 Branches’ festival for readers. Mecklenburg Extension Master Gardener volunteers staffed an ‘Ask a Master Gardener’ booth, handed out colorful fall flowers donated by Lowe’s and helped future gardeners make germination necklaces.
 
At every library festival we have soil kits for homeowners, helpful handouts, and research-based advice to grow more confident gardeners throughout Mecklenburg County. Look us up on Saturday, December 2 at the Independence Regional branch.
 
Thanks to EMG volunteers Elizabeth Barnes, Margaret Brinsko, E.J. McGee, Kelly Rhoads, Bill Sloan and Mary Staton.
Picture
Fruit of American holly (Ilex opaca) supports birds such as the cardinal, American robin and eastern bluebird.
December Garden Tasks
  • Bare-root season begins late this month 
    • Plant cane berries, grapes and roots of perennials, such as artichoke, asparagus, rhubarb, astilbe and peony, now.  
  •  Continue fall cleanup
    • Cut back chrysanthemum to about 6 inches
    • Remove dead leaves and stems from dormant perennials 
  • Clean-up flower and vegetable beds
    • Compost or recycle at the curb,  to curtail future plant diseases and insect damage. 
  • Plant spring flowering bulbs, trees and shrubs
    • Continue to monitor water levels, especially for newly planted evergreen trees and shrubs
Continue reading .... December gardens
Let us help you 
We offer comprehensive training to become a Master Gardener.
Horticulture Help Desk  Master Gardeners can
​assist you by email or voicemail. 
Our Master Gardeners can address a range of topics.
We offer technical guidance and volunteer assistance.
You'll receive helpful tips and advice each month.