Master Gardener program starts up in Cheney

The Washington State University Extension Program is providing a new service to Cheney residents — especially those who have or are cultivating a green thumb.

WSU Master Gardeners are providing a “Satellite Plant Clinic and Information Booth” at the Cheney Library every first and third Friday of the month, beginning April 6. The clinic will run from 1-5 p.m. from this Friday through October.

According to a news release, master gardener volunteers will be on hand to answer questions on a wide range of horticultural issues, including plant selection, installation and maintenance. There will also be information about upcoming classes.

North Star Equipment president Rhonda Elliott said the satellite program began a couple years ago in Deer Park. It proved to be so successful that a decision was made to expand it.

“The clinic’s focus is bringing research based education to the community and helping gardeners and homeowners solve their lawn and garden problems,” Elliott said in an email. “It will be staffed by veteran master gardeners who live in the Cheney area and who are familiar with local conditions, problems, flora and fauna.”

Besides gardening tips and information, the volunteers will also be able to help with diagnosing plant problems and helping identify pest infestations — providing solutions for treatment, environmentally sound gardening practices, management of insects and effective landscaping practices.

Information on how to prepare a garden sample for analysis is available by calling (509) 477-2181, or email to mastergardener@spokanecounty.org. Gardeners can also visit the website at http://www.extension.wsu.edu/spokane.

Due to limited space, samples must be limited to a one gallon plastic zipper bag or smaller.

John McCallum can be reached at jmac@cheneyfreepress.com.

Author Bio

John McCallum, Retired editor

John McCallum is an award-winning journalist who retired from Cheney Free Press after more than 20 years. He received 10 Washington Newspaper Publisher Association awards for journalism and photography, including first place awards for Best Investigative, Best News and back-to-back awards in Best Breaking News categories.

 

Reader Comments(0)

 
 
Rendered 04/12/2024 02:24