Become an Extension Master Gardener!

Learn to be a more successful gardener and volunteer in your community by becoming an Extension Master Gardener Volunteer with Pender County Cooperative Extension. Applications are now being accepted!

Training begins January 24, 2013. Applications are due by January 15, 2013. 
Visit http://pender.ces.ncsu.edu/mg/ to find out everything you need to know, including:

• Application form
• Training schedule
• Program fact sheet

Learn more about the NC Extension Master Gardener Program

Questions? Contact Charlotte Glen by calling 910-259-1235.

Flowers for the Holidays

Colorful Poinsettias

While the Christmas tree may be the plant most commonly associated with the holidays, flowers like poinsettias, Christmas cactus, and amaryllis are an equally important part of the Christmas tradition and are widely available from garden centers this time of the year.

Indoors, amaryllis, poinsettias, and Christmas cactus will grow best in a brightly lit, warm (60 to 75 degree) area away from cold drafts. Keeping these plants evenly moist, but not overwatered, is the real key to success. Like most houseplants, poinsettia, amaryllis, and Christmas cactus especially resent staying wet and will rot if kept continuously soggy. The most accurate way to tell if a potted plant needs to be watered is to check the potting soil. When the soil feels dry and the containers feel light when lifted, it is time to water.

To learn more about caring for these plants through the holidays and beyond, read the whole article posted on the Pender Cooperative Extension website: http://pender.ces.ncsu.edu/2012/12/flowers-for-the-holidays/