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The University of California Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Program is a voluntary educational program. The purpose is to teach people more about home horticulture and to share research-based information produced by the University with the public. The Master Gardener role is primarily that of “educator"

 

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Feeding Time in the Vegetable Garden..
By Mary Giambalvo
Q            How do I know if I need to fertilize my vegetable garden?
Rachel H - Los Osos
A            With fertilizing, as with watering, many of us subscribe to what I call the Goldilocks syndrome:  we apply too much or too little, always hoping for just right.
            While it is possible to detect nutrient deficiencies in individual plants, that should be a last resort for knowing when to feed them. Why wait until the older leaves on our vegetables are turning yellow to tell us they lack nitrogen.
            Most California soil is naturally low in nitrogen (N) and some soils are low in phosphorus (P), two vital nutrients for plant growth. It is, therefore, a good idea to add balanced fertilizer which contains both nutrients while preparing the vegetable garden bed before planting.  It should be tilled into the soil, ready to feed the little roots seeking it when they appear.
            While there are many sources of organic and inorganic fertilizers, the most important step is reading and following the label for how much to apply.  Too much and one’s money is washed away along with plant food; too little and the plants lack what they need at crucial growth times during the season.
            In addition, individual plants may need more or less food during the growing season, depending on their growth characteristics and how long their time in the garden lasts. Another feeding mid-point will give plants an added boost. Once again, follow the label instructions. A side dressing worked into the soil without disturbing roots is ideal.
            A general rule is that inorganic fertilizers work quickly and fade fast, while organic foods and compost work slowly and over a longer period. Keep this difference in mind in deciding when to supplement. Observe frequently how the plants are doing, and give them a mid-season snack to keep them going.
            Oftentimes, we gardeners are much like Goldilocks and her trial-and-error porridge tasting, but there are sources of help to put odds in our favor. Check out http://camastergardeners.ucdavis.edu/files/63771.pdf or contact UCCE Master Gardeners for all kinds of home gardening questions.  

Programs

Master Gardener Helpline
The Helpline program provides expert advice to SLO county communities. Offices are in Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo, and Templeton.

Master Gardener Training Program
Master Gardener applicants, once accepted into the program, are trained experts in various aspects of horticulture and plant science.

SLO County Farmer's Markets
Master Gardener volunteers provide expert advice at SLO county Farmer's Markets

Garden Based Learning
Master Gardener volunteers work with school garden programs.

Demonstration Gardens
San Luis Obispo Master Gardeners have developed and maintain several demonstration gardens in different climate zones in the county.

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