Welcome to
Suffolk Extension Master Gardeners
We Exist to Serve You
Suffolk Extension Master Gardeners (Suffolk EMGs) volunteer their time and expertise to provide FREE horticultural education for residents of the City of Suffolk, Virginia. They provide programs for both youth and adults on a variety of topics like tree care, native plants, flower and vegetable gardening, pest and disease identification, integrated pest management, and more. Visit the programs, events, and demonstration garden pages to learn more!
Ask a Master Gardener
Getting help is easy! Suffolk EMGs can be found at our office, on Facebook, by phone, email, and at various Suffolk farmers markets. Take advantage of our Ask a Master Gardener program, where you can contact us from the comfort of your own home! To submit a question, email us at SuffolkMG@gmail.com or call us at 757-514-4335. When emailing, attach pictures of the plant, pest, or problem and provide a detailed description. This will allow us to serve you. A Suffolk EMG volunteer will respond in a timely manner. Beginning in 2024, volunteers will be providing monthly office hours. Stop by our Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) classroom and obtain research-based assistance with your gardening questions and concerns.
Spotted Lanterfly Information
Pest Alert: Spotted Lanternfly Identification
and Reporting in Virginia
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You can prepare for the entire planting season by visiting https://brnw.ch/plantguide
To determine your USDA zone, you can enter your zip code here: https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov
🌸 Did you know the “petals” on a magnolia flower aren't technically petals?
They're actually called tepals! 🌿
Most flowers have two distinct parts: petals, which attract pollinators, and sepals, which protect the flower bud before it opens. In magnolias, these parts look so similar that botanists use the term tepals instead.
Magnolias are also one of the oldest groups of flowering plants on Earth, with a history stretching back more than 100 million years! 🦕 They evolved long before bees became common pollinators, so many magnolia species are pollinated by beetles. Their thick, sturdy tepals are tough enough to withstand crawling beetles as they move from flower to flower.
The next time you see a magnolia in bloom, take a closer look. Those beautiful, waxy "petals" are actually tepals, a fascinating feature of a plant lineage that dates back to the time of the dinosaurs. 🌸✨ ... See MoreSee Less
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💧 Still watering your landscape during the drought? Make every drop count! 🌿
Many areas of Virginia continue to experience drought conditions, with more hot, dry weather in the forecast. If you are not under water restrictions, or if you're using collected rainwater from a rain barrel, proper watering techniques can help your plants stay healthy while reducing water waste.
A few tips for watering efficiently:
💦 Water early in the morning when temperatures are cooler to reduce evaporation.
🌱 Water at the base of the plant so moisture reaches the roots where it's needed most.
🚫 Avoid sprinklers when possible. Wind and evaporation can cause significant water loss before
the water ever reaches the soil.
🌳 Water deeply rather than lightly. A thorough soaking encourages deeper root growth and helps plants better withstand dry conditions.
Learn more about drought-wise watering practices here:
go.vt.edu/uo6yw ... See MoreSee Less
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🫑🌶️ Planning to grow peppers this summer?
Peppers love full sun and well-draining soil, but there’s a bit more to growing a great crop than just planting and hoping for the best. With the right care, you can enjoy a productive and flavorful harvest all season long!
Want to learn more about planting, care, and tips for success? Check out this helpful Virginia
Cooperative Extension guide ➡️ brnw.ch/vcepeppers
A little know-how now can lead to a great pepper harvest later! 🌱 ... See MoreSee Less
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