Ann Wright

5 days ago | theunion.com | Ann Wright

It’s almost Mother’s Day and this is a perfect time to pick up some beautiful plants for the mother in your life. The UC Master Gardeners of Nevada County are hosting our annual spring plant sale TODAY from 9am to noon at the Demonstration Garden on the NID grounds, 1036 W. Main Street. The UC MGNC plant sale is one of our largest fundraisers, and it’s a fun way to purchase the plants that you may not be able to find elsewhere.

1 month ago | theunion.com | Ann Wright

There is nothing more enticing than the scent of lilac wafting through the door on a warm spring morning. These very fragrant lilacs outside my door belong to a large group of flowering shrubs and trees of the genus Syringa. There are many species from which to choose — lilac blooms come in many different sizes, shapes, and colors. The majority of more than 1,600 lilac cultivars are descended from Syringa vulgaris (common lilac), and is one of the types we see in our area.

Jan 25, 2025 | theunion.com | Ann Wright

As the days grow longer and we’ve been enjoying sunny, dry days, we look forward to spring, but are hopeful for more rain. In the meantime, my yard is full of birds. Over the years, I have been working toward a goal of creating more native habitat for birds and butterflies. Wildlife experts indicate that since 1970, the population of North American birds has declined by nearly 30%, representing about 2.9 billion birds.

Jan 11, 2025 | theunion.com | Ann Wright

As 2024 calendars are replaced and we celebrate a new year, we may also need to adjust to some changes in how we do things. This includes the way we get rid of our household trash. To comply with regulations surrounding the diversion of food waste from landfills, Nevada County residents are now required to separate food waste from other household trash and recyclables.

Nov 9, 2024 | theunion.com | Ann Wright

November is a great time to reflect on the year that is now just several weeks shy of completion. The fall colors remind me of the 64-crayola box of crayons I had as a kid–with so many colors and hues of red, orange and yellows. Burnt umber one of my favorites. The leaf colors this year are noteworthy! This is a good time to take stock of how the garden fared over a very hot summer. With some dry, lovely fall days, a check list will help prioritize garden tasks.