Aug 15
Tree-of-Heaven Control, Greenhouse Growing & Composting Basics
In this episode of Master Gardeners & Friends on KNCO News Talk 830, the UC Master Gardeners of Nevada County answer a wide range of late-summer gardening questions for homeowners throughout Grass Valley, Nevada City, and the Sierra foothills. A major focus is tree-of-heaven, an aggressive invasive tree that can spread through seeds, roots, and new shoots. The Master Gardeners discuss identifying and removing young plants, controlling established trees, and using integrated pest management to determine when mechanical removal or carefully targeted herbicide treatment may be necessary. The conversation also covers greenhouse gardening, including the importance of ventilation, fans, air circulation, temperature control, and full-spectrum grow lights for starting plants during the colder months. Listeners learn why healthy airflow can reduce excess humidity, pests, and plant diseases inside a greenhouse. Additional topics include using coffee grounds in compost, balancing brown and green materials, composting oak leaves and pine needles, selecting appropriate animal manure, and knowing which household materials should stay out of a compost pile. The program also explores planting after heavy rain without compacting wet soil, leaving stems and seed heads for native bees and beneficial insects, choosing the right tree for the right location, and removing hazardous trees near homes and other structures. Whether you are managing an invasive plant, planning a greenhouse, building healthier compost, or preparing your Nevada County garden for the changing season, this episode offers practical, research-based advice for a healthier and more sustainable landscape.
