Got spring garden questions? These local experts can help

Thunderstorms, strong winds and a 30-degree swing in temperature; what could go wrong? When it comes to edible gardening, a lot!

Fortunately, Sacramento-area gardeners have a fantastic resource available to answer all sorts of questions during this spring’s weird, wacky weather: the UC Master Gardener Program.

This Saturday, May 9, the Sacramento County master gardeners will be out in force during their monthly Open Garden Day at the Fair Oaks Horticulture Center. It’s an opportunity for the public to watch and learn from the master gardeners working in their demonstration gardens.

“In this informal event, master gardeners will be available on site from 9 a.m. to noon, rain or shine,” say the hosts. “Bring samples of your problem plants, bagged insects and questions to the ‘Ask the Master Gardeners’ information table. Get one-on-one advice based on the most recent research-based sustainable practices.”

Master gardeners will be stationed throughout FOHC, demonstrating various and timely tasks such as thinning fruit in the orchard or tending to new tomato plants. Visit the compost area to see how the master gardeners recycle clippings into garden gold. Other featured sections include grapes, berries and herbs.

Three mini talks are scheduled during the morning: 

— 9:45 a.m. “The Flavor Garden: Understanding Herbal Aromas.” In the Lower Arbor.

— 10:30 a.m. “COMPOST!  Feed the Soil That Feeds Us.” Upper Arbor.

— 11:15 a.m. “Preparing Your Garden for Heat.” Lower Arbor

Also, don’t miss the WEL (water-efficient landscape) display garden with many low-water natives now in bloom and buzzing with pollinator activity.

Plan on arriving early; Saturday is going to get hot. Saturday’s forecast calls for highs in the low 90s as temperatures spike. (How will that impact your newly transplanted veggies? Ask the master gardeners!) Dress in layers and wear a hat and sunscreen.

The Fair Oaks Horticulture Center is located at 11549 Fair Oaks Blvd., Fair Oaks, south of Madison Avenue and Fair Oaks Park. Admission and parking are free. No pets, please.

Details and directions: https://ucanr.edu/site/uc-master-gardeners-sacramento-county