There are many tree species that can be successfully grown in Virginia, but are rarely seen in our landscapes. Although not ordinarily recommended or readily available, these trees may be useful to carry out a specific landscape theme, to substitute for an exotic type which is not locally adapted, or may be prized for unusual form, flowers, fruits, bark, or foliage.

The Virginia Pest Management Guide (PMG) series lists options for management of major pests: diseases, insects, nematodes, and weeds. These guides are produced by Virginia Cooperative Extension and each guide is revised annually. PMG recommendations are based on research conducted by the Research and Extension Division of Virginia Tech, in cooperation with other land-grant universities, the USDA, and the pest management industry.

Ed Olsen and Wendy Silverman, New River Valley Extension Master Gardener Director, discuss how Virginia Extension Master Gardeners are growing community impact by providing seeds for educational programs and nonprofits through their innovative seed bank program!

Looking for a simple way to get a head start on your garden? Try winter seed sowing! Virginia Cooperative Extension Specialist Ed Olsen and Extension Master Gardener Cathy Tignor discuss how you can use those recycled plastic beverage containers sitting in your recycling bin to start seeds! Milk jugs, iced tea containers and lemonade bottles make the perfect mini-greenhouses for this technique.

Discover how foodscaping blends beauty with functionality as Ed Olsen and Master Gardener Phaedra Hise from Virginia Cooperative Extension share expert tips for incorporating edible plants into your landscape design, creating gardens that please both the eye and the palate.