The Ask a Master Gardener blog features a wide range of articles written by Skagit County WSU Extension Master Gardeners on topics relevant to gardeners in the North Puget Sound area.
Small Native Plants
These small native plants and shrubs work in small spaces, benefiting pollinators while providing beauty and resilience to the ecosystem..
30th Anniversary
Master gardeners celebrate thirty years of the WSU Discovery Garden ~ a jewel of a teaching garden.
Water Features
A water feature is a way to add elevate your garden and attract pollinators of all types.
Companion Planting
Use companion planting to strategically growing different plant species together for mutual benefits, including pest management, improved yields, and healthier soil.
Plant Selection
Plan your visit to the Skagit County Master Gardener Plant Sale armed with the knowledge of the specific microclimates found in your yard.
Bulbs, corms, rhizomes, and tubers
Geophytes which include bulbs, corms, rhizomes, and tubers are, depending on your area, perennial plants with underground storage containers. Northwest Washington is known for commercial and native varieties, with proper...
Libraries: A Gardener’s Resource
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or planting your first seeds, your local library is ready to support your journey.
Growing Potatoes
Grow disease-free potatoes using these tips from WSU's Northwestern Washington Research and Extension Center.
Noxious Weeds in Skagit County
Help prevent the spread of noxious (aka invasive) weeds with proper identification and eradication.
Rain Barrels
Rain barrels offer an affordable, practical way to collect and use rainwater for gardening. Proper installation, maintenance, and safety precautions are essential.
Garden Tours 2.0
Whether you are planning a trip, or are an armchair traveler, go with fellow master gardeners as they visit various gardens located in the US and Canada.
Hellebores
Hellebores are hardy, deer-resistant perennials that bloom in winter, offering vibrant color in shades from white to nearly black. They thrive in shade, require little maintenance, and resist most pests.
Phenology
Nature’s harbingers – understanding phenology can help gardeners take nature’s cues to assist with garden activities.
Tools for Gardeners
The holidays are perfect for gifting gardeners tools and gadgets tailored to their interests, from seed starting supplies and pruning tools to maintenance aids, enhancing their gardening experience.
Greenhouses
As winter approaches, gardeners dream of options to extend the growing season. Key decisions involve what to grow, usage, design, materials, and whether to start seeds or protect delicate plants...
Ask a Master Gardener Garden Crafts Nearby Nature Nearby Nature Ornamental Gardening Plant Biodiversity Soil Health
Artistic Composting
Master Gardener Herta Kurp introduces a creative approach to building compost structures in the home garden. These structures are hard working solutions to the garden waste stream.
Conifers in the Homescape
Whether used as hedges, focal points, or ground covers, conifers will provide lasting beauty and functionality to your outdoor space.
Winter Prep Checklist
Master Gardener Diana Wisen has prepared a fall garden prep list
Cut Flower Garden
Master Gardener Karen Bruce discusses the joys and considerations of starting a cut flower garden, highlighting the importance of planning, choosing annuals and perennials, and ensuring success from spring through...
Growing Garlic
Master Gardener Laura Kuhn shares valuable tips for planning and planting a successful garlic crop this fall.
Interested in digging deeper into the archive of Ask a Master Gardener articles on a wide range of local gardening topics? Check out the archives.
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