Robeson County Extension Master Gardener Volunteers

10/17/2026

This time of year, you might find adult Wheel Bugs (Arilus cristatus) in your yard or garden. They’re named after the cog-like wheel on their back. Although they’re large and may look formidable, these are one of the “good bugs” you want in your garden.

Wheel Bugs are native to eastern North America and feed on pests such as Japanese beetles, aphids, caterpillars, and brown marmorated stink bugs. To do this, the Wheel Bug plunges its hypodermic needle-like beak into its prey. Their saliva contains toxins that quickly immobilize the prey, as well as enzymes that digest the prey’s insides. The wheel bug then takes in this liquified slurry and you have one less garden pest!

I guess that’s one way to get a protein shake! Mmmm…bottoms up! 🥤😝

10/12/2026

Love when one of the members shines like sunshine.

Meet the expert next door Carolyn Britt. Master gardener for over 20 years.
#1 tip read, follow & save your tag that comes with each plant. Favorite plants are camellia, daylily, clematis and orchids. 👩🏻‍🌾🪻🌾🪷

09/20/2026

We often think we’re doing our trees a favor by piling on fresh mulch—but a “mulch volcano” can become a slow-motion tree killer.

Piling organic matter directly against the trunk traps moisture exactly where it doesn’t belong, keeping bark damp and inviting decay. That cozy mound can also shelter pests and encourage roots to circle the trunk.

A tree’s root flare—the widening part at the base—should stay visible, not disappear beneath a mountain of wood chips.

Instead of burying your trees, pull the mulch back at least three inches from the trunk and keep the layer only two to three inches deep. Spread it outward, not upward.

Mulch is supposed to protect the roots—not smother the trunk. Give the base breathing room before the damage stays hidden for another season.

05/09/2026

A huge thank you to everyone who ignored possible iffy weather and came out to the Robeson County Farmers Market opening today and supported the Extension Master Gardener plant sale and all the other vendors there. This event helps us raise money for our community initiatives and education. Hope you enjoy your plants and let us know if you have questions…we are happy to help.

05/09/2026

Good morning! The Robeson County Extension Master Gardener plant sale is in full swing in the downtown plaza as part for the Robeson County Farmers Market. Come by and check us out…we will be here until noon!

04/11/2026

Everyone, come enjoy learning about dailies! Scan the QR code to register.

Extension Master Gardener Volunteers Daylilies Workshop will be held Tuesday, April 21, 2026 from 6:30pm-8:00pm. For more information, please contact Mack Johnson, Extension Horticultural Agent, at 910-671-3276 or [email protected].

04/11/2026

Mark your calendars for our upcoming Plant sale May 9 at the Robeson County Farmers Market located at 3rd and Water Streets.

The Extension Master Gardener Volunteers will be having a plant sale on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at the Robeson County Farmers Market from 9 am-noon. Please come and support!!