Delaware County Master Gardener Association

06/04/2026

Please note previous image had incorrect end time. Hours are 9-4.

Purchase tickets using the QR code for locations and schedule, or at this link: https://bit.ly/3RtrykF

05/31/2026

What a great addition for our community!

05/29/2026

Are you planning to take a trip to Chicago this summer? Make a point to stop at the Chicago Botanic Garden and check out their newest exhibit, "America Grows", which highlights the role gardening has played in America's 250 years of history.

To mark the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, the Garden is illuminating the pivotal role gardens have played in the American experience during America Grows: 250 Years of Garden Stories. Starting June 5 through September 27, visitors are invited to explore gardening movements tied to key moments in history and participate in artistic activities. Free for members and included with general admission. Learn more: www.chicagobotanic.org/america-grows

05/20/2026

“Is it possible for vegetables, especially squash, watermelons, pumpkins, etc., to cross in the garden to create a strange fruit?”

This question comes up every year! Here’s the bottom line on vegetable crossing:

Most vegetables do not cross since they would have to be in the same species to cross. But even if they DO cross (those that are in the same species) it will have no effect on the current year’s fruit.

Only the seeds will be affected and this will not show up unless you save your own seeds and plant them the next year. In that case, there may be all kinds off types produced.

FYI, watermelons and squash are in different species so it is impossible for them to cross at all.

The crosses that can occur are some squashes with some pumpkins (if they are in the same species, namely Cucurbita pepo) - there are several other species of squash and pumpkins.

Also, various types of melons (NOT watermelons) can cross. These include cantaloupes, honeydews, canaries, crenshaw, santa claus melons, and persian melons since they are in the same species, Cucumis melo.

05/16/2026

Got weekend plans? Check it out.

05/14/2026

What's your favorite, go-to, or essential gardening tool?
Read more👉

We spoke to horticulturists at some of the country’s most iconic parks and gardens. Here’s their list of essential gear.

05/10/2026

We are gearing up for another great Garden Walk! Pre-sale tickets will be available at the DCMGA booth at the Minnetrista farmers market on 5/23, 6/6, & 6/20. Tickets will also be available online. More info to come soon. See you on Saturday, June 27!

05/10/2026

05/08/2026

Ants on peonies might look concerning, but they’re actually helpful garden partners. Drawn by the sweet nectar on peony buds, ants feed on this resource and, in return, protect the plant by driving away harmful insects that could damage the flowers. Contrary to common myths, ants aren’t needed for peonies to bloom – they’re simply benefiting from the plant while offering a natural form of pest control.

Learn how ants help peonies: https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/garden-scoop/2023-05-06-how-ants-help-peonies

05/08/2026