Pike County Master Gardeners Association

06/08/2026

06/06/2026

Several species of ticks can inhabit home lawns, and some of them have the potential to transmit serious diseases!

Ticks are usually brought into the home lawn aboard pets or other animals. The first step in controlling ticks in the home lawn is to control ticks on any pets that use the area. There are a number of effective treatments that can be used on dogs and cats to control ticks. Consult your local vet about these products.

The second step to control ticks in the home lawn is to limit access of wild animals and stray pets to the lawn area. Fenced lawns tend to have fewer tick problems than unfenced lawns. Obviously, keeping pets penned so that they are unable to roam the woods and collect ticks will help prevent ticks from being brought into the yard.

Keeping vegetation cut low, so people and pets can walk through an area without brushing against tall w**ds and grass blades, also reduces the risk of tick infestation.

When lawns do become infested with ticks, there are several effective spray treatments available.

Granular products are generally less effective than sprays. Concentrate treatments on areas where pets rest, along game trails and areas where wildlife visit, around building perimeters, and on any tall, w**dy vegetation in the area. (Click link below for more info on this.)

Take precautions to reduce the chances of being bitten by ticks. Tuck pant legs into the tops of boots, tuck in shirttails, and use an effective tick repellant. Repellants containing the active ingredient permethrin are especially effective against ticks, but read labels carefully. Repellents containing permethrin may not be applied directly to the skin, but may be applied to clothing only. Repellants containing the active ingredient DEET are also useful against ticks.

Learn more about control methods for ticks and other pests here: https://extension.msstate.edu/publications/control-insect-pests-and-around-the-home-lawn

06/05/2026

The US Department of Agriculture has confirmed the presence of New World screwworm in Zavala County, Texas, which is about 50 miles from the US-Mexico border. This is the first detection of this pest in the United States during this outbreak.

Devastating to warm-blooded animals, the New World screwworm is a live-animal health concern, not a food safety or quality issue. As a preventative measure, livestock producers are encouraged to implement routine fly control in their herds.

If you have a suspected infestation, immediately contact Alabama State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier at (334) 240-7253.

For more information about the New World screwworm, read the press release from the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries at https://agi.alabama.gov/animalindustries/2026/06/usda-confirms-new-world-screwworm-in-texas/.

06/05/2026

Ready to take your gardening knowledge to the next level?

Registration is now open for Alabama Extension's Fall Master Gardener Volunteer Program! Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just getting started, this program provides in-depth training on topics like soils, plant physiology, integrated pest management, and the care of ornamental, lawn, and food-producing plants.

Early Bird registration ends June 15.
Registration closes June 30.

Grow your gardening skills, connect with fellow plant enthusiasts, and become part of a community dedicated to sharing horticulture knowledge across Alabama.

Learn more and register today! https://www.aces.edu/go/6425

06/04/2026

Torpedograss is an invasive w**d is causing big problems across Alabama's lakes, marshes, and landscapes.

Known for spreading quickly through underground roots and plant fragments, torpedograss can take over before you realize it's there. Early detection can make a big difference.

Alabama Extension experts explain how to identify this aggressive invader and share recommendations for managing it before it spreads even farther.

Learn what to look for and to manage this quickly spreading w**d. https://www.aces.edu/go/6419

05/29/2026

Blight is the most common disease affecting tomatoes in Alabama and typically begins appearing from late May through June, especially during warm, wet conditions caused by frequent rainfall or overhead irrigation.

The key to managing blight is starting early before the disease has a chance to spread. Learn how to identify blight symptoms and explore management options to help protect your tomato crop. https://www.aces.edu/go/6390

05/21/2026

05/17/2026

05/16/2026

Meet Mallory Kelley, an Alabama Extension Home Horticulture agent in Autauga County!

As a Home Horticulture agent, Mallory helps people grow healthier landscapes, gardens, and communities by connecting Auburn University research with everyday gardening practices. A big part of her role is building partnerships and identifying ways to address local needs and challenges, including food insecurity.

That mission is driving Alabama Extension’s statewide Grow More, Give More 250 lb Challenge this summer. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Home Horticulture team is challenging every county to donate 250 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to local food pantries to help support families and strengthen communities across Alabama.

If you are a gardener and want to make a difference in your community, learn how you can get involved! www.aces.edu/go/250Challenge