New Kent County Bug Event
Join the New Kent Cooperative Extension Office for their first 2026 New Kent Bug Event on March 21st at New Kent High School! This all-ages festival features educational booths, hands-on activities, and insights from local insect specialists. It’s a perfect opportunity for the community to connect while exploring the wonderful world of bugs. JCCW Master Gardeners will have their Ask-A-Master Gardener Table available to answer your Spring gardening questions. Whether you're a kid, kid-at-heart, or just curious, come enjoy a day of learning and fun, and crawl your way into the world of insects! (For More Information)
Save the Date
The James City County Williamsburg Master Gardeners invite the community to the annual Plant Sale on Saturday, May 9, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Williamsburg Botanical Garden in Freedom Park, 5537 Centerville Road, Williamsburg, VA. Admission and parking are free, and the sale will be held rain or shine. For more details about the plant sale. (For More Information)
The Real Magic Is Starting with Seeds
Growing vegetables, herbs and flowers from seeds may keep our minds sharp, our bodies healthy, and our environment more sustainable. It may even be a small gesture towards world peace. Gardening won’t solve all of our problems and worries, but it certainly can bring us happiness. Every positive thing we do makes this world a better place. Learn the secrets of growing plants from seeds.
Why Bother with Bulbs?
Before the grass turns green, before the trees clothe themselves in new leaves, we know that the daffodils will bloom one chilly, late winter day. Daffodils and Crocus, Galanthus, Scilla, and miniature Iris; all of these tiny, jewel-like flowers will emerge, magically, from a handful of dry, unimpressive bulbs. Read more
The Beauty and Promise of Trees in Winter
There is a special beauty in the form and structure of a bare tree after it has dropped its annual crop of leaves. Like the beauty of a classical statue, one can see the truth of its bones. Leaves, for all of their movement and color, veil the beauty of branches and buds. Looking at a bare tree is a study in pure potential. Read More Here
Plant Literacy
Anyone who loves plants will find it useful to build a repertoire of knowledge about common plants that grow well in our area. No one expects you to be able to name and describe every single plant you encounter, but it is helpful to know a few. Learn about how plants are named and categorized, and find lists of common plants that gardeners should know. Learn more here
Unlocking the Secrets of Plant Species Names
The Secret Lives of Roots
Every productive gardener cultivates an appreciation for the (mostly) secret lives of roots. Roots are the foundation that supports most plant life. They are the vascular system that supports all other plant functions, and the key to all plant reproduction. Read More...
Early Spring Gardening-
February is the perfect time of year for frugal gardeners to get a head start on the coming season. Winter’s garden magazines and catalogs offer a preview of new cultivars hitting the market. We weigh the merits of melons, tomatoes, zinnias and dahlias, working the mental puzzle of what might fit where. Online marketers become our best garden ‘pen pals’ with daily temptations. Learn how you can get a head start on the growing season ahead. Read more here
How Do You Bathe in a Forest?
Have you ever wondered about the practice of forest bathing? It is one of several recent eco-prescriptions to help us heal what ails us and adapt to the stresses of contemporary life. When we visit the forest with an open heart and open mind, the trees can also help us ameliorate the stress of our modern lives. They can help us achieve balance. Learn more about the simple practice of forest bathing.
Holly, King of the Winter Forest
Williamsburg area woods light up with evergreen holly trees as other leaves fall. It is their time to sparkle in the winter sunshine. From pre-history until today, the Holly King rules the forest during the dark half of the year. The holly and oak ruled the forests for those following the old ways in European Celtic cultures. Learn more here...
Making a Healing Garden
Sometimes we all need a place to get away from the noise of our daily lives to find some peace. We want a place to relax, to heal, to reconnect with the natural world, and to dream of a better future for ourselves and our loved ones. Our outdoor spaces can provide us with peace, healing, sanctuary, and inspiration when we design them with these intentions. Read more
A Winter Wildlife Garden
You can enjoy a variety of birds and other wildlife in your yard through the winter by providing for their needs. Animals search for reliable food sources, shelter from the weather, and a source of fresh water. They want a sense of security, and can sense a welcoming spirit in the garden. Learn more here
Oh, Deer!
Virginia's population of deer has grown exponentially as deer adapted to living among people and as hunting has declined. Deer now cause a wide range of problems. Their impact prevents the normal regeneration of woodland plant species and destroys food sources and habitat for wild birds and other animal and insect species. Learn more about how you can help here.
Garden Questions?
Zone Change!
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The USDA has updated the Plant Hardiness Zone map and we're now in zone 8A. The trend reveals a picture of how many parts of our country are warming. Read more ...
Native Tree Guide
Which Tree Should I Plant? This guide was produced by the Upper and Middle James Riparian Consortium to educate Virginians about the woody native plants of our riparian areas. Access the guide here.
Native Plant Guide
This guide showcases many attractive variety of plants native to Southeast Virginia, which includes the Hampton Roads region. It includes information about how each plant supports wildlife. Read more here...