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What is Grex Gardening?

A bee hovers near a yellow flower on a green plant branch, with blurred greenery in the background.

By Vicki Spencer, Master Gardener I rely heavily on the wisdom of elders to be a better gardener. It’s helped me improve my skills and appreciate that gardening isn’t just work. It can be a peaceful retreat from today’s hectic lifestyle. Although a garden’s solitude is refreshing, experiences are usually more rewarding when shared with […]

What are Seed Libraries?

Three open paper seed packets on a wooden surface, spilling white, tan, and red seeds onto the table.

By Vicki Spencer, Master Gardener While serving on Gunnison County Library’s Board of Directors, I participated in plans to build a new, modern facility to replace the overcrowded house we had been renting just off Main Street. It was a monumental effort that included engaging the community, assessing needs, soliciting architectural designs as well as […]

Early Spring Vegetable Gardening

Person planting young seedlings in soil with green leaves visible.

This article was corrected and updated 3/3/23. By Vicki Spencer, Master Gardener Varied landscapes and climates are what make Colorado such a beautiful place to live. Some areas have cold, wet winters while others are warmer and drier. This variation needs to be considered during early spring vegetable gardening. In the Zone Which vegetables grow […]

National Bird-Feeding Month

A bird perches on a snow-covered wooden birdhouse attached to a tree in a snowy landscape.

By Vicki Spencer, Master Gardener Wandering around your neighborhood, you may be dismayed by the bleakness of February’s bare-branched trees and shrubs. But look closely. Your spirits will be lifted by birds fluttering all around. While fun to watch, birds remind us that February is the most difficult month for wildlife seeking food and shelter. […]

Health Impact of Gas Stoves

A stainless steel pot sits on a gas stove burner with a blue flame.

It’s an old debate. Which cooks better: a gas or electric stove? Data today suggests a different question should be asked: Which is better for your indoor environment? What are the health impacts of gas stoves versus electric stoves? It turns out that gas stoves, particularly those that are unvented, can be a primary source […]

Xeriscape Gardening When Water is Scarce

A garden features various succulents, green shrubs, and scattered rocks. Sparse red flowers add color amid the stones.

By Vicki Spencer, Master Gardener Given the extreme drought conditions of last summer, January isn’t too early to start planning for another challenging gardening season. To reduce outdoor water usage and see a significant decrease in your summer water bill, try xeriscape gardening when water is scarce. That’s a welcome prospect with high inflation and […]