Solutions in Your Community


In This Issue

November 11:
Veteran's Day
Office closed

November 25-26:
Thanksgiving Holiday
Office closed

December 24:
Christmas (observed)
Office closed
September 2021

Dear Friends and Clients,

Just yesterday, I saw the first flock of migrating Canada Geese heading south for the winter. Their presence (and the shorter days) are my annual reminder that fall is just around the corner. Fall is really a season to be reflective as well as a time to prepare for winter.

Hopefully your fall garden is off to a good start. If you enjoy growing your own Garlic, now is the time to plant it for a June/July 2022 harvest. Pansies and Mums are now available and both will winter over in this part of the State if you plant them as part of your landscaping. Fall is also the best time to fertilize your lawn and re-seed those bare spots. You can call in here to the office or visit our website for specific recommendations. https://extension.umd.edu/resource/lawn-fertilizer-schedule-chart

Since we are taking about taking care of our lawns and gardens. I'm encouraging you to spend some time taking care of yourself. LaTasha Coleman, our SNAP-Ed educator has included an article about the benefits of walking. Please read her article below and make a plan to get out there and walk.

Finally, our office is open again, please stop by and see us, just remember to wear a mask when you come in.

Thanks from all of us at the Anne Arundel County Extension office!

Robert Baldwin
Acting Area Extension Director
We're still in business, but with some differences!!

For well over 100 years, University of Maryland Extension has fulfilled its mission of delivering science-based education to Maryland citizens and communities.

Our office resumed normal operations on Monday, July 19, 2021 and we welcome all clientele and stakeholders.

We understand that some people are still very cautious during this time and we are always committed to meeting the needs our clientele and stakeholders to ensure that you have the information and assistance you need to protect your families, farms, and communities.
  • Call or email us: We will continue to answer your questions and provide the resources you need.

  • Field visits: We will continue to conduct on-site field visits for diagnosis of production issues.

  • Access University of Maryland Extension Online Resources at: https://extension.umd.edu.
October is "Walktober" in Maryland
LaTasha Coleman, MD SNAP-Ed Educator

The Hogan administration named walking as the official state exercise in October 2008. Governor Hogan recently stated, "During the COVID-19 emergency, citizens have turned to walking not only as a beneficial physical activity, but also as a commuting option. During Walktober, I encourage people of all ages and abilities to take a step toward good health and enjoy Maryland's beauty on foot."

Walking is a great way to maintain or achieve a healthy weight, reduce your stress, increase your energy, and improve your immune systems!
Stay on track with your walking:
  • Start with a specific goal. "I'll take a 10-minute walk during my lunch break." Once your 10-minute walk becomes a habit, set a new goal to get more steps.
  •  Make walking enjoyable. If you do not like walking alone, ask a friend to join you. Consider joining a health club or local walking group. Try listening to music or your favorite podcast while you walk.
  • Stay safe. If you are walking alone, tell someone which route you are taking. Walk in safe, well-lit locations.
  • Missing a day is OK. If you find yourself skipping your daily walks, do not give up. Remind yourself how good you feel when you include physical activity in your daily routine, and then get back on track.
Take time each day for physical activity. For more ideas, visit Maryland SNAP-Ed's Eat Smart Blog .
Fall Flowering Plants

Just because summer is ending does not mean that it has to be the end of color in your home landscape. Several herbaceous annuals and perennials come into their full glory in the fall. The old faithfuls for fall color are chrysanthemums (mums) and pansies. These colorful plantsprovide instant beautification. 

Click here to learn more.

Become an Anne Arundel County Master Gardener

Interested in becoming a Master Gardener? Master Gardeners are a group of gardening
enthusiasts who are passionate about gardening, education, and volunteering in their community. The curriculum is presented by University of Maryland Extension faculty and trained Master Gardeners. The class scheduled for this fall-winter is already full but we have started a waiting list for a spring class if we see the need.  Call for more information!

Click here for more information.
Did you visit the Anne Arundel County Fair this year? Did you wonder what in the world 4-H is all about? Do you have children between 8 and 18 or know someone who does? If so, it's easy to learn more! Visit our website or email the the Anne Arundel County 4-H office at [email protected]."4-H makes the best better!"
Our Agronomy Experts are Here to Help
 
While our offices are closed we are still working to provide assistance.  
  • Call or email us: We continue to answer questions and conduct field research to deliver the resources you need.

  • Field visits: If needed and following social distancing protocol, we continue to conduct on-site field visits for diagnosis of production issues.

  • Online Resources: We are expanding online learning available at the websites below. Find online pesticide and nutrient voucher recertification here: https://go.umd.edu/iKp
 We are here to help you. Contact any of your Southern Maryland Agriculture Agents:
 
Alan Leslie
301-542-7612
 
Ben Beale
301-481-7209
 
Dave Myers
410-980-1768

Do you have a plant question? Pests in your house? Not happy with your lawn? The University of Maryland Home and
Garden Information Center can help. Visit their website:
Agriculture & Natural Resources

Interested in agriculture? There are many agriculture resources available on our website.

Agriculture Newsletters
For more information, please contact Dave Myers, Extension Educator, AGNR.

4-H offers plant and animal science programs for youth ages 8-18. See the 4-H website for more details.
Healthy Eating - Snap Pea and Berry Salad

1/2 pound sugar snap peas, trimmed
1 cup fresh raspberries
2 Tablespoons raspberry, red wine, or balsamic vinegar
2 Tablespoons olive oil
¼ teaspoon sugar
1 cup fresh blueberries
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups mixed salad greens

 

Boil water in a pot large enough to hold the snap peas. Place snap peas in pot and cook 1 to 2 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside. Place about 1 ½ tablespoons of raspberries in a small strainer over a bowl, and crush with a spoon. Discard pulp. Mix vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper with the strained raspberry juice. In a large bowl, gently toss the dressing with the snap peas, remaining raspberries, and blueberries. Cover, and chill at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Toss with greens just before serving.

 


 Area Extension Director
 Robert Baldwin, Acting AED
Agriculture & Natural Resources
Dave Myers, Principal Agent
[email protected] or 410-222-3906

 
Nutrient Management
Krista Mitchell, Nutrient Management Advisor
[email protected] or 410 222-3906

Master Gardener Program
Nancy Allred, Interim Master Gardener Coordinator
[email protected] or 410-222-3906

4-H Youth Development
Gretchen Sumbrum, Agent
[email protected] or 410-222-3900


Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program 
LaTasha Coleman, Principal Agent Associate
[email protected] or 410-222-3903