Nebraska Extension in Douglas-Sarpy Counties |
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June Lawn Reminders
Make a second preemergence herbicide application on lawns with a history of annual grassy and broadleaf weeds. Read and follow all label directions. Use a leaf blower to move the product from the sidewalk and street back to the lawn.
Continue to mow at 2.5 to 3 inches for Kentucky bluegrass and 3 to 3.5 inches for tall fescue. Research at UNL has shown that seasonal adjustments for mowing height are more trouble than they are worth. Mowing with a sharp blade is a big benefit and worth the effort.
During establishment of new lawns, the key to success is light, frequent watering, especially on slopes. This usually means 5-minute sprinklings 3 times a day. Another important factor is to realize that Kentucky bluegrass requires about 20-25 days to germinate and grow; perennial ryegrass and tall fescue more in the 10-15 day timeframe. If the grass seed mix contains two of these components, it’s essential that frequent watering is continued until all grasses have germinated, otherwise only the species that require shorter lengths of time will become established. After germination, the number of times of watering per day can be gradually decreased and the length of time gradually increased.
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Families are invited to attend our annual
Nature Night Walk
June 16, 2023
8:00 PM-11:00 PM
Schramm Park State Recreation Area
21146, NE-31, Gretna, NE 68028
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Enjoy Eating Seasonal Vegetables |
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Asparagus, an early spring vegetable, is a good source of folate, fiber and antioxidants like Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Asparagus is a quick cooking vegetable, and can be ready in 3-5 minutes. Try asparagus stir-fried in pan with some olive oil, garlic and pepper. Top with freshly grated parmesan. Also try asparagus cold, as a side dish in this Mustard and Vinaigrette recipe. |
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A nutrient dense vegetable, fresh spinach can be used in smoothies, sauteed with garlic and onions, added to soup or pasta dishes or eaten fresh in a side salad. Just one cup of spinach fulfills your daily recommendations of Vitamin K, and is also provides Vitamin A, Vitamin C and B vitamins as well as Iron. Try this delicious Power Smoothie that kids will love.
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4-H Workshops
Computer Coding Workshop - June 23
When: Friday, June 23, 2023
Time: 1:30-3:00pm
Where: Nebraska Extension Douglas-Sarpy Central Office, 8015 W Center Rd. Omaha
Cost: $10 per youth (Cash, check, or credit card). Please bring payment June 23.
This engaging workshop will pique youth’s interest in computer science by exploring codes and programs using Ozobots! This workshop is ideal for youth K-5th grade.
Recycled Art Summer Workshop
When: Tuesday, June 13, 2023
Time: 9 am to noon
Where: Nebraska Extension Douglas-Sarpy Central Office, 8015 W Center Rd. Omaha
Register for the workshop here https://forms.gle/c696iQyfDWmJ2Xtw6. Choose only as many stations that you think your youth will complete during the three-hour workshop. Each station has its own price.
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Backyard Farmer is Back
Backyard Farmer is dedicated to finding solutions to your lawn and garden questions. Every year from spring to fall, our panel of experts discuss and educate about insects, turf, weeds, rots and spots, landscapes, vegetables, wildlife, as well as landscape design and general horticulture topics.
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Ask our experts a question here. Your question may be featured on the Backyard Farmer TV show!
Tune in and watch
NEBRASKA PUBLIC MEDIA (CDT)
- 7 pm Thursdays
- 10 am Saturdays
CREATE (CDT)
- 4 pm Sundays
- 5 pm Mondays
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June Gardening Tip
New vegetable plants need moist soils to get established and then require more water during formation and growth of the edible parts of the plant. Snap beans and cucumbers require adequate moisture during pollination and fruit formation. Others, such as tomatoes, need even watering during the entire season to encourage robust root development and to prevent problems with blossom end rot. Learn more here.
Do you have gardening and plant questions?
Our Master Gardeners are now available to answer questions from 9 am to noon.
By phone: 402-444-7804
In person: 8015 West Center Road, Omaha.
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Extension Helping The Community with
Double Up Food Bucks
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Double Up Food Bucks is program that matches fruit and vegetable purchases dollar for dollar, up to $20 a day when individuals use their EBT Card at participating stores and farmers markets. Eligible families get twice the amount of fresh fruits and veggies.
If you have an EBT Card, you're automatically eligible for Double Up. "I am very appreciative of the program, it has helped me eat more fresh fruits and veggies and buy things I normally wouldn’t. Plus, I love that it supports local farmers!"
— Double Up Food Bucks Grocery Store Shopper
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In the News
Nebraska Extension Entomologist Jody Green warns us that bug bombs can be cheap and easy to find, but they're not the end-all-be-all solution as some products suggest. Canisters emit residue that treats exposed surfaces.
"These are not going to penetrate into the cracks and crevices and other harbingers where those insects hide," Green said.
She says it's better to call a certified expert who can identify species of insects, and then help remove food, water, shelters, or breeding sites. The EPA says foggers can ignite open flames or appliances, and harm humans who are exposed to treatment areas.
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Community Partner of the Month: Kids Can |
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Kids Can’s Out of School programs offer children the opportunities to continue their education outside of the classroom.
We are excited to announce that Kids Can will be partnering with Douglas-Sarpy 4-H this summer, leading a variety of programs with the K-6th grade youth!
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Learn more about horticulture and the 4-H programs by signing up for our Newsletters:
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Monthly Horticulture Newsletter by emailing John Fech here.
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Weekly 4-H Newsletter by emailing Rachel Wright here.
Learn more about our programs in our:
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8015 West Center Road, Omaha
402-444-7804
go.unl.edu/douglassarpyext
Our south office is located at 1102 E. 1st St., Papillion, NE 68046.
Call 402-444-7804 to schedule an appointment at our Papillion Office.
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