Agriculture & Horticulture
Gardening in Los Alamos County can present challenges to even the most experienced horticulturists. Los Alamos newcomers often have trouble getting plants to thrive or even survive. More often than not, they previously gardened where "you stick a plant in the ground and it grows." Plant survival in Los Alamos and White Rock is not only determined by temperature, for rarely is extreme cold the limiting plant growth factor. Combinations of low humidity, drying winds and physical properties of the soil compounded by the innumerable microclimates throughout the county influence how well plants perform here.
Los Alamos Horticulture 101
Climate
Soil Preperation
Turf
Composting
Pruning
The Home Orchard
The Home Vegetable Garden
Plant Selection
Miscellaneous Publications
Common Pest Problems in Los Alamos County
Integrated pest management (IPM) is a way of managing pests in a garden that is socially acceptable, environmentally responsible and economically viable. IPM promotes minimized pesticide use, enhanced environmental stewardship and sustainable landscapes. IPM is a process, defined by each particular situation. The key to success has been developing new ways to understand and make decisions about pest management. Since there is no magic bullet – no simple and specific schedule of pesticides or fertilizers or plowing and planting techniques – that defines IPM, it can mean different things for different people. Always, though, it refers to a way of gardening that aims to protect and conserve our natural resources, while responsibly responding to the needs of the homeowner. And usually, because IPM embraces new and unproven techniques and materials, it requires gardeners to "think outside the box".
Note: Because pesticide labels can change rapidly, you should read the label directions carefully before buying and using any pesticides. Regardless of the information provided here, you should always follow the latest product label information when using any pesticide.
If you have any doubt, please contact the Cooperative Extension Service at (505) 662-2656 or email us at Pesticide Questions?
Conifer Pests
Other Ornamental Pests
Fruit & Vegetable Pests
Household Pestst
Disease
Wildlife Pests
Los Alamos Master Gardeners
When the term "Master Gardener" was first coined in the early 1970s to describe a new Extension program at Washington State, few could have predicted it would spread to New Mexico and blossom into one of the most effective volunteer organizations in Los Alamos County. Locally, Master Gardener training began in the early 1980s. Our local Club was formed in July 1994. Our membership has peaked at 80 and currently enjoys a steady membership level of 40.
The Los Alamos Master Gardener Mission
To promote knowledgeable, effective, and safe horticultural and gardening practices in furtherance of New Mexico State Universities' Cooperative Extension Service;
and to promote goodwill in our community by participating in horticultural and educational service projects
For additional information on becoming a Master Gardener volunteer or participating in the Master Gardener training send us an email at: LA Master Gardener
In addition to the Demonstration Garden, the Los Alamos Master Gardeners' Club has reached out to the community through various activities, programs, and donations. The following list highlight some of these activities, many of which are ongoing.
- LA Demonstration Garden since 1994
- Landscaping of Wilfred's Walk at Sombrillo 1995
- Planting at the Los Alamos Golf Course annually since 1997
- Los Alamos Garden Tour since 1995, except 2000 because of the Cerro Grande fire
- Seeds for Survivors - free and deeply discounted seeds for fire survivors 2001-2002
- Gardening books distribution to all five Los Alamos elementary schools 2005
- Los Alamos County Science Fair - judging and awards since 1999
Club Announcements
- Next Monthly Presentation: Drip Irrigation 07/21/07, 10:00am
- Next LA Master Gardeners' Club Meeting: 08/02/07, 7:00p.m.