Biweekly Update 29 October 2026

New Announcements

NSV Gardening Symposium 2026: Planting Ideas, Harvesting Change!

  • When: November 14, 2026, Doors Open at 8 AM for check-in and breakfast, sessions will go until 4 PM
  • Where: Laurel Ridge Community College, 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown VA in the Corron Community Development Center
  • Cost: $65 each, lunch is an optional $15 add on
  • Speakers:
  •     Robyn Puffenbarger, Bridgewater Professor and Bird Enthusiast
  •     Jack Monsted, Blandy Experimental Farm, Native Plant Trail Curator
  •     Kevin Rice, Entomologist at the Alson H. Smith AREC
  •     Community Action Panel with speakers from Lake Frederick Conservation Club, Sustainability Matters, and Winchester Tree Stewards
  • Plus, we will have some EMGs highlight their own projects!
  • Extras: Door Prizes, (amazing) Silent Auction Baskets and Items, and Educational Booths from other organizations
  • Register for Symposium HERE: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2026-garden-symposium
  • Please note: Zeffy is a free platform for non-profits to use for event registration, because this platform is free; they ask for tips to support Zeffy – this is optional and the transaction will process without a tip.

Join the Louisa Extension Master Gardeners for another seminar in our Backyard Gardening Fall Seminar Series!

Extension Master Gardener Tom Case will present an informative program focused on trees. Whether you’re selecting trees for your landscape, caring for established trees, or simply interested in learning more about these important parts of our environment, this seminar is a great opportunity to expand your knowledge and get practical, research-based gardening information.

Presented by: EMG Tom Case
Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Louisa County Library, 881 Davis Highway, Mineral, VA 23117
Facebook event link: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DzU3W9mbT/

We look forward to seeing you there!

Note: If you are a person with a disability and desire assistance or accommodation, please notify the Louisa VCE office at (540)967-3422/TDD* during business hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
*TDD number is (800)828-1120.

Old October Announcements

The 2027 EMG College Conference will be held at the Hotel Madison & Shenandoah Valley Conference Center June 4-6 2027. More information will come out in the next few months. All information will be posted at on the EMG College Webpage and shared via email through Better Impact. 

Nature’s Best Hope with Doug Tallamy 11/4/2026 Danville, VA

  • Bee City USA Danville in partnership with the Danville Master Gardeners is proud to present Nature’s Best Hope with renowned entomologist, conservationist, author, and professor Dr. Doug Tallamy.
  • November 4 @ 7:00 PM George Washington High School Auditorium
  • Discover how the choices we make in our own yards can help restore biodiversity and create healthier habitats for pollinators and wildlife.
  • Tickets go on sale October 1. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EjeNjfu88/

Old September Announcements

The Biology of the Wild Solitary Bees:  Discover the fascinating world of wild solitary bees in this engaging 8-week webinar series designed for bee enthusiasts and anyone interested in pollinator conservation. Participants will explore the biology, ecology, and evolution of solitary bees through accessible, science-based presentations grounded in natural history and current research. Topics include bee diversity, life cycles, nesting behaviors, mating systems, foraging ecology, plant interactions, and the many environmental threats affecting bee populations in a changing world. This series will deepen participants’ understanding and appreciation of wild solitary bees while providing practical knowledge to support pollinator stewardship and conservation efforts.

Weekly, September 15 – November 3, 2026, Sign Up for this webinar Here!

New Rapidan River Master Gardener Class Series – Carver Center, 9432 N James Madison Hwy, Rapidan, VA 22733

  • We’re excited to share that the Rapidan River Master Gardeners are planning a 2026 class series! Visit our website for class details and registration. All classes are open to the public. Click here for more information on the event.

Biweekly Update 13 October 2026

New Announcements

The 2027 EMG College Conference will be held at the Hotel Madison & Shenandoah Valley Conference Center June 4-6 2027. More information will come out in the next few months. All information will be posted at on the EMG College Webpage and shared via email through Better Impact. 

.Nelson County Master Gardeners Association Movie “The Extraordinary Caterpillar” 10/13/2026 Nelson Heritage Center 1653 Thomas Nelson Highway Arrington, VA 22922. More info here

Nature’s Best Hope with Doug Tallamy 11/4/2026 Danville,VA

  • Bee City USA Danville in partnership with the Danville Master Gardeners is proud to present Nature’s Best Hope with renowned entomologist, conservationist, author, and professor Dr. Doug Tallamy.
  • November 4 @ 7:00 PM George Washington High School Auditorium
  • Discover how the choices we make in our own yards can help restore biodiversity and create healthier habitats for pollinators and wildlife.
  • Tickets go on sale October 1. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EjeNjfu88/

Old September Announcements

Prince William Gardening Basics: Fruit Trees & Small Fruit October 21, 2026 at 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM on Zoom Join Extension Agent, Thomas Bolles as we cover choosing the right plants, planting, pruning, pollination, and keeping common pests from enjoying your harvest before you do. To register visit: https://pears.io/events/vce/9682/

State EMG Office 2026 Leadership Development Training All sessions held virtually via zoom, all sessions recorded. Must register to attend. Open to certified EMGs

Training and Retaining Specialized Volunteers: Have you struggled to find your place in the EMG program locally? Do you have volunteers who may be getting bored in their role? The EMG program is full of overachievers, as any volunteer organization is. Grace Stern will discuss strategies for recognizing talents, providing niches for all EMGs, and retaining those volunteers who may feel unfulfilled in the local unit.

  1. Tuesday October 27th, 9:00 am-10:00 am EST
  2. Register Here for the October 27th LDT Session

The Biology of the Wild Solitary Bees:  Discover the fascinating world of wild solitary bees in this engaging 8-week webinar series designed for bee enthusiasts and anyone interested in pollinator conservation. Participants will explore the biology, ecology, and evolution of solitary bees through accessible, science-based presentations grounded in natural history and current research. Topics include bee diversity, life cycles, nesting behaviors, mating systems, foraging ecology, plant interactions, and the many environmental threats affecting bee populations in a changing world. This series will deepen participants’ understanding and appreciation of wild solitary bees while providing practical knowledge to support pollinator stewardship and conservation efforts.

Weekly, September 15 – November 3, 2026, Sign Up for this webinar Here!

New Rapidan River Master Gardener Class Series – Carver Center, 9432 N James Madison Hwy, Rapidan, VA 22733

  • We’re excited to share that the Rapidan River Master Gardeners are planning a 2026 class series! Visit our website for class details and registration. All classes are open to the public. Click here for more information on the event.

Biweekly Update 24 September 2026

New Announcements

State EMG Office 2026 Leadership Development Training All sessions held virtually via zoom, all sessions recorded. Must register to attend. Open to certified EMGs

  1. Creating Structure for your Meetings with Agendas and Minutes: This is designed as a 101 course for new EMG Leadership, or a refresher for seasoned leaders. Learn from Grace Stern about how to prepare for a meeting with agendas, committee reports, and minutes. This session will include tips from the pros to keep you organized. Tools and strategies will be shared.
    1. Thursday October 1, 2026 from 2:00- 3:00 EST
    2. Register Here for the October 1 LDT Session 
  2. Meeting Management for EMGs: Learn about managing meetings, Roberts Rules of Order, and Parliamentary Procedure. This session is designed to provide you with the skills necessary to hold formal meetings within your EMG Unit, including but not limited to association meetings and board meetings. Chad Proudfoot will explain  why and how to utilize parliamentary procedure to develop strong meetings that stay on task and on time.
    1. Thursday October 8th 2:00- 3:00 pm
    2. Register Here for the October 8th LDT Session
  3. Digital Marketing and Title II Accessibility for EMGs:  Join us for a discussion on success with digital marketing and an update on expectations for EMG programming with Title II Accessibility rules. Devon Johnson, Associate Director for Communications with VCE.
    1. Friday October 9th, 2:00 pm -3:00 pm
    2. Register Here for the October 9th LDT Session
  4. Training and Retaining Specialized Volunteers: Have you struggled to find your place in the EMG program locally? Do you have volunteers who may be getting bored in their role? The EMG program is full of overachievers, as any volunteer organization is. Grace Stern will discuss strategies for recognizing talents, providing niches for all EMGs, and retaining those volunteers who may feel unfulfilled in the local unit.
    1. Tuesday October 27th, 9:00 am-10:00 am EST
    2. Register Here for the October 27th LDT Session

Prince William Fall Family Day in the Garden October 3, 2026 at 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM @ VCE Prince William Teaching Garden 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow, VA 20136 Come and enjoy a day at the Garden, tour the gardens, fun crafts, talk to Extension Master Gardeners who tend the garden, learn about composting and preparing your garden for the winter. To register visit: https://pears.io/events/vce/9101/

Backyard Gardening Fall Seminar: Fall Vegetable Gardening Saturday, October 10, 2026 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Louisa County Library – 881 Davis Highway, Mineral, VA 23117 Join the Louisa Extension Master Gardeners for the first seminar in our Fall 2026 Backyard Gardening Seminar Series! Learn practical tips for planning and maintaining a productive fall vegetable garden in our Zone 7a climate.

  • We’ll cover cool-season vegetables, planting and succession timing, soil preparation, companion planting, watering, and ways to protect crops from late-summer heat and fall frost. You’ll also learn techniques for extending the growing season and keeping your garden productive into the cooler months.
  • The seminar will include a Q&A, so bring your fall gardening questions! Whether you’re new to vegetable gardening or an experienced gardener looking to extend your harvest, we hope you’ll join us.
  • If you are a person with a disability and desire assistance or accommodation, please notify the Louisa VCE office at (540)967-3422/TDD* during business hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.*TDD number is (800)828-1120.

Patrick County EMG Unit Native Plant Sale– Saturday October 10, 2026. Stuart Farmers Market.

Prince William Gardening Basics: Fruit Trees & Small Fruit October 21, 2026 at 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM on Zoom Join Extension Agent, Thomas Bolles as we cover choosing the right plants, planting, pruning, pollination, and keeping common pests from enjoying your harvest before you do. To register visit: https://pears.io/events/vce/9682/

Old September Announcements

10/10/2026 The Henrico Bug Bizarre, a community festival celebrating the joy and excitement of entomology, will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, at the Deep Run Recreation Center, 9900 Ridgefield Parkway. The free event will feature live insects and other insect-related displays, including hissing cockroaches, tarantulas and a “bug zoo.” Experts will share information on a variety of subjects, including pollinators, garden insects, forest pests and public health. All ages are welcome, and the event will offer children’s activities.

Old August Announcements

Maymont will host a film screening of Flight of the Butterflies followed by a brief information session about the Mexico travel opportunity. The screening is free with admission to the nature center and there’s no obligation to travel to attend. Registration is recommended, but walk ups will be admitted as space allows. To register click here!

Old June Announcements

The Biology of the Wild Solitary Bees:  Discover the fascinating world of wild solitary bees in this engaging 8-week webinar series designed for bee enthusiasts and anyone interested in pollinator conservation. Participants will explore the biology, ecology, and evolution of solitary bees through accessible, science-based presentations grounded in natural history and current research. Topics include bee diversity, life cycles, nesting behaviors, mating systems, foraging ecology, plant interactions, and the many environmental threats affecting bee populations in a changing world. This series will deepen participants’ understanding and appreciation of wild solitary bees while providing practical knowledge to support pollinator stewardship and conservation efforts.

Weekly, September 15 – November 3, 2026, Sign Up for this webinar Here!

New Rapidan River Master Gardener Class Series – Carver Center, 9432 N James Madison Hwy, Rapidan, VA 22733

  • We’re excited to share that the Rapidan River Master Gardeners are planning a 2026 class series! Visit our website for class details and registration. All classes are open to the public. Click here for more information on the event.

Biweekly Update 8 September 2026

New Announcements

9/10/2026 Fall Vegetable Garden Hands-on Workshop Join the Louisa Extension Master Gardeners at the Bracketts Farm Charitable Garden for a fun and informative morning as we prepare the garden for the fall growing season! Thursday, September 10th, 9:00–11:00 a.m. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just getting started, everyone is welcome! During this hands-on workshop, you’ll:

  • Help plant fall seeds and transplants
  • Learn seed starting techniques from EMG Nancy Jo
  • Watch a soil-blocking demonstration by EMG Kimberly Randall
  • Receive an overview of essential fall gardening tasks and tips for a successful autumn harvest
  • Parking: Please park only in the designated visitor parking area at Bracketts Farm and help us respect our residents by not disturbing the private residences on the property.

Following the workshop, stay for our Volunteer Appreciation Social and enjoy refreshments and homemade baked goods while visiting with fellow gardeners. Link: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CZrvLM55d/

9/12/2026 Backyard Gardening for Kids: Propagation Join the Louisa Extension Master Gardeners for another hands-on session in our Backyard Gardening for Kids series! Children will learn the exciting basics of plant propagation—discovering how new plants can grow from cuttings and leaves. Kids will get to try simple propagation techniques and take home their own plant to nurture and watch grow!

  • Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026 Time: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: 81 Louisa Avenue, Mineral, VA (Mineral Farmers Market)
  • • Open to all children
    • Free to attend
    • Hosted by Louisa Extension Master Gardeners
  • Come dig in and learn how to grow new plants from old—nature’s magic in action!

9/17/2026 HOVMGA 25th Anniversary Celebration For 25 years, the Heart of Virginia Master Gardeners Association (HOVMGA) have helped the communities of Buckingham, Cumberland, and Prince Edward Counties with gardening information, landscaping, and more. Join us for a “Celebration of Gardening”,

  • 4:00 – 7:00, September 17, VCE Conference Room – 100 Dominion Drive, Farmville, VA 23901. (Next to Lowe’s). Public Celebration from 4:00 – 6:00. Public Program from 6:00 – 7:00. Join us for horticulture demonstrations and work tables, such as seed saving, flower arranging, native plants and more … plus give-aways and refreshments! Website: https://hovmg.org/anniversary

10/10/2026 The Henrico Bug Bizarre, a community festival celebrating the joy and excitement of entomology, will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, at the Deep Run Recreation Center, 9900 Ridgefield Parkway. The free event will feature live insects and other insect-related displays, including hissing cockroaches, tarantulas and a “bug zoo.” Experts will share information on a variety of subjects, including pollinators, garden insects, forest pests and public health. All ages are welcome, and the event will offer children’s activities.

Old August Announcements

Maymont will host a film screening of Flight of the Butterflies followed by a brief information session about the Mexico travel opportunity. The screening is free with admission to the nature center and there’s no obligation to travel to attend. Registration is recommended, but walk ups will be admitted as space allows. To register click here!

Old June Announcements

The Biology of the Wild Solitary Bees:  Discover the fascinating world of wild solitary bees in this engaging 8-week webinar series designed for bee enthusiasts and anyone interested in pollinator conservation. Participants will explore the biology, ecology, and evolution of solitary bees through accessible, science-based presentations grounded in natural history and current research. Topics include bee diversity, life cycles, nesting behaviors, mating systems, foraging ecology, plant interactions, and the many environmental threats affecting bee populations in a changing world. This series will deepen participants’ understanding and appreciation of wild solitary bees while providing practical knowledge to support pollinator stewardship and conservation efforts.

Weekly, September 15 – November 3, 2026, Sign Up for this webinar Here!

 Sep 5th, 2026: The Master Gardeners of Prince William County Plant Sale St. Benedictine Monastery, 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow, VA

New Rapidan River Master Gardener Class Series – Carver Center, 9432 N James Madison Hwy, Rapidan, VA 22733

  • We’re excited to share that the Rapidan River Master Gardeners are planning a 2026 class series! Visit our website for class details and registration. All classes are open to the public. Click here for more information on the event.

Biweekly Update 4 August 2026

New Announcements

Join the Louisa Extension Master Gardeners for another exciting session in our Backyard Gardening for Kids series!

On August 8th, children will explore how to help pollinators while creating something special to take home. Kids will make their own pollinator baths to support bees and butterflies, and plant easy-to-care-for succulents they can grow and enjoy. It’s a perfect mix of creativity, learning, and caring for nature!

Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: 81 Louisa Avenue, Mineral, VA (Mineral Farmers Market)
Details:

  • Open to all children
  • Free to attend
  • Hosted by Louisa Extension Master Gardeners

Come learn how small actions can make a big difference for our pollinators—and take home your own garden creations!

Note: If you are a person with a disability and desire assistance or accommodation, please notify the Louisa VCE office at (540)967-3422/TDD* during business hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.*TDD number is (800)828-1120.

Find the event link here!

Maymont will host a film screening of Flight of the Butterflies followed by a brief information session about the Mexico travel opportunity. The screening is free with admission to the nature center and there’s no obligation to travel to attend. Registration is recommended, but walk ups will be admitted as space allows. To register click here!

Old July Announcements

The Invasive Species Collaborative (ISC) at Virginia Tech brings together researchers and partners from diverse disciplines to develop science-based solutions that help prevent and reduce the impacts of invasive species. Our research spans all taxa and geographic regions – from microbes to mammals and from local landscapes to global systems.

Collaboration is at the core of what we do. Our network includes 97 affiliates representing 18 academic units, along with nearly 20 partners from state agencies, universities, nonprofit organizations, and private industry. In fact, many of the ISC’s graduate student projects are designed to answer the questions practitioners face every day: How do invasive species spread? Which management strategies are most effective? How can new technologies improve detection and response?

The ISC has grown to be one of the largest, most diverse single institutions in the world working on invasive species. However, our university funding will end in two years. You can support the ISC directly or reach out to discuss partnerships.

To learn more about faculty and student research, educational resources, and opportunities to get involved, visit us at invasivespeciesvt.org. You can also explore our past newsletters or subscribe to receive future updates.

Are you a tomato grower in the Southern U.S. Region? We want to learn about your interest and experience using compost on your farm or in your gardens. We’ve put together this regional survey to inform our future outreach and educational efforts. Your participation will help our extension faculty pursue interests and concerns you have! Please consider taking a few moments (5 to 6 minutes) to complete this brief (<15 questions) survey about compost use on your farm or garden.

Dr. Matt Bertucci at the University of Arkansas (bertucci@uark.edu) is the project lead. If you have questions or concerns about your rights as a research participant, please contact Ro Windwalker, the University’s IRB Coordinator, at 479-575-2208 or irb@uark.edu. The goal of this project is to identify potential risks associated with compost use in tomato farms and gardens for growers in the southeast region. This project is sponsored by the Southern Extension Risk Management Education Center (SRMEC). Participation is voluntary, and choosing to or refusing to participate will not affect any other relationship with the University or the researchers in any way.

If you are interested, the brief survey can be found here!

Save the date: Leadership development training Oct 13 Arlington VA with a virtual option

Old June Announcements

The Biology of the Wild Solitary Bees:  Discover the fascinating world of wild solitary bees in this engaging 8-week webinar series designed for bee enthusiasts and anyone interested in pollinator conservation. Participants will explore the biology, ecology, and evolution of solitary bees through accessible, science-based presentations grounded in natural history and current research. Topics include bee diversity, life cycles, nesting behaviors, mating systems, foraging ecology, plant interactions, and the many environmental threats affecting bee populations in a changing world. This series will deepen participants’ understanding and appreciation of wild solitary bees while providing practical knowledge to support pollinator stewardship and conservation efforts.

Weekly, September 15 – November 3, 2026, Sign Up for this webinar Here!

The Master Gardeners of Prince William County Plant Sale – Sep 5th, St. Benedictine Monastery, 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow, VA

We have a new VCE policy about pesticide use by volunteers to reflect new legislation just signed into law this month. Volunteers are now exempt from required licensing if using herbicides on state land, with some stipulations. Previously the exemption only applied to locality land. See the revised policy here.

State Office Webinar Series All recorded webinars can be found by clicking here.

  • August- Save the Date for Brambles with Jayesh Samtani August 20th 2:00-3:30

New Rapidan River Master Gardener Class Series – Carver Center, 9432 N James Madison Hwy, Rapidan, VA 22733

  • We’re excited to share that the Rapidan River Master Gardeners are planning a 2026 class series! Visit our website for class details and registration. All classes are open to the public. Click here for more information on the event.

Biweekly Update 10 July 2026

New Announcements

The Invasive Species Collaborative (ISC) at Virginia Tech brings together researchers and partners from diverse disciplines to develop science-based solutions that help prevent and reduce the impacts of invasive species. Our research spans all taxa and geographic regions – from microbes to mammals and from local landscapes to global systems.

Collaboration is at the core of what we do. Our network includes 97 affiliates representing 18 academic units, along with nearly 20 partners from state agencies, universities, nonprofit organizations, and private industry. In fact, many of the ISC’s graduate student projects are designed to answer the questions practitioners face every day: How do invasive species spread? Which management strategies are most effective? How can new technologies improve detection and response?

The ISC has grown to be one of the largest, most diverse single institutions in the world working on invasive species. However, our university funding will end in two years. You can support the ISC directly or reach out to discuss partnerships.

To learn more about faculty and student research, educational resources, and opportunities to get involved, visit us at invasivespeciesvt.org. You can also explore our past newsletters or subscribe to receive future updates.

Backyard Gardening for Kids – Making Grass Heads in Face Pots!
Join us for another creative and hands-on session in our Backyard Gardening for Kids series!
In this fun activity, children will create their very own “grass head” by planting grass seeds in face pots—then watch as their creation grows a head of “hair” over time! It’s a playful way to learn about plant growth while getting creative.

Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Location: 81 Louisa Avenue, Mineral, VA (Mineral Farmers Market)

Details: Open to all children, Free to attend, Hosted by Louisa Extension Master Gardener, Come join us for a morning of creativity, learning, and growing fun!

Click on the Event Link Here!

Are you a tomato grower in the Southern U.S. Region? We want to learn about your interest and experience using compost on your farm or in your gardens. We’ve put together this regional survey to inform our future outreach and educational efforts. Your participation will help our extension faculty pursue interests and concerns you have! Please consider taking a few moments (5 to 6 minutes) to complete this brief (<15 questions) survey about compost use on your farm or garden.

Dr. Matt Bertucci at the University of Arkansas (bertucci@uark.edu) is the project lead. If you have questions or concerns about your rights as a research participant, please contact Ro Windwalker, the University’s IRB Coordinator, at 479-575-2208 or irb@uark.edu. The goal of this project is to identify potential risks associated with compost use in tomato farms and gardens for growers in the southeast region. This project is sponsored by the Southern Extension Risk Management Education Center (SRMEC). Participation is voluntary, and choosing to or refusing to participate will not affect any other relationship with the University or the researchers in any way.

If you are interested, the brief survey can be found here!

Save the date: Leadership development training Oct 13 Arlington VA with a virtual option

Old June Announcements

The Biology of the Wild Solitary Bees:  Discover the fascinating world of wild solitary bees in this engaging 8-week webinar series designed for bee enthusiasts and anyone interested in pollinator conservation. Participants will explore the biology, ecology, and evolution of solitary bees through accessible, science-based presentations grounded in natural history and current research. Topics include bee diversity, life cycles, nesting behaviors, mating systems, foraging ecology, plant interactions, and the many environmental threats affecting bee populations in a changing world. This series will deepen participants’ understanding and appreciation of wild solitary bees while providing practical knowledge to support pollinator stewardship and conservation efforts.

Weekly, September 15 – November 3, 2026, Sign Up for this webinar Here!

The Master Gardeners of Prince William County Plant Sale – Sep 5th, St. Benedictine Monastery, 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow, VA

We have a new VCE policy about pesticide use by volunteers to reflect new legislation just signed into law this month. Volunteers are now exempt from required licensing if using herbicides on state land, with some stipulations. Previously the exemption only applied to locality land. See the revised policy here.

Old Announcements

State Office Webinar Series All recorded webinars can be found by clicking here.

  • July- Save the Date for European Pears with Ashley Thompson July 23rd 2:00-3:30 Register Here!
  • July- Save the Date for Butternut Trees with Mia Murray July 9th 10:00-11:15 Register Here!
  • August- Save the Date for Brambles with Jayesh Samtani August 20th 2:00-3:30

New Rapidan River Master Gardener Class Series – Carver Center, 9432 N James Madison Hwy, Rapidan, VA 22733

  • We’re excited to share that the Rapidan River Master Gardeners are planning a 2026 class series! Visit our website for class details and registration. All classes are open to the public. Click here for more information on the event.

Biweekly Update June 12th 2026

New Announcements

The Biology of the Wild Solitary Bees:  Discover the fascinating world of wild solitary bees in this engaging 8-week webinar series designed for bee enthusiasts and anyone interested in pollinator conservation. Participants will explore the biology, ecology, and evolution of solitary bees through accessible, science-based presentations grounded in natural history and current research. Topics include bee diversity, life cycles, nesting behaviors, mating systems, foraging ecology, plant interactions, and the many environmental threats affecting bee populations in a changing world. This series will deepen participants’ understanding and appreciation of wild solitary bees while providing practical knowledge to support pollinator stewardship and conservation efforts.

Weekly, September 15 – November 3, 2026, Sign Up for this webinar Here!

June Announcements

NSVMG GardenFest 2026 – 6/6/2026, 8am-2pm, rain or shine, Belle Grove Historic Plantation Middletown, VA

Old May Announcements

VCE EMG Spring Plant Sales See details for all of the upcoming plant sales! Click here for a compiled list. 

The Master Gardeners of Prince William County Plant Sale – Sep 5th, St. Benedictine Monastery, 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow, VA

We have a new VCE policy about pesticide use by volunteers to reflect new legislation just signed into law this month. Volunteers are now exempt from required licensing if using herbicides on state land, with some stipulations. Previously the exemption only applied to locality land. See the revised policy here.

Old Announcements

SAVE THE DATE: Extension Master Gardener College

2026 EMGC – Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center, Glen Allen, VA

We are pleased to announce that EMGC 2026 will be at the Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center in Glen Allen, Virginia, June 26-28. Registration is now open and closes June 1.

State Office Webinar Series All recorded webinars can be found by clicking here.

  • June- no webinar, Virginia’s EMG College Conference!
  • July- Save the Date for European Pears with Ashley Thompson July 23rd 2:00-3:30
  • August- Save the Date for Brambles with Jayesh Samtani August 20th 2:00-3:30

New Rapidan River Master Gardener Class Series – Carver Center, 9432 N James Madison Hwy, Rapidan, VA 22733

  • We’re excited to share that the Rapidan River Master Gardeners are planning a 2026 class series! Visit our website for class details and registration. All classes are open to the public. Click here for more information on the event.

Biweekly Update 29 May 2026

New Announcements

Submit Your Pollinator Week Event! June marks Pollinator Month where we recognize our pollinators and our need to support them.

Old May Announcements

VCE EMG Spring Plant Sales See details for all of the upcoming plant sales! Click here for a compiled list. 

The Master Gardeners of Prince William County Plant Sale – Sep 5th, St. Benedictine Monastery, 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow, VA

We have a new VCE policy about pesticide use by volunteers to reflect new legislation just signed into law this month. Volunteers are now exempt from required licensing if using herbicides on state land, with some stipulations. Previously the exemption only applied to locality land. See the revised policy here.

June Events

NSVMG GardenFest 2026 – 6/6/2026, 8am-2pm, rain or shine, Belle Grove Historic Plantation Middletown, VA

Old Announcements

SAVE THE DATE: Extension Master Gardener College

2026 EMGC – Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center, Glen Allen, VA

We are pleased to announce that EMGC 2026 will be at the Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center in Glen Allen, Virginia, June 26-28. Registration is now open and closes June 1.

State Office Webinar Series All recorded webinars can be found by clicking here.

  • June- no webinar, Virginia’s EMG College Conference!
  • July- Save the Date for European Pears with Ashley Thompson July 23rd 2:00-3:30
  • August- Save the Date for Brambles with Jayesh Samtani August 20th 2:00-3:30

New Rapidan River Master Gardener Class Series – Carver Center, 9432 N James Madison Hwy, Rapidan, VA 22733

  • We’re excited to share that the Rapidan River Master Gardeners are planning a 2026 class series! Visit our website for class details and registration. All classes are open to the public. Click here for more information on the event.

Biweekly Update 1 May 2026

New Announcements

Submit Your Pollinator Week Event! June marks Pollinator Month where we recognize our pollinators and our need to support them.

Old May Announcements

Applications are open for VMGA MC College Scholarships!

VCE EMG Spring Plant Sales See details for all of the upcoming plant sales! Click here for a compiled list. 

The Master Gardeners of Prince William County Plant Sale – May 2nd and Sep 5th, St. Benedictine Monastery, 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow, VA

We have a new VCE policy about pesticide use by volunteers to reflect new legislation just signed into law this month. Volunteers are now exempt from required licensing if using herbicides on state land, with some stipulations. Previously the exemption only applied to locality land. See the revised policy here.

Western Tidewater Master Gardener Spring Plant Sale – 5/2/2026, 9am-1pm, rain or shine, Blackwater Regional Library, 14362 New Town Haven Lane, Carrollton, VA

  • Our Spring plant sale will offer a variety of plants from our local volunteers and gardeners. We will have a variety of annuals, perennials, native plants, house plants, shrubs and trees for sale. In addition, we will be selling daylilies from a local hybridizer. We will have plants at great prices and suitable for your area. 
  • Proceeds support our local WTMG learning garden and educational programs.
  • Cash or check only. More details on available plants list to be posted at the end of April on the Western Tidewater Master Gardeners Facebook page found by clicking here..

Plant Sale – 5/9/2026, 9am-2pm, Rockingham County Admin Center, 20 E Gay St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801

  • The Central Shenandoah Valley Extension Master Gardeners will have a large variety of healthy, homegrown plants available for very reasonable prices: herbs, vegetables, fruit trees and shrubs, nifty native perennials from ground covers to trees and “Everything Garden” (new and gently used books, tools, pots, decor, etc).
  • Contact csvmga.vol.coor@gmail.com with any questions.

Hanover Master Gardener Plant Sale – 5/9/2026, Horticultural Learning Center, 13015 Taylor Park Complex Lane Ashland, VA,

VBMG Gardening Talks – Sip to Heal: The Historical Use of Herbal Teas – 5/18/26, 7-8pm, ZOOM

  • Join expert therapeutic herbalist Elaina Bright-Mullings on a journey through the roots of herbal healing. This presentation will explore how generations across Africa, the Caribbean, and North America have used simple plants to support wellness, nourish the soul, and connect to something deeper. She’ll discuss the health benefits of herbal teas, exploring familiar and lesser-known herbs like lemongrass, cerasee, ginger, and hibiscus. Discover not only what they do, but the stories they carry.
  • FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.  No registration is required. Visit our website and click on the ZOOM link!                                                  

June Events

NSVMG GardenFest 2026 – 6/6/2026, 8am-2pm, rain or shine, Belle Grove Historic Plantation Middletown, VA

Old Announcements

SAVE THE DATE: Extension Master Gardener College

2026 EMGC – Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center, Glen Allen, VA

We are pleased to announce that EMGC 2026 will be at the Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center in Glen Allen, Virginia, June 26-28. Registration is now open and closes June 1.

State Office Webinar Series All recorded webinars can be found by clicking here.

  • May 14th, 2026 10:00-11:15am – The VCE MG Program, Supporting Associations, And You with VMGA President Stacey Morgan Smith. Register for the May 14th webinar now
  • June- no webinar, Virginia’s EMG College Conference!
  • July- Save the Date for European Pears with Ashley Thompson July 23rd 2:00-3:30
  • August- Save the Date for Brambles with Jayesh Samtani August 20th 2:00-3:30

New Rapidan River Master Gardener Class Series – Carver Center, 9432 N James Madison Hwy, Rapidan, VA 22733

  • We’re excited to share that the Rapidan River Master Gardeners are planning a 2026 class series! Visit our website for class details and registration. All classes are open to the public. Click here for more information on the event.

Biweekly Update 22 April 2026

New Announcements

Pesticide Policy Update: We have a new VCE policy about pesticide use by volunteers to reflect new legislation just signed into law this month. Volunteers are now exempt from required licensing if using herbicides on state land, with some stipulations. Previously the exemption only applied to locality land. Read the updated policy here: Virginia Cooperative Extension Pesticide Policy Statement #93-001 (revised April 2026).

Submit Your Pollinator Week Event! June marks Pollinator Month where we recognize our pollinators and our need to support them.

VBMG Gardening Talks – Sip to Heal: The Historical Use of Herbal Teas – 5/18/26, 7-8pm, ZOOM

  • Join expert therapeutic herbalist Elaina Bright-Mullings on a journey through the roots of herbal healing. This presentation will explore how generations across Africa, the Caribbean, and North America have used simple plants to support wellness, nourish the soul, and connect to something deeper. She’ll discuss the health benefits of herbal teas, exploring familiar and lesser-known herbs like lemongrass, cerasee, ginger, and hibiscus. Discover not only what they do, but the stories they carry.
  • FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.  No registration is required. Visit our website and click on the ZOOM link!                                                  

VCE EMG Spring Plant Sales

Old April Announcements

April Events

Applications are open for VMGA MC College Scholarships!

Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia Spring Celebration and Plant Sale – 4/18/2026, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Rain or Shine), Glencarlyn Library Community Garden – 300 S. Kensington St., Arlington, VA

  • Native and Locally Propagated Plants – including native plants from Hill House Nursery and a variety of plants propagated from the Library Garden.
  • Items for sale include hand-made ceramics and jewelry, recycled bags, floral boxes & cards, and used books from the Friends of Arlington Libraries. 
  • Find more info here!

The Top 10 Vegetables to Grow in Your Garden – 4/24/2026, 10:00-11:30am, online, FREE

  • There are dozens, maybe hundreds, of vegetables that you could choose to grow in your garden. Join Extension Master Gardeners Dona Lee and Susan Wilhelm as they discuss ten vegetables that meet one of these criteria: easy to grow, fun/interesting, nutritious, great taste, lots of variety, and good return on investment. They will describe the vegetable, provide care tips, identify diseases or pests to look out for, and highlight varieties that work well in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 and 8.
  •  RSVP online by navigating to our website here!

Rapidan River Master Gardener 2026 Plant Sale – 4/25/26 – Carver Center, 9432 N James Madison Hwy, Rapidan, VA, 22733

  • Join us for our annual plant sale featuring home-grown garden plants and houseplants, lovingly raised by Rapidan River Master Gardeners! Shop a wide variety of plants, browse a gardening-themed yard sale, and enjoy local vendors and food.
  • Visit here for more information.

Suffolk EMG Plant Sale – 4/25/2026, 10am – 4pm, Earth & Arts Festival, Historic Downtown Suffolk

  • Our plant sale is well known for having a wide variety of well-sized, healthy tomatoes, sweet peppers, and chili peppers. We also have all the other plants you’d expect to see at an EMG plant sale. Popular varieties sell early, and there’s usually a line well before 10. Bring your wagon and come early to buy plants and then spend the day celebrating the earth & arts!
  • Event updates can be found by clicking here!

Gardening Talks – Stingers, Snakes and Scars: An ER Doctor’s Guide – 4/27/2026, 7-8pm, Zoom, FREE

  • Although gardening is generally peaceful, it is not without it’s risks! From annoyances like poison ivy all the way up to life-threatening copperhead bites. Dr. Richard Tomasheski will teach you how to identify a myriad of backyard maladies as well as how to potentially treat them at home – and let you know when you might need to seek professional help.
  • Please visit our website here to find the Zoom link!

May Events

Western Tidewater Master Gardener Spring Plant Sale – 5/2/2026, 9am-1pm, rain or shine, Blackwater Regional Library, 14362 New Town Haven Lane, Carrollton, VA

  • Our Spring plant sale will offer a variety of plants from our local volunteers and gardeners. We will have a variety of annuals, perennials, native plants, house plants, shrubs and trees for sale. In addition, we will be selling daylilies from a local hybridizer. We will have plants at great prices and suitable for your area. 
  • Proceeds support our local WTMG learning garden and educational programs.
  • Cash or check only. More details on available plants list to be posted at the end of April on the Western Tidewater Master Gardeners Facebook page found by clicking here.. 

MGPW Spring Plant Sale – May 2, 2026, 9am-12 noon, Teaching Garden St. Benedict Monastery 9535 Linton Hall Rd Bristoe VA

Plant Sale – 5/9/2026, 9am-2pm, Rockingham County Admin Center, 20 E Gay St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801

  • The Central Shenandoah Valley Extension Master Gardeners will have a large variety of healthy, homegrown plants available for very reasonable prices: herbs, vegetables, fruit trees and shrubs, nifty native perennials from ground covers to trees and “Everything Garden” (new and gently used books, tools, pots, decor, etc).
  • Contact csvmga.vol.coor@gmail.com with any questions.

Hanover Master Gardener Plant Sale – 5/9/2026, Horticultural Learning Center, 13015 Taylor Park Complex Lane Ashland, VA,

June Events

NSVMG GardenFest 2026 – 6/6/2026, 8am-2pm, rain or shine, Belle Grove Historic Plantation Middletown, VA

Old Announcements

SAVE THE DATE: Extension Master Gardener College

2026 EMGC – Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center, Glen Allen, VA

We are pleased to announce that EMGC 2026 will be at the Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center in Glen Allen, Virginia, June 26-28. Registration is now open and closes June 1.

State Office Webinar Series All recorded webinars can be found by clicking here.

  • May 14th, 2026 10:00-11:15am – The VCE MG Program, Supporting Associations, And You with VMGA President Stacey Morgan Smith. Register for the May 14th webinar now
  • June- no webinar, Virginia’s EMG College Conference!
  • July- Save the Date for European Pears with Ashley Thompson July 23rd 2:00-3:30
  • August- Save the Date for Brambles with Jayesh Samtani August 20th 2:00-3:30

New Rapidan River Master Gardener Class Series – Carver Center, 9432 N James Madison Hwy, Rapidan, VA 22733

  • We’re excited to share that the Rapidan River Master Gardeners are planning a 2026 class series! Visit our website for class details and registration. All classes are open to the public. Click here for more information on the event.