Sacramento master gardeners host early-evening Open Garden

Got garden questions? Who doesn’t, considering our weird spring weather? Here’s your chance to get expert advice from Sacramento County master gardeners – at a time convenient to folks who can’t make weekend mornings.

On Thursday evening, May 4, the master gardeners will host an Open Garden event at Fair Oaks Horticulture Center in Fair Oaks Park – rain or shine. Admission and parking are free.

From 4 to 7 p.m., watch master gardeners as they tend to spring tasks and prepare for summer planting and rapid growth.

“Join us for an evening in the garden,” say the master gardeners. “Bring your family and friends to see the new spring growth in our garden for ideas to use in yours. From vegetables in raised beds, grapes grown in barrels, fragrant herbs or espalier fruit. You will be motivated to start gardening this season.”

The master gardeners suggest these activities during Open Garden:

* Berries: Notice the varieties of blueberries, blackberries and raspberries for our region.

* Compost: See various ways to turn your backyard and kitchen waste into high-grade organic fertilizer.

*Herbs: Note culinary herbs in full display -- pleasing to the eyes and nose alike.

* Orchard: See all the varieties of fruit starting develop.

* Vegetables: The All-American colorful demonstration garden is ready for spring.

* Vineyard: Walk through the delicious varieties of grapes and see how they can be grown.

* Water Efficient Landscape: Look for pollinators among the native grasses and shrubs.

Got a garden mystery, problem pest or puzzling plant? Bring photos and/or sample (in a sealed plastic zipper bag) to the Ask a Master Gardener table.

Fair Oaks Horticulture Center is located at 11549 Fair Oaks Blvd., Fair Oaks.

And there’s more! On that same evening, from 5 to 7 p.m., Fair Oaks Park is hosting the park district’s “Summer Preview” with community booths, registration for summer programs, classic cars and food trucks. This event also is free.

Visit the master gardeners, then check out the community programs and get dinner.