Successful Volunteer Day Mulches Garden Perimeter, Plots Fruit Tree Planting Locations

Thanks to everyone who came out and helped at our volunteer work event last Saturday. We accomplished a lot including mulching the entire perimeter and mapping out potential fruit tree planting sites.

Spreading mulch at the Buellton Community Garden

The mulch came from a an old and massive oak which stood in the middle of Los Olivos

Many were sorry when the tree fell, we´re grateful to have it be a part of the community garden!

Mulch Improves the Soil

Mulch helps the soil retain moisture and releases nutrients as it breaks down.

Everyone can help grow a Community Garden!

Six months ago this was an empty lot choked with invasive weeds

The perimeter looks much better after mulching!

The next step is to plant with native, pollinator-friendly plants

Mulch enriches the soil and provides numerous advantages for plants. Not only does oak bark mulch regulate soil temperature, preventing extreme fluctuations, but it also helps retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering. Additionally, it suppresses weed growth, minimizing the competition for nutrients and sunlight. As this mulch breaks down, it will gradually releases valuable organic matter and nutrients into the soil, enhancing overall soil health.

The next step for the perimeter is to plant it with native, pollinator-friendly plants. The work day will probably have to come after our irrigation is installed, so sign-up for our emails or come to our meetings to stay up to date.

Additionally, we started to map out potential sites for fruit tree planting. Everyone is very excited getting closer to planting trees! To get ready, we are pleased to host in conjunction with the University of California Master Gardeners a presentation on growing fruit trees in our area:

UC Master Gardener and Buellton resident Steven Craig will share a research-based presentation “Growing Fruit Trees in Buellton and Surrounding Areas”. Steven will describe the unique Buellton microclimate and provide information on selecting fruit trees, how to plant them, care for, and maintain the trees for the most success. While Steve will focus on Buellton, much of the information can be applied to the Northern Santa Barbara County area.

Location: The Grand Room at Industrial Eats

181 Industrial Way

Buellton, CA 93427

6:30pm

September 18th, 2023

More info here