Looking to plant four acres for bee health. A local bee keeper puts many hives (about 80 stacked boxes) on my property due to the vegetation currently here. In 2024 his production of honey was only 70% of what it was in 2023. My goal is to plant various bee friendly crops for better production, use of land and health of the honey bees. Are there programs out there or advice on crops to plant and when, etc.? Thanks in advance.

Greetings! I have 2 questions. 1. How can I get soil testing done? 2. Is there a use for fireplace ash in my yard/garden? Or...what is the best way to dispose of fireplace ash?

I've been getting unknown bites on my ankles for about 2 months. They appear in clusters or a line of several (often more than 3 in a single line). I recently found a bug on myself early in the morning after walking to the restroom. I've included pictures of the bug. At first, i assumed it was fleas, but both of my dogs were tested and no fleas were identified. I am fearing bed bugs, but I have turned my mattress inside out and see no signs. The bug did not appear to be a bed bug, but I'd like a professional opinion. Keep in mind, these photos were taken after I unsuccessfully tried to crush the bug. It was impossible to crush. Hopefully I didn't distort the appearance.

We have a red breasted sap sucker that visits the maple tree in our yard regularly and has for the last three weeks. There are multiple .25 inch holes onto two sides of the tree and several smaller horizontal holes on the tree. There is sap coming from one side of the tree. Should we simply tolerate this as a natural phenomena or do we need to limit these suckers opportuneness to visit so frequently? If so, how can we protect the tree if it is necessary?

How do I keep fruit flies off my house plants, out of the house? (never had it this bad) Thanks Deb. Have always used Apple Cider Vinegar but their not going for it this time.

Hi, I have about 40 Honey Locust Trees lining a 1/4 mile long driveway. On several of the trees, the bark is peeling away exposing underlying wood. The peeling seems randomly distributed around the trunk of several trees but not on branches. Looking at wood under the bark, the color is white to lite yellow. I also see occasional holes about 1/16" diameter in the underlying wood. I've been told that the peeling is physical damage from vehicle or wildlife but this seems unlikely given the number of trees involved. I'm wondering if I should apply general systemic to the roots, peel off bark, or wrap tree with carboard. Or is more analysis necessary? Please advise on potential solutions. Thanks

Hello, any information on Yuzu as a crop in the Willamette Valley?

WE line in NW Corvallis in an older home. This year we have had a continual problem with small ants. I have tried Terro traps, washing the counters and cupboards with vinegar and spraying Raid in the areas not near food preparation. What else can we do? Thank you!

Hello, I am transferring to Coos County Master Gardener program from Josephine County. Could you please let me know the fee for 2025? I look forward to meeting and working with fellow Master Gardeners in Coos County. Your help would be appreciated.