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May Newsletter |
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As we step fully into the growing season, now is the time to turn our attention to both planting and protection—of our landscapes and our communities. May is National Wildfire Awareness Month, a critical time to reflect on how we can all contribute to fire safety, especially in our increasingly dry and windy spring conditions. This month, we’ll share tips to help you create defensible spaces around your home and garden to reduce wildfire risks.
With trees waking up and leafing out, we’ll guide you through proper tree watering techniques. Your trees will thank you later!
We’re also tackling some of the more persistent backyard challenges—like how to get ahead of pesky broadleaf weeds before they take over your turf, and smart strategies for managing raccoons that might be eyeing your garden as their next snack. From fire safety to furry visitors, May is packed with opportunities to grow, learn, and protect. Let’s dig in together!
🌱 😂 Gardening Funnies:
🥬 What’s a raccoon’s favorite vegetable?
Anything that isn’t fenced in.
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It's hard to plant flowers,
if you haven't Botany! |
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Video: April BYF Garden Update |
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It's been a busy month in the Backyard Farmer Garden. Nebraska Extension Educator Terri James tells us all about it in the April BYF Garden Update. |
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Watch Backyard Farmer every Thursday Night at 7pm CT on Nebraska Public Media. |
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Nebraska Extension Educator Elizabeth Exstrom shares the aspects of Fire Smart Landscaping including creating a defensible space, planning ahead for a fire event, and management of the surrounding landscapes to decrease potential fire damage. |
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Ben Bohall from the Nebraska Forest Service shares practical tips on fire prevention for your home, yard, and community. From creating defensible space to choosing fire-resistant plants, learn how you can reduce wildfire risk and stay prepared during fire season. Whether you live in town or on an acreage, these simple steps make a big difference. |
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Video: Watering Trees |
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Nebraska Extension Instructor Dana Freeman explains how to water trees to keep them healthy and thriving. Learn when, where, and how much to water—whether you're caring for a newly planted sapling or a mature tree. Smart watering means stronger roots and better drought resistance! |
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City Sprouts feature airing on Nebraska Stories |
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Watch Nebraska Stories Tonight, May 1 at 8pm CT on Nebraska Public Media.
In 1995, Omaha City Sprouts planted a seed in Omaha, NE to promote urbam gardening. 30 years later, that seed has blossomed into an organization with multiple education sites, and an urban farm which grows and donates over 15,000 pounds of healthy and culturally preferred produce each year. Through education and outreach they are cultivating food equity and having a huge impact on the community. |
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Nebraska Extension Wildlife Specialist Dennis Ferraro talks about management strategies for controlling raccoons.
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Date: May 1 & 2: 9 am to 4 pm
May 3: 9 am to 1 pm
Location: Teaching Greenhouse West
3850 Center Dr
Lincoln NE 68510
Details: The club has a great selection of plants this year, including a variety of ornamental flowers and foliage plants, hanging baskets, herbs, vegetables and more. Come early for the best selection. This sale is open to the public. Cash, card and check are accepted. Bring a cardboard box or old tray to carry plants while you shop. |
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Date: Click the link above for upcoming Dates & Times
Details: Come by and check out our Spring 2025 plant sales. Please note: unless otherwise noted, plant sales take place at the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum greenhouses, located at 2150 N. 38th St., Lincoln (on UNL's East Campus). |
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Date: May 3, 2025
Time: 1 - 5pm CT
Zoom: Registration
Details: At this workshop you will learn about community science, how to identify Nebraska butterflies, and learn how you can contribute to Nebraska's Big Butterfly Count. Participants will receive project resources, guidance, and support from community science project leaders. For questions, email jamie.bachmann@nebraska.gov or brianna.nugent@nebraska.gov |
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Date: May 9, 2025
Time: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm CT
Location: Poultry “F” House
3735 Merrill St
Lincoln NE 68503
Details: The poultry group in the Department of Animal Science has natural chicken compost for sale. Sold in 15 lb. bags for $5/bag. Payments must be via check or cash (must be exact change).
Please contact Megan Carman (mcarman3@unl.edu), Poultry Research Technician, to place an order and to arrange pickup. |
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Date: May 14, 2025
Time: 12 - 1:30pm CT
Zoom: Registration
Details: Native plants offer a wide range of benefits for gardeners, from supporting wildlife to being more resilient in the landscape. With so many options available, how do you know which plants will complement your existing garden? Extension Associate Scott Evans will guide you through a selection of native trees, shrubs, perennials, and even annuals that are well-suited for home landscapes. |
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Watch Backyard Farmer on YouTube
Full shows and featured segments from the past 10 years are all available on YouTube.
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