The best source for timely, accurate information in Johnson County, Kansas.
July 2017

Summer Lawns Need Water to Stay Green
It's heating up and our cool-season grasses are suffering. You can let your lawn go dormant (brown), but it will still need water to keep the plant crowns alive. (One inch every 2 - 3 weeks. Note: Your lawn may survive but not fully recover in the fall.)

The best way to water your Johnson County lawn is using a technique called Soak and Cycle. Our soils can typically absorb only two-tenths (.2) of an inch of water in one hour -- the rest runs off; there goes your hard-earned dollars down the stormdrain. We tell you how you can maximize your watering resources below.

Summer Caution
Summer heat and humidity often drive us indoors. Are your kids in the basement playing video games? They may be exposed to radon gas which can cause lung cancer. Summer is a good time to check your home's radon levels. We list below why we encourage Johnson County residents to test their homes.

Have questions? Let us help. Visit johnson.k-state.edu or give us a call 913-715-7000.
Hot lawns: Soak and Cycle
Time to Water
Maintaining a green lawn will require water during the heat of summer. The alternative is to let it go dormant. Either way, Soak and Cycle is the best way to conserve resources: it ensures the water reaches the roots and reduces runoff. Learn how Soak and Cycle watering can work for your lawn.
Testing for Radon
Most of us think radon testing should be done in the winter. But summer is also a good time since our homes are buttoned up with the AC on full blast. Johnson County has high concentrations of radon gas. Do you have a finished basement? If your home hasn't been tested it should. Learn how you can take a D-I-Y radon test.
Saturday, July 29
Annual Field Day
Have you ever splurged on flowers and vegetables in the spring only to have most of them die by July? If so, then this is the event for you. Find out what plants thrive in our hot, humid Kansas City summers at our annual K-State Research and Extension Horticulture Center Field Day.
Maintaining Container Plants When Going on Vacation
You've put in all that work. It'd be a shame to lose them -- your container plants. Here are some tips for preserving your container plants when you head out on vacation this summer.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
Tax Assistance by Appointment

Our regular weekly Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site is closed for the season. But in response to numerous requests, we are now offering income tax assistance throughout the year. This free service is by appointment only. Dates and information here.
Deadline: July 14
Extension Master Gardener Class of 2018 Applications Due
You don't have to be an experienced gardener to join our program. Enthusiasm and a desire to serve our community are some of the skills our volunteers are known for. Program details and application here.
Livestock Resources

Usually we have the answers but sometimes someone will need information that is best supplied by one of Kansas State University's Extension specialists. Here is a list of experts for future reference.
Deadline: August 1
Accepting Applications for Extension Master Naturalists
Applications are now being accepted for the 2017 Extension Master Naturalist (EMN) training program. EMNs are trained volunteers who provide expertise and services for natural resource projects that benefit the community. For an application or more information click here.
Canning Classes
Canning Season is Here
The canning season is upon us. We offer beginning and advanced classes. Fruits, vegetables, and, due to popular demand, meats! These classes fill quickly. Click the individual class links below for complete details and registration.


Classes & Events
To register online click on the class link or call 913-715-7000.
July
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