July Extension News

Sunday, August 11 / 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Touch-A-Truck

Kids of all ages can sit, stand and get behind the wheel of over 40 giant trucks and large vehicles INSIDE at the 2019 Touch-A-Truck event at the Overland Park Convention Center. Entry is FREE with a minimum donation of a new, unwrapped toy or cash offering to Toys for Tots.

Along with fire trucks, military vehicles, combines and unusual trucks, bouncy houses and a variety of other family-friendly activities can be found at the 8th annual event, including a craft area for kids.

More information about the event.

Applications Due August 2

Apply to Become an Extension Master Food Volunteer

Calling all foodies! Do you have a passion for cooking, nutrition and healthy living? Do you like to share your passion? Johnson County K-State Research and Extension is accepting applications for the 2019 Extension Master Food Volunteer training program.

Hey, Gardeners! Have you ever thought about entering in the Fair?

Have you ever wondered if you can grow prized petunias or top-rated tomatoes? Well, the Fair lets you see how you stack up against the other growers in the county. Never entered before and don’t know where to start? Extension has you covered. Attend the workshop on July 9 for more information on how to prepare your vegetable and flower exhibits for fair.

Wednesday, July 10 / 9 - 11 a.m.

All American Selections (AAS) Display Garden Open House

This Extension Master Gardener (EMG) demonstration garden is one of a network of display gardens across the country for the AAS program. July 10 is your opportunity to visit the garden and talk to EMGs who have been nurturing these plants this spring. It’s free and no registration is required.

Johnson County Fair July 28 - Aug. 3

Johnson County Fair-

4-H Highlights

The fair is the product of the community's efforts for youth development through community service and volunteer leadership. Through the 4-H program parents and community volunteers come together to develop life skills and habits such as communication, collaboration, leadership, responsibility, resilience, and community service in youth. Check out these 4-H highlights as you plan your trip to the fair.

Butterfly Bush, Perfect for the Garden

A butterfly bush makes a great plant. They provide nectar for butterflies and moths. In addition to supplying nectar they also provide summer color. New breeding has refined the plant making it smaller and sterile. If you have not grown this plant before, now is the time to add a specimen to the garden!

JoCo Residents

Get Your Free Soil Test

Johnson County residents get a free yearly test courtesy of the Johnson County Stormwater Program. The test helps guide you with recommendations for proper fertilization.

Take the guess work out of gardening and lawn care. Get your free test today!

New This Year: Fair Class for Community Gardens

Does your community garden have a donation plot growing produce for food pantries? Check out the Garden Display class for Community Gardens on page 28 and 29 of the Fair Book. Remember individuals can enter flowers and vegetables in Open classes as well. Help promote the gardening movement!

Summer To-Dos in the Backyard Orchard

While it often seems that the majority of our tree fruit maintenance takes place in the spring, addressing certain tasks in the summer months can be essential to a successful harvest at season’s end. Here are a few quick tips and recommendations for summer care of the backyard orchard.

Sudden Oak Death Discovered

Unfortunately, diseased rhododendron plants were shipped into the KC area this spring. If you purchased rhododendrons from a specific large chain retailer, take action immediately to limit the spread of this disease. See if your rhododendron is a carrier and what steps you need to take.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a new buzz word. Mindfulness has been compared to a new form of yoga, a great way to reduce stress or even a more natural way of dealing with pain. But what is all this talk about? It is about living in the moment, being fully aware of your thoughts and your surroundings. A big part of mindfulness is practicing deep breathing methods and reflecting on your situation in a non-judgmental way.