Gardens and Landscaping
Gardening has many benefits and areas of Jackson County have rich, fertile soils that can produce an abundant garden. Time in the garden can also reduce stress, save money, create an aesthetic environment, and provide wildlife habitat. Research and information can limit the frustrations of gardening in the region. The Oregon State University Extension Office Master Gardener Program in Jackson County is a perfect resource to answer questions or provide training on gardening.
Climate
The Rogue Valley growing season is mild, with warm days offset by cool nights. The area has a wide range of rainfall, with Medford receiving some 19” average annual rainfall. Other areas receive as low as 11” and others over 30”.
Most of Jackson County is characterized by temperatures that can drop below 10° F. However, there are microclimates and some years where average low temperatures seldom dip much below 20° F.
Native plants are recommended for landscaping since they are suited to the climate of this region. They are likely to be more tolerant of disease and require less water than non-natives. Because some areas of the Rogue Valley lack adequate water in the summer months, you may also want to consider planting drought resistant varieties and installing a drip irrigation system to conserve water.
Choosing a Garden Spot
Good garden produce comes from having good soil. Loamy soil will provide drainage and nutrients for plants. By adding organic matter, sand or vermiculite, you can improve the texture and production of your soil. Perhaps the most important thing you can do to maintain healthy soil is to regularly add compost. If you purchase soil or manure for your garden, be sure that it has not been treated with a long-term residual pesticide, and that the manure is sufficiently aged.
Pests
Pests come in all sizes. Insect problems can often be easily addressed with inexpensive homemade solutions. Household agents and even beer can be used in controlling insects. The OSU Master Gardeners can help with in- sect identification as well as providing useful recipes for do-it-yourself control methods.
Deer are prevalent in Jackson County. They will surprisingly be found in suburban gardens regularly. They will also treat your vegetable garden like a salad bar. The best defense is a tall fence. For ornamental garden areas that cannot be practically fenced, the Sunset Western Garden Book will identify plant and flower varieties that deer find less preferential.
Pests can be controlled through a variety of means including natural predation. By working with wildlife rather than against it, unintended consequences can be avoided. The use of poisons can be a short term solution with long term consequences. They can poison pets. They can also be absorbed into plants and leach into water supplies. Live traps can be rented from the Grange Coop for capturing and relocating small animals. In Wild Neighbors: The Humane Approach to Living with Wildlife, John Hadidian provides more solutions to working with wildlife.
Fertilizers and Mulches
Over-fertilizing can damage plants and excess nutrients can pollute streams. Lawn chemicals can pose a health hazard to children and pets. Pre-mixed organic fertilizer is a safer but more expensive alternative. A simple recipe for mixing your own organic fertilizer and the benefits of mulches can be found in the Garden Guide for the Rogue Valley, a publication of the Master Gardeners Association of Jackson County. Always follow the recommended application rates.