The horticulture program encompasses a diversity of crops including tree and vine fruits, vegetables, cut flowers, Christmas trees, nursery and ornamental crops. Most horticultural producers in Placer and Nevada counties are part-time farmers on small acreages, growing a variety of crops for direct market. Our horticulture programs address issues of soil management, Integrated Pest Management, crop production techniques appropriate for the foothills, and direct marketing strategies.

The Horticulture and Small Farms Advisor:

• assists new farmers in evaluating production sites and new crop opportunities, and in developing production experience
• works with established farmers to improve production practices for quality produce.
• provides information and assistance to growers in implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices.
• works with grower associations to develop marketing strategies for local produce
• promotes sustainable agriculture that protects the environment, contributes to the economic viability of small farmers and preserves farmland.
• conducts farm calls to evaluate specific opportunities or problems.
• works with University of California specialists to provide reliable research-based information for agricultural producers.

UCCE Horticulture and Small Farms Advisor, Cindy Fake, is available to assist commercial horticultural growers at (530)889-7385. Home gardening, orchardry, and pest management questions are handled by the Master Gardeners. In Placer County call (530) 889-7388; in Nevada County call (530) 273-0919.

For more information on production of specific crops, use the links on the sidebar.