Dallas County, IA Master Gardeners

09/25/2026

Here’s some helpful guidance from Iowa State Extension Yard and Garden about how to protect your trees and shrubs over winter.

While it may seem tempting, do not prune woody trees and shrubs in the fall.

Pruning encourages new growth, and when done in the fall, the new growth that develops will not be well hardened off for winter, leading to more potential for winter damage. The best time of year to prune is later winter and early spring (February through March in Iowa).

Instead, use the fall season to prepare trees for winter by protecting trunks from rabbits, deer, and other wildlife with tree wraps, guards, or fencing.

Protecting Trees and Shrubs from Animal Damage Over Winter: https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/how-protect-trees-and-shrubs-animal-damage-over-winter

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach ISU Extension and Outreach - Agriculture and Natural Resources

09/22/2026

Yay!

Whether she's designing garden spaces, installing irrigation, or nurturing plants from seed, Audra brings creativity and commitment to every project. Her work helps keep Dallas County’s demonstration, cutting, and food pantry gardens thriving. With more than 700 volunteer hours since 2017, her dedication shines through in all she does.

Know an Outstanding Master Gardener? Nominate them for the Iowa Master Gardener Spotlight! Email the Iowa Master Gardener Program ([email protected]) a photo and a brief write-up about their journey and achievements as an Iowa Master Gardener.



Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Dallas County Dallas County, IA Master Gardeners ISU Extension and Outreach - Agriculture and Natural Resources Iowa State University Department of Horticulture Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Iowa State Extension Yard and Garden

09/18/2026

Our Master Gardener class is in full swing! When we say “learning in the field and classroom”, this is what we mean! We have established partnerships with local experts that share their knowledge and experience with our students. This week, students enjoyed a beautiful evening at The Brenton Arboretum and helped Director of Horticulture & General Manager, Andy Schmitz plant a bald cypress!
Thanks Andy for demonstrating the proper preparation and planting of a tree and sharing your vast knowledge of trees!
We highly recommend a trip to , you can drive through or spend a day hiking, wandering and playing among the tree collections.

09/18/2026

Join us for Harvesting & Preserving Your Garden!
🍅Monday, September 28, 2026
🍅6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
🍅Dallas County Extension Office , 28061 Fairground Road Adel, IA 50003
You grew it, now what do you do with it?
If you grew a bigger harvest than you know what to do with, or you aren't even sure when to start picking those peppers, join us to learn how and when to pick your vegetables and ways to preserve your harvest.
Taught by our Horticulture Educator, Megan Will!
Register on our website hort page, link in bio!

09/08/2026

Fresh Flowers today at the Adel Farmer’s Market! Stop by our booth and pick up a bouquet!
Master Gardeners will be there from 4-7 to answer garden questions and share helpful gardening resources!
They will have fresh flowers for sale cut fresh today from our demonstration garden!

09/07/2026

Wishing you a Safe and Fun Labor Day Weekend!
Dallas County Extension and Outreach Office is CLOSED for the Labor Day Holiday we will reopen Tuesday, September 8th for regular business hours.
Our website is open 24/7, link in bio or
Scan the QR to register for programs, find farm and garden resources, , and all things 4-H! 🍀