Free gardening advice

Want to know what’s killing your dogwood or how to properly prune your roses? Looking for a less toxic way to get rid of slugs, aphids and other pests? Got a tree or shrub that you need help identifying?

Starting this month and through early September, you’ll find gardening experts who can help answer your questions at dozen of Master Gardener clinics throughout King County. Master Gardeners are volunteers who go through a rigorous training program by Washington State University. They provide research-based information on home gardening and pest control.

In West Seattle this summer, Andy will periodically be staffing the Master Gardener booth at the West Seattle Farmers Market, and I can be found at McLendon Hardware in White Center. Here are the hours & location:

West Seattle Farmers Market, 44th Avenue SW and Alaska Street, April 27-September 14, Sundays, 10 a-.m.-2 p.m. (No clinic May 4).

McLendon Hardware, 10210 16th Avenue SW, April 5-September 13, Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

But don’t limit yourself to West Seattle. There are clinics in Ballard, Rainier Valley, Renton, North Seattle, Vashon Island, Lake City, Federal Way, Burien and more. Find the full list of locations and times here.

King County has one of the largest Master Gardener programs in the world. It started here, before spreading to all 50 states and many other countries. To find out more about becoming a master gardener, click here.