Horticulturist helps residents with concerns about plants

Self-described ?plant-aholic? Kim Keller has been the horticulture program assistant at the Jefferson County Extension Office since late March.

After Iowa State University reorganized its extension offices and reduced the number of extension directors statewide, it was determined Jefferson County still had a definite need for someone in this position. Keller spends four days a week in Jefferson County and one day per week in Wapello County.

Keller spends a lot of her time here helping residents identify problems with their trees, plants and shrubs. If a problem is serious, Keller recommends sending a plant sample to Iowa State University for testing.

Because trees and plants can be a substantial investment for many people, they?re usually willing to pay the $10 fee for a definitive diagnosis from ISU, Keller said. She said it?s a good idea to check out the problem before it gets out of control.

Keller said the wet weather this year has resulted in various fungus problems, but some nice warm, dry weather will help relieve the issue. Keller also has identified some cases of scale bugs, hard-shell insects that suck the nutrients from plants.

Until last week, emerald ash borer had yet to be discovered in Iowa. Keller said it?s not yet a concern here, but people may want to be on the lookout if the beetles are discovered within 20 miles.

Keller also is working with city employees to figure out what is affecting some trees in Chautauqua Park and another woman who is having problems with her hostas.

Additonally, Keller?s job involves talking with people about soil testing their gardens; giving presentations to local groups, such as the Fairfield Women?s Club Garden Department; and organizing various programs, such as the presentation on heirloom tomatoes Thursday evening.

Keller hopes to start a junior gardeners? club and install a greenhouse on the Jefferson County Fairgrounds where children can get hands-on experience with gardening.

Keller also hopes to build the extension?s master gardener program in Jefferson County.

For the complete article, see the Friday, May 21, 2010, printed edition of The Fairfield Ledger.