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https://hunterdon.njaes.rutgers.edu/

Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Hunterdon County, 314 State Route 12, Building 2, Flemington, NJ (2026)

06/12/2026

A few spots are still open for our Digging In: Master Gardener Symposium—happening tomorrow, June 13!
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Rutgers Cooperative Extension, 314 Rte 12, Flemington
Registration just $10
Enjoy a fun, hands-on morning learning about container gardening, pollinators, wildflowers, and more!
Spots are limited—sign up now before they’re gone:
https://go.rutgers.edu/g0iy4wxh

Rutgers Cooperative Extension Hunterdon County, NJ Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program

06/04/2026

If you hike in the woods in late spring, you might find tulip-like petals scattered on the ground and wonder where they come from. It is easy to miss the source of these flowers because they are found high up in the canopy of our native tulip tree, Liriodendron tulipifera. Tulip trees are members of the magnolia family and have several common names including tulip popular, yellow popular, canoewood, and canary whitehood. The names arise from the color of its wood, the shape of its flowers and leaves, and because Native Americans constructed canoes from it. The tulip tree is one of the largest deciduous trees found in eastern North America and can reach a height of 150 feet or more. It is the state tree of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana.
Tulip trees are fast growing, prefer full sun, and moist but slightly acidic, well drained soils. Its leaves are large, lobed and turn a pleasant yellow in the fall. The flowers form from May to June and are often found 50 feet up in the canopy. Pinecone shaped seed pods release winged seeds, called samaras, in late fall. This tree is a source of nectar for bees and hummingbirds. Small mammals and birds eat its seeds into the winter, and it is a larval host for the eastern tiger swallowtail.
This tree is native and offers several benefits for wildlife, but consider several factors regarding its placement. Since this tree is fast growing, the wood is weak, and its limbs can break in windy, snowy, or ice conditions. Therefore, plant it away from structures and driveways. Tulip trees also do not tolerate salt and have low soil compaction tolerance. So mowed areas, areas with heavy foot traffic, or near a street would not be ideal placements.
These trees do grow well in New Jersey and can be found in many of our wooded areas. They grow fast, and can quickly provide shade and protective habitat for many forms of wildlife. This may be a good tree to consider if you have a large area in a naturalized setting.

Credit: Cynthia F., Rutgers Master Gardener of Hunterdon County

Photo Credits: North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant toolbox https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/liriodendron-tulipifera DeWitt, Robbins, Johnson

Rutgers Cooperative Extension Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program Hunterdon County, NJ

05/29/2026

Native plants have evolved to grow best in their historic regions and are the foundation of many food webs as hosts for insects. They grow in their habitat without human aid while providing food and shelter to insects, pollinators, birds, and other native wildlife. These plants often have deep roots that require less watering, they sequester carbon, and they are less prone to disease and pest problems. Native plants historically provide greater diversity. However, the overpopulation of deer feeding on natives imperils their growth. In contrast, invasive plants from other regions grow out of control due to the lack of natural disease control and predators, including deer. Simply, invasive plants outcompete native plants and limit diversity necessary to support the food web.
Residential and industrial development destroys habitat for native plants, which is often replaced with “cookie cutter” landscaping. Conservation land and park lands alone are not large or common enough to sustain widespread native plant populations so home landscaping with native plantings helps to connect native plant habitats.
In planning your garden, identify plants to remove (especially invasive plants) and native plants to keep. Use of a plant identification app or reference book is often helpful. Also, be sure to check on sun requirements, size of the adult plant, and growing information, including deer resistance.
Following are some suggested deer resistant native groundcovers, some of which grow to 6 inches along with others that may reach several feet in height and width. Keeping leaf litter around them protects native plants by regulating moisture and supplying nutrients.
• Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) that grows to 1-2 feet in part to full shade
• Giant Solomon’s seal (Polygonatum var. commutatum) grows to 2-4 feet in part to full shade.
• Common blue violet (Viola sororia) requires part sun to part shade.
Following are some suggested native ferns which need at least some shade and have evolved to have a moderate to high deer resistance.
• Northern maidenhair fern (Adiantum pedatum) 1-3 feet
• Marginal woodfern (Dryopteris marginalis) 1-3 feet
• Lady fern (Athyrium filix-femina) 1-3 feet
• Royal fern (Osmunda regalalis) 4-5 feet
• Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostitchoides) 1-2 feet
• cinnamon fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum) 2-4 feet.
Other native groundcovers that need more sun or part shade and have some deer resistance:
• Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) full sun to light shade, 6-12 inches, evergreen with red berries
• Creeping sedge (Carex laxiculmis) part sun to part shade, clumping, compact groundcover or may be used as a lawn alternative
• Golden ragwort (Packera aurea) full sun to shade, 6-24 inches, evergreen, yellow flowers in spring, deer resistant
• Pennsylvania sedge (Carex pennsylvanica) full sun to shade, 6-12 inches, clumping, grass-like sedge, groundcover or lawn alternative, deer resistance
• Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) part sun to shade, 6-12 inches, brown-purple spring flowers hidden by leaves, spreads by rhizomes
• Butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) full sun, 1-3 feet
• Moss phlox (Phlox subulate) full sun, 6-12 inches
• Bluestem goldenrod (Solidago caesia) part sun to shade, 1-3 feet
The following deer resistant native designations have many plants that evolved to attract birds, bees, butterflies, and other insects. Their flowers vary in color, size, and smell giving the gardener wide selections for the garden.
• Bee balm (Monarda genus)
• Columbine (Aquilegia genus)
• Asters (Asteraceae family)
• Coneflowers (Echinacea genus)
Native groundcovers and flower species can enhance the landscape while supporting pollinators and wildlife.

Credit: Toni B., Rutgers Master Gardener of Hunterdon County

Rutgers Cooperative Extension Hunterdon County, NJ Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program

05/22/2026

Succulents are plants that store moisture in their leaves and stems. The Latin name, succa, means sap or juice. There are over 10,000 succulent plants, including cacti; many are native to South America, Madagascar and the Caribbean. By storing water in their leaves and stems, they can easily adapt to dry conditions.

Succulents are easy to grow and require little maintenance, making them a great starting point for beginners. They come in a variety of colors, shapes and textures, perfect for small spaces and help to create a welcome, natural design element in any home.

Benefits of growing plants include improving air quality through taking in carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen (photosynthesis). Some varieties, such as aloe, help with cuts and burns by applying the juice and gel of the leaves. Additionally, caring and tending to plants can lower stress, blood pressure and improve mood.

Visit a garden center for a good selection of succulents. Most varieties need at least half a day of sunlight. Before purchasing, be sure to read the instructional care tags to determine the best location for the plant, and what its needs and requirements are. Important factors to consider are soil, light and water.

Succulents require good drainage and proper soil. Pots should have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent root decay and fungal/bacterial issues. Pre-bagged succulent growth medium can be readily purchased or create your own by mixing one-part potting soil and one-part coarse sand. Fertilizing is recommended only a few times during the year throughout the warmer months. Use a household plant fertilizer and dilute to half the recommended rate.

Succulents need plenty of light to thrive. Six hours of direct daylight is preferred. Artificial lighting can also be used if there is not enough natural light. In spring and summer, transfer plants to outdoors. Transition gradually by putting them in the shade for a few days and slowly move to the sun. Avoid intense hot sun during mid-day. Return them indoors before the first freeze occurs in the fall.

During the active growing season, plants need more water; in spring and summer, typically done once a week. Water only when soil becomes completely dry, by soaking the soil until water runs out of the drainage holes. Avoid watering small amounts frequently as this can cause distorted and poor growth. Watering recommendations may be slightly different for each variety of the plant. In the winter, plants need water just to prevent leaves from wilting, typically once every two to three weeks.

You can make a succulent garden by filling a wide, low container with drainage holes. Fill half with potting mix. Insert the plants and backfill with soil, pressing firmly to secure. Create interest and a focal point with tall and low-lying plants. Consider using plants with similar growth habits so they will not overcrowd. Several plants to consider are String of Pearls (Curio rowleyanus), Aloe Vera (Aloe vera), Flowering Kalanchoes (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana), Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata), Jade Plant (Crassula ovata), and Crown of thorns (Euphorbia milii).

Credit: Heidi Z., Rutgers Master Gardener of Hunterdon County

Rutgers Cooperative Extension Hunterdon County, NJ

05/21/2026

We are proud to recognize the 2026 class of Rutgers Environmental Stewards from Hunterdon, Mercer, and Warren Counties (Region 3) on completing their training and beginning their impactful community projects!
Recently, stewards from across Region 3 gathered right here in Hunterdon County for a hands-on learning experience. Together, they met with the Musconetcong Watershed Association, Rutgers Water Resources Program, and The Hunterdon Land Trust, to explore real-world examples of habitat restoration and green infrastructure projects that are making a difference in our environment.
Their dedication to environmental stewardship and community engagement is inspiring, and we are excited to see the innovative projects they will bring to life in the coming months.

We look forward to following their journey and celebrating their continued successes as they work to strengthen and sustain our local communities and natural resources!

Rutgers Cooperative Extension Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program Hunterdon County, NJ Hunterdon Land Trust

05/19/2026

Digging In: Master Gardener of Hunterdon County Symposium!

Join us for a fun and informative morning with the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Hunterdon County! Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned gardener, you’ll walk away with fresh ideas and hands-on experience.

Saturday, June 13
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Hunterdon County
314 Route 12, Building 2, Flemington, NJ

Just $10 to register – includes refreshments, a planting activity, and more!
Learn how to:
✅ Grow native plants, herbs & veggies in containers
✅ Create a wildflower meadow
✅ Support butterflies and pollinators
✅ Get hands-on with a fun planting session

Spots are limited—register today: https://go.rutgers.edu/g0iy4wxh
Come get your hands dirty and grow something beautiful with us!

Rutgers Cooperative Extension Hunterdon County, NJ Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program

05/08/2026

Coneflowers are in the daisy family (Asteraceae). The multiple genera of coneflower plants in this family (Echinacea spp., Ratibida spp., and some Rudbeckia spp.) are actually different species. Native coneflowers are commonly grown in North America and are a popular summer favorite. Some popular landscape uses include pollinator, butterfly and rain gardens.
Coneflowers are identifiable by their distinct daisy-like outstretched, colorful petals and their medium- to dark-brown or black central floret. Clear differences mark the appearances among the various species. They come in multiple shapes with unique-looking florets and variable stems, and petals which vary in color and orientation.
The yellow coneflower, also known commonly as the, prairie, drooping, and pinnate prairie coneflower, is easily grown from seed and will flower in year two. Flowers have yellow petals (ray flowers) that stretch below the dark flower center on stalks that grow three to five feet in height. It blooms from late July through mid-August.
This plant tolerates full sun to partial shade, and mid-range soil moisture, neither very wet nor very dry. It naturally occurs in full sun in wet meadows, thickets and floodplains, along river banks and woodland borders. It attracts not only bees (including sweat bees, digger bees, cuckoo bees, small and large carpenter bees, and bumble bees), but pests such as leafhoppers, thrips, Japanese beetles, aphids and fruit flies. Birds are also attracted to its seed heads.
Credit: Heidi Z., Rutgers Master Gardener of Hunterdon

Rutgers Cooperative Extension Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program Hunterdon County, NJ

Photo Credits
https://arboretum.psu.edu/about/news/summer-garden-showcase-coneflower-in-bloom/
https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ratibida-columnifera/

04/20/2026

Native Alternative Shrubs to Spirea: Meadowsweet, New Jersey Tea, Virginia sweetspire

Spirea is a diverse genus of around 80 to 100 species of perennial deciduous shrubs in the Rosaceae (rose) family. Spirea is a popular choice for home landscaping because they are easy to care for and offer a wide range of colorful flowers and plant sizes. One popular variety that is native to Japan and China and was introduced to the United States around 1879 as an ornamental, Spirea japonica, is now classified as invasive in many areas. Once established, Spirea japonica can form dense stands that displace native vegetation. In addition, seeds from Spirea japonica last for years in the soil, complicating control of infestations. Given its classification as an invasive species, gardeners should consider planting native alternatives. A few native recommendations are provided below.

Spirea alba (Meadowsweet) is a native deciduous shrub in the Roseaceae (rose) family that is typically found in the eastern portion of North America. It has fragrant flowers and a beautiful yellow fall color. It grows in full sun and part shade; however, it grows best in full sun. It is sensitive to heat, does not do well in dry conditions and has some deer resistance. Flowers have 5 petals and many long stamens that surround a center ring ranging in color from orange to pink to yellow. Removing flower clusters after they are done blooming will promote additional blooms. Meadowsweet is a larval host and a nectar source for a variety of pollinators including the Spring Azure (Celastrina ladon) butterfly. It can be mass planted in a border, used as a hedge, or along a walkway or lawn. Some issues affecting Meadowsweet are leaf spot, aphids, scale, powdery mildew, and fireblight.

Ceanothus americanus (New Jersey Tea) is a deciduous shrub that is native to eastern and central North America. Its native habitat is open, deciduous woods, woodland edges, oak savannas, and meadows. This low growing shrub typically grows to 3 feet tall and 5 feet wide. In early summer, it is covered with fragrant clusters of creamy white flowers. New Jersey Tea grows best in well-drained sandy loam or rocky soils in full sun to partial shade. It is drought tolerant once established, tolerates road salt, and is deer resistant. Its deep root system makes it great for use in erosion control on slopes, but difficult to transplant. New Jersey Tea is a food source for the larvae of the Mottled Duskywing (Erynnis martialis), Spring Azure (Celastrina ladon), and Summer Azure (Celastrina neglecta) butterflies, making it a terrific addition to a butterfly garden. It also attracts pollinators, moths, songbirds and specialized bees. New Jersey Tea is susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew and prone to root rot in wet soils and canker disease.

Itea virginica (Virginia Sweetspire) is a deciduous to semi-evergreen shrub in the Itea family (Iteaceae). Its native range extends from New Jersey to Florida and west to Missouri, Louisiana and East Texas. In its native habitat, it is found in moist woods, swamps, wet pine barrens and along small stream banks. It tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, pH levels and light and is deer resistant. For best flowering, fall color and density grow Virginia Sweetspire in moist, slightly acidic fertile soil in full sun. Avoid over fertilizing as this plant can grow 4 to 8 feet tall with graceful arching branches. Because this plant blooms on the previous season's wood, prune it after flowering in late summer before the new buds form. Virginia Sweetspire is resistant to fire, drought, wet soil and deer. Virginia Sweetspire is not often sold, and the cultivar 'Henry's Garnet' is easiest to find. Fragrant bottlebrush-like flower clusters appear in late spring for several weeks and attract pollinators. In late summer and early fall, woody capsules with tiny seeds appear and are eaten by songbirds. Fall leaf colors range from copper brown to orange and gold and last into winter. Virginia Sweetspire tolerates periodic flooding and the plant’s suckers can stabilize erosion on slopes. Plant it in small groups or as a mass planting in hedges, borders, natural areas and woodland edges.
References with additional information on spirea japonica and native alternatives is available in the comments.

Credit: Christine H., Rutgers Master Gardener of Hunterdon County

Hunterdon County, NJ Rutgers Cooperative Extension Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program

04/02/2026

Looking for a tough, beautiful native plant that pollinators absolutely can't resist? Then mountain mint might just become your new garden favorite. Mountain mints are herbaceous perennials in the Pycnanthemum genus. The genus name comes from the Greek words meaning dense flowers. Twenty species of mountain mint are native to North America, eight of which can be found in New Jersey.

Mountain mints are easy to grow and prefer full sun and moist soils. They will grow in part shade, but the best flowering occurs in full sun. The name mountain mint is really a misnomer. They are not found growing in alpine environments but usually in open sunny spots like fields and meadows. They typically grow to a height of 1 to 3 feet and have white to light purple flowers from July to September. Leaves, flowers, and dried flower heads are ornamentally attractive. There are no serious diseases or insect problems. Sometimes in moist environments they can develop rust. This rust is caused by the fungus Puccinia menthae and appears as orange or yellow spots on the leaves. Like others in the mint family, they can spread aggressively through their rhizomes. One potential drawback is spreading may need to be managed.

Mountain mints are pollinator magnets and a “must have” plant for a pollinator garden. They came out on top in a Penn State study rating common native plants for their attractiveness to pollinators. The flowers produce a lot of nectar and attract a wide variety of insects including butterflies, bees, wasps, flies, skippers, and beetles. Many species of predatory wasps feed on mountain mint and may provide natural pest control if located near crops. Mountain mint seed heads are also a source of food for birds, in particular the finch and titmouse.

Mountain mints have a strong mint smell and flavor. They produce aromatic compounds called terpenes. One such terpene, pulegone, has been isolated from its leaves and is an ingredient in insect repellents. Because these plants emit a strong minty scent and taste, they are one of the most deer and rabbit resistant native plants. In fact, they can be planted around plants that are attractive to deer to help deter browsing.

Three of the most popular mountain mint species are the clustered/broadleaf mountain mint (Pycnanthemum muticum), Virginia mountain mint (Pycnanthemum virginianum), and Appalachian mountain mint (Pycnanthemum flexuosum). Mountain mints would make an excellent addition to a native plant, pollinator, or herb garden. They do best in mass plantings and provide multiseason interest.

Credit: Cynthia F., Rutgers Master Gardener of Hunterdon County

Resources and Photo Credits in Comments Below

Rutgers Cooperative Extension Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program

03/27/2026

Flowering quince, Chaenomeles speciosa, is a deciduous shrub in the Rosacea (Rose) family known for its early spring display of showy blooms. It grows best in well-drained soil with medium moisture, but does not tolerate alkaline soil. It grows in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8, where it reaches a height of 6-12 feet and width of 6-10 feet. It is a dense growing, spreading, thorny, upright shrub with a rounded form and suited for use in a border, barrier or hedge. Although widely cultivated here, the flowering quince is native to Asia. Despite being non-native, flowering quince attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, and produces edible fruit in the fall.
One flowering shrub that is just about to flower in our area is the flowering quince, Chaenomeles speciosa. Quince produces showy 1-3 inch flowers having 4-5 petals in the March/April timeframe before leaves emerge, flowering on old growth. Flower colors range from scarlet/red, gold/yellow, orange, pink and white. It flowers best in full sun, but will tolerate partial shade. Prune after flowering in the spring to shape the shrub and to stimulate the growth of spurs for next year’s flowers.
The 1-3 inch alternate glossy leaves are oblong to lanceolate with a serrated edge. They are bronze-red when they first emerge and turn dark green in summer with non-showy fall color.
The shrub produces quince fruit, usually used to make jelly. The fruit is an apple-shaped pome of 1-3 inches and is speckled with small glandular dots. It is initially green, but turns yellow in the fall when harvested. The fruit is hard and bitter right off the tree. If you desire fruit, prune in moderation.
As a member of the Rosacea family, like apple and rose, flowering quince is susceptible to a number of insect and disease troubles. Aphids may be a problem on stressed plants. Uglynest caterpillars (Archips cerasivorana) may also cause insect damage. Fungal diseases including apple scab (Venturia inaequalis), cedar-quince rust (Gymnosporangium clavipes) and various wood rots can cause problems. Quince can also be susceptible to leaf spots and fire blight. Iron chlorosis, yellowing of the foliage, will occur if planted in high pH soils.
Credit: Lori C., Rutgers Master Gardener of Hunterdon County
Sources and photo credits in comments below.

Rutgers Cooperative Extension Hunterdon County, NJ

Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Hunterdon County

06/12/2026

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