Utah State University horticulturist JayDee Gunnelle has released specialized gardening advice for July, offering guidance on watering, harvesting, and pest control to help local landscapes withstand the intense summer heat. The recommendations aim to assist gardeners in maintaining plant health and maximizing yields during the hottest months of the year.
July Maintenance Strategies
In a recent update from the USU Extension, Gunnell emphasized that July management is critical for garden survival. His expert tips specifically address the necessity of proper irrigation and fertilization to keep gardens thriving despite rising temperatures. Additionally, his guidance covers essential harvesting techniques and strategies for managing pests that frequently emerge during the mid-summer season.
According to the USU Extension, these July recommendations are part of a broader effort to provide seasonal checklists through resources like the Gardener’s Almanac. This tool is designed to help residents keep track of specific horticultural tasks and timing throughout the growing season.
Expertise in Water-Wise Landscaping
Gunnell's expertise extends into several specialized areas of Utah horticulture, including the management of trees, shrubs, and water-wise plants. As a professor within the USU Extension's Agriculture and Natural Resources department, his work focuses heavily on agriculture water use and the identification of native wildflowers.
His professional background includes significant contributions to Utah's public landscapes. Gunnell designed and developed the USU Botanical Center located in Kaysville, where he also co-developed three separate demonstration gardens. These gardens serve as educational sites where specialists demonstrate specific planting and maintenance techniques.
Educational Resources for Gardeners
The USU Extension provides a variety of educational resources for gardeners at all skill levels, ranging from backyard chicken raising to complex botany. For those looking to improve their vegetable production, the university offers specialized courses focused on growing corn, tomatoes, and snap peas.
Other available online and in-person curriculum includes:
• Soil Science: Exploring soil texture, structure, and the creation of compost.
• Lawn Care: Determining optimal mowing heights and fertilization schedules.
• Tree and Shrub Maintenance: Learning proper planting and pruning techniques.
• Pest Management: Developing techniques to control garden pests.
• Fruit and Nut Production: Implementing best practices for high-yield backyard crops.
Community Involvement and Background
Beyond individual garden plots, Gunnell is actively involved in community-wide horticultural programs. He oversees the Master Gardener volunteer training program and manages the Bridger Park Community Garden located near his residence in Cache County.
His academic foundation includes a bachelor's degree in ornamental horticulture from Utah State University in 2002 and a master's degree in soil sciences from the same institution in 2006. With over 20 years of experience, Gunnell continues to provide public assistance for landscaping and gardening inquiries.
Statewide Demonstration Gardens
For residents seeking hands-on learning, the USU Extension maintains several demonstration gardens across the state. These locations include Thanksgiving Point, Wheeler Farm, the Ogden Botanical Gardens, the USU Botanical Center, and the Swaner EcoCenter.
These sites allow the public to observe professionally curated landscaping and learn directly from specialists about the plants and techniques used to sustain them in Utah's unique climate.
