UC LPITTM evaluates plants for low water-use over 2 years. We irrigate plants regularly during the first summer after planting, then assess performance during the second growing season on three irrigation treatments corresponding to the Water Use Classification of Landscape Species (WUCOLS) levels of Low, Moderate, and High. Growth and quality ratings are collected by researchers during this period. The Open House allows landscape and horticultural industry professionals and educators the opportunity to see these new offerings and share with us your opinions and preferences by rating a representative sample of the plants in the field. See what it’s all about here: https://www.facebook.com/UCLPIT/.
This trials site is located at 7601 Irvine Blvd, Irvine, at UC ANR’s South Coast Research & Extension Center – event parking is free. A reminder email will be sent to you a week before the event. Participation will entail recording your quality ratings for one individual per treatment for each species/cultivar, providing you the opportunity to evaluate the performance of each species across all treatments without rating every plant in the field.
The ratings take roughly 60-100 minutes to complete and participants may arrive any time between 8:00 and 11:00 am. The event is free, but space is limited, so you must register by filling out the survey located at: http://ucanr.edu/SpringRatingsSocal. Participation is voluntary and is open to professionals, academics/educators, garden writers, and UC Master Gardeners. If you have any questions please contact gejohnson@ucanr.edu copy jasisneroz@ucdavis.edu.
Important Details: Participants should wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, as the fields are packed dirt. You may also want to pack sunscreen and wear a hat, as the plants are in full sun. Carpooling is encouraged, but not required. A tram running every approximately every 15 minutes will take you from the parking lot to the actual trial location. At the trial site, you will be provided a ratings sheet, writing implement and given general instructions when you arrive. Cold water will be provided. We hope to see you there!
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