Carolina Grower
Nursery & landscape intelligence.
A sample of a publication built and operated by Desk. Source-based news briefs and demonstration opinion pieces, with illustrative photos and non-clickable previews.
Landscape planning
Fall offers a second planting season in eastern North Carolina
Beaufort County Extension describes how autumn planting gives roots time to establish before summer heat, with opportunities to refresh landscapes.
NC Cooperative Extension · Sept. 28, 2026
Your perspective
Op-Ed: Plant knowledge is part of the sale
Plant selection should come with practical guidance on site conditions, watering, and long-term care. Better information can help nurseries build customer confidence and lasting relationships.
Demonstration op-ed
Design
Garden soundscapes enter the therapeutic horticulture toolkit
NC State Extension outlines how plant selection, water and natural sounds can shape sensory experiences in therapeutic garden settings.
NC State Extension · Oct. 1, 2026
In the edition
News, developments & your perspective
Plant selection
Extension takes a closer look at “low-maintenance” plants
A new NC State gardening article examines the low-maintenance label, bringing plant selection and landscape expectations into focus.
NC State Extension · Oct. 2, 2026
Plant health
Boxwood guidance distinguishes nematode damage from drought stress
An updated Extension resource explains why yellowing and dieback can be misleading and describes laboratory assessment of soil and roots.
NC State Extension · 2026
Seasonal operations
September guidance sets out fall landscape priorities
Warren County Extension reviews seasonal yard care and planting considerations as growers and property owners prepare for cooler weather.
NC Cooperative Extension · Sept. 8, 2026
Native plants
Chatham sale puts local native plant nurseries in the spotlight
Extension’s September announcement brought together native plant vendors for its annual sale, connecting growers with customers seeking regionally suited plants.
NC State Extension · Sept. 8, 2026
Your perspective
Letter to the Editor: Make room for the next generation of growers
A call for more hands-on learning, mentoring, and visible career paths in nursery and landscape work. Experienced growers have knowledge worth passing on.
Demonstration letter
Conservation
Extension flags October 30 conservation application deadline
NC FarmLink shared the fiscal 2027 NRCS application window, giving producers an upcoming date to review conservation assistance opportunities.
NC State Extension · Sept. 18, 2026
More to know
News & opinion
Professional development
Plant professional training combines classroom work and live identification
Extension’s 2026 preparation program scheduled four August training days ahead of the NC Nursery & Landscape Association’s September certification exam.
NC Cooperative Extension · May 12, 2026
Regional events
Forsyth field day expands its native plant focus
The 2026 event was scheduled at the county’s new Extension center in Tobaccoville, with nursery vendors and education on pawpaws and native landscapes.
NC Cooperative Extension · July 30, 2026; updated Sept. 4
Your perspective
Op-Ed: Long-term care belongs in landscape planning
An argument for considering maintenance, water needs, and future growth when planning a landscape. A successful installation should be supported by a realistic plan for what comes next.
Demonstration op-ed