Dodge County Master Gardener Association

06/16/2026

If you like seeing fireflies.....

✨Remember when summer nights seemed to be filled with fireflies?✨

Many people say they don't see as many fireflies as they used to. While there are several reasons for their decline, one of the simplest ways we can help is by reducing artificial light at night.

💡 Fireflies use their flashes to communicate and find mates. Artificial light can drown out those signals, making it harder for them to court one another and reproduce.

Fireflies are active in Wisconsin from May through August, with peak season from mid-June through late July.

Lights Out Wisconsin is encouraging everyone to turn off or dim non-essential outdoor lights and close window shades from sunset to sunrise. You can also help by:
🍂 Leaving the leaves
🚫 Avoiding pesticides
🌿 Keeping some natural areas in your yard

Have you seen any fireflies yet this year? Let us know in the comments! ✨
📲 Share this post with someone who misses seeing more lightning bugs around.

06/13/2026

For decades, road trips across the nearly 2,500-mile route have been an opportunity to see many unique sights of America, including its native flora. The route includes five major ecosystems, each with endemic species. Read to learn more about the native flora of Route 66, as represented by their st...

06/12/2026

June is Invasive Species Action Month! Whether you’re hiking, camping, on the water or tending to your home garden, educate yourself and take action to help prevent the spread of invasive species.

One common invasive plant that’s in-bloom this time of year is dame’s rocket (Hesperis matronalis). This slender 3-4' plant with four pinkish-purple (or white) petals spreads quickly in forests, along roads and in natural areas. It is sometimes found in “wildflower mixes” and is a restricted invasive species in Wisconsin, which means it is unlawful to transport, transfer or introduce it on the landscape.

06/12/2026

If you’ve wanted to attend Ask Your Gardening Question: LIVE, but daytime schedules get in the way, don’t miss our next EVENING session on Wednesday, June 17 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Bring your plant questions, pest concerns, or simply listen and learn. Our panel of horticulture experts will share simple explanations and practical advice to help you garden with confidence.

Register for free: go.wisc.edu/aygq61726

06/10/2026

We are set up and ready to go at the Beaver Dam Sr Expo. Booth 51. 9 am to 1 pm. See you soon!

06/08/2026

Come see us at the Beaver Dam Senior Expo on June 10th. We will be at Booth 51.

06/08/2026

Dodge County Master Gardeners will be there!

Mark your calendars for the Fourth Annual Family Fest on June 24!

Join Dodge County Public Health & WIC from 12 to 6 p.m. at the Wayland Academy Field House for a free afternoon of family fun featuring games, crafts, healthy snacks, food trucks, raffles, community resources, and giveaways including diapers, baby clothes, and books.

Bring the whole family and discover the many resources and services available in our community. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. RSVP on Facebook: https://bit.ly/4vpFfA4

06/07/2026

06/07/2026

We are set up and ready to go at the Dodge County Dairy Brunch.