FULTON COUNTY, Ga. -- Spring is the optimum time for planting a variety of shrubs, trees, annuals, perennials and seeds but, before tilling the earth, it is important to consider your specific plant needs and your area's climate. Fulton County Cooperative Extension Agents are available to provide guidance to assist residents with growing successful gardens and beautifying their yards.

The University of Georgia College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UGA CAES) provide helpful tips on line to help you get started.

“Spring is one of our favorite seasons simply because we get to help budding gardeners achieve their dreams of producing a successful garden,” states Menia, Director of Fulton County Cooperative Extension. “Whether it’s a flower garden or vegetable garden, our extension agents are able to provide expert guidance to county residents.”

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. -- When the weather report calls for freezing temperatures overnight, you do not want to be rushing outside in the dark to cover cold-sensitive plants.

According to University of Georgia experts, protect plants in containers either by placing them inside a protective structure (house, garage, greenhouse or shed) or by placing a protective covering over them.

“People put a lot of time and expense in caring for their plants,” states Menia Chester, Director of Fulton County Cooperative Extension. “It is important for them to know how to protect their investments to nurture them for growth when the weather is cold.”

Container plants are especially susceptible to cold temperatures; their roots are more exposed because they are above ground. Plants with roots that are damaged by cold temperatures may not show immediate signs of damage; these plants will show signs of stress when temperatures rise and the demand for water from the roots are greater.

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. -- Georgia apple season in here!  This means it’s time to make canned apples and make apple jellies and preserves. According to Menia Chester, Director of Fulton County Cooperative Extension, creating a delicious apple dish is a project the entire family will love.

To create your apple “masterpiece”, you must have the proper ratio of fruit, pectin (assists in gel creation), acid (needed for gel formation and flavor) and sugar (serves as the preservative for the product) or successful jellied products. Fruit low in acid or pectin may need additional acid or pectin added to ensure a proper gel formation.

According to Chester, the most common questions regarding how jellies, jams, fruit preserves, and fruit butters made have equally common responses:

Jelly is usually made by cooking fruit juice with sugar.