Knowledge for Life  October 2015
Control now for best results
Get a Jump on Spring Weeds
Late October through early November is the most effective time to control broadleaf weeds in lawns. Dandelions usually produce a flush of new plants in late September, and the winter annual weeds henbit and chickweed germinate in October. We tell you which products work the best here.
Wildlife Proof Your Home
Fall is the time to evaluate your home for potential intruders. As cold weather approaches critters try to find access into your home for warmth and shelter. Find out how you can prevent them from getting in.
Not All Spiders Are Bad
As the temperatures cool down spiders are seeking warmth and shelter, and your home is the perfect place to spend the winter. Here are some tips for spider-proofing your home.
Think Twice About Fall Pruning
Fall's cooler temperatures draw us out into the yard to tackle the end-of-season chores. While tidying up the yard some want to get out the loppers and prune. Fall is not the best time to prune your trees and shrubs and here's why. 
Pick-Your-Own Orchards in the Kansas City Area 
For an opportunity to pick some fresh local apples, consider heading to one of our area apple orchards. Depending on the variety of apple, they could be ready for picking from now through the first part of November. Here's what to look for when picking apples.
Eating for Cancer Prevention 
According to the CDC, cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U.S. and is responsible for nearly 1 of every 4 deaths. But science claims that one-third of all cancer deaths are preventable. Here are some steps you can take to reduce your cancer risk.  
Join 4-H Now
October is the 4-H New Year
In 4-H, youth learn by doing. Studies show 4-H members are:
  1. Less inclined to participate in drugs and other risky behavior, and
  2. More inclined to become confident, productive adults that contribute to their communities and for the good of society.
  1. The new 4-H year starts in October. Have you been thinking of 4-H for your child? Now's the time to enroll your kids for an experience of a lifetime!

    4-H Project Fair 
    Date: Saturday, Oct. 10
    Time: 3 - 4pm
    Location: Extension Office Map to office
    If you're a family with children come and experience the different kinds of projects Johnson County 4-H/Youth Development youth are involved in. The project fair is a family experience - something everyone in the family can enjoy while learning more about Johnson County 4-H and the projects within the program. Refreshments will be available. There is no cost to attend.
     
Don't Forget to Soil Test
Fall is a great time to pull samples from pastures and crop ground. The soil is usually drier, and once fall crops are harvested, it's pretty easy to make your way through fields to pull several sub-samples. Ten soil samples are free each year for agriculture lands. 
Director's Corner 
with Dan Lekie 
Once again it is coming up on election time. The Johnson County Extension Council elections will take place on:
  • October 13
  • at the Extension Office
  • from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Elections are held each year to elect members to our four Program Development Committees (PDC's). The four committees are Agriculture and Natural Resources, Family and Consumer Sciences, 4-H Youth Development and Community Development.

Individuals are elected to a two year term. Each PDC consists of six members, with three members up for election each year. The 24 PDC members make up the Extension Council. The 24 member Extension Council then elects a nine member Extension Council Executive Board at their annual meeting to be held on October 29 this year.

Program Development Committees are a key component of Extension. They are strong supporters of Extension within the community and work closely with agents to help develop future programming ideas within the county. I hope you will support your candidates and vote on October 13.
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