Lori Leas

Master Gardener Program Coordinator - Clark County

Office: (702) 222-3130 Ext: 5501
Fax: (702) 222-3100
Email: leasl@unr.edu
Address: 8050 Paradise Road, Suite 100, Las Vegas, Nevada 89123-1904
Representing: Clark County - Las Vegas, Nevada
Download Electronic Business Card OR vCard

Summary

The Master Gardeners of Southern Nevada are nearing their 30th year of supplying citizens of Southern Nevada with good research based horticultural information to help them be successful desert gardeners.
Each of the over 300 volunteers had to complete 80 hours of classroom time as well as an internship before being certified. Master Gardeners commit to at least 50 hours of volunteer service as well as 10 hours of continuing education each year to maintain their status. The Master Gardeners volunteer hours equate to close to $1,000,000 annually in un-paid service to the citizens of Clark and Nye counties.

Master Gardeners use a variety of instruction models and continue to expand their outreach efforts by teaching or leading projects at various community gardens, schools, libraries and Sr. centers and garden clubs. Master Gardeners will tailor their instruction to audiences specific needs or interests.

Our out reach efforts are continuing to expand by adding new programs such as:

On-line Master Gardener Program under development

the new Extension Gardeners Certificate program which gives participants in-depth training in local horticulture practices. Participants do not have to volunteer to be in this program but if they decide to become a Master Gardener at a later date, some of the classes taken will be used toward certification at the annual Master Gardener training.

Extension Gardener in Spanish program is currently being developed and is set to be introduced in Spring 2020 Bilingual Master Gardeners will be teaching this certificate program in various areas of the County.

Master Gardener Digital Outreach project is taking research based horticulture information to a much wider audience by using social media platforms, online education and work-shops and Video horticulture instruction to name a few. Master Gardeners in this project receive additional instruction in not only the basics of digital platforms but how and why information has to be made "accessible" for all users. The additional training also includes ways to engage, manage and educate a Social Platform, the importance of "Free Speech", how to deal with difficult users or "Trolls" and how to put the "Social" in social media.

Education

Mohave HS, Bullhead City, AZ
enrolled BS Landscape Arch../Urban Planning/Integrated food systems UNLV and AS Ag Science CCAZ

Programs
Accomplishments
Service
Publications

Programs

4-H Teen Pollinator Ambassador Program

Establish a statewide, Nevada 4-H Pollinator Ambassador Program, creating awareness, education, outreach, and peer-to-peer educational opportunities for at least 10 Nevada youth and adult Extension professionals.

Healing gardens in Las Vegas

Extension healing gardens essentially become outdoor sanctuaries for people who are hospitalized as well as their families and the staff that works with them.

Master Gardeners of Clark County

Serving Clark, Lincoln and Southern Nye counties gardening needs.

Master Gardeners of Nevada

Program trains local gardeners to provide research-based horticulture information to Nevadans

Master Gardener taking grape inspection notes on a clipboard

Research Center & Demonstration Orchard

Researching new varieties of fruit producing trees, vines and other plant materials in sustainable ways for the Mojave Desert climate.

Honors and Awards

Winner of Programs of distinction with National Extension Agents Association for her work with Overnight Horse Camps in Southern Nevada.

Accomplishments

Certified Horticulturist with the American Association of Horticulture Science.

Service

Former 4-H club leader for Clark County

Executive Committee member for the Nevada Highschool Rodeo Association and Chair person of Scholarship Fund

News & Journal Articles, Fact Sheets, Reports...

Blog Posts
Fact Sheets
Hemp Basics: Anatomy of a Female Hemp Plant This publication provides readers with a thorough introduction to the anatomy of the female hemp plant, which is grown and harvested for many uses. The major parts of female hemp plant are discussed and displayed in a diagram. McGue, L., Morawska, M., Robinson, M.L. and O'Callaghan, A.O. 2021, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-21-97
Groundcover Plants for Southern Nevada: Viable Alternatives to Turfgrass Groundcover plants are essential for keeping southern Nevada cool. While many desert residents are removing turfgrass to reduce water use, they should consider replacing it with the attractive, drought tolerant alternatives discussed in this publication. McGue, L., Robinson, M.L., O'Callaghan, A.O. and Leas, L. 2021, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-21-93
Field Bindweed - An Attractive Nuisance, and Worse A pretty plant may still be a weed, and field bindweed is a clear example. This attractive relation of morning glory can invade a landscape, interfering with the growth of desired plants both above and below ground. This fact sheet gives information on avoiding and treating field bindweed. O'Callaghan, A. and Robinson, M. L. 2020, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-20-33
Root-Knot Nematode Root knot nematode is a microscopic roundworm that attacks the roots of many garden plants, killing them. They are not easy to control, but this fact sheet gives guidance for the homeowner. O’Callaghan, A., Robinson, M.L., and Haas, S. 2020, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-20-24
Growing Hops in Southern Nevada Hops are mainly used for brewing beer. The perceived bitterness in an Indian Pale Ale is derived from the hops themselves. Hops can also impart other flavors into beers, such as fruity, citrusy, or spicy notes. However, hops can serve other purposes as well. Wynne, T., O’Callaghan, A., Robinson, M. L. and Anderson, J. 2017, Extension \| University of Nevada, Reno, FS-17-05
Growing Sweet Potatoes in the Desert Sweet potatoes easily grow in the desert and provide necessary vitamins and nutrients. By implementing the proper gardening techniques, everyone can enjoy the tasty treat. Sweet potatoes like a hot growing season, making southern Nevada an ideal place for them. Wynne, T., Robinson, M.L., Callaghan, A. 2017, Extension \| University of Nevada, Reno, Fact Sheet FS-17-02
Green Fountain Grass Too often, attractive plants that we bring into the landscape from other regions turn out to be just too successful. They usually have no natural enemies in the new area, so they are able to thrive. They appear in wild areas and begin to out-compete native plants. One of these is green fountain grass. O'Callaghan, A. M., and Robinson, ML 2014, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-14-11
Raised Beds Can Make Gardening Easier How to use raised beds to make gardening easier! O'Callaghan, A. 2010, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-10-33
Palm Problems That Aren't Many people are not familiar with growing palm trees and make observations that they think are abnormal in the palms growth and appearance. This publication addresses these symptoms, perceived problem and explanation of what is actually occurring in the Palm. It is also an easy guide for the professional and homeowner. Robinson, M. L., and O'Callaghan, A. 2010, Extension University of Nevada Reno, FS-10-72
Soil Solarization to Control Garden Pests Control Garden Pests With Soil Solarization! O'Callaghan, A. 2008, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-08-29
Lantana: An Attractive Shrub for Desert Landscapes Lantana is widely used in Southern Nevada landscaping. This fact sheet is for those who wish to use this plant, what varieties are available, and how to grow it successfully. It also gives information on what adult butterflies are attracted to this plant. O'Callaghan, A. 2007, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-07-40
Growing Pomegranates in Southern Nevada Pomegranates are a delicious fruit that grows well in the Mojave Desert. This publication gives needed guidance to people who wish to grow their own. Crites, A. M., Robison, G. D. and Mills, L. 2004, Extension University of Nevada, Reno FS-04-76
Creating an Organic Garden in Southern Nevada The idea of an organic garden can be an attractive idea, yet an intimidating one. This fact sheet guides people in the creation of an organic garden – soils, fertilizers, plant selection, cultural practices, as well as dealing with weed, insect and disease pests. O'Callaghan, A., and McKie, P. 2004, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-04-72
Hardening Off Plants When plants are taken from a sheltered environment, like a home or a nursery, it is important that they be given the chance to become accustomed to the new one. This fact sheet gives gardeners the information they need to help plants successfully make the transition. Davis, R., and O'Callaghan, A. 2003, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-03-71
The Rose in the Desert Southwest A comprehensive guide on growing roses in the desert southwest. It covers soil preparation and planting, monthly care, pruning, and disease problems for growing roses. It also includes a easy to follow month by month care guide for roses. Mills, L., Johnson, W. S., and O'Callaghan, A. 2003, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno FS-03-15
Recognizing Plant Nutrient Deficiencies There are 14 essential nutrients for plants, and when plants lacks one, it displays certain symptoms. This fact sheet explains how essential nutrients act in plants, and the symptoms of deficiencies. O'Callaghan, A. 2002, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-02-65
Home Vegetable Production in Southern Nevada The Home Vegetable Production fact sheet was written to aid people who wish to grow their own food, but may be intimidated by Southern Nevada’s environment. It gives info on planting times, appropriate plants for this region, and ways to deal with problems gardeners may face. O'Callaghan, A. M. 2002, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-02-61
The Scientific Method This fact sheet contains important information regarding the scientific method by taking a look that what it is and what it is not. Learn serval definitions like hypothesis and theory, the process of the scientific method, replication, and many more. Ryan, M. and O’Callaghan, A. 2002, Extension \| University of Nevada, Reno, FS-02-66
Bats - Essential Members of the Southern Nevada Community Bats can frighten people, although they are so important to most communities, both as pollinators and as insect eaters. This fact sheet explains bat behavior and gives people the information they need. O'Callaghan, A. M. 2001, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-01-53
Fire Blight Fire blight is a serious disease of many woody plants, caused by bacteria. It is one of the few that can affect trees and shrubs in the Mojave. Because it is bacterial, there are few commercial products available to control it. This publication guides residents in recognizing and dealing with fire blight. Skelly, J., and O'Callaghan, A. 2001, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, FS-01-56
Informational Publications
Special Publications
Industrial Hemp White Paper Growing Hemp in the American Southwest Publication provides horticultural, historical, and legal information on hemp; it is intended to educate the public and those interested in growing legal hemp in the American southwest. Proper growing practices, laws, fees, and hemp uses are discussed to provide readers with a solid introduction to the hemp industry. McGue, L., Lane, K., Robinson, M.L., McCoy, J., Morawska, M., Anderson, J., Lombard, K., Leas, L., Masson, R. and O'Callaghan, A.O. 2021, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, FS-21-98
Venomous Reptiles of Nevada (2020) Venomous Reptiles of Nevada - This is an updated and expanded publication based on previous extension publications. It is intended to be used as reference material in the classroom, as well as in the field. Photographs and other materials have been upgraded to make identification more precise. Jones, J., Robinson, M. L., McKeever, B., and O'Callaghan, A. 2020, University of Nevada, Reno Extension, SP-20-13
Research Orchard Fruit Evaluations & Recommendations for Southern Nevada - 2020 This publication is for both the homeowner and small commercial grower. The information contained has been gathered over years of research trials and observations of various types of fruit trees and vines growing at the University of Nevada, Reno Research Orchard. It is a handy guide for buying fruit trees and vines. Robinson, M.L., O'Callaghan, A., and Ruskamp, L. 2020, Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, SP-20-07
Pruning Cacti And Other Desert Succulents Pruning is an important part of any landscape maintenance program, including Southwestern desert landscapes. Pruning plants such as cacti, yuccas, agaves and other succulents is simple, but requires some basic plant knowledge. Robinson, M. L., O’Callaghan, A., and Anderson, J. 2016, Extension \| University of Nevada, Reno, SP-16-01
Pruning Desert Shrubs in Southern Nevada-Type Climates This publication is a guide to correct pruning of desert and desert adapted shrubs in the landscape. It details how to prune and why correct pruning is important to the health and beauty of the plants. Robinson, M.L., O'Callaghan, A., and Anderson, J. 2014, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-14-13
Creating a Community Garden People who are concerned about food accessibility, variety and safety often consider growing their own vegetables and fruits. Community gardens can provide spaces for growing food and for contact with others living nearby. This publication provides guidance for creating and maintaining community gardens. O'Callaghan, A. M., Fagin, E., and Robinson, M. L. 2013, Extension University of Nevada Reno, SP-13-07
Introduction to Pruning Palm trees are one of the most dominant plant materials found in the landscapes of southern Nevada and throughout the desert Southwest.Unfortunately, most palm trees are incorrectly pruned by homeowners and commercial landscape maintenance companies.This publication explains why and how palm trees should be pruned. Robinson, M. L., O'Callaghan, A., and Anderson, J. 2013, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-13-13
Exotic Insects Invading Nevada’s Trees! Be a Citizen Monitor for Urban and Native Forests Trees in cities create an “urban forest”. Protecting these trees maintains cooler temperatures, creates an aesthetically pleasing setting, and provides a home for birds. Boring insects can destroy trees, and this publication describes the damage and how to preserve trees for generations to come. Skelly, J., and O'Callaghan, A. 2012, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-12-06
How to Read a Soil Analysis Report Gardeners who are growing plants in challenging landscapes, such as desert environments, need first to learn the characteristics of the soil where they will be growing. This publication leads the reader through reports, so they can understand what is in the soil, and how to use that information for successful gardening O'Callaghan, A. 2010, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-10-12
Mulches for Nevada Landscapes All plants benefit from some kind of mulch. The type of plant determines what kind of mulch. This fact sheet explains what type to use and how to apply it. O'Callaghan, A. M. 2006, Extension, University of Nevada Reno, SP-06-10
Becoming a Desert Gardener Becoming a Desert Gardener is a comprehensive introduction to gardening in the desert southwest. It covers topics such as soils, fruit & vegetable selection and growing, as well as scheduling garden planting and proper fertilization. O'Callaghan, A., and Roberts, A. 2001, Extension University of Nevada Reno, SP-01-15