News Releases

Master Gardeners teaching at Hall High School Conservation Garden project
Adopt an Island and Participate in a Free Native Plant Care Training
Photo: Master Gardeners teaching at Hall High School Conservation Garden project Spring is here and some of us are still in search of a tropical island. Did you know that you have Islands in your own backyard? These islands are not sand covered. Instead, they are filled with native...
Aaron Hager standing in soybean field surrounded by the weed waterhemp
Tank-mixing herbicides may not be enough to avoid herbicide resistance
URBANA, Ill. — Eight years ago, University of Illinois and USDA-ARS scientists turned weed control on its head. More and more herbicide resistant weeds were popping up, and the pest plants were getting harder to kill. It was clear farmers could no longer rely on the same chemicals year after...
Colorful mural on the Hello Peoria Building
Art and culture: A path to progress and community development
URBANA, Ill. — Artists, arts organizations and collectives, and arts activities, in general, can play a valuable role in economic and social development, as well as in the long-term sustainability of communities. Creating artistic spaces fosters connections across sectors to improve physical and...
two blooming pinguicula plants in containers
Bugged by houseplant pests? Give carnivorous plants a try
URBANA, Ill. – During the chilly, dreary winter months, I enjoy my green houseplants that add a bright spot in my office and living space. So when I was visiting a new specialty plant shop this fall, I had to add a new plant friend, “Ping,” to my collection. If you have ever dealt with...
Let's talk Money image
Take proactive steps to improve overall economic well-being
URBANA, Ill. – In these times, many people feel overwhelmed by financial worries and feel uncomfortable talking about it. Whatever the circumstances, there are ways to get through these tough economic times, relieve stress and anxiety and regain control of finances. Gain the financial...
venus fly trap
Carnivorous Plant Workshop
Remember the Venus Fly Trap you always wanted as a child? It was amazing! Carnivorous plants are unique and fascinating plants that have captured people’s imaginations for years. Master Gardeners from the Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall and Putnam Counties University of Illinois Extension will be...
microphone
Marshall-Putnam 4-H Youth learn public-speaking skills that last a lifetime
 4-H excels in preparing youth to speak well and confidently, and it is a skill that serves members for a lifetime. Two youth from Marshall-Putnam 4-H group recently put their public speaking skills to the test during the Illinois 4-H State Public Speaking Contest held at Parkland College April...
the first and second place winners pose with their catches
Youth show off their best catches in statewide competition
Urbana, IL – Youth from across Illinois headed into the great outdoors to participate in the statewide 4-H Hooks Us Together Virtual Fishing Crappie Challenge in April. While competition is the focus, participating youth take away much more from the experience. “When a kid cares...
youth holding the harness of a cow
Teens leaders dedicated to feeding a nation
Urbana, Ill. – Eleven Illinois teens have a new way to develop their skills as future leaders that are dedicated to feeding a nation through the Illinois 4-H Livestock Ambassador Team. ...
Screen capture of a website showing a red blooming flower next to a digital map showing its location in the Red Oak Rain Garden
Virtual map provides a tool for rain garden stewardship
URBANA, Ill. – When caring for a rain garden, one of the most helpful tools may not be a rake or a pruner, but a map. The Red Oak Rain Garden interactive map shows the layout of the garden’s native plant placement. This makes maintenance easier and also helps visitors learn about the...
contest participants pose by signs
Youth excellence shines at 4-H public speaking contest
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. –  4-H excels in preparing youth to speak well and confidently, and it is a skill that serves members for a lifetime. Youth from across the state recently came together to put their public speaking skills to the test during the Illinois 4-H State Public Speaking Contest held at...
bright purple flowers with yellow center
Plant top annuals of 2023 to create craveable container gardens
URBANA, Ill. – Experienced container gardeners likely know that successful containers have good drainage, appropriate sun exposure, and proper potting media. Get a jump on new annual arrivals each year, discover the best performers, and be the envy of your neighborhood this summer by building...