Spending time in nature—whether you're relaxing in a backyard garden, helping in a community plot, or hiking through a state park—can do wonders for how we feel. Research shows that being in nature can boost our appreciation for life, improve our focus and brain function, and lower stress levels....
Darci Webber, Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy Educator for McLean, Livingston, and Woodford Counties, recently returned from a trip to Sri Lanka with the University of Illinois College of ACES Global Academy. Together, nine professionals from the University of Illinois traveled to...
It’s not just kids who love going on vacation during the summer—your houseplants might enjoy one too! Many indoor plants originate from tropical forests, where they thrive in dappled sunlight and warm temperatures. Consider giving them a seasonal retreat by moving them to a shaded patio or covered...
Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors, especially if you are near water where you might encounter members of the Odonata order. This group includes dragonflies and damselflies, which can often be seen resting on plants or rocks close to freshwater habitats. Adult...
Most farmers’ market visitors are familiar with seeing tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, cucumber, and other high-value horticultural crops on vendor tables throughout the season. This fall, a new and promising specialty crop will likely appear on farmers' market tables across Illinois - fresh, baby...
Have you enjoyed a sweet, juicy strawberry this spring? If so, it was likely grown in a warmer climate and shipped to your local grocery store. While store-bought strawberries are convenient, growing them in a home garden is both rewarding and surprisingly simple. Strawberries...
Happy Arbor Day! This celebration began in 1872 as a day to plant and appreciate trees in the natural world around us. With over 150 years celebrating Arbor Day, various states and countries have helped plant new trees and educate various populations about why trees are so important in our...
Earning a title like "Plant of the Year" is a true honor for any garden specimen. Chosen by garden and plant associations to highlight exceptional plants that offer both beauty and reliability, these plants carry significant respect in the gardening community. If you're looking to add new plants to...
As the seasons change and warmer weather arrives, I always feel a little lighter and my smile becomes a bit brighter. With trees awakening and the sounds of more birds outside my window, I’m grateful for the extra moments of sunshine and I enjoy watching the furry friends in my neighborhood....
Benson, Illinois, isn’t where you’d expect a local food revolution, but that’s exactly what’s happening at Farm Family Foods. This small-town grocery and grower collaborative is leading the way for rural food access and farm-to-table distribution in Woodford County. Founded by sisters Lauren Reedy...
