Flowers, Fruits, and Frass

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The Science and Splendor of Fall Foliage

October 21, 2025

With over 250 species of trees growing across Illinois, there is a guaranteed assortment of tree shapes, sizes, and forms throughout the landscape. This botanical diversity becomes especially striking in autumn, when the foliage bursts into a spectacular array of colors and hues. Fall brings a...

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Understanding recycling: Resin identification codes

September 14, 2025

As I pull into my driveway on Wednesday night, I realize it’s time to take the garbage and recycling to the curb. My neighbors have done the same, and our streets are lined with containers holding our discarded materials ready to be picked up and taken to other destinations. Curbside recycling is...

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a high tunnel in the process of being built at the Table Farm and Workshop in Bloomington

Building the Illinois local food system economy, one high tunnel at a time

September 12, 2025

In early August, local farmer Kyan Glen of The Table Farm and Workshop asked me to join a volunteer crew in assembling his new high tunnel. I said yes immediately— Any excuse to get out of the office, work alongside producers, and soak in the seasonal weather is a good one.Glen’s farm...

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Mums and asters: Fall favorites for a colorful landscape

August 25, 2025

Warm fall hues of chrysanthemums and asters will soon brighten the aisles of local garden centers. As summer gardens begin to fade, these trusty autumn bloomers offer a vibrant splash of color — perfect for reviving landscapes or patio containers and extending seasonal beauty well into the cooler...

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Rain impacts various types of erosion

August 15, 2025

July was quite a rainy month for us here in the Bloomington/Normal area! According to data from the Central Regional Airport and the National Weather Service, we received more than 6 inches of precipitation in July 2025, which is significantly more than the rainfall recorded in July...

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Share your passion for gardening—join the Master Gardener program

July 25, 2025

Ever wonder what it means to be a “Master Gardener?” These individuals are community members with a love for gardening and a heart for service. Through countless hours of volunteer work each year, they share their passion, expertise, and encouragement with individuals throughout the community.A...

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Summer sights and sounds: Frogs and toads

July 22, 2025

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: summer is my favorite season, and the past few weekends have included seeing and hearing various frogs and toads. Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to go camping, and from evening into the morning, we were surrounded by the sounds of...

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a tomato plant damaged by herbicides with curled unrecognizable leaves

Twisted leaves and tough questions: What to do if herbicide spray drift hits your farm or garden

July 15, 2025

If your small farm or garden looks healthy one day, but the next you notice twisted, cupped, scorched, or discolored leaves on your vegetables, fruits, flowers, or trees – and you live near corn or soybean fields – you could be seeing the effects of herbicide drift. You are not alone.In the past...

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Simple ways to connect with nature for better well-being

June 27, 2025

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....

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Local Educator travels to Sri Lanka with ACES Global Academy

June 20, 2025

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...

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