Flowers, Fruits, and Frass

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Heat Stress by Dave Robson

July 9, 2016

Few people like 90+ degree temperatures. Plants aren't far behind. On hot days, plants can lose water faster than roots absorb it, even if sufficient soil moisture is available. In these conditions, you can watch the plants wilt, leaves droop, and stems seem to flop. If the soil is moist, the...

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Wild Parsnip or Dangerous Carrots According to Rhonda Feree

July 8, 2016

These dangerous carrots cause photo-dermatitis. Cow parsnip, wild parsnip, and giant hogweed contain an allergen that is activated by sunlight to cause rash, blisters, or other skin irritations in susceptible people. Cow Parsnip (Heracleum lanatum) is a native plant that can reach eight...

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Master Gardeners at Eureka Library on July 11

July 7, 2016

Woodford County Master Gardeners offer gardening help desk EUREKA, Ill. – Is there a problem with your yard or garden? Are pests and weeds concerning you? The University of Illinois Extension Woodford County Master Gardeners' Help Desk offers the community a unique opportunity to...

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Eat broccoli every three days: Latest research from University of Illinois researcher Dr. Jack Juvik

July 5, 2016

URBANA, Ill. – Love it or hate it, broccoli is touted as a superfood, offering an array of health benefits. And it's about to get even more super. University of Illinois researchers have identified candidate genes controlling the accumulation of phenolic compounds in broccoli. Consumption of...

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Japanese Beetles by Phil Nixon

June 28, 2016

Adult Japanese beetles have been reported in southern, central, and northern Illinois. Early control reduces damage through the six weeks that they are actively feeding as beetles are attracted to previous feeding damage. Japanese beetles feed on the upper leaf surface, eating through the...

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Welcome Beneficial Guests with an Insect Hotel

June 21, 2016

Originally published by Kelly Allsup on June 21, 2016. Did you know that with minimal investment, you can open a hotel? Insect hotels offer places for beneficial insects and pollinators to survive winter's chill and to nest in spring and summer. You can use them to employ garden warriors...

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McLean County Master Gardeners Invite you to travel to Biltmore Estate this Summer

June 10, 2016

Tour Biltmore Estate with the Mclean County Master GardenersBLOOMINGTON, Ill. – The University of Illinois Extension McLean County Master Gardeners invite you to accompany them on a trip to the beautiful "Land of the Sky," Asheville, North Carolina, on a six day, five night tour...

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Must Have Annuals for your pollinator Garden

June 4, 2016

Originally published by Kelly Allsup on June 4, 2016. Pollinator gardens are on trend whether you are novice or a professional. University of Illinois Extension has developed a program called Pollinator Pockets giving homeowners resources to start their own pocket gardens. They have...

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Celebrate Herbs at Westview Park in Gridley

June 1, 2016

CELEBRATE HERBS AT WESTVIEW PARKGRIDLEY, Ill.– Interested in getting an herb garden started or expanding your knowledge on how to use the herbs you grow? Join the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners at 6:30 p.m. on June 14 at Westview Park for their...

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Cut Flower Gardening: What to Plant, How to cut and Arrange

May 17, 2016

For Immediate Release: Please Join Livingston, McLean and Woodford County University of Illinois Extension Horticulture for a series of workshops designed to teach the community how to grow. Selecting topics that are popular and sure to teach novice and avid gardener's skills to grow flowers and...

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