The American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) is a native shrub to Illinois and much of eastern North America. Despite its weedy habit, often growing in natural areas and unmowed ditches, this plant has some remarkable features. It offers both natural beauty and utility as well as easy...
Do you have a tree that is displaying fall color right now? Although it may be beautiful, this may be a sign of health issues. In our area, most trees do not begin to change colors for the season until October. A branch or two here and there or some yellow leaves in the canopy are not cause for...
This time of year, when most vegetable gardens are teeming with fresh produce, it is hard to think about starting additional plants. However, right now is the perfect time to start a fall garden and extend the growing season until the first frosts of the year, or possibly beyond with certain hardy...
This weekend, I will be traveling to southern Illinois for the experience of a lifetime—a total solar eclipse. The eclipse will occur on Monday, August 21, and will only be viewable in “totality” within a narrow band of approximately 70 miles that extends across the US from Oregon to South...
For many of us, Monarch butterflies conjure cherished memories of childhood. However, this beloved butterfly once so familiar has become more and more absent from our gardens. Scientists believe a lack of habitat along with colder than usual weather patterns has caused their numbers to drop in...
Everyone likes a sale and gardeners are no exception. The Vermilion County Master Gardeners will hold their annual Plant Sale on Saturday, May 13 at The First Presbyterian Church, 100 North Franklin St. Danville from 7am - 2pm. The event will take place inside the First Presbyterian Gymnasium. As...
The landscape is drab and we impatiently await the first tulip. But hang in there, because the University of Illinois Extension Garden Day Workshop and Spring Festival is right around the corner! For over a decade, local gardeners have celebrated the arrival of spring by attending this yearly event...
Winter in Illinois is long for gardeners and by late February I start looking outside -desperate for any sign of plant life. Tired of waiting for the first crocus to appear, I have become somewhat addicted to forcing bulbs. It's not difficult and you can enjoy hyacinths, tulips and daffodils from...
When I am in the company of Master Gardeners I never cease to be humbled by their versatility and the sheer amount of knowledge and talent they possess. They come from all walks of life and are passionate about all aspects of gardening. Their interests cover everything from flowers and vegetables...
One of the more recent trends in gardening is fermentation gardens. The practice of fermenting food and drinks is nothing new. Archeologists tell us humans have been making beer and wine for thousands of years. My Italian grandfather made zinfandel wine every autumn. His wine press sits in my...
