Written by Rhonda Ferree, retired horticulture educator
Big trees seem to fascinate and almost mesmerize us. They bring wonderment as we surmise how old it is and what it has "seen" through its life. Here are some of my favorites.
No words can describe what I felt when I saw my first...
Community gardens can turn stark vacant lots into productive keystones in a community. The reasons for starting community gardens are varied, and the rewards are numerous. However various pitfalls can turn noble intentions into negative neighborhood drama. Proper planning, excellent communication,...
Written by Rhonda Ferree, retired horticulture educator
Warm temperatures this winter have caused some lawns to green up early. This could impact the timing of various spring lawncare activities, such as seeding, fertilizing, mowing, and weed control. Here are a five turf tips to consider...
Written by Rhonda Ferree, retired horticulture educator
Here are some upcoming Garden Day events in West Central Illinois in 2017.
March 4 Home and Garden day -...
Written by Rhonda Ferree, retired horticulture educator
I have a couple orchids at home but have not had great success with them. Sandy Mason, Illinois Master Gardener Coordinator, writes the following about orchids. She also teaches a webinar about moth orchids. I'm hoping that Sandy...
Written by Rhonda Ferree, retired horticulture educator
February often gives me the winter blahs. When that happens, gardening tasks help perk me up. Consider these various February gardening activities to reduce the winter blues.
GENERAL
Repair and paint lawn and garden tools, window...
Written by Rhonda Ferree, retired horticulture educator
Gardeners have been growing hop as an ornamental vine for many years. Recently, I have seen more hop grown in backyards for home brewing. This is especially popular among younger male gardeners aged 18-34.
Hop is a herbaceous...
Written by Rhonda Ferree, retired horticulture educator
A friend of mine recently vacationed in Florida and purchased a bromeliad at a flea market. I can see why she picked it out since bromeliads are especially eye-catching.
Bromeliads are in the pineapple family. There are many...
Written by Rhonda Ferree, retired horticulture educator
Get ready, here it comes - the 18th Annual Gardeners' BIG Day! University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners in Fulton and Mason County sponsor this event, which is set for Saturday, April 29th, at Dickson Mounds Museum in...
Written by Rhonda Ferree, retired horticulture educator
Having houseplants in our homes make them come alive. In fact, studies indicate that houseplants help keep people happier and healthier. Plants fill an important psychological function, while also cleansing indoor air, and making us...
