In August of 2020, I received a call with the news that is every mother’s nightmare. There had been an accident and my six-year-old daughter did not survive. That week, her lovely kindergarten teacher brought us five plants to start a butterfly garden. Although I already loved gardening, at that...
Conservation@Home is making its way to our region, thanks to the collaborative efforts of University of Illinois Extension, Conservation Foundation, and the Fulton County Farm Bureau.
What exactly is Conservation@Home, and...
Are you curious about trees, their hidden stories, their ecological significance, and how they shape our world? If so, join us as we start our 2024 book study.
We're excited to announce a deep dive into the world of trees through a reading series. This journey will take us through six...
Are you looking to select plants that support local wildlife, conserve water, and enhance the overall ecosystem in Central Illinois? Here are some steps to assist you:
Research Local Native Plants
Begin by researching native plant species that are indigenous to Central Illinois. Find...
The USDA Hardiness Zone Map has been updated to reflect temperature data collected over the last 30 years. This new map version used GIS technology and input from climate, botanical, and horticulture experts to create hardiness zones on a much finer scale.
Updated to Zone 6A
Locally, the...
Join us for the 21st Gardener’s Big Day 9 am to 4:30 pm on April 13, 2024 at Spoon River College in Canton, IL. Registration begins February 1, 2024. go.illinois.edu/GBD24.
Keynote
What do pollinators do for us?
Imagine how much an apple would...
By Ellen Denler, Extension Master Gardener, serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell countiesMy husband John and I live in the house in which I grew up. The original part of the house was built in 1878 and has had five generations of my family living here. Located on a corner lot (105' X 55') in...
Winter sowing is a cost-effective and low maintenance way of starting plants for the garden. The creator of the winter sowing method, Trudi Davidoff puts it in simple terms, "starting plants outdoors, in winter."
Winter sowing works with nature to prepare seeds for growth by providing the proper...
A sensory garden is not only a feast for the eyes but also for your nose, touch, taste buds, and ears. They are perfect for schools, healthcare facilities, or your backyard oasis. Here's how you can create a sensory garden:
Pick the Perfect Spot
Find a location that gets plenty of sunshine every...
The Grow A Row initiative aims to give back to Peoria, Tazewell, and Woodford communities by providing fresh produce to food banks, pantries, and other distribution efforts. The goal in 2023 was to donate 25,000 pounds of fresh produce to charitable organizations. Anyone can participate by donating...
