Horticulture

Healthy indoor and outdoor environments, expanded local food production, and support of sustainable landscapes.

Trust the horticulture expert of Illinois Extension to share his expertise and experience with volunteers and the broader community.

We know you want the healthiest plants possible to thrive in your garden or landscape. You need reputable, science-based information to make the best decisions, instead of home remedies and myths about what really works to control pests, pathogens, and diseases. You’ve probably heard a lot of advice on gardening or landscaping. Growing successfully can be a challenge worthy of overcoming with unbiased, researched based information provided by our horticulture educator.

Gardening Question?

Call, email or visit any of our Extension offices for answers to any and all gardening and lawn care questions including vegetable and fruit gardening, pest management, tree or shrub care and more. If possible, bring samples in a container or plastic bag, or take photos to help with identification and disease problems. You may also submit a question.

Illinois Master Gardener Logo

Local Master Gardener Program

Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who dedicate their time and skills to make their community a more beautiful place. Learn how you can get involved!
Tomatoes on the vine

Illinois Vegetable Garden Guide

Tips for growing some of Illinois' most popular fruits and vegetables
melon green lead powdery mildew

Plant Clinic

The University of Illinois Plant Clinic supports plant and insect identification; nematode assays; diagnosis of injury from disease, insects, weeds, and chemicals; and help with nutrient-related issues.
A person shoveling a scoop of soil into a plastic bag.

Preparing Your Garden

Over time, soil fertility, pH, and even soil structure can change as nutrients are depleted. Testing the soil can provide a better understanding of the site and save money.

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