Healthy gardens start with sensible soil testing
URBANA, Ill. – As the growing season wraps up and gardeners put vegetable beds to rest and clean and store tools for the winter, there is one task they may be forgetting. Testing the soil’s nutrients can provide a better understanding of a garden’s health and save money in the long run.
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Small bees attracted to small flowers
URBANA, Ill. – While the bumblebee is likely the most well-known pollinator, pollinators come in a variety of shapes, species, and sizes.
“Many entomologists believe the tiny sweat bee nectaring on your flowering weed is just as important to a healthy ecosystem as the more well-known...
Refreshing raised bed soil generates exceptional results
URBANA, Ill. – Gardeners facing the aftermath of a hard winter often find themselves staring at problematic raised beds with significantly reduced soil levels.
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The time is right to plant cool season vegetables
URBANA, Ill. – Across Illinois, experienced gardeners are blocking dates on their calendars based on expected thaw dates and anticipated harvest times.
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Green your Halloween by composting pumpkins
CHICAGO – This Halloween, don’t trash your pumpkins, smash them with University of Illinois Extension and Plant Chicago.
Illinois is one of the...
Start herb seeds indoors
URBANA, Ill. – Herbs are a favorite in most gardens, but transplants can be expensive. As an economical alternative, consider starting seeds indoors in early spring as warmer weather approaches.
Herbs can be started in March and be ready for transplanting into the garden in May,...
