Take steps to build a strong foundation for diabetes care
URBANA, Ill. — Over 37.3 million Americans live with diabetes, and another 38% of adults have prediabetes. Raising awareness and learning as much as possible about preventing and treating diabetes is essential. University of Illinois Extension offers...
Tree identification workshop highlights importance of Illinois' native oaks
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois is home to 21 different native oak species whose populations provide habitat and food for wildlife, support biodiverse ecosystems, contribute to improved air and water quality, and provide residential shade benefits that help to reduce energy use.
Gain a better...
Four Seasons Gardening series ushers in the fall season with care
URBANA, Ill. — As seasons shift, take care and fall into gardening with ease. Find healing, growth, and how adding a little planning keeps the mind going and growing.
Explore how to keep the season alive with tips for dividing perennials, continuing self-growth, and healing with time...
Focus on safety to prevent accidents during busy harvest season
URBANA, Ill. — Harvest season is beginning across the state, and for farmers, this means early mornings, long days, and the potential for exhaustion that can lead to accidents.
University of Illinois Extension Specialist and Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering Assistant...
Extension grows agriculture connections at Farm Progress Show
DECATUR, Ill. — Agriculture is not just a job; it’s a way of life for so many, and it’s part of University of Illinois Extension’s mission to help.
The 2023 Farm Progress Show, hosted Aug. 28-30 in Decatur, Ill., attracted...
Illinois Extension investing in the future of farming across the state
URBANA, Ill. — Helping Illinois farmers grow thriving crops and livestock has always been at the heart of University of Illinois Extension’s mission. Using feedback received from farmers and other agricultural stakeholders through a 2022 survey,...
Money management strategies to help young adults achieve financial wellness
College can be an exciting time of self-discovery and growth, but it's also a time to face new financial challenges that produce anxiety and stress. To manage this, it's best to start early to build good financial habits that will ensure a solid future, learn how to make the most of financial...
Illinois AgrAbility will host health, safety tent at 2023 Farm Progress Show
DECATUR, Ill. — Illinois AgrAbility will host a health and safety tent at the Farm Progress Show, Aug. 29-31 in Decatur. The aim is to provide health and safety resources to farmers and the agricultural community, as well as access to free health screenings and services. Health and Safety...
Institute inspires youth change agents
BETHESDA, Md. — Six exceptional leaders from Illinois were selected to attend the National 4-H True Leaders in Equity Institute held July 10-13. This event aimed to empower and equip youth to become catalysts for change within the Cooperative Extension System.
The 2023 delegation...
Identify, avoid, and manage troublesome wild parsnip
URBANA, Ill. — Often parsnips, large white carrot-like root vegetables, are substituted for celery in soups and stews. The cultivated parsnip that we eat heralds from the appropriately named wild parsnip, Pastinaca sativa. However, wild parsnip is a plant to avoid. The wild version of cultivated...
What’s in a name? The roots of fruit and vegetable names are long and intertwined
URBANA, Ill. – While Ireland is known for potatoes and Italy for its tomato-based sauces, many iconic fruits and vegetables have a tangled global history that has led to what ends up in your garden or on your plate. If someone says aubergine and you say eggplant, or maybe chickpeas and...
Bugged by houseplant pests? Give carnivorous plants a try
URBANA, Ill. – During the chilly, dreary winter months, I enjoy my green houseplants that add a bright spot in my office and living space. So when I was visiting a new specialty plant shop this fall, I had to add a new plant friend, “Ping,” to my collection.
If you have ever dealt...
Plant top annuals of 2023 to create craveable container gardens
URBANA, Ill. – Experienced container gardeners likely know that successful containers have good drainage, appropriate sun exposure, and proper potting media. Get a jump on new annual arrivals each year, discover the best performers, and be the envy of your neighborhood this summer by...
Plant trees for every season
URBANA, Ill. – In a landscape, trees accomplish multiple tasks, from shading our homes to being a home for wildlife. They do everything from providing food to conserving water as well as contributing to our health and community well-being. As trees provide physical, environmental, and...
Foundation honors 4-H youth at scholarship awards ceremony
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – The career achievements of Illinois 4-H members were lauded at the Illinois 4-H Celebration of Excellence held April 1 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Champaign. The Illinois 4-H Foundation awarded $...
Sustainable community gardens benefit local growers, ecosystems, communities
URBANA, Ill. – The concept of community gardens is not new. One of the most successful, sustainable, and thriving community gardens in the U.S. is the Historic Bethabara Park in North Carolina. It has been active since 1759 and is the oldest community garden in the nation.
There is...
Youth leaders represent 4-H at Agriculture Legislative Day
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Members of the Youth Leadership Team represented Illinois 4-H at the Agriculture Legislative Day held in Springfield March 29. Agriculture Legislative Day allows farm and agricultural...
