Allergy Awareness Month
May is Allergy Awareness Month! Did you know 33 million Americans have food allergies? That’s 1 in 10 adults and 1 in 13 children, and allergy prevalence is on the rise. A food allergy is when your body’s immune system reacts to a certain food. Signs and symptoms can include hives,...
Plant Sunflowers in Mid-May for Summer Beauty and Pollinator Power
If you’re looking for a cheerful, easy-to-grow flower that does more than just brighten your garden, consider planting sunflowers this spring. Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are North American natives, and mid-May is the perfect time to sow seeds directly into your garden soil. ...
Ensure Canning Safety with Free Pressure Canner Testing from Illinois Extension
Milan, IL — Planning to preserve your garden’s summer bounty? Before you start canning, make sure your pressure canner is working properly. University of Illinois Extension is offering free pressure canner testing to help home canners stay safe and...
Got Plant Questions? Master Gardeners Are Here to Help
Milan, IL — As the growing season kicks into high gear, University of Illinois Extension is here to support your gardening success. The Horticulture Helpline, staffed by trained Illinois Extension Master Gardeners, is now open every...
Gardening Terms Defined
Gardening is one of the most popular hobbies in the United States with an estimated fifty-five percent of households participating annually. During the Covid-19 pandemic, it is estimated that 18.3 million people tried gardening for the...
National Nutrition Month: Food Connects Us
March is National Nutrition Month, a time to celebrate the vital role that food plays in our lives. This year's theme, "Food Connects Us," emphasizes how food is more than just sustenance; it's a powerful connector of cultures, traditions...
From one to many: A beginner's guide to plant propagation
URBANA, Ill. — Many indoor gardeners quickly discover that one houseplant is rarely enough. What begins as an admiration for a charming or unique plant often evolves into a strong desire, or even a need, to fill every corner of a home or office with lush greenery. A simple and cost-effective way...
Tap into Illinois water resources, actions to take at home with Everyday Environment
URBANA, Ill. — With the quick twist of a handle, water is easily available whenever we need it for drinking, cooking, bathing, washing, and yard work. But do you know where your water comes from?Water is a vital resource that affects everyone. This spring, learn more about how water works...
Mastering equine judging: Illinois 4-H State Horse Judging Contest results announced
GALVA, Ill. – Youth from across Illinois demonstrated their equine knowledge at the Illinois 4-H State Horse Judging Contest on Feb. 2 in Galva, Illinois. Participants evaluated six classes of horses, including at least two halter classes, with youth 14 years and older also competing in the...
New agroforestry maps plot environmental, social, and economic benefits of trees
URBANA, Ill. — There’s a longstanding attitude in many farming communities that trees and agriculture don’t mix. But agroforestry — the intentional integration of trees and shrubs in agricultural systems, such as planting trees as windbreaks, integrating trees on pastures, or growing tree crops...
Sprinkle more kindness for heart-health benefits
Kindness is more than a simple act—it’s a heart-healthy habit. A study in the Journal of Social Psychology found that performing acts of kindness for seven days significantly boosted happiness. Whether it’s being kind to yourself, a friend, or a stranger—or simply witnessing kindness—these...
What to know about avian flu in wild birds, poultry, and pets in Illinois
URBANA, Ill. — The nationwide spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza, HPAI, also known as avian or bird flu, has many in Illinois concerned about livestock, pets, wildlife, food safety, and public health.HPAI is an extremely contagious and frequently deadly respiratory disease for...
Connect with health information experts in the Springtime Science series
URBANA, Ill. — While technology has revolutionized access to health information, the proliferation of inaccurate and potentially dangerous content online presents a significant public health challenge. It is essential to develop collaborative models that bring together researchers, educators,...
Root Vegetables
Home Garden GuideRoot vegetables are a delicious and nutritious addition to any garden, and Illinois’ climate makes it possible to grow various crops in the early season. This guide focuses on increasing cool-season root vegetables such as carrots, radishes, turnips, beets, and parsnips...
Strengthen spring planting with tips from Growing Great Vegetables webinar series
URBANA, Ill. — As gardening continues to gain popularity, it is important to keep the learning growing. Whether it is skills needed for a large backyard garden or a few windowsill and porch pots, sharing the knowledge and how much fun gardening activities with others can be very fulfilling....
