Blog Posts

A pile of cinnamon quills
Read article: From bark to baking: Cinnamon’s journey to your table
From bark to baking: Cinnamon’s journey to your table
While we use them year-round, spices often take center stage during the holidays. From bread and pies to cookies and drinks, spices provide many...
Read article: Mistletoe: From forest parasite to holiday icon
Mistletoe: From forest parasite to holiday icon
Mistletoe is a mysterious holiday plant that many of us may not understand much about other than the fact that you may be at risk of getting kissed...
A golden Christmas ball on a dry branch of a Christmas tree without needles.
Read article: Help! What’s wrong with my Christmas tree?
Help! What’s wrong with my Christmas tree?
Maybe this is your first year with a farm-raised cut Christmas tree. Or perhaps you’ve used them for years, but something seems off. Drooping...
Garden Scoop logo with Meserve hybrid hollies (Ilex x meserveae).
Read article: Holly for the holidays
Holly for the holidays
Evergreen holly species have long been a symbol of Christmas and other winter holidays and traditions. The dark green, prickly foliage, combined...

News Releases

Make Memories That Last: Festive Ornament Workshops in December
The holidays are the perfect time to get creative—and what better way to do that than with a hands-on horticulture project? University of Illinois Extension invites you to join us for festive workshops designed to bring nature indoors and add a personal touch to your holiday décor....
Split photo - Smiling marshmallow snowman floating in mug of cocoa and group of older adults playing Jenga
Illinois Extension to Host Winter Wellness Miniseries
CATLIN, Ill - There are many joys that can be experienced in winter, from the holidays, snow, and festive events. However, even with the positivity of the holiday season, the stress of it all can be a bit too much to handle. Winter can also bring the chill temperatures and an increased need to...
Give Your Holiday Cocktails a Healthy Twist
Holiday cocktails are a festive treat, but they can also pack a surprising calorie punch. By making a few simple substitutions, you can enjoy your favorite drinks with far fewer calories:Instead of Sprite (148 calories), mix with club soda (0 calories): Calories...
Enjoy the Magic of Natural Christmas Trees This Holiday Season
The National Christmas Tree Association reports that approximately 25–30 million natural Christmas trees are sold in the United States each year, offering families a sustainable and festive way to celebrate the season. Unlike artificial trees made from petroleum-based plastics, natural Christmas...