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A favorite spring ephemeral: Bloodroot group of bloodroot plants on woodland floor single green leaves curled around stem of white blossom still cupped ready to open
A favorite spring ephemeral: Bloodroot
My family dedicates an entire weekend to a walkabout in our woodlands each spring. The timing of the retreat is not left to chance, we mark it on...
bunch of daffodils
Springtime gardening trivia
It seems like everyone is doing trivia these days. To celebrate the coming spring, I am trying my hand at writing some gardening trivia questions....
Raised flower boxes
Extension Master Gardeners partner with Phoenix Community Development to promote food access
Community focused, teamwork, and productive are words that Extension Master Gardeners...
When should I clean up my garden? Picture of a garden with brown native bunch grasses and brown fallen tree leaves.
When should I start cleaning up my garden?
As the days get longer and the temperatures start to warm, we often get the itch to start gardening. On the first warm day of the year, I often find...
The weight of winter: snow and ice on trees image of ice on dormant tree branches
The weight of winter: Snow and ice on trees
I write this article as I look out at a snow-covered landscape and give thanks for the warmth of my office. It is during these days that I’m reminded...
mourning cloak butterfly
The mourning cloak butterfly
A winter butterfly sighting We have had some warm weather this February, which means it is time to keep an eye out for butterflies! You may be...
When should I start my seeds? packet of seeds on a table with small brown seeds coming out of the package next to orange plant labels.
When should I start my seeds?
Seed starting is a great way to scratch the gardening itch we often get during late winter. In addition to getting a head start on the growing season...
Urban Forest: Not a contradiction but a critical resource overhead photo of a community with low residential buildings and many trees blue sky with a few white clouds
Urban Forest: Not a contradiction, a critical resource
By definition, a forest is a large area of land covered with trees and understory growth. Traditionally, these parcels of land are often imagined as...

News Releases

vegetables in raised bed
Growing Spaces for Vegetable Gardens in Raised Beds and Containers
Don’t have usable space in the ground to grow your vegetables?  With Spring upon us, and rising grocery costs, both new gardeners and old gardeners alike are planning what foods can be grown at home. Learn how to use above ground growing systems for safe and fruitful production of your favorite...
flowers growing from the rain off of a rain gutter.
Utilizing Rainwater in the Home Landscape
There are many environmental benefits to reducing stormwater runoff, and it can be done in ways that enhance landscapes and natural areas. Illinois Extension will be hosting a two-part Rainscape Workshop on March 30, and April 6 from 9 am - 3 pm at the Rock...
Container Garden Workshop
With Spring right around the corner, you may be thinking about getting outdoors.  What better way to enjoy your outdoor space than adding to your landscape with beautiful Container Gardens.  Learn how to select, plant, and maintain a container garden all season long.  Turn trash into treasure or...
Be a Bargain Gardener
Bargains can be found in the garden too! Don’t let a limited budget keep you out of the garden.  Find out how gardens can be simple, fun, and inexpensive. Master Gardeners from University of Illinois Extension will be providing workshops entitled Bargain Gardens at several locations. You’ll...

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