Blog Posts

 flower garden in bloom
Read article: Planting for honey bees
Planting for honey bees
By Trudy Yazujian, Extension Master Gardener serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell countiesI used to tease that I was a public-school...
hummingbird at a zinnia flower
Read article: Welcoming hummingbirds to your yard
Welcoming hummingbirds to your yard
By Jennifer Bass, Extension Master Gardener and Master Naturalist serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria and Tazewell countiesThis past weekend I...
Planting in tight spaces: trees for confined spaces
Read article: Planting in tight spaces: trees for confined spaces
Planting in tight spaces: trees for confined spaces
Trees are an essential element of a healthy, vibrant community. Trees, large and small, help clean our air, shade our landscapes, provide wildlife...
Wild ginger: A native groundcover for shady gardens. Wild ginger plant with hear-shaped green leaves and purplish-brown flowers.
Read article: Wild ginger: A native groundcover for shady gardens
Wild ginger: A native groundcover for shady gardens
Shaded areas can be difficult areas to landscape, especially when it comes to groundcovers. Turfgrass often struggles, and many commonly used...

News Releases

Yellow and green foliage shade plants at a garden center
Grow successful made in the shade gardens
URBANA, Ill. β€” Did you know that despite Illinois' reputation as a prairie state, its landscape was once nearly a third forest? This fact opens up a wonderful world of native plants perfectly suited for shade gardens. Choosing these local beauties not only bolsters regional biodiversity but...
View of a layered landscape all green in bloom with flowers, trees, and shrubs in the woods.
A layered landscape provides space for wildlife all year
URBANA, Ill. β€” There are many ways to support pollinators and other wildlife in home landscapes, such as providing floral resources throughout the season, planting host plants, and planting native plants. In addition, consider creating a space for them to live out their life cycles by creating...
Managing Your Winter Landscape to Support Wildlife
Winter can be a challenging season for wildlife, but with thoughtful landscaping practices, homeowners can create spaces that nurture birds, insects, and other creatures. By providing food, shelter, and overwintering habitats, you can ensure your yard is a haven for wildlife while enriching your...