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Kristen Dimas standing in the humming bird habitat at Southside Occupational Academy
Read article: Southside Occupational Academy horticulture program seeds community
Southside Occupational Academy horticulture program seeds community
Kristen Dimas, a life-long gardener, used 2020 to invest in her education by completing two University of Illinois Extension training programs in...
black 20-inch container with berry plant
Read article: Save money and space with container-grown fruits
Save money and space with container-grown fruits
Small space gardening doesn’t mean sacrificing flavors. With rising prices people are looking to reduce their grocery bills while getting fresh...
a view of El Paseo's urban farm
Read article: El Paseo Community Garden is not just growing food, it's growing leaders and community
El Paseo Community Garden is not just growing food, it's growing leaders and community
Paula Acevedo talks quickly and passionately pointing left and right as we walk through El Paseo Community Garden...
Fall garden with pumpkins
Read article: Give your front porch containers a fall makeover
Give your front porch containers a fall makeover
Are you ready to toss in the towel on your overgrown, drab-looking container gardens for the year? Unfortunately, our gorgeous summer containers are...
Lavender photo by Verophoto Art, via Unsplash
Read article: Sensory gardens invite interaction
Sensory gardens invite interaction
Walking through any garden can be calming, educational, inspiring, energizing, or a combination of all of these. A new trend in gardening is creating...
Oats, Outi Mähönen, via Unsplash
Read article: Spring cover crops help start the season weed-free
Spring cover crops help start the season weed-free
Do you struggle with weed control in the spring before planting your summer garden? Does your garden lose topsoil after a heavy rain due to slope?...
seedling under plastic lid. creative commons.
Read article: Seed starting woes? Ask the pros
Seed starting woes? Ask the pros
Originally published by Kelly Allsup on February 19, 2021. Who would have known seeds would be the latest craze in 2021? Many seed...
Seedlings growing in paper eggshell cartons
Read article: Do you know when to plant in Illinois?
Do you know when to plant in Illinois?
Believe it or not, it's never too early to start making plans for this year's garden. Knowing when to plant for your area and getting your plants...

News Releases

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...
carolyn banks
Cook County invests in the future of urban agriculture
URBANA, Ill. – From helping backyard gardeners provide locally grown foods to supporting the growing urban agriculture system, new University of Illinois Extension staff are dedicated to meeting the needs of diverse communities. ...
German Cutz
Cook County grows horticulture team with new bilingual educator
URBANA, Ill. – Whether you’re growing backyard fruits and vegetables, tending a few well-loved houseplants, or responsible for landscaping, gardening is a challenge. The University of Illinois Extension team of horticulture experts connects...

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