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Urban Gardening

Urban Gardening

Blog Posts

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...

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...

Videos

Staff

Duane Friend

Duane Friend

State Master Naturalist and Climate Change Specialist