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dragonfly hovering over leaf near freshwater

Dragonflies and Damselflies 

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors, especially if you are near water where you might encounter members of the Odonata order. This group includes dragonflies and damselflies, which can often be seen resting on plants or rocks close to freshwater habitats.   Adult...
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dormant ginger rhizomes ready to pre-sprout

Fresh ginger rhizome cultivation in Illinois

Most farmers’ market visitors are familiar with seeing tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, cucumber, and other high-value horticultural crops on vendor tables throughout the season. This fall, a new and promising specialty crop will likely appear on farmers' market tables across Illinois - fresh, baby...
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strawberry growing on vine

It’s Berry Easy: Grow Your Own Strawberries!

Have you enjoyed a sweet, juicy strawberry this spring? If so, it was likely grown in a warmer climate and shipped to your local grocery store. While store-bought strawberries are convenient, growing them in a home garden is both rewarding and surprisingly simple.   Strawberries...
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tree growing from the ground

Chinquapin Bluffs and Chinkapin Oaks on Arbor Day

Happy Arbor Day! This celebration began in 1872 as a day to plant and appreciate trees in the natural world around us. With over 150 years celebrating Arbor Day, various states and countries have helped plant new trees and educate various populations about why trees are so important in our...
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field of german chamomile

“Plant of the Year” Picks for Your Garden

Earning a title like "Plant of the Year" is a true honor for any garden specimen. Chosen by garden and plant associations to highlight exceptional plants that offer both beauty and reliability, these plants carry significant respect in the gardening community. If you're looking to add new plants to...
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two american river otters in water

Sights and sounds of spring wildlife

As the seasons change and warmer weather arrives, I always feel a little lighter and my smile becomes a bit brighter. With trees awakening and the sounds of more birds outside my window, I’m grateful for the extra moments of sunshine and I enjoy watching the furry friends in my neighborhood....
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a red bin containing many French fingerling potatoes in cold storage

Farm Family Foods: A Small-Town Grocery with Big Ideas

Benson, Illinois, isn’t where you’d expect a local food revolution, but that’s exactly what’s happening at Farm Family Foods. This small-town grocery and grower collaborative is leading the way for rural food access and farm-to-table distribution in Woodford County. Founded by sisters Lauren Reedy...
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orchids blooming indoors

Houseplants that bloom

Many popular houseplants are known for their uniquely shaped or colored leaves, which bring natural beauty and texture to our indoor spaces. While beautiful foliage is a common feature of many houseplants, we often reserve the vibrant blooms for outdoor gardens or patio containers. However, this...
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wind turbine in field

Power in the Breeze

“It wouldn't be too bad outside if it weren't for the wind...”  What a wonderful Midwest saying as we are gearing up for the best season for wind. March is the windiest month of the year in Bloomington, with an average hourly wind speed of 12.6 miles per hour. Wind speed varies at a...
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