News Releases

Virtual and in-person tours available for annual pumpkin field day
URBANA, Ill. – From jack-o’-lanterns to gourds, University of Illinois Extension has research updates on all things pumpkin. Since 2014, Illinois Extension staff conduct agricultural field trials regularly to compare yields of different pumpkin varieties grown under realistic conditions...
Choose drought tolerant plants for homeowners
URBANA, Ill. - It can be a challenge to choose plants that will survive Illinois’ changing weather patterns. "While we can go inside and enjoy the air conditioning, our plants don’t have the same luxury," says Gemini Bhalsod...
Face your older years with health, happiness, confidence
URBANA, Ill. – Age may just be a number, but 2020 is putting that statement to the test. University of Illinois Extension educators offer suggestions for handling the physical and emotional challenges of aging, especially in light of the current health challenges.   “Now more than...
Color your garden with a rainbow of vegetables
URBANA, Ill. - Color is one of the aspects of design that leads to the beautiful garden, but sometimes vegetable gardens lack a variety of hues. "Thumbing through garden catalogs, you can now find a variety of colorful cultivars," says...
Master Naturalist Training Available
University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalists provide leadership and educational outreach at local sites.  They practice stewardship at projects throughout Madison, Monroe, and St. Clair Counties including Baebler Educational Farm, The Gardens at SIUE, and Watershed Nature Center....
seed packet
Do not plant seeds of unknown origins
URBANA, Ill. – Mystery packages with unidentified seeds have shown up in mailboxes across the U.S. over the past week. University of Illinois Extension horticulture experts urge people to never plant unidentified seeds. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is...
Choose perennials that love sun for summer glory
URBANA, Ill. – Planning a perennial garden can be challenging when faced with weather extremes. The Midwest can often be hot and dry throughout August. Drought-proven perennials can provide relief to a stressed summer flower garden.  Silver foliage plants that thrive in full sun...