URBANA, Ill. — Seasons come and go, but home gardening never stops. Explore how to keep your green thumb growing this winter with Four Seasons Gardening webinars.
University of Illinois Extension experts will share tips for starting native springs for your home garden, insect updates on invasive spotted lanternflies and periodical cicadas, and the power of rain gardens to slow and filter stormwater. Sessions are free, with live online sessions from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. on select Tuesdays. Registration is required.
Extension educators and specialists Jamie Viebach, Kacie Athey, Chris Enroth, and Andrew Holsinger will lead the series. Find more information and sign up for sessions at go.illinois.edu/FourSeasons.
- Native Seed Starting for Spring Planting | Jan. 23
Native plants are adapted to grow and survive in all types of Illinois weather, knowing how they grow will help you learn how to start native seeds for your own garden. Winter sowing is a technique used to save money and easily grow your own plants. Learn techniques to grow even some of the trickiest plants with limited space and no specialized equipment. - Insects to Know: Spotted Lanternfly and Periodical Cicadas | Feb. 12
In 2023, the first spotted lanternfly in Illinois was identified in Cook County. In spring 2024, a large brood of periodical cicadas is set to emerge in Northern Illinois, making it a big year for insects. Learn about the biology of these insects and what their arrival means for gardeners and farmers. - Rain Garden Essentials: Design, Build, Plant | March 5
Discover the power of rain gardens, which act as nature's filter by slowing stormwater runoff, reducing soil erosion, and relieving strain on stormwater systems. Gain insights into the principles of rain garden construction and design, ensuring that your garden not only enhances the beauty of your space, but also contributes to the health of the environment.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact Gemini Bhalsod at gbhalsod@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting access needs.
SOURCE: Gemini Bhalsod, Illinois Extension horticulture educator
Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities. Illinois Extension is part of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.