The Extension Connection

person planting spring bulbs during fall season

Late Summer Gardening To-Dos

August 29, 2025

Late summer gardening may not have the glamour of spring planting, but it’s a powerful time to set your landscape up for success. A little effort now means healthier plants, fewer weeds, and a more vibrant garden come spring. Here are some key tasks to tackle in your landscape before fall fully sets in: Lawn Maintenance While lawns get plenty of attention in summer, fall is...

Blog articles

Stalled Green Tomatoes: Why won’t they turn red?

August 29, 2025

Good Growing

If you have grown tomatoes, it is likely that at some point in your gardening journey, you have encountered a stubborn tomato plant that refuses to ripen. In the past, there have been a few of my tomatoes that have sat green for a few weeks, but eventually they turned red. However, in the summer of...

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Sad preschooler sitting next to a window on a rainy day

When children mourn

August 25, 2025

Family Files

Grief is a difficult experience for people of all ages, but navigating grief and loss can be especially challenging and confusing for young children. August 30 is National Grief Awareness Day, and I wanted to share this tip sheet from the Illinois Early...

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It ain't easy being cheesy

August 8, 2025

Simply Nutritious, Quick and Delicious

Who doesn't love cheese? Grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, baked lasagna with ooey gooey cheese melted all over it are common cheesy dishes. But with over 2,000 varieties to choose from, it's time to put a little more thought into your cheese choices.Cheese is formed from milk. Milk...

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Events

Pickle Magic - jars of pickles and herbs

September 12, 2025

Pickle Magic at Weldon Library
There's nothing quite like the taste of a home-preserved pickle, but many are unfamiliar with how simple the preserving process is. Making pickles doesn't have to be overwhelming! Learn how to prepare flavorful pickles at this make-and-take workshop presented by Nutrition and Wellness staff.Please...

Growing Bulbs test pictured over various flower bulbs

September 16, 2025

Growing Bulbs
Join Master Gardener volunteers and learn all about growing bulbs. Discover how to select, plant, and care for your bulbs and create stunning displays of color in your garden.Register by September 15.

Heart Smart Eating showing various food groups with stethescope

September 18, 2025

Heart Smart Eating
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for U.S. adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Changes to lifestyle, including food choices, can improve symptoms like high blood cholesterol and high blood pressure. In "Heart Smart Eating," learn about 4 categories of...

October 1, 2025

Preserve at Home
Preserving at home can be easier than you think!  Learn skills and resources to safely waterbath and pressure can through freezing, drying, and fermentation.  Turn your garden and farmer's market produce into jams, pickles, fruit leather, and more to enjoy during the winter months. ...