News Releases

Read the latest plant news from Illinois Extension
An opening in a forest
Prevent the spread of invasive species in Illinois
URBANA, Ill. – You may not know what an invasive species is, but you've likely heard about them and the price tags they can carry. The estimated cost of managing the damages caused by invasive species such as the emerald ash borer or Asian carp is $120 billion annually in the U.S. May is...
A close up of a wheat field
Wheat tour highlights yields, disease strategies
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — Wheat variety and seed treatment trials will highlight the 2022 Southern Illinois Wheat Tour sponsored by the Illinois Wheat Association. The May 24 tour will give Illinois wheat growers an opportunity to tour wheat fields and estimate yields for the 2021/22 winter...
A close up of a background
Researchers call on backyard scientists to help save pollinators
URBANA, Ill. – Fluttering quietly and steadily from flower to bloom, butterflies, bees and other pollinators do the hard background work of fertilizing flowering plants, fruits and crops. But these unsung heroes are in danger. Studies have shown an estimated 40% of insect species, including the...
A close up of a hand holding a trowl
Scale up your garden’s health with fish emulsion fertilizer
URBANA, Ill. – Over the years, there has been a growing demand for organic-based fertilizers to use in the garden and landscaping. There are of course ways to manufacture these organic fertilizers, but what if we could use a byproduct of the manufacture of a different product? It is an efficient...
An open field with sunlight
Test field scouting skills with high school Crop Scouting Competition
URBANA, Ill. – A farmer knowing how corn or soybean crops are progressing or being able to identify an insect can mean the difference between a profitable harvest and a bad year. The youth Illinois Crop Scouting Competition puts teams of agriculture students to the test. This hands-on contest in...
Crop scientists explore using predator insects to eat pests in high tunnels
URBANA, Ill. – Crouched between rows of tomatoes and peppers tucked inside a high tunnel, researchers pluck insects off plants in the name of science. Because to catch a pest, you may have to release a predator. The flourishing local foods movement is driving more Illinois farmers to...
Illinois pesticide program honored by national association
ST. LOUIS – A team of Illinois Extension pesticide safety education experts received a national award from The Pesticide Stewardship Alliance during its annual conference held virtually in February. The Program Innovation Award was presented to the ...
Pelleted seeds improve planting ease, germination rates
URBANA, Ill. – Tiny seeds provide challenges for gardeners trying to evenly space lettuce, onion, carrot, and herb seeds. Pelleted seeds are coated with a biodegradable material and easier to hold and plant. The colorful coating also protects the seed, improving germination rates. Pre-...
Keep jumping worms from damaging lawns, gardens, natural areas
URBANA, Ill. – A new threat is invading Illinois. Jumping worms attack gardens, lawns, and natural areas with devastating results. Illinois Extension forestry research specialist Chris Evans says the worms are voracious eaters that decrease soil quality and reduce organic matter....
USDA measuring nutrient loss reduction strategy techniques
Special to Illinois Extension SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will measure the techniques Illinois farmers use to preserve nutrients in their fields in its 2022 Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy Survey. The...
Improve your forest one tree at a time
URBANA, Ill. – Buying and maintaining forested land can be daunting if landowners don’t know how to manage it. Fortunately, a new University of Illinois outreach program is here to help. “We’re giving landowners tools to understand the science behind forest management. So, if they do...
Plant seeds for success with beginner vegetable gardening workshop
URBANA, Ill. – Whether you have a multi-row backyard vegetable plot or a patio with room for a few containers, now is the time to start planning for a successful gardening season. Over the past several years, there has been a surge of gardeners taking up the trowel for the first time to try...
New horticulture expert grows Southern Illinois community outreach
URBANA, Ill. – Whether you’re tending a few well-loved houseplants, responsible for your home or business’ landscape, or growing backyard fruits and vegetables, gardening is challenging. The University of Illinois Extension team of horticulture...
Make a big difference on small farms with winter workshops
URBANA, Ill. – Every small farm is different. Direct market farmers sending produce to local restaurants have different needs than homesteaders getting started with livestock for the first time. But small farmers, hobby operations, and backyard growers alike can always trust University of...