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Blog Posts

A fungal leaf disease on maple leaves in the form of dark spots caused by the pathogen Rhytisma acerinum, tar spot
Read article: Sick plants? Rotate fungicides to prevent resistance
Sick plants? Rotate fungicides to prevent resistance
We have hit the other side of the precipitation pendulum. In 2023 and 2024, we experienced drought conditions. Now in 2025, the sump pump sales have...
field of german chamomile
Read article: “Plant of the Year” Picks for Your Garden
“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...
Read article: How plants respond to rising carbon dioxide concentrations
How plants respond to rising carbon dioxide concentrations
Plants are essential to life on earth. As primary producers, they take energy from the sun and make it available for animals, like humans. So, it...
A woman in a vest, long sleeved flannel shirt and gloves prunes a tree branch with hand clippers
Read article: Late winter tree care sets the foundation for trees to thrive
Late winter tree care sets the foundation for trees to thrive
Late winter and early spring are critical transition periods for trees, making the shift from dormancy to active growth. Proper care during these...

News Releases

Green leaves of a bur oak tree on a new spring branch.
Root awakening: spring tree tips
URBANA, Ill. — As winter fades and the first signs of spring emerge, it's time to give trees the care they need to thrive. Trees, like all living things, require attention and maintenance, especially as they transition from dormancy to the growing season. Help trees recover from winter damage,...
old style telephone on tan backdrop
Helpline answers Home Gardening Questions
Have a gardening question?  The Master Gardener Helpline at the University of Illinois Extension is open for the season. Designed to help the home gardener with their questions, the helpline is staffed with Master Gardener volunteers who will provide a research-based...
Native Plants for Use in Your Home Garden
by Master Gardener Jan Phipps Along with all the interest in native plants, there is also a desire to get to know and start growing prairie plants. You do not need an acre of land dedicated to prairie. It is possible to incorporate some of the prairie plants into your home garden....

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