Over the Garden Fence 2026

Peppers are a staple for many summer gardens, yet high heat combined with humidity can challenge plant performance. While peppers are often considered heat‑loving crops, extreme or prolonged high temperatures can cause more problems than productivity. Recent growing experiences highlight how...

Spring has officially sprung in Northern Illinois, and with it comes the excitement and opportunity of a new gardening season. Before seeds and transplants make their way into the ground, taking time to properly prepare your garden bed can set the stage for healthier plants, higher yields, and...

Have you seen microgreens on the menu of a fancy restaurant and wondered what they were?  Or maybe you saw them over the summer at a farmers’ market but passed them up because of the hefty price tag.  It turns out, with the right setup, you can have this fresh, nutritious add-on all year...

Much has been in the news lately about “exploding trees”, caused by the extreme cold temperatures.  But is this something to be worried about?  Can trees explode?The short answer is, yes, but it’s very rare.  More likely is a loud popping noise caused when trees crack due to the...