Blog Archive

Good Growing 2026

two hands gathered holding a bunch of white strawberries also known as pineberries

The curious case of the pineberry

Good Growing
Pineberries are a unique, niche berry that, until recently, were only available at farmers’ markets or regionally. Commercial production has increased in recent years, thereby increasing the availability of pineberries in grocery stores. The exotic yet familiar appearance is sure to turn heads and...
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A row of topped trees

Tree topping is never a good option

Good Growing
As spring approaches, many of us will reach for the pruners or contact a tree care company to have our shade trees pruned. Pruning can improve tree health, safety, and longevity by removing dead, diseased, or weak branches, preventing storm damage, and promoting a strong structure. Unfortunately,...
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Mixed bouquet of pink and white flowers wrapped in paper on a wooden table surrounded by other flowers ready for a bouquet

Bright blooms: How to care for flower bouquets

Good Growing
A fresh bouquet instantly brightens a room and a mood, but keeping those flowers vibrant takes a little know-how. With the right care, the vase life of a bouquet can be extended by days or weeks. Here is an easy guide to help your flowers stay beautiful for as long as possible.High-Quality From the...
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Frost crack on apple tree branch

Exploding trees? A closer look at frost cracking

Good Growing
Exploding trees made quite a few headlines this past week when winter temperatures dropped across much of the country. While the claim of trees exploding certainly grabs attention, it is a little exaggerated. So, what was behind the frenzy? Is there some truth to the concern?The reality behind...
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ZZ plant in white pot in front of a picture window winter scene outdoors

Houseplant spotlight: the ZZ plant

Good Growing
During these dormant months, my houseplants are receiving more of my attention than they usually get (which is usually very little). While watering and rotating my collection, I noticed new growth on my ZZ plant, and I couldn’t help but celebrate this small victory with all of you.This plant was...
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a digging spade in the ground next to a cluster of freshly harvested sweet potatoes

How sweet it is growing sweet potatoes

Good Growing
Grow what you eatI often suggest that the best things to grow in your garden are fruits and vegetables we enjoy eating. Sometimes, though, our gardens may exceed our appetites. After growing fifteen kale plants, my family determined that we could probably live off two. And ten cherry tomato bushes...
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Two syrphid flies visiting a rose flower

Syrphid flies: One of a gardener's best friends

Good Growing
Have you noticed small bee-like insects hovering around flowers, picnic tables, or even landing on your skin this summer? If so, chances are you've encountered syrphid flies. These harmless insects are often mistaken for bees or wasps. While their habit of buzzing around people can be annoying,...
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Two male deer with antlers standing in a landscaping bed of plants

Keeping deer out of the yard and garden

Good Growing
If you are like me, you may enjoy watching deer browse in the forest. They are fascinating to observe and among the largest wild animals in Illinois. My interest in watching deer waned one morning last week when, upon opening the drapes to the backyard, I found myself nose-to-nose with a doe...
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Golden maple leaves backlit by autumn sun, close-up of fall foliage on tree branches

What is the best maple tree?

Good Growing
“Which maple should I plant?” is a question I routinely encounter. My response: “None!” Maples (Acer spp.) aren’t bad trees. In fact, they are great trees. Drive down most streets, and you will see a maple in everyone’s yard. When speaking with landscapers about their inventory and...
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a garden bed of leafy greens

Beat the winter blues by growing some leafy greens

Good Growing
I think a winter diet of heavy, carb-laden foods is starting to weigh me down, literally and emotionally. I’m craving fresh produce, but forget the tomatoes and cucumbers; all I want is something green. Despite the looming threat of winter weather, spring is on the horizon, and I don’t know if I...
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