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cicada killer wasp with a paralyzed cicada

Cicada killers: Summer's misunderstood giants

Good Growing
Nothing says summer like the chorus of cicadas. Those annual cicadas also signal the arrival of cicada killer wasps, one of Illinois' largest and most misunderstood wasps. Despite their large, intimidating appearance, they are generally harmless.What do cicada killer wasps look like?...
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a patch of blooming creeping Charlie plants

Managing creeping Charlie in home landscapes

Good Growing
As we go through our landscapes in spring and begin the inevitable task of weeding, there is one plant we commonly encounter. It creeps through shaded lawns, slips beneath shrubs, and roots wherever it touches the soil. With its small purple flowers, creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea)...
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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 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 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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five groups of herbs hanging from a string of twine to dry

Preserving garden-grown herbs

Good Growing
Herbs are among the easiest plants to grow, whether in a backyard garden, a small container on the patio, or indoors on a sunny windowsill. Their versatility and resilience make them a favorite for home gardeners, and many varieties thrive with regular harvesting—often producing more the more they...
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A person holding a dahlia clump that has just been dug from the ground.

Tips for overwintering tender bulbs

Good Growing
Plants like caladiums, cannas, dahlias, elephant ears, and gladiolus bring vibrant color and tropical flair to summer gardens. Unfortunately, they’re no match for our Midwestern winters. These plants, commonly referred to as tender or summer-blooming bulbs, will be killed by...
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