Horticulture

By Jennifer Bass, Extension Master Gardener and Master Naturalist serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria and Tazewell countiesI love my yard with all of the trees, the wilder areas behind my home, and the small prairie plot in the small sunny patch in the front of my house.  But, I am...

By  Ella Maxwell, Extension Master Gardener serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell countiesFall is an excellent time to plant a tree.  But what tree to plant? A flowering ornamental tree, evergreen tree, shade tree, native tree, fruit tree, or the "right" tree for you, your...

Are you interested in learning how to take steps to create a home landscape that is not only beautiful, but also provides ecological benefits for the environment? If so, join us as we start our 2025 book study.We're excited to announce a deep dive into considering conservation minded additions to...

By Susan McCabe, Extension Master Gardener serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria and Tazewell counties  Thank you to Susan McCabe for sharing her method of overwintering hostas in pots. Susan is an Extension Master Gardener. I used to dislike Hosta very much. I thought, "They are just...

By Ellen Denler, Extension Master Gardener serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria and Tazewell counties  Thank you to Ellen Denler for sharing her thoughts on "When is A Garden Not a Garden."  Ellen is an Extension Master Gardener and Conservation@Home member. She has a passion for...

The Morton Public Library has a diverse collection of trees planted on the library property. Extension Master Gardeners have identified twenty-six trees to illustrate that diversity and provide a sampling of species one might find in Illinois...

Adding flowers that bloom later in the season provides resources to pollinators into the fall.  As they prepare for migration or overwintering, this is a critical season to ensure they have the required resources. Native plants are an excellent way to ensure that the blooms have the necessary...

Supporting pollinators has become increasingly important as concerns over pollinator population decline are more evident. The good news is that even small spaces can provide resources for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Container gardens are one solution for growing pollen and nectar...

There are a few simple steps to prevent the spread of invasive species. Avoid moving soil or debris from one area to another. When engaging in fishing, hiking, hunting, or camping activities, ensure that your clothes, footwear, and equipment are free of soil and debris before entering...

Effective communication in invasive species management relies on consistent and accurate terminology. Confusion is a problem when terms are not clearly defined. Agreeing on terminology helps to clearly communicate so that everyone can understand what invasive species are and why there is concern...