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Flowers Blogs

purple and yellow iris

Spring and summer care of irises

ILRiverHort
By Margaret Kelly, Extension Master Gardener serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria and Tazewell counties  Springtime is the best time to focus on iris care, allowing us to enjoy a breathtaking flower display throughout the iris season.FertilizerWhen getting ready for fertilizing, here is a...
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purple asters in the garden

Add fall bloomers to the garden

ILRiverHort
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...
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Eliana' Garden memorial rock in her garden

Gardening can help you heal while grieving

ILRiverHort
In August of 2020, I received a call with the news that is every mother’s nightmare. There had been an accident and my six-year-old daughter did not survive. That week, her lovely kindergarten teacher brought us five plants to start a butterfly garden. Although I already loved gardening, at that...
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a close up photo of several plants in the garden with varying textures

Engage your senses with a vibrant sensory garden

ILRiverHort
A sensory garden is not only a feast for the eyes but also for your nose, touch, taste buds, and ears. They are perfect for schools, healthcare facilities, or your backyard oasis. Here's how you can create a sensory garden: Pick the Perfect Spot Find a location that gets plenty of sunshine every...
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