Fruits

Have you enjoyed a sweet, juicy strawberry this spring? If so, it was likely grown in a warmer climate and shipped to your local grocery store. While store-bought strawberries are convenient, growing them in a home garden is both rewarding and surprisingly simple.   Strawberries...

The Refuge Food Forest is quiet. The hum of summer insects among the fruit trees has disappeared, the leaves have all fallen, and their dormant branches stand bare against a cold blue sky. Now is the time for careful pruning with sharp shears...

Enhance Your Garden with Edible Landscaping Shrubs  The integration of edible landscaping shrubs into Bloomington-Normal area gardens, sidewalk strips, fence lines, and elsewhere can add beauty, ecological function, and food security to our area. Four standout shrubs should...

When it comes to fruits that evoke feelings of summer, strawberries are undoubtedly at the top of the list. These delicious red berries have been a staple in many gardens and kitchens for centuries, and their popularity continues. Although we find it easy to love eating strawberries, growing them...

Gardening enthusiasts on the lookout for unique garden additions should make space for red and white currant shrubs. Incorporation of perennial fruits in the garden is trendy and smart – they provide both ornamental value and food. With the addition of white currant (Ribes sativum) and red currant...

From tried-and-true favorites to exciting new possibilities, the season of pie has begun. There are few things tastier than a freshly baked pie. As the seasons advance, each month brings new “pies-sobilities.” Savor a tasty slice of pie this season and consider growing next year’s pie filling at...

With the end of winter near, it’s time to start planning for the garden season. At the outbreak of COVID-19 last year, many people attempted to grow some of their own food, re-popularizing the concept of WWII “victory gardens.” Increase ...

Believe it or not, it's never too early to start making plans for this year's garden. Knowing when to plant for your area and getting your plants started right will help you maximize the growing season. Explore more about When to Plant...