Yard and Garden News

Emerald ash borer has been confirmed for the first time in Cass County. This most recent discovery involved a private property site in rural Massena. Since the first Iowa detection in 2010, the invasive, tree-killing pest has spread to 66 Iowa counties.

Caladium heart-shaped leaves of green, white, red and pink can be grown in containers or clumped together within beds and borders to add color and brighten the dark, moist areas of gardens.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Master Gardeners are forces for positive change in their communities. Master Gardeners are helping to grow healthier, happier and more equitable communities by volunteering.

With just the right amount of love and care, flowers received on Valentine’s Day will continue to express the feelings of the sender. Use these tips from horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach to extend the enjoyment of cut flowers and flowering plants.

Gardeners may be wondering just how, and if, trees, shrubs and perennials survive below-zero temperatures. Horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach explain the cold hardiness of these plants.

African violets will bloom almost continuously indoors, under the proper growing conditions.

Horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach explain how to grow the moth orchid, a variety considered to be one of the easiest orchids to grow indoors.

Flowers are one of the best antidotes to the icy winds of winter. This winter consider growing a clivia plant.

Those attending webinars will learn about managing vegetable pests, engaging with new audiences and gardening in containers.

The history and bits of trivia about mistletoe, Thanksgiving and Christmas cacti, and poinsettias are certain to be safe conversation topics for family gatherings. Learn fun facts about these holiday plants.

Correctly watering poinsettias will deter several common problems associated with this popular holiday flower. Iowa State horticulturists share how.

Iowa State University has received a grant to continue hosting the North Central Region Center for FSMA Training, Extension and Technical assistance to help fruit and vegetable growers and processors comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) across the 12-state region.

Oak trees, generally pruned for safety reasons and the health of the tree, should be pruned during winter months. Learn why and how from horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

Amaryllis and holiday cacti provide lovely indoor blooms during winter months with proper care and planning. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach horticulturists offer tips for maintaining plants so they can be enjoyed for many years.

Vegetable gardens may close down for the winter in Iowa, but gardeners can still enjoy the vegetables they have grown. Many vegetables keep for months in cold storage when provided the right conditions.

Fall training for 300 ISU Extension and Outreach Master Gardener trainees culminated with a full-day class on the Iowa State University campus, Ames.

Paperwhite narcissus is a type of narcissus flowering bulb that makes for great home decoration during the holidays. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach horticulturists share information on paperwhite narcissus to help brighten homes this winter.