Current Issue: March 12, 2024

Selection and Care of the Easter Lily


A popular symbol of Easter is the trumpet-shaped, white, fragrant flowers of the Easter lily (Lilium longiflorum). Plants are available from flower shops, greenhouses, and other retail outlets. Learn more on how to select and care for these plants.

How to Transplant Small Trees


Occasionally the need arises to move trees within the home landscape. Follow these tips to move small, young trees successfully.

Creating Raised Bed Planters


Raised beds have become popular features in the home landscape. They are both functional and attractive and can be used to grow flowers, vegetables, and small fruits. Learn how to build your own raised beds for use in vegetable gardens and other areas in the landscape.

AAS Winners Would Make Great 2024 Garden Plants


March is here, and we are all sowing seeds with ultimate optimism! Do you have your garden planned out? Is every little corner and crevice full? If you have room for just one more plant this year, consider one of these AAS Winners!

What Do Warm Winter Temperatures Do to Insect Populations?

Brown marmorated stink bug with an egg mass.

A common question we have been receiving in the Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic (PIDC) is if the warmer winter temperatures we have been experiencing in Iowa will result in increased insect and arthropod abundance this summer. Will there be more ticks? What about other insects like mosquitoes and boxelder bugs? Well, the short answer is it depends and remains to be seen for many. In addition, more than just temperature will have an impact on insect populations. Things like precipitation can also be a huge factor.