February 13, 2015
Caring for Valentine's Day Flowers
Flowers given or received on Valentine’s Day can be enjoyed longer with proper care. See the
Care for Spring-Flowering Bulbs in Winter
While mild winter weather is a pleasant surprise, it can have negative effects on plants that bloom ahead of schedule.
Propagation of Grapevines
Grapevines can be propagated by several methods, but they are most commonly propagated by hardwood cuttings. Hardwood cuttings are made from the dormant canes of the preceding year’s growth.
Growing Aronia in Iowa
Aronia (Photinia melanocarpa, formerly Aronia melanocarpa) is a deciduous woody shrub in the Rosaceae family that is gaining popularity in the home garden. It is native to the eastern United States and is hardy to USDA Hardiness Zone 3. Its popularity stems from increased interest in phytonutrients or plant compounds that have beneficial effects on human health.
Forcing Branches of Trees and Shrubs
Gardeners can brighten up the last few weeks of winter by forcing branches of flowering trees and shrubs indoors. Forsythias, pussywillows, serviceberries, crabapples, magnolias, redbuds, and many fruit trees can be coaxed into early bloom indoors, helping revive the spirits of winter-weary Iowans.
Storage Problems of Cabbage
We often think of diseases and pests on our vegetables during the growing season but problems can also arise after those veggies are harvested.
Regal Fritillary Proposed as Iowa’s State Butterfly
Did you know that Iowa is one of only four states that do not have an official state insect or butterfly?
Annual Day of Insects at Reiman Gardens, March 28, 2015
The seventh annual Reiman Gardens “Day of Insects” will be held on Saturday, March 28th at Iowa State University’s Reiman Gardens, 1407 University Blvd, Ames IA 50011.