March 11, 2016
Monarch Butterflies in the News
Most of the news about monarch butterflies for the past 20 years has been bad news, led by the documented declines in monarch butterfly populations. The recent news about monarch butterflies has been mixed.
Apply Now to Become an Iowa Master Gardener
You can become an Iowa Master Gardener by completing the core training course this fall through an Iowa State University Extension and Outreach County office. Gardeners will learn best practices for choosing plants, designing gardens and managing pests. Classes start at all locations in September 2016. See your local county extension office or the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Yard & Garden news release from March 1, 2016 for more information.
Pruning Grapevines
Standing in front of a mass of tangled grapevines and wondering what to do can be a scary experience for the novice or even the more experienced gardener. Pruning grapes becomes easier after understanding the growth and fruiting characteristics of the grapevine. See the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Yard & Garden news release from March 10, 2016 for more information on grapevine maintenance.
Emerald Ash Borer Confirmed in Winneshiek County, Iowa
The emerald ash borer (EAB), which has already been confirmed in nearly one-third of Iowa’s counties, has been discovered in Decorah. Winneshiek County is the 31st county in Iowa where an EAB infestation has been confirmed. Last month EAB was found on the University of Iowa campus in Johnson County.
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.