January 8, 2021
A is for Aroids!
The beginning of a new year is a perfect time to start thinking about gardening indoors. It is also a great time to learn and think more about gardening vocabulary. As with any vocabulary, you start with the letter A. Many horticulture terms start with the letter “A.” Today, A stands for aroids!
The Iowa Butterfly Survey Network
The Iowa Butterfly Survey Network (IBSN) was established at Reiman Gardens in 2006 to educate Iowans about butterflies while at the same time encouraging people to take an active role in conservation. IBSN conducts research using volunteer citizen scientists of all skill levels to collect data for yearly population surveys of butterfly species in Iowa.
Distinguishing Insect Relatives
One of the necessary skills in integrated pest management is the ability to make accurate pest identifications. For insect pests, that starts with the talent to distinguish insects from their close relatives.
"All insects are arthropods, but not all arthropods are insects."
Upcoming Horticulture Meetings and Workshops
Listed below are opportunities for gardeners and producers to learn new tools, tips, and techniques. Also, see the EVENTS list on the ISU Master Gardener website.
Iowa Turfgrass Conference (virtual)
January 19 - 21, 2021 https://www.iowaturfgrass.org/conference Iowa Turfgrass Office (515) 635-0306Iowa Specialty Producers Conference (virtual)
Growing Orchids at Home
See the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach January 5, 2021 Yard and Garden news release for information on the care for orchids at home.
Pollinator Webinar, January 13, 2021
The Iowa Learning Farms and Trees Forever will hold a webinar on Wednesday, Jan. 13 at noon, that will provide information on pollinators, the threats they face, opportunities for establishing high quality habitat for pollinators, and how to get projects started.