November 13, 2017
2018 Garden Calendar - Celebrating with Plants
The 2018 Garden Calendar highlights plants that are an important component of our holidays and special celebrations. Each month features a striking holiday-inspired horticulture image and the story behind the tradition. The large calendar grid offers space to create a gardening journal. Monthly tips provide timely cultural information for fruits and vegetables, lawn care recommendations, tree and shrub guidance, and other information. Calendars are available from the ISU Extension of Outreach Store.
Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic Update – November 13, 2017
The following are highlights and updates about samples and questions recently received in the Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic. Visit the PIDC's Facebook page for updates and more pictures. For more information on a particular disease or insect problem listed, follow the article cited.
The following are plant diseases and insect damage highlights of last month's sample submissions from fruit, vegetables, and ornamentals.
Protecting Trees and Shrubs in Winter
Winter is a challenging time for trees and shrubs. Rabbits, wet snow, drying winds, and deicing salts can damage trees and shrubs in the home landscape. Fortunately, steps can be taken to minimize damage to trees and shrubs in winter.
Plant Pathology Sessions During Master Gardener Training Fall 2017
In October we launched our improved hands-on activities for the master gardener training on campus. This year 341 trainees came to campus to bring the concepts learned in our webcast to practice.
In the plant pathology section, participants rotated through 12 stations that had plant parts with symptoms and (with or without) signs. The main goal of the session was to sharpen the participant's observation skills and look at plant problems with an analytical mind.
Emerald Ash Borer Confirmed in Decatur County
The emerald ash borer (EAB) has been confirmed in Decatur County, Iowa following discovery of EAB-symptoms in ash trees in a rural area north of Grand River. There are now 53 counties in Iowa confirmed with the presence of EAB. See the map below and read more about the most recent discoveries in the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach news release from November 9, 2017. The current confirmed distribution of EAB in the state is indicated in the map below and onl
Harvesting and Storing Root Crops
Almost all of the garden produce was harvested over a month ago but In spite of frost and below-freezing overnight temperatures there are some crops that should still be in the garden. Root crops such as parsnips, salsify, and rutabagas should remain in the ground because cold temperatures help the crops develop their characteristic flavors. Learn more about the right time to harvest and how to store root crops for best results in the November 8, 2017 Yard and Garden
Forcing Amaryllis Bulbs Indoors for Holiday Display
The amaryllis is a favorite, colorful seasonal holiday plant. See the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Yard & Garden news release from November 2, 2017 for information on the best way to force amaryllis indoors.
For information on other holiday plants, see an earlier Yard and Garden news release on holly, mistletoe and poinsettia.