Master Gardener Column by Jan Phipps
Gardeners accumulate a lot of “stuff” to help grow vegetables and flowers. Some things are a necessity like pruners, weeders, trowels, shovels, watering devices, and trugs or baskets, etc. Others are helpful, making tasks easier or more comfortable like kneeling pads, tomato cages, and...

Learn tips for a healthy pregnancy, toddler nutrition
URBANA, Ill. — The 1,000 days between a person's pregnancy and their child's second birthday offer a unique opportunity to build a healthier and more prosperous future, so knowing how to care for mother and baby during this period is vital. The University of Illinois Extension...

Have a smashing good time composting Halloween pumpkins
CHICAGO, Ill. — Jack-o’-lanterns live a short, scary life. That is unless they are catapulted, hurled, or whacked into a compost pile after spooky season is over. Green your Halloween by recycling pumpkins after the holiday at one of more than a dozen University of Illinois...

Get tips to hear better, free hearing checks in 3 east-central Illinois workshops 
URBANA, Ill. — Hearing loss impacts our ability to communicate with others and can contribute to a decline in overall well-being and feelings of isolation. Over 37.5 million American adults aged 18 and over report some form of hearing challenge, according to the...

Master Gardener program offers online training options
URBANA, Ill. — For 48 years, University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners have measured success by gardens planted, insects identified, produce harvested, and the millions of hours volunteers have logged by helping others learn to...