Yard and Garden Information

Common Problems of Ash Trees
(Posted on 3/1/2011)
Ash trees are no longer recommended for planting in the Midwest because of the threat of the emerald ash borer, a highly-destructive wood-boring insect pest. However, ash trees remain important as up to 6 percent of woodland trees and up to 70 percent of urban trees are ash species. Other ash problems are often mistaken for emerald ash borer infestation, so ash trees may be needlessly removed or treated with pesticides as a result. This diagnostic guide is intended to help you distinguish emerald ash borer injury from other common problems of ash.

News from Iowa State University Extension

Yard and Garden: Tomatoes
(Posted on 2/2/2012)
Home gardeners can chose from a variety of sizes, shapes and colors when growing tomato plants. ISU Extension horticulturists share information about tomato varieties that growers can use in selecting tomatoes.

New Plant Hardiness Zone Map Has Iowa in Zone 5
(Posted on 1/27/2012)
The U.S. Department of Agriculture released the new version of the plant hardiness zone map this week — the first update since 1990. Much of Iowa now is considered Zone 5.

Yard and Garden: Vegetable Seeds
(Posted on 1/26/2012)
Selecting seeds is one of the first steps in planting a home garden – along with preparing the seedbed and deciding when to plant. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach horticulturists share information that will guide gardeners as they select vegetable seeds.

Yard and Garden: Cherry Trees
(Posted on 1/19/2012)
Cherry trees can be grown in Iowa, though some are not reliably hardy in all parts of Iowa. The trees produce beautiful white flowers in early spring and are a popular choice for edible landscapes. ISU Extension and Outreach horticulturists tell how to select and plant cherry trees in Iowa.

Yard and Garden: Gooseberries, Currants and Jostaberries
(Posted on 1/13/2012)
Home gardeners who like a tart tasting berry or just want to grow a not-so-ordinary berry might consider planting gooseberries, currants or jostaberries. ISU Extension horticulturists tell how to select and plant these berries.

Conference to Cover Production and Marketing of Fruits and Vegetables
(Posted on 1/11/2012)
The Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Growers Annual Conference will be held Jan. 27-28 at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny.

Yard and Garden: Grow Plants from Fruit
(Posted on 1/5/2012)
Mothers often remind children not to play with their food, but kids and houseplant enthusiasts may find it interesting and fun to start plants from the seeds and leaves of fruit.

Research Looks at Strategies to Grow Late Season Vegetables
(Posted on 1/5/2012)
Research is evaluating a couple of strategies that may extend the growing season for vegetable growers.

Yard and Garden: Houseplant Care
(Posted on 12/14/2011)
Growing houseplants is a challenging and rewarding hobby that can be enjoyed by everyone and need not be difficult. Give plants what they need and they’ll do well.

Yard and Garden: Houseplant Pests
(Posted on 12/7/2011)
Just as there are different types of indoor plants – foliage, flowering, succulents and florist’s plants – there are different pests that can invade houseplants. ISU Extension horticulturists explain how to recognize and manage pests on houseplants.

Staff

Kate Olson - Program Coordinator
Phone: 712-243-1132
Fax: 712-243-1133
Email: keolson@iastate.edu