The following publications cover topics related to Commercial Horticulture. For a complete list of MU Extension publications, visit the main Publications page.
Growing Black Walnut for Nut Production: Orchard Establishment and Early Management
Revised
Eastern black walnut trees (Juglans nigra) produce high-valued hardwood products and distinctively flavored, highly nutritious, edible kernels.
Gardening in the Shade
Revised
Many gardeners view shade as a challenging situation for growing plants. While some plants do not grow well in low light, numerous others thrive under these conditions. The key is to discover which ones are adapted to the conditions in your yard or garden.
Making and Using Compost
Reviewed
Making compost transforms garden waste into a nutrient-rich soil conditioner, enhancing soil structure and fertility while reducing landfill use.
Building and Using Hotbeds and Cold Frames
Revised
A coldframe is a protected plant bed & a hot bed is basically a heated coldframe. Visit our site to learn about Building and Using Hotbeds and Cold Frames.
Pruning Ornamental Shrubs
Revised
Learn effective techniques for pruning ornamental shrubs, including timing, tool selection, and maintenance tips to promote healthy plant growth.
Growing Azaleas and Rhododendrons
Reviewed
Discover essential tips for selecting, planting, and caring for azaleas and rhododendrons in Missouri's challenging climate.
Flowering Perennials: Characteristics and Culture
Revised
Flowering perennials persist from year to year and are suitable in a flower border shared with annual plants or grouped in special plantings. Learn about some major perennials and their important characteristics and cultural preferences in this guide.
Spring Flowering Bulbs: Daffodils
Reviewed
Daffodils are vibrant, low-maintenance spring flowers that thrive in well-drained soil and sunlight, offering lasting garden beauty.
Summer Flowering Bulbs: Gladiolus
Revised
Gladiolus, commonly known as 'glads,' are prized for their vibrant colors and are ideal for cut flower arrangements.
High Tunnel Melon and Watermelon Production
Revised
High tunnels extend the growing season and shield melons and watermelons from pests and weather extremes. This guide offers detailed cultivation practices.
Water Analysis — Special Test Packages
Revised
The testing packages listed on this form target specific nutrients to provide a more complete picture of water quality for a particular use. Use this form to obtain a detailed water analysis from the MU Soil and Plant Testing Lab.
Growing Asparagus in Missouri
Reviewed
Growing asparagus in Missouri requires selecting a well-drained site, choosing suitable varieties, and proper planting techniques.
Drying Flowers and Foliage for Arrangements
Reviewed
Create distinctive indoor decorations by drying flowers and foliage. Air-drying, pressing, using dessicants, microwave oven-drying and freeze-drying methods plus preserving foliage with glycerin are covered in this illustrated MU Extension guide.
Forcing Bulbs for Indoor Bloom
Reviewed
Forcing bulbs indoors brings spring color to your home during winter. Learn how to select, chill, and pot bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths.
Growing Home Garden Tomatoes
Revised
Tomatoes are a popular home garden crop. They require little area, bear repeatedly, are easy to grow and have many culinary uses. Learn about various varieties and get tips for growing tomatoes in this guide.
Growing Herbs at Home
Reviewed
Home Propagation of Houseplants
Reviewed
Plant pieces cut from a parent plant and rooted to form new plants are called “cuttings.” Use of cuttings is a simple, inexpensive way to multiply houseplants and garden plants.
Lawn and Garden Soil Test Interpretations and Fertilizer Recommendation Guide
Reviewed
Eliminate the guesswork of providing nutrients for plant growth and avoid potentially environmentally harmful fertilizer applications by having your home lawn and garden soil tested. Learn the methods used by the MU Soil and Plant Testing in this guide.
Soil Testing in Missouri
Reviewed
Find out how fertile your garden or lawn soil is with a soil test. Results estimate the ability of soil to supply plant nutrients or support plant growth. Learn the process of taking a soil sample and the tools necessary to do so in this guide.
Least-Toxic Control Methods to Manage Indoor Plant Pests
Reviewed
Learn safe and effective ways to manage indoor plant pests using natural, mechanical, and low-toxicity treatments that protect both plants and the environment
Twig Girdler and Twig Pruner
Reviewed
Twig Girdler and Twig Pruner are long-horned beetle species that attack numerous types of valuable trees. Visit our website to learn more.
Caterpillars in Your Yard and Garden
Reviewed
Caterpillars are some of the most easily observed insects in backyards and gardens. Learn to identify them so you will know what type of butterflies or moths they will turn into.