Horticulture and gardening : article
Submit photos of plants showing symptoms to get a fast diagnosis. Save time and money by uploading digital samples for expert review and treatment suggestions.
Free plant disease and pest diagnostic services help Amish and Mennonite farmers manage crops in Missouri counties.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri researchers, under the direction of MU Extension weed scientist Kevin Bradley, are finding that pigweed seed is popping up in birdseed in alarming numbers.
“It’s pretty shocking,” graduate student Eric Oseland told those attending the annual Integrated Pest…
Mulch conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and enriches soil. Use 2–4 inches of organic mulch like pine bark or grass clippings for best results.
COLUMBIA, Mo.
Discover how fall mums offer long-lasting, bold blooms in vibrant colors and tips on selecting and caring for them.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Nativars, superhero plants that possess the virtues of native plants but in a more attractive package, make good choices for landscaped areas.
Use nativars as part of your gardening “green movement,” said University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein.
COLUMBIA, Mo.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – There’s a new University of Missouri Extension guide to discuss one of summer’s old pests.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Bursting with color and relatively low-maintenance, petunias are a longtime favorite of gardeners. But that wasn’t always the case.
COLUMBIA, Mo.
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. — If you’re looking for low-maintenance perennials that can take the heat in the summer and the cold in the winter, native plants should be at the top of the list. Yet gardeners often don’t consider natives for the vegetable garden, says a University of Missouri Extension…
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Information in the digital age is like porridge in the tale “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.” How do you know what is too much, too little, just right – or maybe not right at all?
Grow vegetables, fruits, and flowers in limited space with straw bale gardening, even on poor soil.
COLUMBIA, Mo.– Many tropical plants thrive in the heat and humidity of a typical Missouri summer and can make great outdoor patio plants. But as temperatures drop in the fall, conditions can quickly become deadly.
Pansies bring vibrant color to spring gardens and thrive in cool, sunny conditions with proper care.
COLUMBIA, Mo.– Homeowners eager to apply aggressive first aid to storm-damaged trees could be removing trees that might have survived.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – No flower says Christmas like the poinsettia. Now is the time of year when these colorful plants adorn mantels, tables and hallways across the country.
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. – Instead of tending to a garden that will only provide fruits and vegetables during the season, consider growing enough to preserve, suggests a University of Missouri Extension horticulture specialist.
Plant spring-blooming bulbs now to ensure vibrant flowers and healthy roots next season.
COLUMBIA, Mo.
COLUMBIA, Mo. — Now is the time to prepare for some of the earliest arrivals of spring: flowers borne by Dutch bulbs.
These flowers include the likes of narcissus (daffodil), tulip, hyacinth and crocus.
Plant seeds indoors now for a head start on a successful garden. Follow simple steps to grow healthy plants and enjoy a vibrant harvest.
Plant rhubarb in March for crisp, tart stalks. Choose sunny spots with good drainage and space plants 2–3 feet apart.
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COLUMBIA, Mo.
COLUMBIA, Mo.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – The idea that potatoes should be planted on St. Patrick’s Day is probably good advice for some parts of our country, but not for Missouri, said University of Missouri Extension state horticulturist David Trinklein.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – As winter sets in, gardeners thumb through seed catalogs in anticipation of next year’s gardens.But not all seed sources are created equal, says University of Missouri Extension horticulturist Katie Kammler.
MARBLE HILL, Mo.
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Learn how to care for poinsettias after the holidays to encourage reblooming next season with simple, step-by-step tips.
COLUMBIA, Mo.– Just like surgeons and dentists, gardeners sho
COLUMBIA, Mo.– Spring is almost here, but gardeners shouldn’t be too quick to start working the soil, says a University of Missouri Extension horticulturist.
Ornamental Callery/Bradford pear trees easily escape cultivation, form dense thickets, and resist control efforts in natural areas.
Related story: It’s tree pruning time
COLUMBIA, Mo.– Pruning trees when they’re young can prevent structural problems and the need to remove large limbs later, says a University of Missouri Extension state forestry specialist.
Stay safe in your garden during heat — hydrate, wear sun protection, take breaks, and watch for signs of heat stress.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – The best time to prune fruit trees in Missouri is midwinter, according to University of Missouri Extension horticulture specialist Debi Kelly.
COLUMBIA, Mo.– The long, harsh winter coupled with last fall’
COLUMBIA, Mo.– It’s not easy and the results may be less than hoped for, but a University of Missouri Extension horticulturist suggests anyone with a green thumb might try reblooming a poinsettia at least once.
Create a patriotic garden using red, white, and blue flowers with the 60-30-10 design rule for color balance and visual appeal.
Registration is open for the MU Extension Master Gardener online spring 2026 course. The 15-week class runs Jan. 2-April 27. The online core training is designed to provide in-depth horticultural knowledge. The course includes presentations and weekly discussion forums.
Gardening enhances physical and mental well-being by providing exercise, time in nature and healthy food. Follow safety guidelines to maximize these benefits.
COLUMBIA, Mo.– Just like surgeons and dentists, gardeners sho
Learn why saving home garden seeds—especially from hybrid varieties—often leads to disappointing results in future seasons.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – The second annual Mid-Mo Expo for backyard gardeners and small farmers offers presentations and demonstrations to improve productivity and profits.
COLUMBIA, Mo.
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. - On a per-acre basis, home lawns affect streams, rivers and lakes more than most farming operations, said a University of Missouri Extension horticulture specialist. However, homeowners can be more environmentally responsible by managing stormwater runoff and using proper lawn…
Floods displace wildlife, prompting snakes and rodents to seek shelter near homes. Learn prevention and control tips to protect your property.
COLUMBIA, Mo.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Submitting soil samples to your local University of Missouri Extension center is easy, says Manjula Nathan, director of the MU Soil and Plant Testing Laboratory.
COLUMBIA, Mo.– Many garden and home-improvement stores offer a seemingly endless selection of fertilizers.
COLUMBIA, Mo.
Bring festive cheer with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for holiday memories that last a lifetime.
Spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg fill the holidays with comforting aromas and delicious memories, adding flavor to cherished traditions.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Missouri has it all: wine, whiskey and white oak.University of Missouri Extension will toast Missouri’s unique contributions to the wine and whiskey industry during the first White Oak, Whiskey & Wine tour Saturday, Oct. 28.
Spotted lanternfly may arrive in Missouri this summer, threatening grapes and vineyards—early detection and control are vital to protect industry.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Trees, hedges and bushes…. When spring comes, the impulse is to hand out haircuts.
Squash, rich in history and nutrition, was enjoyed at the first Thanksgiving but often plays a lesser role in today's holiday meals.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – The admonition for gardeners to plant their potatoes on St. Patrick’s Day is probably good advice for some parts of our country, but not for Missouri, said University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein.
Start seeds indoors in late winter to get a head start on spring gardening. Choose unique varieties and ensure strong seedlings for transplanting.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Winter is finally releasing its grip, so lawns will be greening up and growing. It will soon be time for one of the most basic homeowner rituals: mowing the lawn.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Gardeners should make a pruning tour of their landscape now to touch up trees and shrubs, especially those planted in the past two years, said a University of Missouri horticulturist.
“There are several advantages to spring pruning,” said Chris Starbuck. “With no leaves…
Brown marmorated stink bugs seek to overwinter indoors; prevent entry with caulking, screens, and vacuuming to reduce nuisance infestation.
Celebrate National Watermelon Month with tips on selecting ripe, juicy melons for your summer gatherings.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Lawn mowing is often one of the first jobs young people have.
It is also one of the most dangerous spring activities, says University of Missouri Extension health and safety specialist Karen Funkenbusch.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Terrariums are back in style for plant lovers, says University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein.
When giving thanks this Thanksgiving, give a special nod to pollinators that make much of your feast possible, says University of Missouri Extension field horticulturist Tamra Reall.
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. – It's the time of year when walnuts will start dropping off their trees."Picking these walnuts up to sell can be a great moneymaker, but don't forget that you can actually eat those nuts," says Tammy Roberts, University of Missouri Extension nutrition and health education…
Tough and low-maintenance, spiderwort brings beauty to gardens with minimal care, thriving in poor soil and partial shade.
Discover how to grow okra: from planting tips to harvesting young, tender pods rich in nutrients.
From county to county, MU Extension specialists such as Justin Keay carry the university’s promise into fields and families, planting knowledge that lasts.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Every year, some well-meaning person will warn of the dangers of the poinsettia. This is an urban legend that simply will not die.Its reputation as a toxic plant is undeserved. It’s been tested for toxicity and passed as safe.
Sunny days and cool nights create the vibrant reds, purples, and golds of autumn leaves in deciduous trees.
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo.–Green beans are a staple in many vegetable gardens. A University of Missouri Extension horticulture specialist suggests making room for other types of beans as well.
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. — Sometimes fruit trees try to produce more fruit than is good for the plant. Poor fruit size and flavor, plant stress, and alternate bearing can result when certain types of fruit trees aren’t properly thinned.
Show Missouri insects some love this Valentine's Day by supporting pollinators and reducing pesticide use.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Missouri’s black walnut trees could be in trouble if thousand cankers disease (TCD) moves in from bordering Tennessee.
TCD is a serious threat to one of the state’s most valuable hardwood species, says Hank Stelzer, University of Missouri Extension state forestry specialist.
As frost approaches, gardeners are tempted to dig up plants and place them in pots for use indoors. The results are often disappointing. Many garden plants do not make good houseplants. But if you are determined to try, MU Extension horticulturist David Trinklein has suggestions.
COLUMBIA, Mo.– Homeowners looking forward to a lush, green lawn this spring and summer should take care not to overdo it, says a University of Missouri Extension turfgrass specialist.
GALENA, Mo. –Hot, dry weather has put lawns to the test this summer. As a result, many homeowners are attempting to keep their lawns active and alive by irrigating.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Hanging mistletoe is a holiday tradition around the world. But have you ever wondered why we steal a kiss because we’re standing under some shrubbery?
COLUMBIA, Mo. - University of Missouri Extension regional horticulture specialist James Quinn said tomatoes are a good choice for gardeners using a high tunnel for the first time. Quinn spoke about high tunnels at a recent workshop at MU’s Bradford Research and Extension Center.
Heavy or prolonged wet soil can drown deep roots and weaken plants, leaving them vulnerable when dry spells follow.
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. – During her 23 years as a University of Missouri Extension agronomy specialist, Pat Miller has answered a lot of questions and looked at a lot of plants. Here are her top 10 horticulture tips.
NEVADA, Mo. —Trees, like people, have a life span. They live, they flourish, they die. University of Missouri Extension agronomy specialist Pat Miller offers her Top 10 practices for prolonging the life of your tree.
1. Don’t plant too deep
Bees remain active as light fades during the eclipse, then abruptly go silent at totality—an unexpected behavioral pause likely mimicking nightfall.
Protect your hearing when using a chainsaw; even short exposure can cause permanent loss.
Master Gardeners continue to care for Truman Gardens, preserving its historical beauty with vibrant blooms that enhance the visitor experience.
Get expert gardening tips in short, engaging videos covering topics like plant care, pest control, and seasonal advice for gardeners at every level
COLUMBIA, Mo.
Transform clean milk jugs into mini-greenhouses to start seeds and jump-start your garden.
Discover how high tunnels let farmers grow and harvest fresh vegetables through winter while boosting income and sustainability.
Learn how trellis systems help home vineyards save space, simplify pruning, and boost grape growth for fresh fruit and wine.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension regional horticulture specialist James Quinn talked about side ventilation in high tunnels at a recent workshop at MU’s Bradford Research and Extension Center.
Veterans and urban farmers collaborate in St. Louis to grow fresh produce, build community, and support mental well-being through agriculture.
Veterans find healing and purpose through beekeeping, gaining skills, camaraderie, and income with the Heroes to Hives program.
LAMAR, Mo. – When COVID-19 paused face-to-face programming, University of Missouri Extension agronomy specialist Jill Scheidt knew producers would still need assistance with the growing season. Living by MU Extension’s mission of taking university research and knowledge to the people, Scheidt began…
Volunteer Master Gardeners share gardening knowledge through workshops and projects, creating more than $5 million in annual economic value.