News

Play in the dirt!

Published on May 14, 2015
Know how to check your soil texture when planting trees.
Cedar-apple rust in eastern redcedar trees attracts attention every spring

Published on May 14, 2015
Orange, octopi-looking blobs in trees, known as cedar-apple rust, commonly appear in eastern redcedars after warm, spring rains.
Native plants provide a smart solution for your gardening challenges

Published on May 13, 2015
A wide variety of native plants that will provide seasonal interest, color and wildlife habitat can be used in challenging landscape situations.
Donate excess produce from your garden to food banks and food pantries

Published on May 8, 2015
Many Michigan food banks and food pantries welcome donations of fresh produce from gardeners.
Boxelder bug nymphs make a colorful garden display

Published on May 8, 2015
In the case of boxelder bug nymphs in gardens, red does not mean danger.
Springtime means time to stop pruning oaks

Published on May 1, 2015
Fresh pruning wounds of oak trees attract beetles that spread oak wilt. It is critical to not prune oaks from April 15-July 15 in Michigan.
Don’t always assume lawns not greening up is due to grubs

Published on April 30, 2015
There are several reasons other than grubs that may keep turfgrass from greening up, like deicing salt injury and dog spot.
Beehives and butterflies: New MSU student pollinator projects

Published on April 29, 2015
Michigan State University students bringing attention and education about pollinators with projects around Bailey Hall.
Think twice before using 2,4-D in grape-growing areas

Published on April 28, 2015
Grape vines are very sensitive to 2,4-D, therefore MDARD has restrictions on the use of 2,4-D for several counties in southwest Michigan.
Gardening in shade: Choose from a “smart” plant palette

Published on April 27, 2015
Know the growing requirements of shade-loving plants and the surrounding site before you buy.