Tubers
Tubers are short, fat underground stem tissue with growing points, buds or "eyes" as in a potato. Tubers can be flat, rounded or irregular in shape. ... [... more]
University of Illinois Solutions |
Sunflowers -- Harvesting
Sunflower seeds are ripe when they all fall off the head, or the birds start eating them. To prevent loss, cover the heads with a paper sack once the yellow petals start turning brown. Secure the sack with a rubber ... [... more]
University of Illinois Solutions |
Frost Free Dates
The average date of the last frost in Central Illinois is April 15. This doesn't mean it is a frost-free date. There is a 50 percent or less chance of frost on this date. The odds of a frost drop an additional 10 ... [... more]
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Plants For Birds
For more information: contact your District Forester for a copy of the Illinois Department of Conservation Bulletin: "Landscaping for Wildlife." ... [... more]
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Shade Plants -- Annuals
Shade Plants -- Annuals [... more]
University of Illinois Solutions |
Flowering Shrubs -- As Cut Flowers
To enjoy flowering shrubs as cut specimens, prune in the early morning, remove all foliage beneath the water line. Lightly pound stems with a hammer or mallet to aid in water absorption. Place in a tall container and ... [... more]
University of Illinois Solutions |
Respiration
Respiration usually occurs during the night when light is not present, though respiration can occur during the day in some plants, particularly some grasses. Respiration increases as temperatures increase. ... [... more]
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Azalea/Rhododendron -- Planting
Work the soil bed thoroughly. Add peat moss and compost to increase the soil's tilth and drainage. The peat moss will also make the soil more acidic, necessary for good growth. A pH around 5.5 is generally preferred. ... [... more]
University of Illinois Solutions |
Hydrangea -- Changing The Color
Hortensia hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) will turn blue if the soil is on the acid side. Fertilize yearly with an acid fertilizer according to direction; modify the soil when planting with two (2) pounds of sulfur ... [... more]
University of Illinois Solutions |
Poisonous Plants
The following is a listing of plants normally thought to be poisonous. THE LIST IS NOT COMPLETE. People should not eat plants not grown as food crops -- vegetables, fruits, cereal grains. Children should be taught ... [... more]
University of Illinois Solutions |
Glycerinizing Flowers
To glycerinize plants for long term preservation, combine 1 part glycerin (available at drug stores) with two parts warm water. Immerse stems stripped of foliage. Place plants in a cool, dark location. Add further ... [... more]
University of Illinois Solutions |
Cyclamen
Cyclamen prefer cool temperatures and bright indirect light. Ideal daytime temperatures are 60-65 degrees F. with night temperatures around 50 degrees. An east window provides adequate light. High humidity during the ... [... more]
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