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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Freezes And Frosts
A frost occurs when the surface temperature around a plant is 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below. The air temperature is above 32 degrees F. ... [... more]
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Plant Biology -- Male And Female Organs
The pistil is the term for the collective female parts -- the stigma, style and ovary. The stigma is the sticky receptacle or "landing pad" for the pollen. The style supports the stigma and is tube-like, leading to ... [... more]
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Sweet Gum Balls -- Removing
Some research has shown that NAA (Naphthalene Acetic Acid) will cause some abortion. However, the compound is costly and hard to apply, and as stated, not registered for use in Illinois. ... [... more]
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Frost Protection
Covers. Old sheets, blankets and light rugs may limit cold injury to annual flowers and vegetables. Avoid plastic. Plastic will transfer the cold to the plant and provides little insulating capabilities. Leaving air ... [... more]
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Bark
Bark naturally sheds from trees, though some trees shed faster than others. Sycamore, birch, and beech trees have thin bark, though this doesn't necessarily make them more susceptible to injury. ... [... more]
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Arbor Day
Arbor Day is in honor of J. Sterling Morton, member of the Board of Agriculture in Nebraska, who founded the first Arbor Day program in 1872. Illinois' first Arbor Day was celebrated in 1887. ... [... more]
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Cambium
Cambium is the layer of actively dividing cells beneath the bark. Cambium cells that divide toward the trunk or center of the plant and form xylem tissues. Those that divide toward the outside produce phloem cells. ... [... more]
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Anti-Desiccants
Most anti-desiccants contain a waxy formulation which prevents water loss from leaves. Winter thaws may breakdown the compounds, necessitating re-application. ... [... more]
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Nursery Potting Mixture
Compost 30 days and turn; compost another 30 days and turn; compost 30 more days (90 days total) and use. Maintain a 70 percent moisture rate throughout composting. ... [... more]
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Sweating Plants
Plant roots should be covered with wet/moist sphagnum peat moss and then plants covered with plastic. Make sure the plastic doesn't prevent air circulation through the plant material. Keep material out of direct ... [... more]
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