In Indiana most broods of the periodical cicada appear once every 17 years. However, two broods come out every 13 years. Periodical cicadas are usually referred to as “17-year or 13-year locusts.” They are about 1-1/2 to 2 inches long and have black bodies, reddish legs, wing margins, and eyes. LIFE HISTORY Cicadas have an […]
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The Autumn Olive is an invasive species in Indiana. This shrub can grow 20 feet in height. Leaves are alternate, lance-shaped, and have silvery dots underneath (a distinguishing identifying characteristic). The Autumn olive resembles the Russian olive, which is also an invasive species. This shrub produces small, yellow flowers with a pungent odor and
Invasive! Autumn Olive Read More »
The Indiana Native Plant Society was formed in 1993 and has over 1000 member families. Their mission is to promote the appreciation, preservation, scientific study, and use of plants native to Indiana, and to teach people about their beauty, diversity, and importance to our environment. The Native Plant Society has a great plant finder tool with
Indiana Native Plant Society Read More »
Asian Bush Honeysuckle was once actively imported by the USDA as a plant for ornamental aesthetics, wildlife cover, and erosion control. However, it quickly became an enemy to native environments. Bush honeysuckles can release chemicals into the ground that are poisonous to native plants. Additionally, the dense foliage of these plants block sunlight from reaching
Invasive! Asian Bush Honeysuckle Read More »
Tillage contributes negatively to soil health over time. Tillage breaks the soil into smaller pieces, making it more susceptible to compaction and erosion. By reducing the intensity or frequency of tillage, we can foster soil environments that are more diverse and resilient. There are good alternatives to tillage to prepare, plant and tend your
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Hire a Professional Lawn Care Service or Do It Yourself? An important first step is to understand what areas the company will take care of and what areas of lawn care are still the responsibility of the homeowner. If either side doesn’t hold up their end of the bargain, the lawn may suffer. There are
Choosing A Lawn Care Company Read More »
Does a doctor write a prescription based on guesses? Of course not. Medication is prescribed only after appropriate consultations, examinations, testing, and diagnosis has taken place. Do farmers and homeowners fertilize based on guesses? Sometimes, the answer is yes, sadly. And, although the comparison may not be perfect, the concept I’m trying to convey is
All About Soil Testing Read More »
Ornamental grasses can be cut back any time from fall to spring, but I like to leave them in place over the winter. They bring motion and texture to the garden when they’re desperately needed! By late winter, heavy snows and ice start to break the grasses though, and that can create quite a mess
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Anyone can develop a green thumb, as long as they’re willing to invest a little time, patience and elbow grease. Good planning is essential to successful gardening. Start your garden off right by selecting a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, if possible. Good drainage of excess water is critical.
First Time Gardeners: Start Small Read More »
What is winter seed sewing? Learn all about sewing seeds in the winter, using plastic milk or water bottles. Select the article below: Winter Seed Sewing Article
Winter Seed Sewing Read More »
Founded in 1998, the purpose of the LaPorte County Extension Master Gardeners Association, a non-profit organization, is to promote the art, science, education and pleasure of gardening in the Community, in cooperation with Purdue Extension, LaPorte County, Indiana.
PURDUE UNIVERSITY EXTENSION
LA PORTE COUNTY OFFICE
2857 W. State Road 2, Suite A
La Porte, IN 46350
219-324-9407
Kathy Ulman – Secretary
Purdue University Is An Equal Opportunity/Equal Access/Affirmative Action Institution
Founded in 1998, the purpose of the LaPorte County Master Gardener Association, a non-profit organization, is to promote the art, science, education and pleasure of gardening in the Community, in cooperation with Purdue Extension, LaPorte County, Indiana.
REFERENCE LINKS
PURDUE UNIVERSITY EXTENSION
LA PORTE COUNTY OFFICE
2857 W. State Road 2, Suite A
La Porte, IN 46350
219-324-9407
Tina DeWitt – Secretary
Purdue University Is An Equal Opportunity/Equal Access/Affirmative Action Institution