April 22, 2025

Current Issue: April 22, 2025

Featured Content

Featured Publication: Early Spring Blooming Perennials

FAQ of the Week: Can I plant my Easter lily outdoors after it is done blooming?

Bloom of the Week: Crabapples

Problem of the Week: Dandelions

Task of the Week: Celebrate Earth Day (and Arbor Day)

Garden Variety Podcast: How to know when it's time to mow

The "Best" Reasons to Plant Trees

There are many reasons to plant a tree- beyond the well-known. Read about Dr. Iles' best reasons for planting a tree.

Trees lining a residential street in the midwest.

Garden Trivia

Why is it important to harden off transplants before planting them outside?

Read on to see the answer!

Alternatives to Common or Invasive Landscape Plants

There are so many options in the garden center, and yet some plants seem to be everywhere (and some of them are even invasive)! These recommended alternatives are a great option for a similar plant that can introduce diversity and have fewer problems.

To Till or Not To Till?

As you prepare to plant your vegetable gardens, you may wonder if tilling is the best option. Tilling has many advantages and drawbacks. Learn more and find out the best way for you to prepare your garden for planting.

Spring Lawn Care

Spring yard care in Iowa includes mowing at 2.5-3 inches, using slow-release fertilizer, applying preemergent herbicide for crabgrass, and watering deeply but infrequently. Avoid seeding in spring to minimize weed issues.

No, Spotted Lanternfly has not Returned to Iowa (Yet)

Recently, news articles have been popping up across the country indicating that the spotted lanternfly has returned to many states in the U.S., including Iowa. Learn about the current status of the insect in Iowa.

A winged insect (the spotted lanternfly) that is pinkish-grey with black spots and black veins at the tips.

Lawrence Barringer, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Bugwood.org.

Other Items of Interest

Garden Trivia Answer

Transplants grown indoors can be damaged have had a pretty easy life! When moved outdoors, they can be damaged by intense sunlight, strong winds, and cold temperatures. Bedding plants should be acclimated to the outdoor growing conditions or “hardened” before transplanting. Learn more in this article: Selecting, Hardening, and Planting Bedding Plants.

See past issues here.

Yard and Garden Website

Master Gardener Program

Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic

Iowa State Extension and Outreach

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Have a gardening question? Contact your local Extension office.