Recent News

Day of Insects 2026: A Must-Attend Event for the Insect-Curious

The 18th Annual Day of Insects is a day filled with presentations from professionals, academics, advocates, and enthusiasts covering a range of insect-related topics.  From beginners to seasoned veterans, DOI has something for anyone interested in or involved with insects. Registration is now open.

Frost Cracks and Exploding Trees

"Exploding trees" has been a popular news topic recently. A more appropriate term is frost cracks.  During extreme low temperature events in the winter, some trees will develop longitudinal splits in the trunk. These splits often occur suddenly and are often accompanied by a rather jarring crack. 

Upcoming Learning Opportunities

Can I start my seeds indoors yet?

This time of year, we all get a little anxious for some green in our lives. But now is not quite the right time for most annuals and vegetables.  Learn more about what you can do right now and the best time to start seeds for the most success.

Attend the 70th Annual Shade Tree Short Course!

The 70th Annual Iowa State University Shade Tree Short Course (STSC) will take place at the Scheman Building on Iowa State University’s campus February 18-19, 2026. Learn more and register!

Save the Date for 2026 Garden Academy!

Ready to grow your skills? Garden Academy offers two paths: the Master Gardener Volunteer and the Iowa Home Gardener Track. Learn more about each path and see key dates.

Save the Date: The 2026 Home Gardening Webinar Series Returns in January

The award-winning Home Gardening Webinar Series returns January 8, 2026.

Join us every Thursday at 6 p.m. central time, from January 8 through March 12. This weekly webinar series highlights a variety of topics for home gardeners.

Award-Winning Squash for Next Year's Garden

Discover three All-America Selections-winning squash varieties that are small, flavorful, and ideal for personal portions. Try one (or all) in your garden next season!

Introducing the Iowa Donation Garden Network!

ISU Extension and Outreach is excited to announce the Iowa Donation Garden Network (IDGN), a new initiative that connects and supports donation gardens across the state.

Why Potted Cold Hardy Fruit Plants Need Winter Protection

As container gardening with annuals has grown in popularity, more gardeners are also experimenting with perennial fruit crops in containers. While these container-friendly plants offer space-saving and attractive options, it's important to provide them with winter protection. Learn why and how in this article.

A Few All-Time Favorites from All-America Selections

Discover a few standout All-America Selections winners that continue to impress gardeners year after year. From eye-catching peppers to seed-grown potatoes, these classics are worth a spot in your garden!

Learn More in These Free Online Gardening Programs

Several free webinars are available to garden enthusiasts and Master Gardeners in October.  Learn more and register for Gardening in the Air, offered by Iowa State University and University of Illinois Extension, and the Where Plants Come From webinar from the National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture (NICH).

Award-Winning Vegetables Fuel Community Giving at Reiman Gardens

Learn about a few All-America Selections vegetables, including a vibrant pepper, a meaty tomato, and an icy eggplant, which are helping turn trial plots into generous harvests for local food pantries.

Fall Fruit Reminders

Late-season care is critical for fruit crops in Iowa. Dry fall conditions can stress fruit crops like raspberries, strawberries, and grapevines, making irrigation and disease management essential for healthy plants and future yields.

Tree Pruning and Planting Workshop Offered September 23rd

Please join the Women’s Woodland Stewardship Network for an urban tree care workshop about pruning and planting. The workshop will offer hands-on experience with pruning trees and a tree planting demonstration. Featured speakers are Ames City Forester, Gabbi Edwards and Iowa DNR Urban Forester, Emma Hanigan.

What's Wrong with My Lawn?! Lawn Diseases Prominent this Year

Lawn diseases are prominent this year.  Here is how to deal with them.

Reiman Gardens' Internship Program Educates the Next Generation of Horticulture Professionals

Reiman Gardens' internship program highlights all aspects of its mission and works to connect the Gardens to the central campus of Iowa State University. Read more about the many Reiman Gardens interns working and learning this summer.

AAS Winners Thriving in the Heat of Summer

Learn about a few All-America Selections-winning annuals, like Mexican sunflowers, that are thriving in the heat of summer!

Mid-Summer Container Plant Nutrition

As we progress in the summer, it is a good time to assess the fertility of many of our garden plants, especially containerized plants such as those in pots and hanging baskets. Learn why, what to look for, and what to do in this article.

Sponsor the 2026 Home Gardening Webinar Series!

Connect your brand with over 6,000 passionate gardening enthusiasts in the Iowa Master Gardener 10-week webinar series. Learn more today!