Yard and Garden
Yard and Garden

Publications

The Iowa State Extension Store offers a number of publications as a free downloadable PDF or for purchase.

All publications related to home gardening can be found below. Find more information at the Extension Store.

Extension Publications

  • Cover Crops in Vegetable Production Systems

    Cover Crops in Vegetable Production Systems

    Vegetable production systems require inputs and if not managed properly could have detrimental effects on soil and the environment. Cover crops are gaining importance and growers can used them as a best practice tool in preserving environmental sustainability of vegetable cropping systems without compromising farm productivity and profitability. This publication defines various cover crops and their benefits such as reducing soil erosion, compaction and synthetic nitrogen inputs, suppressing weeds, increasing soil organic matter and water infiltration, enhancing soil biology, and providing habitat for beneficial insects and natural enemies of pests.

  • Crabgrass (Digitaria spp.)

    Crabgrass (Digitaria spp.)

    Crabgrass, sometimes called watergrass, is a warm-season annual grassy weed that is prevalent in Iowa. Crabgrass germinates in the spring once soil temperatures hit 55°F for four straight days and nights, and will die with the cooler weather and frost in the fall. Iowa has both Digitaria ischaemum (smooth crabgrass, smooth hairless stems with hairs where the stem and leaf meet) as well as Digitaria sanguinalis (large crabgrass, the stems and leaves contain hairs).

  • Crop Rotations, Composting and Cover Crops for Organic Vegetable Production

    Crop Rotations, Composting and Cover Crops for Organic Vegetable Production

    Organic production and consumption has increased to a $39.5 billion industry in the United States with over 22,000 organic farmers. Over 5.4 million acres are in organic production in the U.S., including 164,403 acres of organic vegetables, valued at $1.3 billion. The majority of organic vegetable growers incorporate crop rotations, composting, and cover crops in their operations. The following information offers a guide for including these practices to meet certified organic rules and increase the long-term sustainability of an organic farm.

  • Dahlias

    Dahlias

    Dahlias are available in 15 different official colors and 18 types. Learn about dahlia history, planting and growing tips, fall care, and classification.

  • Daylilies

    Daylilies

    Daylilies are easy to grow, relatively pest free, and many varieties multiple quickly. Learn more about daylily characteristics, propagation, growth needs, types, and landscape uses.

  • Deciduous Shrubs

    Deciduous Shrubs

    More than 110 photos plus descriptions of 75 deciduous shrubs (organized by height) will simplify your hunt for the right shrub for your landscape. A comparison chart identifies those with the most ornamental value. Recommendations also are given for specific planting needs, such as dry or wet soils, shaded sites, and food for birds and other wildlife.

  • Delphiniums

    Delphiniums

    Learn more about delphiniums with this brochure on delphinium traits, care, plant sources, problems, staking, and commonly available varieties.