November 30, 2007

Gardening Classes Posted

We are all focused on the holidays right now. However, for those of you who want to look ahead to the 2008 gardening season, I have posted some of our late winter-early spring gardening classes on-line. Go to the home page of this website and check out the full calendar under the upcoming events. You can even register now if you want. Classes will remain posted up to 2 days before the program date or until the class fills. Classes begin in February and that really is not that far away!

Posted by Sharon Yiesla at 8:55 AM | Permalink |

November 15, 2007

Garden classes

Most people are thinking about the end of this year, but I am already planning for the beginning of next year. Every year, I offer gardening classes here at the Extension office in Grayslake. I will be doing so again in 2008. I will post the class listings here on the webpage. There will be link to the class listing on the opening page of the website. Be looking for this in early December.

Posted by Sharon Yiesla at 11:58 AM | Permalink |

November 14, 2007

Poinsettia

Look for a full plant with dark green leaves and brightly colored bracts. Examine the true flowers, which are the small, round yellow parts in the center of the bracts. If they are tightly closed, it is an indicator that the plant is fresh. As the plant ages, the true flowers will open. Avoid plants that are wilted, that have faded bracts, or have lost their leaves. These plants have received improper care and will not be long lasting.

When purchasing the plant, be sure to have the store clerk wrap the plant in a paper sleeve or bag. Poinsettias are tropical plants and are subject to chilling injury at temperatures below 50°F. Do not leave the plant in a cold car while shopping, or carry it home in the trunk.

Poinsettias must be cared for properly to insure that they flower well for a long time. Water so that the planting mix is consistently moist. Do not let the soil become soggy or overly dry as this will stress the plant and decrease flowering time. A plant that has its pot wrapped in decorative foil is at risk for over-watering. Punch holes in the foil to let water drain through. Do not let the poinsettia sit in a saucer full of water.

Keep the plant in a cool room (65-70°F) during the day and drop the night temperatures another 5 degrees if possible. This will help to extend the flowering time. Place the plant where it will not be affected by hot or cold drafts.

Give the plant good light. Bright, indirect light is ideal. The plant can be placed in direct sunlight but this may increase its water needs. North facing windows get very little light and should be avoided.

Posted by Sharon Yiesla at 10:27 AM | Permalink |

November 8, 2007

Holiday Plant Time

Hi Gardeners

Believe it or not, it will soon be time to think about holiday flowers and Christmas trees! To help you with this I have placed some timely fact sheets on our website regarding these topics. From the home page of the site, click on the "Horticulture and Environment" icon and then scroll down to the 'Fact Sheets" link

Posted by Sharon Yiesla at 2:46 PM | Permalink |