October 5 – 1:30 p.m. - Peoria County Extension Office

There is a lot of interest in restoring areas to native plants, but people often don't know how to go about it. To help provide those answers, University of Illinois Extension is offering the teleconference, Seeing Prairie -- Taking a Closer Look at Prairie and its Restoration. The program is set for October 5, at 1:30 p.m. at the Peoria County Extension Office. "This informative program explains techniques that recreate the natural beauty of the prairie landscape," says Duane Friend, U of I Extension natural resources educator. "Ken Robertson and Don Gardner, experts in prairie restoration, will be the featured presenters." You'll learn about the diversity of original prairies in Illinois, especially plants that are characteristic of high-quality prairies. You'll also see photos of recent prairie restorations that vary in how they resemble original prairies. You'll hear about frequently implemented restoration methods as well as essential practices for successful prairie restoration work. Cost for the program is $5 per person. To register, contact the Peoria County Extension office at 685-3140 or register on-line. The registration deadline is October 1.

These are telenet programs that feature color power point slides accompanied by the live voice of the instructor as people from all over the state participate at once. All topics will be presented by University of Illinois Horticulture Educators or State Specialists. This series is open to the public, so bring a friend!

- Bonsai - Tu. Oct. 13 - Learn techniques for shaping, watering and re-potting these miniaturized trees.