EUREKA - University of Illinois Horticulture Educators conduct classes via the University of Illinois telenet system and local computer PowerPoint presentations, allowing live discussion between the instructor and gardeners throughout Illinois. The 2013 spring series will offer these programs: 

Spruce Problems (Pest and Cultural Issues) 

Spruce generally is native to cooler regions and is adapted to cold conditions. They prefer full sun locations with acidic and well-drained soils. When exposed to unfavorable cultural or environmental conditions, spruce can become stressed and more susceptible to diseases and pests. This program will cover all the cultural, disease, insect, and spider mite problems that have been diagnosed at the University of Illinois Plant Clinic.

April 9 at 1 p.m. (held at the Extension office in Livingston, McLean or Woodford Counties)

April 11 at 6:30 p.m. (held at the Eureka Public Library - Woodford County Only)

Pollinators and Insecticides

Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) continues to be a major problem for the honey bee, our most important pollinator. Species of bumble bees in California are dwindling in numbers and some may go extinct. Bumble bees in Illinois are being surveyed to determine whether there is a similar local problem. Although these and other threats to our pollinators appear to be caused by several factors, recent research points to some insecticides as being more than just a minor part of the problem. Non-technical summaries of this research will be presented along with other impacts to our insect pollinators and an overview of the various pollinators.

April 23 at 1 p.m. (held at the Extension office in Livingston, McLean or Woodford Counties) 

April 25 at 6:30 p.m. (held at the Eureka Public Library - Woodford County Only)

All About Tomatoes: Strategies for Controlling Common Pests and Disorders

Although tomatoes are considered a garden favorite and easy to grow, tomatoes can succumb to a number of pests and environmental disorders that result in disappointment for the grower. In this session, participants will learn how to identify the most common tomato diseases and insect pests and how best to control them in a home garden setting. Nutritional disorders and other common environmentally-induced problems will be discussed as well. 

May 7 at 1 p.m. (held at the Extension office in Livingston, McLean or Woodford Counties) 

May 9 at 6:30 p.m. (held at the Eureka Public Library - Woodford County Only)

Don’t Doubt the Drought

Hot and dry 2012 – how will our landscapes respond in the years to come? This program will discuss growth expectations in 2013 on lawns, newly planted trees, shrubs, and evergreens. How will the drought impact our flowering plants such as perennials, flowering shrubs, and ornamental trees? What should we be looking for with established trees and what are some of the best management practices for helping our landscape plants recover.

May 21 at 1 p.m. (held at the Extension office in Livingston, McLean or Woodford Counties)

May 23 at 6:30 p.m. (held at the Eureka Public Library - Woodford County Only)

Register online at:  http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lmw/register.  Select “Four Seasons Horticulture Telenets - Spring Series” on the right hand side of the page. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any of our programs, please contact the Extension office.