In October, the Purdue Extension Master Gardener (EMG) Program offered a three-part virtual training series focused on invasive species and native plant alternatives for the home landscape. The series opened with “Invasive Insect Species”, presented by Bob Bruner, Exotic Pest Extension Specialist, who discussed identification, impacts, and control strategies of invasive insects. Next, Amanda Bradshaw-Burks,[Read More…]
The 2025 Purdue Extension Master Gardener (EMG) State Conference, held September 12–13 at the Hendricks County Fairgrounds in Danville, Indiana, was a vibrant celebration of learning, community, and volunteer impact. Nearly 70 Purdue EMG volunteers kicked off the weekend with a hands-on reception Friday evening, featuring engaging workshops on plant propagation and flower arranging. Led[Read More…]
On Wednesday, John Orick and Pam Fisher traveled to Indianapolis to prepare the Purdue Extension Master Gardener (EMG) Plant Info to Go Booth at the Indiana State Fair. This engaging and educational booth, located in the Purdue Extension Building at the north end of the fairgrounds, will be staffed by dedicated EMG volunteers from across[Read More…]
Peonies are beloved for their lush blooms and longevity, making them a staple in many Indiana gardens. Purdue Extension has just released a revised edition of “Growing Peonies in the Indiana Landscape,” offering gardeners updated, research-based guidance for success with these classic perennials. Authored by a team of Purdue experts—Karen Mitchell, Courtney Lockwood, John Orick,[Read More…]
The HLA Spring Fest Tent experienced tremendous success last Saturday, overcoming a slow start due to the chilly morning. By 1:00 PM, volunteers had distributed an impressive 800 plant necklaces to eager visitors! This year’s featured plant, the Rattail Crassula, was expertly propagated by Alexandra Jewell, whose exceptional work ensured high-quality plant material for all[Read More…]
If you are in Indianapolis, IN, March 15 – 23, 2025, you may consider visiting the 2025 Indiana Flower and Patio Show located at the Indiana State Fairgrounds! Purdue Extension Master Gardener volunteers will be answering home gardening questions for show patrons during that time. The Purdue Plant Info To Go Booth is located in[Read More…]
HLA was well-represented at the Indiana Small Farm Conference this year. Petrus Langenhoven presented a session during the Resilient Ag track titled “Impact of Soil Fertility Amendments and Cover Cropping on Soil Health” with Nathan Shoaf. Chris Adair presented a session during the Vegetables track titled “Efficiency Hacks Part II” alongside Roger and Mary Winstead[Read More…]
On Wednesday, December 4, HLA Extension hosted a booth at the Showcase event during the Purdue Extension Professional Development Conference. Thanks to engaging activities such as weed identification and a hydroponics demonstration, our exhibit received positive feedback from attendees. Special thanks to Aaron Patton for providing weed samples and signage, which added great value to[Read More…]
Ashley Adair, Organic Agriculture Specialist, John Orick, Extension Master Gardener State Coordinator, and Karen Mitchell, Consumer Horticulture Specialist, provided training to equip 22 Extension educators with the skills and curriculum needed to implement four hands-on horticulture activities in their local communities. Focused on plant propagation, weed identification, and hydroponics, the training emphasized practical techniques in[Read More…]