Karen Mitchell


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 about Updated Purdue Extension Publication – Growing Peonies in Indiana[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 about Volunteers Blossom at HLA Spring Fest Tent as Plant Necklace Station Draws Crowds[Read More]



Karen Mitchell, Consumer Horticulture Extension Specialist, shared her expert tips on starting a vegetable garden in Indiana for the Indianapolis Star article Growing vegetable gardens in Indiana can be a fun and flavorful. Here’s how to get started. She emphasized the importance of planning and selecting the right tools and plants to ensure a successful harvest.



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 about Purdue EMG Volunteers to Staff Booth at Indiana Flower and Patio Show[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 about HLA Members Presented at Indiana Small Farm Conference[Read More]


The Fruit Pruning Workshop at Meig’s Horticultural Research Farm on Tuesday was a great success, with 52 attendees eager to refine their pruning skills. The unusually warm weather made for a very enjoyable day in the orchard and vineyard. The event featured sessions covering a variety of fruit crops: Karen Mitchell guided participants through apple pruning techniques, Miranda…Read more about Beautiful Day for the 2025 Meig’s Fruit Pruning Workshop[Read More]


Karen Mitchell discussed how to get into growing houseplants with Purdue Agriculture Communications: Unleash your inner gardener: discover the joy of houseplants this season. On Wednesday, January 16, WRTV Indianapolis interviewed her about the mental health benefits of houseplants: Feeling down this winter? Try adding houseplants to your home for a mood lift.


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 about HLA Extension at PDC[Read More]


Page last modified: December 6, 2024

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