On July 15th, Vicki Stirm and Karen Mitchell hosted 29 folks of Caleb’s Kin group from Faith East Ministries of Lafayette for a garden tour of the Jules Janick Hort Gardens. We talked about different plants in the landscape, as well as talking about the Bioswale on the corner of the Pao lot and the…Read more about Vicki Stirm and Karen Mitchell Host Jules Janick Horticulture Garden Tour[Read More]
On July 17, 2025, Karen Mitchell, Karen Sullivan, and Vicki Stirm led a fun and engaging session as part of Grandparents University. They welcomed about 35 grandparents and their grandchildren, ages 7 to 14, for a special experience on campus. As part of the Grandparents University program, families come to campus, select a “major,” attend…Read more about HLA Welcomes Grandparents University[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 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]
Purdue Agriculture published a story featuring Karen Mitchell’s advice on taking care of house plants: How to transform your space with houseplants.
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]
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