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Garden

PSU Extension holds produce grower workshops

STATE COLLEGE — In early 2025, Penn State Extension will offer a series of in-person and virtual events to update produce growers on what happened across the state during the most recent growing season, share university research and provide opportunities for pesticide applicators to earn Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture pesticide applicator recertification credits. The “Produce Grower Update” workshop will occur in February and March in various locations. This in-person workshop covers research updates for vegetable and small fruit production, industry trends and pesticide ...

Be patient and don’t be intimidated by growing a bonsai

Growing a bonsai is more than just caring for a miniature tree — it’s an art, a craft and an ancient meditative practice. Originating in China thousands of years ago, bonsai was later adapted by Japanese growers who further developed it into the bonsai we know today. Translated to ...

Soaring egg prices are piquing interest in backyard chickens

NEW YORK (AP) — Thinking about backyard chickens as egg prices soar? Think hard, especially in light of the bird flu outbreak. Keeping home chickens as a pastime has continued to grow since the pandemic. But if eggs are the goal, remember that it takes planning and investment to raise the ...

Knowledgeable pruning

When done properly, pruning contributes to the health and beauty of trees and shrubs. Improper pruning can damage and disfigure them. Learning some pruning fundamentals and knowing where to look for more in-depth pruning information can help gardeners improve the health and appearance of trees ...

Penn State experts to speak at Mid-Atlantic Fruit and Vegetable Convention

UNIVERSITY PARK — Fruit and vegetable growers can delve into industry topics at the Mid-Atlantic Fruit and Vegetable Convention, Jan. 28-30 in Hershey, where many Penn State experts will present. This three-day gathering is recognized as a prominent growers’ conference in the Northeast. ...

A healthy resolution for 2025? Start a garden. Tips for beginners

January is traditionally a month for fresh starts and resolutions, many of which center around self-care. And if you’ve spent any time watching television or scrolling social media this month, you’ve likely been bombarded with diet and exercise pitches. But there’s another route to self-care that influencers rarely mention: gardening. A few hours spent outdoors nurturing fruits, flowers and vegetables each week can provide physical exercise, stress reduction, vitamin D and even a better diet — all without a membership fee. And getting started is easy. Start small As with any ...