Sunday, January 11, 2026

Horticulture

Not so poisonous poinsettia

Do not put poinsettia on your naughty list just yet. This Christmas favorite has an undeserved rap for being poisonous, said University of Missouri...

Don’t top those trees

One of the worst things you can do to a tree is to “top” it.  Topping occurs when the vertical stem (leader) and upper...

Care of Christmas and Thanksgiving Cacti   

Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) and Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) are epiphytes native to the jungles of South America. Epiphytic plants grow on other plants...

Storing Potatoes in Cold Temperatures

Potatoes stored below 40 degrees F will not sprout and will remain firm for long periods. However, such storage will often lead to starches...

Using Old Garden Seed    

Garden catalogs seem to come earlier each year.  Since new seed can be expensive, you may want to consider using seed bought in previous...

Caring For Modern Poinsettias  

Modern poinsettia varieties stay attractive for a long time if given proper care. Place your poinsettia in a sunny window or the brightest area...

Mouse Damage to Fruit Trees/Plants   

Be on the lookout for mouse tunnels around your fruit plants. Trunks and roots of apple trees are among the favorite meals for mice....

Winter squash is a great addition to fall menus

Tammy Roberts, MS, RD, LD, Nutrition and Health Education Specialist, Bates County, University of Missouri Extension Winter squash are prominently displayed at grocery stores in...