Color of Autumn - Monday, September 22, 2025

The cost of the program is $10. Register by September 19.

Autumn is still a busy time of year in the garden! Join Illinois Extension for an evening of learning and connection as we explore a variety of horticulture topics. The event will feature two breakout sessions and a keynote presentation, giving participants the opportunity to dive deeper into subjects that inspire and inform. 

Heavy appetizers and drinks will be provided, with the program beginning promptly at 6 pm.

A.   Digging Outside the Dirt -Lisa Dean, Master Gardener and Master Naturalist
The perfect time to divide your thriving perennials is from early September to mid-October.  Why?  Because while their foliage is starting to wain, they are still active enough to tolerate the digging/dividing/transplanting before the first average frost date in mid-November.  How can you prepare for this fun & dirty time?  Bring gloves; your favorite digging tool; a bucket with a chunk of a perennial (a perfect bucket is a 1-gallon ice cream bucket).  OR just come; observe the fun; and take home tips to do your own thing!

B.   Soil Testing and Soil Health for the Garden - Nathan Johanning, Illinois Extension Educator
Fall is a great time to soil sample and also think about ways to improve your soil health for your 2026 crops.  Get a review of soil testing and ideas to build a healthy soil!

A.   Raised Bed Gardening in the Fall - Ann Glosecki, Master Gardener

Join a discussion about fall vegetable planting and ideas to extend the growing season. Ann will also share her experience with straw bale gardening.  We will conclude with a group discussion on bed cleanup and developing a plan for next year's growing season.  

B.   Go or Stay? Migrate or Hibernate? - Bob Smejkal, Master Naturalist
We will discuss what causes both insects and birds to migrate, and why some overwinter where they are. For example, when we hear about the Monarch migration, it is more complex than we think- There are some that only move several 100 miles! In addition, we will discuss how to prepare our area for those who don't leave the area, and how important it is to provide habitat that will allow them to overwinter.

Join us for a presentation on urban forestry in Illinois and HeartLands Conservancy’s efforts to plant native trees and empower communities to care for their urban canopy. This talk will explore the many ecological, health, and social benefits of trees and how collective action can help grow greener, more resilient communities.

University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to attend, please contact the local Extension office at 618-939-3434.