Growing degree days since April 1: 2518 GDD at Springfield (From the Illinois State Water Survey Degree-Day Calculator)
4 inch soil temp: 73.7° F at Springfield (10 am 4-inch Soil Temperature Under Bare Soil; From the Illinois State Water Survey Illinois Climate Network)
Are fungicides hurting honeybees? According to USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS), honeybees that consume pollen that contains low levels of commonly used fungicides might be more susceptible to infection by a gut parasite. To learn more, check out the August 2013 issue of the Vegetable Growers News.
Growing Vegetables Year-Round Webinar. An Extension webinar will provide information to market vegetable growers on how to grow crops year round. The basics of vegetable variety selection, planting considerations, watering, and harvest will all be covered. The time to think about production is now. Greens, roots, and other crops can all be grown and harvested through the winter in this climate. For more information and to register.
Local Food Systems and Small Farms. Looking for a one-stop shop for local foods and small farm info? Check out the University of Illinois Extension Local Food Systems and Small Farms team website for production resources, events calendars, and program registrations. Contact your local Educator with any questions, concerns, or suggestions that can help us better reach out to the local food and small farm communities!
Source: University of Illinois at Urbana