Richard JauronExtension Horticulturist515-294-3108rjauron@iastate.edu Vegetables in the garden occasionally do things that surprise some gardeners. While unexpected, they’re actually rather common or normal. If you have questions about your own garden, contact horticulture experts by emailing hortline@iastate.edu. Several of my onions are forming flower heads. Why?  Onions can be grown from seeds, sets or transplants. Flowering is . . . read more

About the Authors:  Angela Laury ShawFood Science and Human Nutrition515-294-0868angelaml@iastate.edu Shannon M. ColemanFood Science and Human Nutrition515-294-9011scoleman@iastate.edu Joe HannanExtension Commercial Horticulture Specialist515-993-4281jmhannan@iastate.edu Anirudh NaigApparel, Events and Hospitality Management515-294-9740anaig@iastate.edu Gov. Kim Reynolds has modified the state’s Public Health Emergency Declaration as it pertains to farmers markets. The governor’s June 10, 2020, proclamation allows farmers markets to continue operating, . . . read more

Ruth LitchfieldFood Science and Human Nutrition515-294-9484litch@iastate.edu Sarah FrancisFood Science and Human Nutrition515-294-1456slfranci@iastate.edu Cynthia HaynesAssociate Professor in Horticulture515-294-4006chaynes@iastate.edu As Iowans celebrate National Pollinator Week they can also celebrate the many diverse products made possible by bees, butterflies and other pollinators. One of the most recognized products of honey bees is honey. Honey is commonly referred to . . . read more

Richard JauronExtension Horticulturist515-294-3108rjauron@iastate.edu Some plants grow well but don’t set fruit well, and this could happen because of a range of issues. A horticulture specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach offers advice on fruit set issues. For information on your specific plant questions, contact hortline@iastate.edu directly. Tomatoes Unfavorable weather conditions are the primary reason for . . . read more

Governor’s proclamation emphasizes importance of commercial horticulture industry Iowa’s commercial horticulture industry contributes $48 million to the state’s economy each year and provides fresh fruits and vegetables to Iowa consumers. Recognizing the value of this segment of agriculture, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has designated June 22-26, 2020, as Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Week. “Designating an . . . read more

Brian TappFarm, Food and Enterprise Development515-294-4417btapp@iastate.edu The most recent “Back to Business Iowa” podcast from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach features Cherie Edilson, co-founder and CEO of Shop Where I Live. This Marion, Iowa based company works with chambers of commerce and economic development groups statewide to create online “storefronts” where all of the . . . read more

Richard JauronExtension Horticulturist515-294-3108rjauron@iastate.edu  Tomatoes are the most popular vegetable in the home garden. They are easy to grow and produce excellent yields. For more information on growing tomatoes, contact Iowa State University Extension and Outreach horticulture specialists at hortline@iastate.edu. Determinate vs. indeterminate Determinate and indeterminate refer to the tomato plant’s growth habit. Determinate tomatoes are small, compact . . . read more

Courtney LongFarm, Food and Enterprise Development515-294-2213court7@iastate.edu As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, businesses across the state are trying new and innovative strategies to remain open and continue to serve Iowans. Farms and food businesses are also stepping up to meet the demand for local food products. Many farmers markets are moving to online sales and virtual . . . read more

Joe HannanExtension Commercial Horticulture Specialist515-993-4281jmhannan@iastate.edu Gov. Kim Reynolds has extended the state’s Public Health Emergency Declaration as it pertains to farmers markets. The governor’s latest proclamation allows farmers markets to continue operating, but only to sell food and farm products. An earlier proclamation allowed farmers markets to open as of April 24, under the same restrictions. The . . . read more

Businesses across Iowa are moving their sales online in response to COVID-19 marketing limitations. Learn more about using the popular Square e-commerce platform on a free 90-minute webinar Tuesday, May 19, at 2 p.m. CDT: “How to Take Your Business Online.” Featured speaker is Martin Guerrero, e-commerce specialist with Square. Register here. You’ll receive connection instructions in your . . . read more