outdoors

Make minimal impact when enjoying the great outdoors

Protecting the environment and living by the principles of leaving no trace behind may seem insignificant until a person considers the combined effects of millions of people traveling to the same outdoor points of interest. Over time, simply walking or moving through wild areas can degrade natural...

How to get kids into golf

When a global pandemic was declared by the World Health Organization in March 2020, parents were left scrambling for fun and healthy ways to keep their kids occupied. Virtual learning sessions replaced days spent in the classroom, and many extracurricular activities were canceled in an attempt to...

Ask Extension: Is it OK to use red pepper in bird seed as squirrel deterrent?

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSION - www.extension.umn.edu Squirrels are constantly eating the seed I put out for birds in the winter. I have read one way to discourage squirrels is to add chili powder to birdseed. Is this safe for birds? Squirrels are important, but frustrating animals in our...

Grow plants indoors all year long with hydroponics

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSION - www.extension.umn.edu A simple DIY hydroponics system for growing lettuce and other greens Are you looking for: A new winter hobby? Access to fresh greens or herbs throughout the winter? A fun project for kids? A unique holiday gift idea? Hydroponic...

Christmas tree tips and tricks

Christmas trees are an iconic symbol of the holiday season. Whether they are personal trees nestled in the corner of a living room for families to enjoy or towering evergreens serving as the focal point of a town square, Christmas trees are a wonder to behold. Many people have fond memories of time...

Winter food safety planning - 5 tips to prepare for next season

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSION - www.extension.umn.edu Winter is a good time for planning, reflection and thinking about the systems behind your farm's operation. What worked, what didn't, and what can be improved for next season? What did your employees suggest for improvements? That review...

Must-haves to achieve a holiday wonderland

The end of the year marks a period of heightened festivity. Come the holiday season, homes and businesses are decorated and everyone seems to have an extra spring in their step. The sight of snowflakes, candy canes, evergreen wreaths, and Christmas trees can elicit nostalgia for happy holidays of...

Tip: Check over houseplants for pests.

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSION - www.extension.umn.edu By now your houseplants have been indoors for a while. Insect pests like our warm, dry homes. Take time this week to look closely at your houseplants for signs of pests like mealybugs, scale, and spidermites. Look for white cottony stuff,...

Are poinsettias poisonous?

Christmas trees, Santa Claus, menorahs, and glittering lighting displays are just a few of the many prominent symbols of the holiday season. And while mistletoe might garner more attention and inspire more displays of affection, poinsettias are another prominent sign that the holiday season has...

Ask Extension: Do I need to protect my yew this winter?

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSION - www.extension.umn.edu Planted in the right conditions, yews can tolerate winter weather and provide winter interest in our landscapes. I planted an upright yew evergreen shrub this summer. Do I need to wrap it in burlap for winter or protect it in some...