By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – One way to kick up the flavor a notch in the kitchen is to use fresh herbs when cooking. Although dried herbs give personality to time-honored recipes, fresh herbs typically have a bigger burst of flavor. With summer winding down, some gardeners may find themselves with an abundance of herbs they do not want to go to waste before the cold weather zaps the plants, said Barbara…
By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – There is nothing quite like the taste of a tomato picked fresh off the vine. But with the season quickly coming to a close, some gardeners may feel a little sad knowing that vine-fresh taste is fleeting. Fortunately, gardeners do have the ability to extend the flavor of summer just a little longer, said David Hillock, Oklahoma State University Extension consumer horticulturist. “We’re just now starting to feel the…
By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – Many gardeners across the state are finding themselves with excess fresh fruits and vegetables. Although the family can consume a fair amount of the garden bounty before it spoils, canning that food is a great way to reduce waste and preserve that summer-fresh taste all year long. Barbara Brown, Oklahoma State University Extension food specialist, said there are several safe methods of canning food at home. “The key to…
By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – With triple digit heat across the state, many Oklahomans are looking forward to fall and cooler weather. Although there will be several more weeks of intense heat, gardening enthusiasts can get a jumpstart on fall by planning their fall gardens now. July through September is the optimal time to begin planting several vegetable varieties in order to have a bountiful fall harvest, said David Hillock, Oklahoma State University…
URBANA, Ill. – While there may still be snow on the ground outside, it is never too early to start planning your garden for the spring. Begin by digging through your old seed packet stashes to find those still viable to plant. Seeds are considered viable when they are capable of germination under suitable conditions. If stored properly, some seeds may remain viable for several years, while others are only viable for a…