August signals the beginning of another school year. Kids of all ages will be learning new skills in the classroom.&nbsp;My hope is that you will find something that you want to learn more about andsign up for a class or two. I have loved my years in Extension because it has encouraged me to be a life-long learner. When I prepare to teach others in a workshop setting,&nbsp;I always find that&nbsp;the time&nbsp;I spend&nbsp;researching the subject&nbsp;teaches me as much as the&nbsp;participants.

Our August Cottonwood Connection e-newsletter will be posted soon on our Cottonwood website. I hope you will take a few minutes and see what opportunities are offered during the month ahead in the Cottonwood District.&nbsp;Agriculture, 4-H and youth development and Family and Consumer Science programming is making a difference in the lives of our families.

Consider signing up for the fermentation workshop I am offering in Great Bend on August 29th.&nbsp;Participants will learn how to make Kimchi which is a tasty Korean condiment. There is a registration fee of $25 that covers the ingredients and equipment needed to ferment a quart of Kimchi.&nbsp;

It is also time to think about registering for the Stay Strong Stay Healthy workshop that begins in September.&nbsp;I will be leading this popular workshop which focuses on improving strength, flexibility, and balance. A $20 registration fee will hold a spot for you and class size is limited. Classes run from September 29th&nbsp;through November 29th, from 10 – 11 AM at the Great Bend Activity Center.&nbsp;

Before I close&nbsp;today,&nbsp;I want to&nbsp;extend&nbsp;a warm welcome&nbsp;to&nbsp;our newest team member, Monique Koerner. Monique is bringing her professional experience to the Cottonwood District as the Family and Community Wellness agent&nbsp;in the Hays office.

Early in August the Cottonwood District Horticulture position will open for applicants and later in the fall the 4-H and youth development position in the Hays office will be filled. Watch for these announcements in the weeks ahead and encourage people you may know&nbsp;who have the qualifications&nbsp;to apply.&nbsp;

Exciting times lie ahead&nbsp;in the Cottonwood District. I hope you will be&nbsp;part of the life-long learning that is happening!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend office. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>August signals the beginning of another school year. Kids of all ages will be learning new skills in the classroom.&nbsp;My hope is that you will find something that you want to learn more about andsign up for a class or two. I have loved my years in Extension because it has encouraged me to be a life-long learner. When I prepare to teach others in a workshop setting,&nbsp;I always find that&nbsp;the time&nbsp;I spend&nbsp;researching the subject&nbsp;teaches me as much as the&nbsp;participants.Our August Cottonwood Connection e-newsletter will be posted soon on our Cottonwood website. I hope you will take a few minutes and see what opportunities are offered during the month ahead in the Cottonwood District.&nbsp;Agriculture, 4-H and youth development and Family and Consumer Science programming is making a difference in the lives of our families.Consider signing up for the fermentation workshop I am offering in Great Bend on August 29th.&nbsp;Participants will learn how to make Kimchi which is a tasty Korean condiment. There is a registration fee of $25 that covers the ingredients and equipment needed to ferment a quart of Kimchi.&nbsp;It is also time to think about registering for the Stay Strong Stay Healthy workshop that begins in September.&nbsp;I will be leading this popular workshop which focuses on improving strength, flexibility, and balance. A $20 registration fee will hold a spot for you and class size is limited. Classes run from September 29th&nbsp;through November 29th, from 10 – 11 AM at the Great Bend Activity Center.&nbsp;Before I close&nbsp;today,&nbsp;I want to&nbsp;extend&nbsp;a warm welcome&nbsp;to&nbsp;our newest team member, Monique Koerner. Monique is bringing her professional experience to the Cottonwood District as the Family and Community Wellness agent&nbsp;in the Hays office.Early in August the Cottonwood District Horticulture position will open for applicants and later in the fall the 4-H and youth development position in the Hays office will be filled. Watch for these announcements in the weeks ahead and encourage people you may know&nbsp;who have the qualifications&nbsp;to apply.&nbsp;Exciting times lie ahead&nbsp;in the Cottonwood District. I hope you will be&nbsp;part of the life-long learning that is happening!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend office. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>

KRUG: Are you a lifelong learner?

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;&nbsp;

How about we go to a garden store? Or, what if the garden store could come to you?&nbsp;

Today we’ll meet an innovative young rural-preneur who has created a mobile system to bring vegetables, herbs, ornamentals and plant care information to the public.&nbsp;

Renata Goossen is the founder of Renata’s Garden in her hometown of Potwin. Her parents gardened, her dad raised tomatoes, and her mother’s family operates Henry Creek Farms, a fourth-generation family farm.&nbsp;

“I grew up in 4-H,” Goossen said. She tried the horticulture project and found that she loved it. “Our Butler County extension horticulture agent, Larry Crouse, was excellent at encouraging young people with judging and plant identification. Our extension agents influenced me greatly.”&nbsp;

“In junior high, I started a project I called Renata’s Garden,” she said. She raised special varieties of plants, created a catalog and marketed those plants to the community.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Thankfully I have great parents who were willing to drive me to deliver those plants when we went to school or 4-H functions.”&nbsp;

Goossen attended Kansas State University where she earned her degree in horticulture.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The College of Agriculture is really great at helping you find where you fit,” Goossen said. “I had great professors who helped me.”&nbsp;

She earned several scholarships and business internships, including serving as a horticulture marketing specialist for a growers business in Ohio. “I was taken aback that more hort businesses weren’t using extension resources,” Goossen said. As a student, she conducted and published undergraduate research and traveled to Europe with a study abroad program.&nbsp;

In the Netherlands, she observed mobile street vendors. It reminded her of seeing a renovated school bus which had been used for summer feeding programs back in Butler County.&nbsp;

After graduation from K-State, Goossen considered her options. “I liked dealing with the consumer and I also liked the reward of successfully growing a crop,” she said.&nbsp;

She decided to combine the two and create a mobile horticultural retail business of her own, using the name Renata’s Garden again. She built a greenhouse and produces specialty plants such as Celebrity Tomato, Large-Leaf Italian Flat Leaf Parsley, Patio Baby Eggplant, Snackabelle Pepper, Marigold Strawberry Blonde flowers, Everleaf Emerald Tower Basil, and many more.&nbsp;

She purchased and renovated an old school bus, painted a floral design on the exterior, and refitted it with benches custom-designed to hold flats of her plants with space for pots, soil and other supplies underneath. The bus has “Renata’s Garden” and “Plant Bus” printed in big letters on the front and side.&nbsp;

Goossen drives the bus to various locations where customers can purchase the plants she has raised. “I wanted to put a Kansas twist on the European mobile cart idea,” she said.&nbsp;

“I set it up like a pop-up shop and notify people where I’ll be on my social media and website,” Goossen said. She makes a circuit of Wichita, Newton, El Dorado and surrounding communities where she stops for a day or a few hours for the public to step on board and purchase her plants.&nbsp;

Plant care and education are important to Goossen. She includes a QR code on each plant label which links to the plant care information for that specific plant. She also produces a weekly YouTube program, called&nbsp;Unearth Horticulture, that discusses plant care.&nbsp;

“I love seeing people’s eyes light up when they see the inside of the bus,” Goossen said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“People are excited to embrace this kind of business. When there’s a little kid trying edible flowers for the first time or an older person who gets on the bus and says, `I’ve never seen anything like this,’ those moments are amazing.”&nbsp;

It's a remarkable business to originate in a rural community such as Potwin, population 421 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.renatasgarden.com/">www.renatasgarden.com</a>.&nbsp;

Would you like to go to the plant store?&nbsp;&nbsp;What if the plant store came to you?&nbsp;&nbsp;We commend Renata Goossen for making a difference with her creative approach to marketing and educating horticultural consumers. I’d say her business is on the move.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654089439927.png" alt="Renata Goossen" />
 <figcaption>Renata Goossen</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;&nbsp;How about we go to a garden store? Or, what if the garden store could come to you?&nbsp;Today we’ll meet an innovative young rural-preneur who has created a mobile system to bring vegetables, herbs, ornamentals and plant care information to the public.&nbsp;Renata Goossen is the founder of Renata’s Garden in her hometown of Potwin. Her parents gardened, her dad raised tomatoes, and her mother’s family operates Henry Creek Farms, a fourth-generation family farm.&nbsp;“I grew up in 4-H,” Goossen said. She tried the horticulture project and found that she loved it. “Our Butler County extension horticulture agent, Larry Crouse, was excellent at encouraging young people with judging and plant identification. Our extension agents influenced me greatly.”&nbsp;“In junior high, I started a project I called Renata’s Garden,” she said. She raised special varieties of plants, created a catalog and marketed those plants to the community.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Thankfully I have great parents who were willing to drive me to deliver those plants when we went to school or 4-H functions.”&nbsp;Goossen attended Kansas State University where she earned her degree in horticulture.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The College of Agriculture is really great at helping you find where you fit,” Goossen said. “I had great professors who helped me.”&nbsp;She earned several scholarships and business internships, including serving as a horticulture marketing specialist for a growers business in Ohio. “I was taken aback that more hort businesses weren’t using extension resources,” Goossen said. As a student, she conducted and published undergraduate research and traveled to Europe with a study abroad program.&nbsp;In the Netherlands, she observed mobile street vendors. It reminded her of seeing a renovated school bus which had been used for summer feeding programs back in Butler County.&nbsp;After graduation from K-State, Goossen considered her options. “I liked dealing with the consumer and I also liked the reward of successfully growing a crop,” she said.&nbsp;She decided to combine the two and create a mobile horticultural retail business of her own, using the name Renata’s Garden again. She built a greenhouse and produces specialty plants such as Celebrity Tomato, Large-Leaf Italian Flat Leaf Parsley, Patio Baby Eggplant, Snackabelle Pepper, Marigold Strawberry Blonde flowers, Everleaf Emerald Tower Basil, and many more.&nbsp;She purchased and renovated an old school bus, painted a floral design on the exterior, and refitted it with benches custom-designed to hold flats of her plants with space for pots, soil and other supplies underneath. The bus has “Renata’s Garden” and “Plant Bus” printed in big letters on the front and side.&nbsp;Goossen drives the bus to various locations where customers can purchase the plants she has raised. “I wanted to put a Kansas twist on the European mobile cart idea,” she said.&nbsp;“I set it up like a pop-up shop and notify people where I’ll be on my social media and website,” Goossen said. She makes a circuit of Wichita, Newton, El Dorado and surrounding communities where she stops for a day or a few hours for the public to step on board and purchase her plants.&nbsp;Plant care and education are important to Goossen. She includes a QR code on each plant label which links to the plant care information for that specific plant. She also produces a weekly YouTube program, called&nbsp;Unearth Horticulture, that discusses plant care.&nbsp;“I love seeing people’s eyes light up when they see the inside of the bus,” Goossen said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“People are excited to embrace this kind of business. When there’s a little kid trying edible flowers for the first time or an older person who gets on the bus and says, `I’ve never seen anything like this,’ those moments are amazing.”&nbsp;It's a remarkable business to originate in a rural community such as Potwin, population 421 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.renatasgarden.com/">www.renatasgarden.com</a>.&nbsp;Would you like to go to the plant store?&nbsp;&nbsp;What if the plant store came to you?&nbsp;&nbsp;We commend Renata Goossen for making a difference with her creative approach to marketing and educating horticultural consumers. I’d say her business is on the move.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural:  Renata Goossen, Renata’s Garden 

K-State expert shares how to help gardens through severe weather&nbsp;

By EMILY HALSTEAD K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Storm season can be stressful for many reasons, but for Kansas gardeners, protecting their plants is a priority.&nbsp;

With Kansas’ storm season in full swing, Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham has tips on how to protect and recover gardens from severe weather damage.&nbsp;

“We are entering storm season and various areas of the state will likely have high winds, excessive rainfall and hail,” Upham said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The force of rainfall pounding on the soil can result in a thick crust that prevents seed emergence and partially blocks oxygen from reaching roots,” Upham said. Correcting this issue is as easy as lightly scraping the soil surface after is has dried. Upham cautions deep tiling as it could damage young, tender roots.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Standing water cuts off oxygen to the roots, which can result in plant damage if it doesn’t drain quickly enough,” he said. Plants can sometimes handle 24 hours of standing water, but hot weather following the rainfall can cause the water to become hot enough to ‘cook’ the plants.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“There isn’t much that can be done about this unless a channel can be cut to allow the water to drain,” Upham said.&nbsp;

Hail damaged plants should recover quickly as long as only the leaves were damaged. If stems and fruit were damaged the situation may become more serious. “The plant can recover from a few bruises, but if it looks like the plants were mowed down by a weed whip, replanting is in order,” Upham said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Either wind or water can cause plants to lean,” Upham said “They should start to straighten after a few days.” He does not recommend trying to bend them back as the plants often break easily.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;available to view online&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;local K-State Research and Extension office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>K-State expert shares how to help gardens through severe weather&nbsp;</h2>By EMILY HALSTEAD K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;MANHATTAN — Storm season can be stressful for many reasons, but for Kansas gardeners, protecting their plants is a priority.&nbsp;With Kansas’ storm season in full swing, Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham has tips on how to protect and recover gardens from severe weather damage.&nbsp;“We are entering storm season and various areas of the state will likely have high winds, excessive rainfall and hail,” Upham said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Upham’s recommendations include:&nbsp;Heavy Rain&nbsp;“The force of rainfall pounding on the soil can result in a thick crust that prevents seed emergence and partially blocks oxygen from reaching roots,” Upham said. Correcting this issue is as easy as lightly scraping the soil surface after is has dried. Upham cautions deep tiling as it could damage young, tender roots.&nbsp;&nbsp;Standing Water&nbsp;“Standing water cuts off oxygen to the roots, which can result in plant damage if it doesn’t drain quickly enough,” he said. Plants can sometimes handle 24 hours of standing water, but hot weather following the rainfall can cause the water to become hot enough to ‘cook’ the plants.&nbsp;&nbsp;“There isn’t much that can be done about this unless a channel can be cut to allow the water to drain,” Upham said.&nbsp;Hail Damage&nbsp;Hail damaged plants should recover quickly as long as only the leaves were damaged. If stems and fruit were damaged the situation may become more serious. “The plant can recover from a few bruises, but if it looks like the plants were mowed down by a weed whip, replanting is in order,” Upham said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Leaning Plant&nbsp;“Either wind or water can cause plants to lean,” Upham said “They should start to straighten after a few days.” He does not recommend trying to bend them back as the plants often break easily.&nbsp;&nbsp;Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;available to view online&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;local K-State Research and Extension office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tips on protecting gardens during storm season 

Ann R. Phillips, 73, passed away April 16, 2022, at Hospice House, 
Hutchinson, KS.&nbsp; She was born January 24, 1949, in Great Bend, KS, to 
Virgil and Peggy (Milloway) Wilhelm.

Ann was a 1967 graduate of Otis-Bison High School, Otis, KS and went 
on to graduate from Salt City Business College, Hutchinson, KS. Ann was 
employed by The Center for Counseling and Consultation, Great Bend, KS, 
retiring in 2018 with over 35 years of service. She was a member of 
Journey Mennonite Church, South Hutchinson, KS, Hutchinson Horticulture 
Club, and the Reno County Volunteer Center.

She enjoyed gardening, decorating and spending fun times with friends
 and family, including traveling and weekly card games with special 
friends. She was also skilled in grooming family and neighborhood dogs 
and had Starbucks at the top of her list for drinks that required a 
predefined and orchestrated method of drinking.&nbsp; She loved to attend 
grandchildrens’ activities, shopping and took joy in spending time 
outdoors whether on long walks or leisurely bike rides with Jim and 
their dog Parker.&nbsp; Ann cemented lifelong friendships with her co-workers
 who became like family during her career as a medical transcriptionist.
 After retirement, Ann wore many hats and volunteered at numerous 
places, including the Hutchinson Fox Theatre, Volunteer Center of Reno 
County Friends in Action program as well as the Etc. Shop where she had 
such fun times with her co- workers, the ‘Linen Sisters’. She was a 
lovable lady with a fun sense of humor who took pride in being ‘put 
together’ and having her home and workspace beautifully decorated in the
 holidays of each season. She always brightened any gathering with her 
happy smile and quick wit. Ann truly valued her ‘tight-knit’ 
neighborhood, church, and community that she lived and participated in 
and could be counted on to be a team player. If there was a need, she 
was there to support it. She thoroughly enjoyed her various activities, 
but her most treasured times were when she was with her family, 
especially her grandkids, with whom she got so much enjoyment from and 
showered them with love always. Of all the things that she accomplished 
in her life, her most cherished roles were wife, mother, grandma, 
daughter, sister, and friend.

On July 19, 1969, Ann married the love of her life, James Lee 
Phillips, in Larned, KS and that night watched Neil Armstrong walk on 
the moon. They shared over 52 beautiful years of marriage.

She is survived by: her husband, Jim Phillips of Hutchinson, KS; 
daughter, Dana Darrah and husband Chad of Hutchinson, KS, and daughter, 
Nicole Beatty and husband Chad of Lawrence, KS; grandchildren, Lauren 
and Carter Darrah, and twins, Greyson and Liam Beatty; numerous nieces 
and nephews; and her lovable Westie, Parker.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil and Peggy Wilhelm, and brother, Duane Wilhelm.

A Celebration of Life is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, April 23, 
2022, at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson, KS with Pastor Judy Miller 
officiating. Burial will follow in the Partridge Cemetery, Partridge, 
KS.&nbsp; Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, April 22, 2022, with
 the family present from 5 to 7 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

To view the funeral service online, the link will be available at the
 end of Ann’s obituary on the Elliott Mortuary website on the day of the
 service beginning at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hospice &amp; HomeCare
 of Reno County or Journey Mennonite Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary
 and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650376352305.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ann R. Phillips, 73, passed away April 16, 2022, at Hospice House, 
Hutchinson, KS.&nbsp; She was born January 24, 1949, in Great Bend, KS, to 
Virgil and Peggy (Milloway) Wilhelm.Ann was a 1967 graduate of Otis-Bison High School, Otis, KS and went 
on to graduate from Salt City Business College, Hutchinson, KS. Ann was 
employed by The Center for Counseling and Consultation, Great Bend, KS, 
retiring in 2018 with over 35 years of service. She was a member of 
Journey Mennonite Church, South Hutchinson, KS, Hutchinson Horticulture 
Club, and the Reno County Volunteer Center.She enjoyed gardening, decorating and spending fun times with friends
 and family, including traveling and weekly card games with special 
friends. She was also skilled in grooming family and neighborhood dogs 
and had Starbucks at the top of her list for drinks that required a 
predefined and orchestrated method of drinking.&nbsp; She loved to attend 
grandchildrens’ activities, shopping and took joy in spending time 
outdoors whether on long walks or leisurely bike rides with Jim and 
their dog Parker.&nbsp; Ann cemented lifelong friendships with her co-workers
 who became like family during her career as a medical transcriptionist.
 After retirement, Ann wore many hats and volunteered at numerous 
places, including the Hutchinson Fox Theatre, Volunteer Center of Reno 
County Friends in Action program as well as the Etc. Shop where she had 
such fun times with her co- workers, the ‘Linen Sisters’. She was a 
lovable lady with a fun sense of humor who took pride in being ‘put 
together’ and having her home and workspace beautifully decorated in the
 holidays of each season. She always brightened any gathering with her 
happy smile and quick wit. Ann truly valued her ‘tight-knit’ 
neighborhood, church, and community that she lived and participated in 
and could be counted on to be a team player. If there was a need, she 
was there to support it. She thoroughly enjoyed her various activities, 
but her most treasured times were when she was with her family, 
especially her grandkids, with whom she got so much enjoyment from and 
showered them with love always. Of all the things that she accomplished 
in her life, her most cherished roles were wife, mother, grandma, 
daughter, sister, and friend.On July 19, 1969, Ann married the love of her life, James Lee 
Phillips, in Larned, KS and that night watched Neil Armstrong walk on 
the moon. They shared over 52 beautiful years of marriage.She is survived by: her husband, Jim Phillips of Hutchinson, KS; 
daughter, Dana Darrah and husband Chad of Hutchinson, KS, and daughter, 
Nicole Beatty and husband Chad of Lawrence, KS; grandchildren, Lauren 
and Carter Darrah, and twins, Greyson and Liam Beatty; numerous nieces 
and nephews; and her lovable Westie, Parker.Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil and Peggy Wilhelm, and brother, Duane Wilhelm.A Celebration of Life is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, April 23, 
2022, at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson, KS with Pastor Judy Miller 
officiating. Burial will follow in the Partridge Cemetery, Partridge, 
KS.&nbsp; Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, April 22, 2022, with
 the family present from 5 to 7 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.To view the funeral service online, the link will be available at the
 end of Ann’s obituary on the Elliott Mortuary website on the day of the
 service beginning at 10:30 a.m.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Hospice &amp; HomeCare
 of Reno County or Journey Mennonite Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary
 and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Ann R. Phillips

It is&nbsp;hard to believe that the first three months of 2022 are coming to a close.&nbsp;Today I want to focus on things that are happening in the Cottonwood District.&nbsp;Recently our Cottonwood Team met with more than twenty of our Program Development Committee members who help&nbsp;guide our work. At our dinner meeting we asked the question “What makes you STOP and consider attending an event/program?”&nbsp;Answers varied but the common theme was that programs should cover relevant topics that help improve a persons’ life in some way.&nbsp;The challenge in our&nbsp;ever-changing&nbsp;world is when to schedule educational events and whether the event will be held in person or available on-line.&nbsp;While we&nbsp;could not&nbsp;solve all the issues in our 2-hour meeting, we all came away with some great ideas of things to consider. In the months ahead look for our team of agents to try some&nbsp;innovative approaches.&nbsp;

Recent “Fermentation Workshops” held in both Great Bend and Hays attracted many participants who were new to Extension. It was fun to share the information from&nbsp;the fact sheet I wrote last year. Participants came away from the&nbsp;hands-on&nbsp;workshop with a quart of cabbage, which after three weeks, will become a tasty jar of sauerkraut. Learning about the health benefits of including a small amount of fermented food in the diet was a bonus.&nbsp;

Other Cottonwood team members have educational programs planned in their respective program areas.&nbsp;I hope you will take a minute to visit our Cottonwood website and follow the link to our monthly newsletter&nbsp;which&nbsp;contains flyers highlighting these opportunities.&nbsp;

Today&nbsp;I&nbsp;also&nbsp;want to bring you up to date on the three Extension Agent positions currently open in the Cottonwood Extension District. The position announcement/application process for the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Hays office will be&nbsp;posted on&nbsp;May 4th. Applications are due by June 1st&nbsp;and the date for interviews has been set for June 28th. The Family Community Wellness position in the Hays office will be announced later in the summer&nbsp;and the District Horticulture&nbsp;position will follow soon after.&nbsp;If you know of anyone who has the qualifications&nbsp;for these agent positions,&nbsp;plus a heart to serve the public, encourage them to apply.&nbsp;We also have a summer intern position in the Hays office&nbsp;open.&nbsp;We are&nbsp;looking for someone who has completed at least two years of college and would like to learn more about a career in Extension. The&nbsp;position description and&nbsp;application process is on our Cottonwood website.&nbsp;

Let me know how&nbsp;our team members&nbsp;in the Cottonwood Extension District, can best serve your needs!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>It is&nbsp;hard to believe that the first three months of 2022 are coming to a close.&nbsp;Today I want to focus on things that are happening in the Cottonwood District.&nbsp;Recently our Cottonwood Team met with more than twenty of our Program Development Committee members who help&nbsp;guide our work. At our dinner meeting we asked the question “What makes you STOP and consider attending an event/program?”&nbsp;Answers varied but the common theme was that programs should cover relevant topics that help improve a persons’ life in some way.&nbsp;The challenge in our&nbsp;ever-changing&nbsp;world is when to schedule educational events and whether the event will be held in person or available on-line.&nbsp;While we&nbsp;could not&nbsp;solve all the issues in our 2-hour meeting, we all came away with some great ideas of things to consider. In the months ahead look for our team of agents to try some&nbsp;innovative approaches.&nbsp;Recent “Fermentation Workshops” held in both Great Bend and Hays attracted many participants who were new to Extension. It was fun to share the information from&nbsp;the fact sheet I wrote last year. Participants came away from the&nbsp;hands-on&nbsp;workshop with a quart of cabbage, which after three weeks, will become a tasty jar of sauerkraut. Learning about the health benefits of including a small amount of fermented food in the diet was a bonus.&nbsp;Other Cottonwood team members have educational programs planned in their respective program areas.&nbsp;I hope you will take a minute to visit our Cottonwood website and follow the link to our monthly newsletter&nbsp;which&nbsp;contains flyers highlighting these opportunities.&nbsp;Today&nbsp;I&nbsp;also&nbsp;want to bring you up to date on the three Extension Agent positions currently open in the Cottonwood Extension District. The position announcement/application process for the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Hays office will be&nbsp;posted on&nbsp;May 4th. Applications are due by June 1st&nbsp;and the date for interviews has been set for June 28th. The Family Community Wellness position in the Hays office will be announced later in the summer&nbsp;and the District Horticulture&nbsp;position will follow soon after.&nbsp;If you know of anyone who has the qualifications&nbsp;for these agent positions,&nbsp;plus a heart to serve the public, encourage them to apply.&nbsp;We also have a summer intern position in the Hays office&nbsp;open.&nbsp;We are&nbsp;looking for someone who has completed at least two years of college and would like to learn more about a career in Extension. The&nbsp;position description and&nbsp;application process is on our Cottonwood website.&nbsp;Let me know how&nbsp;our team members&nbsp;in the Cottonwood Extension District, can best serve your needs!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Cottonwood Extension District update​

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Kansas Agriculture Secretary Mike Beam said Friday in Hays he sees further expansion of direct-to-consumer marketing of ag products in Kansas post-pandemic.

"I think there will be a lot of growth opportunity, especially for those who can specialize and know how to market," Beam said.

Beam was in Hays on Friday at a Hays Chamber luncheon to discuss the Kansas Department of Agriculture and trends in agriculture in the state.

Beef cattle is No. 1 for ag value output in the state with animal slaughter and meat processing also being in the top 5.

After COVID shut down and slowed production at the large meet-processing plants in the state, more meat processing businesses both small and large are either looking to expand existing businesses in Kansas or build new plants, Beam said.

In addition, the ag department is seeing more interest in expansion of the dairy industry in Kansas, especially in eastern Kansas. He said smaller diaries are looking at having processing onsite. This would employee people locally and allow smaller operations to market directly to consumers.

Farming contributes about $44 million to the Ellis County economy. Beef cattle ranching, including feedlots is the largest ag economic driver in Ellis County with annual revenue of more than $44.7 million.

Ellis County sits just west of the Smoky Hills, which is one of three of the largest intact grasslands in the state. The other two are Flint Hills in eastern Kansas and the Red Hills in south central Kansas.

Outside of beef cattle production, Ellis County produces more than $31 million in grain annually, about $8.6 million in snack foods, $6.5 million in other wholesale products and about $5.6 million in horticultural and landscape services.

The Department of Agriculture lists 434 workers directly employeed in agriculture in Ellis County.

Beam also discussed the importance of expansion of high-speed broadband in rural areas of the state. He quoted former Kansas Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue who said broadband in rural America will be as transformative in the 21st century as rural electrification was in the 20th century.

"It's the connection to the world," he said. "We found out in the pandemic how important it is to health care, education. It's a big part of the agriculture sector because we need some of that high-speed internet to use some of the latest technologies that we're just scratching the surface on.

"It's going to help us be more profitable. It's going to help us be more sustainable and competitive."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648511558668.jpeg" alt="Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam speaks to the Hays Chamber luncheon on Friday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam speaks to the Hays Chamber luncheon on Friday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostKansas Agriculture Secretary Mike Beam said Friday in Hays he sees further expansion of direct-to-consumer marketing of ag products in Kansas post-pandemic."I think there will be a lot of growth opportunity, especially for those who can specialize and know how to market," Beam said.Beam was in Hays on Friday at a Hays Chamber luncheon to discuss the Kansas Department of Agriculture and trends in agriculture in the state.Beef cattle is No. 1 for ag value output in the state with animal slaughter and meat processing also being in the top 5.After COVID shut down and slowed production at the large meet-processing plants in the state, more meat processing businesses both small and large are either looking to expand existing businesses in Kansas or build new plants, Beam said.In addition, the ag department is seeing more interest in expansion of the dairy industry in Kansas, especially in eastern Kansas. He said smaller diaries are looking at having processing onsite. This would employee people locally and allow smaller operations to market directly to consumers.Farming contributes about $44 million to the Ellis County economy. Beef cattle ranching, including feedlots is the largest ag economic driver in Ellis County with annual revenue of more than $44.7 million.Ellis County sits just west of the Smoky Hills, which is one of three of the largest intact grasslands in the state. The other two are Flint Hills in eastern Kansas and the Red Hills in south central Kansas.Outside of beef cattle production, Ellis County produces more than $31 million in grain annually, about $8.6 million in snack foods, $6.5 million in other wholesale products and about $5.6 million in horticultural and landscape services.The Department of Agriculture lists 434 workers directly employeed in agriculture in Ellis County.Beam also discussed the importance of expansion of high-speed broadband in rural areas of the state. He quoted former Kansas Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue who said broadband in rural America will be as transformative in the 21st century as rural electrification was in the 20th century."It's the connection to the world," he said. "We found out in the pandemic how important it is to health care, education. It's a big part of the agriculture sector because we need some of that high-speed internet to use some of the latest technologies that we're just scratching the surface on."It's going to help us be more profitable. It's going to help us be more sustainable and competitive."

Kan. Ag. Sec. expects more expansion of ag direct-to-consumer

Patricia L. (Rome) Ohmes passed to the life eternal on March 21, 2022, bring an end to a generation of Rome’s in Finney County. 
Born July 4th 1934, in Hays, Kansas, Pat (Patty) was the youngest and 
last living child of Nick and Pauline (Boxler) Rome. The family lived 
in St. Peter Kansas until 1939 when the family relocated to rural 
Holcomb where Pat spent her free time working on the family farm and 
writing daily letters to her brothers serving overseas during WWII. She
 graduated from Holcomb High School. During school she enjoyed playing 
basketball, tennis, and bowling. She once bowled a perfect 300 game in 
her youth. After High School she was called to religious orders and 
graduated from the Dominican School of Nursing, Marymount College in 
Salina. She spent serval years serving as a labor and delivery nurse in
 Salina, Great Bend, and Northwestern Kansas. Eventually she determined
 she could serve others better outside the holy order and moved back to 
Garden City to work at St. Catherine’s and help her brother Dave with 
his children after his wife passed away suddenly. Upon returning to 
Garden City, she met and married Aloysius Ohmes on Sept. 27, 1969, and 
started a family. 
Many will remember Pat for her award-winning baking, canning, and 
horticulture products that she sold at the local farmer market as well 
as exhibiting at the Finney County and Kansas State Fairs. She was an 
active member of St. Dominic’s Catholic Church and enjoyed cooking, 
canning, baking, gardening, quilting, and playing cards with friends and
 family. 
Survivors include her husband Aloysius, three sons Robert (Vanessa) 
Coeur D' Alene, ID, Joseph Garden City, KS, Andrew (Amanda) Wassenaar, 
Netherlands. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren and several 
nieces and nephews. 
She was proceeded in death by her daughter Dr. Julie (Marc) Stoner, her 
parents; eight brothers, Adolph Rome, Ed Rome, Jerry Rome, Mike Rome, 
Dave Rome, Pete Rome, John Rome, Anton Rome; Five sisters, Mary Rome, 
Mary Rome, Katherine Ruman, Clara Rome, and Ann Scariano. 
Vigil Service and Rosary will be held at St Dominic’s Catholic Church on
 Thursday, March 25, 2022, in Garden City. Funeral Mass will be held at 
10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 26, 2022, also at St. Dominic Catholic 
Church with Rev. Warren Stecklein as Celebrant. Burial will follow at 
Sunset Memorial Gardens in Garden City. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m.
 to 5:00 p.m. on Thursday at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City.

 The 
family request in lieu of flowers that memorials be given to the Julie A.&nbsp; Stoner memorial scholarship in Biostatics at the Hudson College of 
Public Health University of Oklahoma in care of Garnand Funeral Home.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647959967093.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Patricia L. (Rome) Ohmes passed to the life eternal on March 21, 2022, bring an end to a generation of Rome’s in Finney County. 
Born July 4th 1934, in Hays, Kansas, Pat (Patty) was the youngest and 
last living child of Nick and Pauline (Boxler) Rome. The family lived 
in St. Peter Kansas until 1939 when the family relocated to rural 
Holcomb where Pat spent her free time working on the family farm and 
writing daily letters to her brothers serving overseas during WWII. She
 graduated from Holcomb High School. During school she enjoyed playing 
basketball, tennis, and bowling. She once bowled a perfect 300 game in 
her youth. After High School she was called to religious orders and 
graduated from the Dominican School of Nursing, Marymount College in 
Salina. She spent serval years serving as a labor and delivery nurse in
 Salina, Great Bend, and Northwestern Kansas. Eventually she determined
 she could serve others better outside the holy order and moved back to 
Garden City to work at St. Catherine’s and help her brother Dave with 
his children after his wife passed away suddenly. Upon returning to 
Garden City, she met and married Aloysius Ohmes on Sept. 27, 1969, and 
started a family. 
Many will remember Pat for her award-winning baking, canning, and 
horticulture products that she sold at the local farmer market as well 
as exhibiting at the Finney County and Kansas State Fairs. She was an 
active member of St. Dominic’s Catholic Church and enjoyed cooking, 
canning, baking, gardening, quilting, and playing cards with friends and
 family. 
Survivors include her husband Aloysius, three sons Robert (Vanessa) 
Coeur D' Alene, ID, Joseph Garden City, KS, Andrew (Amanda) Wassenaar, 
Netherlands. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren and several 
nieces and nephews. 
She was proceeded in death by her daughter Dr. Julie (Marc) Stoner, her 
parents; eight brothers, Adolph Rome, Ed Rome, Jerry Rome, Mike Rome, 
Dave Rome, Pete Rome, John Rome, Anton Rome; Five sisters, Mary Rome, 
Mary Rome, Katherine Ruman, Clara Rome, and Ann Scariano. 
Vigil Service and Rosary will be held at St Dominic’s Catholic Church on
 Thursday, March 25, 2022, in Garden City. Funeral Mass will be held at 
10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 26, 2022, also at St. Dominic Catholic 
Church with Rev. Warren Stecklein as Celebrant. Burial will follow at 
Sunset Memorial Gardens in Garden City. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m.
 to 5:00 p.m. on Thursday at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City. The 
family request in lieu of flowers that memorials be given to the Julie A.&nbsp; Stoner memorial scholarship in Biostatics at the Hudson College of 
Public Health University of Oklahoma in care of Garnand Funeral Home.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Patricia L. (Rome) Ohmes

Proper care can extend the life of the favored holiday flower&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — The calendar indicates that love will soon be in the air, and for those fortunate to receive Valentine’s Day roses, Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham has some guidelines for extending the life of the flowers.&nbsp;

“For floral arrangements,” he said, “keep the vase filled or floral foam soaked with warm water. Add fresh, warm water daily. If the water turns cloudy, replace it immediately.”&nbsp;

Upham suggests re-cutting stems by removing 1-2 inches with a sharp knife, while holding the stem under water.&nbsp;

The roses should be kept in a cool spot – 65-67 degrees Fahrenheit, Upham said – and away from direct sunlight, heating or cooling vents. He also suggests avoiding areas under ceiling fans or near radiators.&nbsp;

“If a rose starts to wilt, remove it from the arrangement and re-cut the stem under water,” he said. “Submerge the entire rose in warm water. The rose should revive in 1-2 hours.”&nbsp;

For loose stem roses, Upham shared the following tips:&nbsp;

<a></a><a>Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;

Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>,&nbsp;or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.&nbsp;

<h2>Proper care can extend the life of the favored holiday flower&nbsp;</h2>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionMANHATTAN — The calendar indicates that love will soon be in the air, and for those fortunate to receive Valentine’s Day roses, Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham has some guidelines for extending the life of the flowers.&nbsp;“For floral arrangements,” he said, “keep the vase filled or floral foam soaked with warm water. Add fresh, warm water daily. If the water turns cloudy, replace it immediately.”&nbsp;Upham suggests re-cutting stems by removing 1-2 inches with a sharp knife, while holding the stem under water.&nbsp;The roses should be kept in a cool spot – 65-67 degrees Fahrenheit, Upham said – and away from direct sunlight, heating or cooling vents. He also suggests avoiding areas under ceiling fans or near radiators.&nbsp;“If a rose starts to wilt, remove it from the arrangement and re-cut the stem under water,” he said. “Submerge the entire rose in warm water. The rose should revive in 1-2 hours.”&nbsp;For loose stem roses, Upham shared the following tips:&nbsp; <ul>
 <li>If you can’t get your flowers in a food solution right away, keep them in a cool place. &nbsp;</li><li>Fill a clean, deep vase with water and add the flower food obtained from the florist. Follow directions on the package. &nbsp;</li><li>Remove leaves that will be below the water line. Leaves in water will promote bacterial growth. &nbsp;</li><li>Re-cut stems under water with a sharp knife and place the flowers in the vase solution.&nbsp; </li>
 </ul><a></a><a>Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>,&nbsp;or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.&nbsp;

K-State horticulture expert shares tips on caring for Valentine’s roses

Fourteen Fort Hays State University faculty, staff, and students were honored Friday afternoon during the 2022 spring convocation at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.&nbsp;

Three faculty members were selected for the faculty awards from the fall 2021 semester, one each in the areas of teaching, scholarly activity, and service. Each person receives a $500 cash award, funded through the support of Commerce Bank. The university deans provide $250 to the departments of the award winners.

Linda McHenry, instructor of English,&nbsp;received the Outstanding Teaching Award.

Dr. Gordon Carlson, associate professor of Communication Studies, was the recipient of the Outstanding Research and Scholarly Activity Award.&nbsp;

The Outstanding Service Award for the fall semester went to&nbsp;Dr. Donnette Noble, associate professor of Leadership Studies.

The Adjunct Faculty of the Year Award recognizes an adjunct faculty member from each of the university’s five academic colleges. Each winner receives a $500 cash award. They are:

The President’s Distinguished Service Awards recognize two staff members, one from University Support Staff (USS) and one from Unclassified Professional Staff (UPS). The awards are presented for longevity, breadth of quality contributions, and the significance of their dedication and commitment to the university. Each receives a $500 cash award.

Linda Kepka, senior administrative assistant for the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting, was the USS winner.

Derek Johnson, network operations manager in the Office of Technology Services, was the UPS winner.

The Les and Elizabeth Griffin Outstanding Service Awards were presented to two staff members and two student workers in the university’s daily operations departments. Each staff winner receives a $500 cash award, and each student winner receives a $250 cash award.

Donna Augustine, horticulture supervisor in the Facilities and Planning Office,&nbsp;received the Griffin Family Outstanding Service Award for Facility Operations-Staff.&nbsp;Amber Neighbors from Wichita&nbsp;received the Facility Operations-Student award. She is&nbsp;a warehouse/delivery assistant in Central Purchasing.

Maria Rohr – salad bar/cashier for Chartwells –&nbsp;was the recipient of the Outstanding Food Service-Staff award.&nbsp;Danny Garcia from Garden City,&nbsp;shift lead at Starbucks in the Memorial Union, was the Food Service-Student award winner.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644270912562.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFourteen Fort Hays State University faculty, staff, and students were honored Friday afternoon during the 2022 spring convocation at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.&nbsp;Three faculty members were selected for the faculty awards from the fall 2021 semester, one each in the areas of teaching, scholarly activity, and service. Each person receives a $500 cash award, funded through the support of Commerce Bank. The university deans provide $250 to the departments of the award winners.Linda McHenry, instructor of English,&nbsp;received the Outstanding Teaching Award.Dr. Gordon Carlson, associate professor of Communication Studies, was the recipient of the Outstanding Research and Scholarly Activity Award.&nbsp;The Outstanding Service Award for the fall semester went to&nbsp;Dr. Donnette Noble, associate professor of Leadership Studies.The Adjunct Faculty of the Year Award recognizes an adjunct faculty member from each of the university’s five academic colleges. Each winner receives a $500 cash award. They are:<ul>
 <li>Dr. John Mack, Department of History&nbsp;– College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.</li><li>Brian Hurley, Department of Informatics&nbsp;– Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship.</li><li>Arlea Carmack, Department of Advanced Education Programs –&nbsp;College of Education.</li><li>Breanna Taylor, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders –&nbsp;College of Health and Behavioral Sciences.</li><li>Laura Haffner, Department of Agriculture&nbsp;– Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics.</li>
 </ul>The President’s Distinguished Service Awards recognize two staff members, one from University Support Staff (USS) and one from Unclassified Professional Staff (UPS). The awards are presented for longevity, breadth of quality contributions, and the significance of their dedication and commitment to the university. Each receives a $500 cash award.Linda Kepka, senior administrative assistant for the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting, was the USS winner.Derek Johnson, network operations manager in the Office of Technology Services, was the UPS winner.The Les and Elizabeth Griffin Outstanding Service Awards were presented to two staff members and two student workers in the university’s daily operations departments. Each staff winner receives a $500 cash award, and each student winner receives a $250 cash award.Donna Augustine, horticulture supervisor in the Facilities and Planning Office,&nbsp;received the Griffin Family Outstanding Service Award for Facility Operations-Staff.&nbsp;Amber Neighbors from Wichita&nbsp;received the Facility Operations-Student award. She is&nbsp;a warehouse/delivery assistant in Central Purchasing.Maria Rohr – salad bar/cashier for Chartwells –&nbsp;was the recipient of the Outstanding Food Service-Staff award.&nbsp;Danny Garcia from Garden City,&nbsp;shift lead at Starbucks in the Memorial Union, was the Food Service-Student award winner.&nbsp;

Award winners recognized at Fort Hays State convocation

MANHATTAN, Kan. – It’s January, it’s cold and many landscapes are covered with snow, but in Kansas and surrounding areas, gardeners are heeding a similar set of commands: Ready, Set…Go?&nbsp;

“Planning for and starting vegetable and flower transplants,” said Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham, “can make this a much more interesting time of year.”&nbsp;

Steadfast gardeners know that the first of the year is an ideal time for purchasing quality seed. Specific to Kansas, Upham said K-State Research and Extension publishes a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/L41.pdf">guide of recommended vegetable varieties</a>&nbsp;to help gardeners get started.&nbsp;

“These plants have proven themselves across the state of Kansas and this is a good place to start when deciding what to plant,” Upham said. “However, also talk to your neighbors, friends and your local garden center about what has worked well for them.”&nbsp;

Upham said most garden centers and seed catalogs are reputable sources for quality seeds. If choosing seeds from a business that does not specialize in plants, “pay special attention to the package date to make sure the seed was packaged for the current year,” he said.&nbsp;

“Though most seed remains viable for about three years, germination decreases as seed ages. (Buying current seed) allows you to keep seed for a longer period of time with an expectation of good germination.”&nbsp;

Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;

Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>,&nbsp;or contact your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html">local extension office</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VPW_pirdliw"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Cold? Snow? No matter to gardeners&nbsp;</h2>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionMANHATTAN, Kan. – It’s January, it’s cold and many landscapes are covered with snow, but in Kansas and surrounding areas, gardeners are heeding a similar set of commands: Ready, Set…Go?&nbsp;“Planning for and starting vegetable and flower transplants,” said Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham, “can make this a much more interesting time of year.”&nbsp;Steadfast gardeners know that the first of the year is an ideal time for purchasing quality seed. Specific to Kansas, Upham said K-State Research and Extension publishes a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/L41.pdf">guide of recommended vegetable varieties</a>&nbsp;to help gardeners get started.&nbsp;“These plants have proven themselves across the state of Kansas and this is a good place to start when deciding what to plant,” Upham said. “However, also talk to your neighbors, friends and your local garden center about what has worked well for them.”&nbsp;Upham said most garden centers and seed catalogs are reputable sources for quality seeds. If choosing seeds from a business that does not specialize in plants, “pay special attention to the package date to make sure the seed was packaged for the current year,” he said.&nbsp;“Though most seed remains viable for about three years, germination decreases as seed ages. (Buying current seed) allows you to keep seed for a longer period of time with an expectation of good germination.”&nbsp;Additional tips include:&nbsp;&nbsp; <ul>
 <li>Determine the ‘Date to Seed’ when purchasing seeds. Gardeners who start growing plants indoors should also know their target date for transplanting outside. For example, late March and early April is the target date for transplanting broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and onions; most annual flowers are not planted until May 10 or later. &nbsp;</li><li>Do not use garden soil to germinate seed indoors; Upham said garden soil is too heavy and may contain disease organisms. “Use a media made especially for seed germination,” he said. &nbsp;</li><li>Seed must be kept moist to germinate. Water often enough so that the media never dries. “Using a clear plastic wrap over the top of the container can reduce the amount of watering needed,” Upham said. “Remove the wrap after the seedlings emerge.” &nbsp;</li><li>Many plants will germinate in darkness or light, but some require darkness only. All plants require adequate amounts of light once emergence occurs. South-facing windows may not provide enough light, so fluorescent or LED lights may be needed. &nbsp;</li><li>The temperature best for germination is often higher than what we commonly keep inside homes. “Moving the container to the ceiling or top of a refrigerator can help, but a heating mat is best for consistent germination,” Upham said. &nbsp;</li><li>Plants react to movement. Brushing over the plants with your hand stimulates them to become more stocky and less ‘leggy,’ according to Upham. Try 20 brushing strokes per day, he said. &nbsp;</li><li>Harden plants by moving them outside and exposing them to sun and wind before transplanting occurs. Start gradually two weeks out and increase the number of hours and degrees of exposure over the two-week period.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>,&nbsp;or contact your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html">local extension office</a>.&nbsp;

🎥 K-State horticulture expert says now’s the time to select seeds, begin transplants 

Sandra Diane Vap, 65, of Atwood, died Wednesday, December 15, 2021, at 
the Good Samaritan Society, in Atwood.  She was born on April 22, 1956, 
at the Rawlins County Hospital, in Atwood, to Daniel S. and Blanche O. 
(Quiroz) Vap. 

Sandy grew up on the family farm with three brothers and a
 sister. She graduated from Atwood High School in 1974. Sandy attended 
Fort Hays State University and Kansas State University after graduation.
 Sandy was married to John Roche and to this union were born two sons, 
Cullen Daniel and Aaron Michael. 
Sandy had a lifelong love of animals and horticulture. She loved 
gardening and took many animals into her home. She had a very strong 
Christian faith and spoke with God daily. Sandy loved sharing her love 
of Jesus with others. 
Sandy was preceded in death by her father Daniel Stanley Vap. 
She is survived by her sons, Cullen and Aaron; her mother Blanche; 
sister Rena Staats; brothers, Allan (Dianne), Gary and Jeff (Linda); 
nieces and nephews, Chanelle Staats (Sean), Danielle McNeal, Taylor 
(Audrey) Vap, Dylan (Amanda)Vap, Anna Lea Vap, Derik (Lindsay) Vap, 
Tyson (Shelby) Vap, Dustin (Macy) Vap and Daniel Vap; many great nieces 
and nephews and a host of friends. 
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Friday, December 
17, 2021, at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood. Funeral Mass is at 10:00 a.m. 
Saturday, December 18, 2021, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atwood, 
with burial in Sts. Cyril and Methodius Cemetery, Rural Rawlins County, 
KS. Memorials may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and
 sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For 
information visit www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639678313807.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sandra Diane Vap, 65, of Atwood, died Wednesday, December 15, 2021, at 
the Good Samaritan Society, in Atwood. She was born on April 22, 1956, 
at the Rawlins County Hospital, in Atwood, to Daniel S. and Blanche O. 
(Quiroz) Vap. Sandy grew up on the family farm with three brothers and a
 sister. She graduated from Atwood High School in 1974. Sandy attended 
Fort Hays State University and Kansas State University after graduation.
 Sandy was married to John Roche and to this union were born two sons, 
Cullen Daniel and Aaron Michael. 
Sandy had a lifelong love of animals and horticulture. She loved 
gardening and took many animals into her home. She had a very strong 
Christian faith and spoke with God daily. Sandy loved sharing her love 
of Jesus with others. 
Sandy was preceded in death by her father Daniel Stanley Vap. 
She is survived by her sons, Cullen and Aaron; her mother Blanche; 
sister Rena Staats; brothers, Allan (Dianne), Gary and Jeff (Linda); 
nieces and nephews, Chanelle Staats (Sean), Danielle McNeal, Taylor 
(Audrey) Vap, Dylan (Amanda)Vap, Anna Lea Vap, Derik (Lindsay) Vap, 
Tyson (Shelby) Vap, Dustin (Macy) Vap and Daniel Vap; many great nieces 
and nephews and a host of friends. 
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Friday, December 
17, 2021, at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood. Funeral Mass is at 10:00 a.m. 
Saturday, December 18, 2021, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atwood, 
with burial in Sts. Cyril and Methodius Cemetery, Rural Rawlins County, 
KS. Memorials may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and
 sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For 
information visit www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Sandra Diane Vap

I am often asked what exactly is “K-State Research and Extension” and about the Cottonwood Extension District. Those are great questions and I hope that I can answer for you.

K-State Research and Extension is a statewide network of educators sharing unbiased, research-based information and expertise on issues important to Kansas.&nbsp;

K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a partner in the nationwide land-grant system of universities that was created in the 1860s to educate people from all walks of life and to generate and distribute useful public knowledge. K-State scientists and extension faculty can draw on the expertise and accumulated studies and discoveries of the land-grant system, other universities, state and federal agencies, and industry. Headquartered on campus in Manhattan, K-State Research and Extension includes statewide county or district extension offices, research centers, and experiment fields supported by county, state, federal, and private funds.

It is dedicated to a safe, sustainable, competitive food and fiber system and to strong, healthy communities, families, and youth through integrated research, analysis and education.

With 131 years of research and 104 years of extension, K-State Research and Extension has been improving the quality of life and standard of living for Kansans for a century. Research completed is used by extension agents and others to help solve community issues.

This integrated system connects the university to every county through locally based educators who serve as sources of objective information. The Cottonwood Extension District was established July 1, 2017 and includes Barton and Ellis counties. An extension district addresses the changing demographics in Kansas as well as providing the ability for extension agents to be more specialized in their programming while providing education to a broader audience. Each county continues to have an office with access to research and educational opportunities in all program areas. There are currently seven extension agents across the Cottonwood Extension District covering crop production, livestock production, family and consumer science, family and community wellness, horticulture, and positive youth development.

If you have questions about what Extension can do for you? Give us a call! Quite a few years ago, I had a co-worker get cheese dip on his favorite tie and our first call was to Donna at the Extension Office to see what the best cleaning options were! Our ag agents can provide a wealth of information about improving production processes; family and community wellness agents provide educational opportunities for our communities to improve their health on physical, mental, and emotional levels. 4-H Youth Development agents are active with school, after-school, library, and recreation center programs in addition to traditional 4-H club activities!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H and Youth Development related questions, email Michelle at <a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a> or call 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579114162620.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>I am often asked what exactly is “K-State Research and Extension” and about the Cottonwood Extension District. Those are great questions and I hope that I can answer for you.K-State Research and Extension is a statewide network of educators sharing unbiased, research-based information and expertise on issues important to Kansas.&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a partner in the nationwide land-grant system of universities that was created in the 1860s to educate people from all walks of life and to generate and distribute useful public knowledge. K-State scientists and extension faculty can draw on the expertise and accumulated studies and discoveries of the land-grant system, other universities, state and federal agencies, and industry. Headquartered on campus in Manhattan, K-State Research and Extension includes statewide county or district extension offices, research centers, and experiment fields supported by county, state, federal, and private funds.It is dedicated to a safe, sustainable, competitive food and fiber system and to strong, healthy communities, families, and youth through integrated research, analysis and education.With 131 years of research and 104 years of extension, K-State Research and Extension has been improving the quality of life and standard of living for Kansans for a century. Research completed is used by extension agents and others to help solve community issues.This integrated system connects the university to every county through locally based educators who serve as sources of objective information. The Cottonwood Extension District was established July 1, 2017 and includes Barton and Ellis counties. An extension district addresses the changing demographics in Kansas as well as providing the ability for extension agents to be more specialized in their programming while providing education to a broader audience. Each county continues to have an office with access to research and educational opportunities in all program areas. There are currently seven extension agents across the Cottonwood Extension District covering crop production, livestock production, family and consumer science, family and community wellness, horticulture, and positive youth development.If you have questions about what Extension can do for you? Give us a call! Quite a few years ago, I had a co-worker get cheese dip on his favorite tie and our first call was to Donna at the Extension Office to see what the best cleaning options were! Our ag agents can provide a wealth of information about improving production processes; family and community wellness agents provide educational opportunities for our communities to improve their health on physical, mental, and emotional levels. 4-H Youth Development agents are active with school, after-school, library, and recreation center programs in addition to traditional 4-H club activities!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H and Youth Development related questions, email Michelle at <a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a> or call 620-793-1910.

BERAN: A closer look at your Extension district

To the community members of Barton and Ellis Counties,&nbsp;

I am writing this letter with appreciation and gratitude. Change is never easy, but always constant.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the beginning of November, I announced to the constituents of the Cottonwood Extension District that I had been offered a new career opportunity and elected to take the position, which I will start at the beginning of December.&nbsp;

Being the horticulture agent for both Ellis and Barton counties has been such a rewarding experience and is one that has helped shape me not only as a professional but as a person in general. When I first landed my job with K-State Research &amp; Extension, I had no idea how much the communities of Barton and Ellis Counties would impact my life. I would like to thank you all for trusting my knowledge and supporting the programs I hosted in each community over the past two and a half years. I am so thankful to have gotten the opportunity to work with and become friends with many of you in these communities and will miss serving as your horticulture agent.&nbsp;

As I transition out of my position with K-State Research &amp; Extension, I would encourage you all to continue to support Cottonwood Extension programming. There are many amazing programs and so much knowledge that can be obtained through publications and interactive classes. After I leave, the Extension Master Gardeners, along with fellow agents will happily assist you with any horticulture-related questions and can be reached at our offices in Hays and Great Bend.&nbsp;You may also find horticulture information through the University at&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/" target="_blank">https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/</a>.&nbsp;

Thank you again and I extend my best wishes for the future.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="written by: Lauren Walz - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Lauren Walz - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>To the community members of Barton and Ellis Counties,&nbsp;I am writing this letter with appreciation and gratitude. Change is never easy, but always constant.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the beginning of November, I announced to the constituents of the Cottonwood Extension District that I had been offered a new career opportunity and elected to take the position, which I will start at the beginning of December.&nbsp;Being the horticulture agent for both Ellis and Barton counties has been such a rewarding experience and is one that has helped shape me not only as a professional but as a person in general. When I first landed my job with K-State Research &amp; Extension, I had no idea how much the communities of Barton and Ellis Counties would impact my life. I would like to thank you all for trusting my knowledge and supporting the programs I hosted in each community over the past two and a half years. I am so thankful to have gotten the opportunity to work with and become friends with many of you in these communities and will miss serving as your horticulture agent.&nbsp;As I transition out of my position with K-State Research &amp; Extension, I would encourage you all to continue to support Cottonwood Extension programming. There are many amazing programs and so much knowledge that can be obtained through publications and interactive classes. After I leave, the Extension Master Gardeners, along with fellow agents will happily assist you with any horticulture-related questions and can be reached at our offices in Hays and Great Bend.&nbsp;You may also find horticulture information through the University at&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/" target="_blank">https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/</a>.&nbsp;Thank you again and I extend my best wishes for the future.Sincerely, &nbsp;Lauren Walz&nbsp;

WALZ: Blooming a new beginning 

By TAYLOR JAMISON K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham said it’s important to let the light shine on poinsettias, often a favorite flower for the fall and winter months.&nbsp;

“Place your poinsettias in a sunny window or brightest area of the room,” Upham said, “but don’t let it touch the cold window panes.”&nbsp;

If windows become drafty at night, it is best to remove poinsettias or draw drapes to avoid cold damage.&nbsp;

For the best bloom results, Upham suggests keeping poinsettias at temperatures between 65 degrees Fahrenheith – 75 F during the day, and 60-65 F at night. He said blooms won’t last as long at temperatures higher than 75 F; root rot may occur at temperatures lower than 60 F.&nbsp;

Poinsettias are also quite finicky about soil moisture conditions. Upham recommends checking soil moisture daily by sticking your finger in the soil, about one-half inch deep.&nbsp;

“If it is dry to this depth, the plant needs water,” he said. “When it becomes dry to the touch, water the plant with lukewarm water until some water runs out of the drainage hole, then discard the drainage water.”&nbsp;

Following the temperature and soil moisture guidelines should keep poinsettias in top shape during the holiday season, he said.&nbsp;

A rumor that often surfaces around times when poinsettias are at their prime is that they are poisonous. Although their milky sap may sometimes cause a mild allergic reaction in some people, there has never been a recorded case of poisoning.&nbsp;

“This rumor has been so persistent that members of the Society of American Florists have sought to dispel it by eating poinsettia leaves for the press,” Upham said.&nbsp;

According to the American Medical Association Handbook of Poisonous and Injurious Plants, poinsettias do not contain an irritant or toxin; have not been found to produce an effect orally or topically; and have not caused cases of vomiting.&nbsp;

Although consuming them is not advised, Upham said poinsettias are otherwise completely safe.&nbsp;

If you do not already have a poinsettia but are interested in purchasing one, the Kansas State University Friends of the Garden hosts an annual poinsettia sale.&nbsp;

The in-person sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 19 at the K-State Gardens’ visitor center, 1500 Denison in Manhattan. More information and prices&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/gardens/events/plant-sales.html">is available online.</a>&nbsp;

Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local K-State Research and Extension office.</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637246402294.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TAYLOR JAMISON K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. — Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham said it’s important to let the light shine on poinsettias, often a favorite flower for the fall and winter months.&nbsp;“Place your poinsettias in a sunny window or brightest area of the room,” Upham said, “but don’t let it touch the cold window panes.”&nbsp;If windows become drafty at night, it is best to remove poinsettias or draw drapes to avoid cold damage.&nbsp;For the best bloom results, Upham suggests keeping poinsettias at temperatures between 65 degrees Fahrenheith – 75 F during the day, and 60-65 F at night. He said blooms won’t last as long at temperatures higher than 75 F; root rot may occur at temperatures lower than 60 F.&nbsp;Poinsettias are also quite finicky about soil moisture conditions. Upham recommends checking soil moisture daily by sticking your finger in the soil, about one-half inch deep.&nbsp;“If it is dry to this depth, the plant needs water,” he said. “When it becomes dry to the touch, water the plant with lukewarm water until some water runs out of the drainage hole, then discard the drainage water.”&nbsp;Following the temperature and soil moisture guidelines should keep poinsettias in top shape during the holiday season, he said.&nbsp;Are Poinsettias Poisonous?&nbsp;A rumor that often surfaces around times when poinsettias are at their prime is that they are poisonous. Although their milky sap may sometimes cause a mild allergic reaction in some people, there has never been a recorded case of poisoning.&nbsp;“This rumor has been so persistent that members of the Society of American Florists have sought to dispel it by eating poinsettia leaves for the press,” Upham said.&nbsp;According to the American Medical Association Handbook of Poisonous and Injurious Plants, poinsettias do not contain an irritant or toxin; have not been found to produce an effect orally or topically; and have not caused cases of vomiting.&nbsp;Although consuming them is not advised, Upham said poinsettias are otherwise completely safe.&nbsp;Where to Buy Poinsettias&nbsp;If you do not already have a poinsettia but are interested in purchasing one, the Kansas State University Friends of the Garden hosts an annual poinsettia sale.&nbsp;The in-person sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 19 at the K-State Gardens’ visitor center, 1500 Denison in Manhattan. More information and prices&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/gardens/events/plant-sales.html">is available online.</a>&nbsp;Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local K-State Research and Extension office.</a>&nbsp;

Horticulture expert shares how to care for poinsettias

Generally, it is recommended to plant hardy bulbs (especially daffodils) in October to give them enough time to root before winter. But it is certainly not too late to plant them in early November. If the soil temperatures are above 40 degrees F, the bulbs should continue root development. 

You can find the previous week’s soil temperature readings for areas across the state from our Weather Data Library at&nbsp;<a href="http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/soiltemp/">http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/soiltemp/</a>Although many of the best bulbs have probably already been purchased, garden centers may still have a good selection. Be sure to select large, firm bulbs that have not begun to sprout. While many bulbs can adapt to a wide range of soil types, none can tolerate poorly drained soil. &nbsp;Prepare the planting bed by adding organic matter such as peat moss, well-rotted manure, or compost and mix it into the soil.Adequate fertility is essential. It is best to rely on a soil test to determine what nutrients are needed. Garden soils that have been fertilized regularly in the past may have excess levels of phosphorus. Excess phosphorus can interfere with the uptake of other essential micronutrients though levels need to be extremely high to be of concern. &nbsp;In cases where levels of phosphorus are high, it would be better to use a fertilizer relatively high in nitrogen such as a 29-5-4, 27-3-3, or something similar. &nbsp;Although these are lawn fertilizers, they will work well for our purposes if they don’t contain and weed preventer or weed killer. &nbsp;Apply these fertilizers at the rate of 2/3 pounds (3 cups) per 100 square feet. &nbsp; Organic sources of fertilizers low in phosphorus include blood meal (12-0-0) applied at 2 pounds per 100 square feet (1 tsp per sq ft), cottonseed meal (6-0.4-1.5) applied at the rate of 3 pounds per 100 square feet (2 tsp /per sq ft) and soybean meal (7-2-1) applied at the rate of 3 pounds per 100 square feet (2 tsp /per sq ft). In the absence of a soil test, or if phosphorus is needed, add a low analysis, balanced fertilizer such as 5-10-5 or 6-10-4 at the rate of 3 pounds (6 cups) per 100 square feet of bed or 2 tsp/per sq ft. Mix all amendments thoroughly with the soil before planting the bulbs. The size and species of the bulb determine how deep to plant. In general, the depth to the bottom of the bulb should be about 2 to 3 times the size of the bulb but check the planting instructions specific to each flower. Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Generally, it is recommended to plant hardy bulbs (especially daffodils) in October to give them enough time to root before winter. But it is certainly not too late to plant them in early November. If the soil temperatures are above 40 degrees F, the bulbs should continue root development. You can find the previous week’s soil temperature readings for areas across the state from our Weather Data Library at&nbsp;<a href="http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/soiltemp/">http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/soiltemp/</a>Although many of the best bulbs have probably already been purchased, garden centers may still have a good selection. Be sure to select large, firm bulbs that have not begun to sprout. While many bulbs can adapt to a wide range of soil types, none can tolerate poorly drained soil. &nbsp;Prepare the planting bed by adding organic matter such as peat moss, well-rotted manure, or compost and mix it into the soil.Adequate fertility is essential. It is best to rely on a soil test to determine what nutrients are needed. Garden soils that have been fertilized regularly in the past may have excess levels of phosphorus. Excess phosphorus can interfere with the uptake of other essential micronutrients though levels need to be extremely high to be of concern. &nbsp;In cases where levels of phosphorus are high, it would be better to use a fertilizer relatively high in nitrogen such as a 29-5-4, 27-3-3, or something similar. &nbsp;Although these are lawn fertilizers, they will work well for our purposes if they don’t contain and weed preventer or weed killer. &nbsp;Apply these fertilizers at the rate of 2/3 pounds (3 cups) per 100 square feet. &nbsp; Organic sources of fertilizers low in phosphorus include blood meal (12-0-0) applied at 2 pounds per 100 square feet (1 tsp per sq ft), cottonseed meal (6-0.4-1.5) applied at the rate of 3 pounds per 100 square feet (2 tsp /per sq ft) and soybean meal (7-2-1) applied at the rate of 3 pounds per 100 square feet (2 tsp /per sq ft). In the absence of a soil test, or if phosphorus is needed, add a low analysis, balanced fertilizer such as 5-10-5 or 6-10-4 at the rate of 3 pounds (6 cups) per 100 square feet of bed or 2 tsp/per sq ft. Mix all amendments thoroughly with the soil before planting the bulbs. The size and species of the bulb determine how deep to plant. In general, the depth to the bottom of the bulb should be about 2 to 3 times the size of the bulb but check the planting instructions specific to each flower. Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

​WALZ: There is still time to plant spring-flowering bulbs 

Pruning in August can stimulate new growth that is less hardy during the winter. But what about pruning at this time of year?

Woody plants move sugars and other materials from the leaves to storage places in the woody portions of the plant just prior to leaf fall and we would like to maximize those stored energy reserves. Even pruning later in the fall can cause a problem by reducing the cold hardiness of woody plants.

Dr. Rich Marini at Penn State Extension has written, “Based on everything that has been published we can conclude that woody plants do not attain maximum cold hardiness when they are pruned in the fall. Trees are affected more by heavy pruning than light pruning. 

"However, this does not mean that woody plants pruned in the fall will necessarily suffer winter damage. In most cases, I think we can get away with the adage of “prune whenever your pruners are sharp.” 

However, damage can occur if we have a sharp drop in temperature before plants are completely hardened off. &nbsp;Also, marginally hardy plants are more susceptible to winter damage, especially if pruned in the fall. &nbsp;Though light pruning and removal of dead wood are fine this time of year, you may want to delay severe pruning until spring.

Consider pruning to be “light” if 10 percent or less of the plant is removed. Deadwood does not count in this calculation.

Keep in mind that even light pruning of spring-blooming shrubs such as lilac and forsythia will reduce flowers for next year. We normally recommend that spring-bloomers be pruned after flowering.​

Shrubs differ in how severely they can be cut back. Junipers do not break buds from within the plant and therefore should be trimmed lightly if you wish to keep the full shape.

Overgrown junipers should be removed. On the other hand, there are certain shrubs that can be pruned back severely during the spring. Rejuvenation is the most severe type of pruning and may be used on multi-stem shrubs that have become too large with too many old branches to justify saving the younger canes.

All stems are cut back to 3- to 5-inch stubs. This works well for spirea, forsythia, pyracantha, ninebark, Russian almond, sweet mock orange, shrub roses, and flowering quince. Just remember that spring is the correct time to do this, not now. Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>Pruning in August can stimulate new growth that is less hardy during the winter. But what about pruning at this time of year?Woody plants move sugars and other materials from the leaves to storage places in the woody portions of the plant just prior to leaf fall and we would like to maximize those stored energy reserves. Even pruning later in the fall can cause a problem by reducing the cold hardiness of woody plants.Dr. Rich Marini at Penn State Extension has written, “Based on everything that has been published we can conclude that woody plants do not attain maximum cold hardiness when they are pruned in the fall. Trees are affected more by heavy pruning than light pruning. "However, this does not mean that woody plants pruned in the fall will necessarily suffer winter damage. In most cases, I think we can get away with the adage of “prune whenever your pruners are sharp.” However, damage can occur if we have a sharp drop in temperature before plants are completely hardened off. &nbsp;Also, marginally hardy plants are more susceptible to winter damage, especially if pruned in the fall. &nbsp;Though light pruning and removal of dead wood are fine this time of year, you may want to delay severe pruning until spring.Consider pruning to be “light” if 10 percent or less of the plant is removed. Deadwood does not count in this calculation.Keep in mind that even light pruning of spring-blooming shrubs such as lilac and forsythia will reduce flowers for next year. We normally recommend that spring-bloomers be pruned after flowering.​Shrubs differ in how severely they can be cut back. Junipers do not break buds from within the plant and therefore should be trimmed lightly if you wish to keep the full shape.Overgrown junipers should be removed. On the other hand, there are certain shrubs that can be pruned back severely during the spring. Rejuvenation is the most severe type of pruning and may be used on multi-stem shrubs that have become too large with too many old branches to justify saving the younger canes.All stems are cut back to 3- to 5-inch stubs. This works well for spirea, forsythia, pyracantha, ninebark, Russian almond, sweet mock orange, shrub roses, and flowering quince. Just remember that spring is the correct time to do this, not now. Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.

Walz: Pruning trees, shrubs in fall

Hoses and shallow irrigation lines may be damaged over the winter if water is not drained. If there is a main shut-off valve for the system, close it and then run through the zones to make sure any pressure has a chance to bleed off. Lawn irrigation systems usually have shallow lines. 

Though some lines may be self-draining, check to be sure there are no manual drains. If manual drains are present, they should be opened. Be sure to map them so they can be closed next spring before the system is pressurized. &nbsp;If there are no manual drains the system should be blown out with an air compressor. &nbsp;Lawn irrigation companies often offer this service. Drain hoses by stretching them out and coiling them for storage. Water will drain as you pull the hose toward you for coiling. Store in a protected place. UV light can make hoses brittle over time. Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Hoses and shallow irrigation lines may be damaged over the winter if water is not drained. If there is a main shut-off valve for the system, close it and then run through the zones to make sure any pressure has a chance to bleed off. Lawn irrigation systems usually have shallow lines. Though some lines may be self-draining, check to be sure there are no manual drains. If manual drains are present, they should be opened. Be sure to map them so they can be closed next spring before the system is pressurized. &nbsp;If there are no manual drains the system should be blown out with an air compressor. &nbsp;Lawn irrigation companies often offer this service. Drain hoses by stretching them out and coiling them for storage. Water will drain as you pull the hose toward you for coiling. Store in a protected place. UV light can make hoses brittle over time. Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

​WALZ: Draining hoses and irrigation lines

MANHATTAN — The Kansas Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for the 2021 Specialty Crop Block Grant H.R. 133 Stimulus Program. This program is in addition to the traditional Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Awards for that program will be announced later this fall.&nbsp;

Funds for both grant programs are awarded to the agency by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service. 

The funds are in turn granted to projects and organizations to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops by leveraging efforts to market and promote specialty crops; assisting producers with research and development relevant to specialty crops; expanding availability and access to specialty crops; and addressing local, regional, and national challenges confronting specialty crop producers. 

Specialty crops are defined by the USDA as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture.”

Due to COVID-19 impacts on the food system, Congress authorized one-time additional funding for the Specialty Crop Block Grant H.R. 133 Stimulus Program outside of the traditional Farm Bill funding under the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act. Kansas is expected to receive approximately $450,000 in H.R. 133 Stimulus funding for the 2021 grant cycle.

Applications will be evaluated by a team of external reviewers. The team will rate proposals on their ability to successfully promote specialty crops in Kansas and make a positive impact on the Kansas economy. Those recommendations will be submitted to the Kansas Secretary of Agriculture, who will make the final awards.

Applications are due to KDA no later than 5:00 p.m. CST on November 24, 2021. For more information, please download the 2021 KDA Request for Applications from:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTEwMDcuNDcwMzA4MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2FncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9zcGVjaWFsdHljcm9wP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.mRIBPLsHrCoc1M5vHd5Baqex7nb85Dbh0Fa7_Nbt83g/s/1377890594/br/113551709257-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/specialtycrop</a>.

The vision of the Kansas Department of Agriculture is to provide an ideal environment for long-term, sustainable agricultural prosperity and statewide economic growth. To achieve this vision, the agency advocates for sectors at all levels and provides industry outreach.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633973653590.jpeg" alt="Bobwhite Vines LLC, of Hartford, Kansas (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Bobwhite Vines LLC, of Hartford, Kansas (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>KDAMANHATTAN — The Kansas Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for the 2021 Specialty Crop Block Grant H.R. 133 Stimulus Program. This program is in addition to the traditional Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Awards for that program will be announced later this fall.&nbsp;Funds for both grant programs are awarded to the agency by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service. The funds are in turn granted to projects and organizations to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops by leveraging efforts to market and promote specialty crops; assisting producers with research and development relevant to specialty crops; expanding availability and access to specialty crops; and addressing local, regional, and national challenges confronting specialty crop producers. Specialty crops are defined by the USDA as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture.”Due to COVID-19 impacts on the food system, Congress authorized one-time additional funding for the Specialty Crop Block Grant H.R. 133 Stimulus Program outside of the traditional Farm Bill funding under the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act. Kansas is expected to receive approximately $450,000 in H.R. 133 Stimulus funding for the 2021 grant cycle.Applications will be evaluated by a team of external reviewers. The team will rate proposals on their ability to successfully promote specialty crops in Kansas and make a positive impact on the Kansas economy. Those recommendations will be submitted to the Kansas Secretary of Agriculture, who will make the final awards.Applications are due to KDA no later than 5:00 p.m. CST on November 24, 2021. For more information, please download the 2021 KDA Request for Applications from:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTEwMDcuNDcwMzA4MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2FncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9zcGVjaWFsdHljcm9wP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.mRIBPLsHrCoc1M5vHd5Baqex7nb85Dbh0Fa7_Nbt83g/s/1377890594/br/113551709257-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/specialtycrop</a>.The vision of the Kansas Department of Agriculture is to provide an ideal environment for long-term, sustainable agricultural prosperity and statewide economic growth. To achieve this vision, the agency advocates for sectors at all levels and provides industry outreach.

New stimulus grant opportunity for specialty crops announced by KDA 

Though we often think of soil testing as a spring chore, fall can be a better time.

Soil-testing laboratories are often very busy during the spring resulting in a longer turnaround from submission to recommendations. Also, soils in the spring are often waterlogged, making taking samples difficult.

If your soil test suggests more organic matter, fall is a much better season because materials are more available than in the spring (tree leaves), and fresher materials can be used without harming young tender spring-planted plants.

​Begin by taking a representative sample from at least six locations in the garden or lawn. Each sample should contain soil from the surface to about 6 to 8 inches deep.

This is most easily done with a soil sampler. Many K-State Research and Extension offices have such samplers available for checkout. If you don’t have a sampler, use a shovel to dig straight down into the soil. Then shave a small layer off the back of the hole for your sample. Mix the samples together in a clean plastic container and select about 1 to 1.5 cups of soil. This can be placed in a plastic container such as a resealable plastic bag.

Take the soil to your county extension office to have tests done for a small charge at the K-State soil-testing laboratory. A soil test determines fertility problems, not other conditions that may exist such as poor drainage, poor soil structure, soil-borne diseases or insects, chemical contaminants or damage, or shade with root competition from other plants. All these conditions may reduce plant performance but cannot be evaluated by a soil test. Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634147981287.jpeg" alt="Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>Though we often think of soil testing as a spring chore, fall can be a better time.Soil-testing laboratories are often very busy during the spring resulting in a longer turnaround from submission to recommendations. Also, soils in the spring are often waterlogged, making taking samples difficult.If your soil test suggests more organic matter, fall is a much better season because materials are more available than in the spring (tree leaves), and fresher materials can be used without harming young tender spring-planted plants.​Begin by taking a representative sample from at least six locations in the garden or lawn. Each sample should contain soil from the surface to about 6 to 8 inches deep.This is most easily done with a soil sampler. Many K-State Research and Extension offices have such samplers available for checkout. If you don’t have a sampler, use a shovel to dig straight down into the soil. Then shave a small layer off the back of the hole for your sample. Mix the samples together in a clean plastic container and select about 1 to 1.5 cups of soil. This can be placed in a plastic container such as a resealable plastic bag.Take the soil to your county extension office to have tests done for a small charge at the K-State soil-testing laboratory. A soil test determines fertility problems, not other conditions that may exist such as poor drainage, poor soil structure, soil-borne diseases or insects, chemical contaminants or damage, or shade with root competition from other plants. All these conditions may reduce plant performance but cannot be evaluated by a soil test. Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.

WALZ: ​Fall is a Good Time for Soil Testing 

Sometimes you will hear people say to let the grass grow tall right before winter sets in. Their reasoning is that the extra foliage will insulate the crown of the plant from the extreme cold of winter. Although this may sound reasonable, in practice it probably does little, if anything, to increase winter hardiness. On the contrary, a canopy that is too high during the winter may lay over and become matted down, leading to an increased incidence of winter diseases such as snow mold. Turfgrass species vary genetically in their cold tolerance, with warm-season grasses such as bermudagrass, zoysiagrass, and buffalograss being less cold tolerant than the cool-season types such as tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass. Given these differences, cold tolerance is improved by increasing the health of the plants going into the winter, and healthy plants are a result of a sound management program (fertilizing, watering, and mowing) during the spring, summer and fall.The lawn will benefit more from continuing to mow at the recommended height than from trying to gain some insulation against winter cold by allowing it to grow tall. Here is a list of the recommended mowing height ranges (in inches) for home lawns in Kansas:&nbsp; • Tall fescue: 2.5 -3.5&nbsp; &nbsp; • Kentucky bluegrass: 2-3&nbsp; &nbsp; • Buffalograss: 2-3&nbsp; &nbsp; • Bermudagrass: 1-2&nbsp; &nbsp; • Zoysiagrass: 1-2

(Note: Mowing at heights below 1.5 inches requires a reel mower).​There may be some benefits gained by adjusting mowing heights WITHIN the recommended range at times. For example, it is a good practice to mow warm-season grasses at the higher end of recommended heights during late summer and early fall because this practice should help them store more carbohydrate reserves for the winter, and it may reduce the incidence of certain cool-weather diseases. But the rule to remember is to stay within the recommended height range for your species. Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Sometimes you will hear people say to let the grass grow tall right before winter sets in. Their reasoning is that the extra foliage will insulate the crown of the plant from the extreme cold of winter. Although this may sound reasonable, in practice it probably does little, if anything, to increase winter hardiness. On the contrary, a canopy that is too high during the winter may lay over and become matted down, leading to an increased incidence of winter diseases such as snow mold. Turfgrass species vary genetically in their cold tolerance, with warm-season grasses such as bermudagrass, zoysiagrass, and buffalograss being less cold tolerant than the cool-season types such as tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass. Given these differences, cold tolerance is improved by increasing the health of the plants going into the winter, and healthy plants are a result of a sound management program (fertilizing, watering, and mowing) during the spring, summer and fall.The lawn will benefit more from continuing to mow at the recommended height than from trying to gain some insulation against winter cold by allowing it to grow tall. Here is a list of the recommended mowing height ranges (in inches) for home lawns in Kansas:&nbsp; • Tall fescue: 2.5 -3.5&nbsp; &nbsp; • Kentucky bluegrass: 2-3&nbsp; &nbsp; • Buffalograss: 2-3&nbsp; &nbsp; • Bermudagrass: 1-2&nbsp; &nbsp; • Zoysiagrass: 1-2(Note: Mowing at heights below 1.5 inches requires a reel mower).​There may be some benefits gained by adjusting mowing heights WITHIN the recommended range at times. For example, it is a good practice to mow warm-season grasses at the higher end of recommended heights during late summer and early fall because this practice should help them store more carbohydrate reserves for the winter, and it may reduce the incidence of certain cool-weather diseases. But the rule to remember is to stay within the recommended height range for your species. Lauren Walz is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

WALZ: Should you let your turf grow tall in the fall?

Popular program will offer sessions on backyard birds, winter landscapes&nbsp;

<h2>Popular program will offer sessions on backyard birds, winter landscapes&nbsp;</h2>K-State News &amp; ExtensionMANHATTAN – Organizers of a popular, lunch-hour gardening program say they are gearing up to offer more sessions even as the days turn a bit colder.&nbsp;The K-State Garden Hour wraps up its fall series in late September, but officials have announced two sessions that will be held the first Wednesday in October and November.&nbsp;A&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre-learn.com/KStateGardenHour-register">one-time registration fee</a>&nbsp;gives viewers free access to both sessions, which include:&nbsp; <ul>
 <li>Oct. 6 – Embrace your landscape’s wild side: Supporting backyard birds.&nbsp;</li><li>Nov. 3 – Winter interest in the landscape.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>More information on both sessions and recordings of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre-learn.com/KStateGardenHour">past webinars are available online</a>.&nbsp;The K-State Garden Hour debuted online during the COVID-19 pandemic to accommodate gardeners staying at home more often, as well as those who were looking for an outdoor hobby.&nbsp;Matthew McKernan, a K-State Research and Extension horticulture agent in Sedgwick County, said nearly 10,000 participants attended at least one session through the first half of 2021. Though statistics aren’t yet available for the fall series, the interest in the program among Kansans seems to have continued the past several weeks.&nbsp;“Even though people often garden less during the winter months, there are still many things everyone can do to create landscape interest and support garden wildlife in the winter months,” McKernan said. “That’s really what our winter series of the K-State Garden Hour will focus on – getting the most out of your garden even in the winter months”.&nbsp;In addition to information online, interested persons can also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">contact their local K-State Research and Extension office</a>&nbsp;for more details on the K-State Garden Hour.&nbsp;