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Extension for Real Life

Description

Extension for Real Life is a product of the MSU Extension Service’s Office of Agricultural Communications.

That’s a long way of saying we are professional communicators who get to talk about food, families, 4-H, flowers, and farming for a living.

Blog content is created by a core team of communicators, including Susan Collins-Smith, Ellen Graves, Natasha Haynes, Qula Madkin, Michaela Parker, and Jonathan Parrish. But we get by with a lot of help from our friends in Ag Comm and Extension!

You can reach us at 662-325-2262 or extreallife@msstate.edu

  • Sassafras Tree Leaves

    Tree of the Month: Sassafras

    This tree is quite a unique specimen. Its qualities – name, oil, habitat, and how it reproduces – make sassafras a tree to marvel at. 

  • A group of zinnias with the sky in the background.

    How to Grow a Cut Flower Garden

    Do you enjoy having cut flowers around the house? With the right preparation and some gardening labor, you can harvest your own blossoms just outside the back door.

  • Kids jumping in a lake

    Summer Water Safety Tips

    With the temperatures rising, many people are heading to the pool, river, or lake to beat the heat. It’s important to keep water safety in mind when out with friends and family.

  • A bowl of Mediterranean Salad.

    The Food Factor: Mediterranean Salad

    This Mediterranean Salad makes a great meal or side dish.

  • Closeup of a dial on a pressure canner.

    Home Canning Q&A

    Home canning is an economical way to preserve the bounty of your garden. This Q&A may answer some questions for you, whether you’re new to canning or you’ve been canning for years.

  • A woman stands behind a kitchen counter with a variety of foods displayed.

    Tips to Manage High Blood Pressure

    High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a significant risk factor for heart disease. However, healthy lifestyle choices can reduce or eliminate your risk.

  • A plate of PBJ Nachos

    The Food Factor: Slammin’ Graham PBJ Nachos

    These simple five-minute peanut butter and jelly apple nachos are the perfect treat!

  • White flowers blooming on a tree.

    Tree of the Month: Southern Catalpa

    We’ve talked about a few trees this year. We hope you’ve learned a thing or two about how to identify different trees! 

  • Largemouth Bass Fish

    Six Common Fish in Mississippi

    Fishing is a common pastime in the South. In fact, 4-H fishing clubs are one of the fastest growing 4-H clubs in Mississippi! Do you know the different fish species?

Mississippi State University Extension 130 Bost Drive Mississippi State MS 39762