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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

  • Yellow coreopsis flowers.

    Fuss-Free Native Plants

    Native plants are great to have in the landscape because they often do not require watering, fertilization, or maintenance. They grow naturally in the region and are adapted to the overall climate and soil conditions. Native plants also provide food and shelter for wildlife and pollinators! 

  • Beef brisket.

    How to Identify Beef Cuts

  • a glass of lemonade

    The Food Factor

    Lemonade is refreshing anytime of year! Try this version sweetened with honey.

  • A pile of heirloom tomatoes

    What are Heirloom Tomatoes?

    Heirloom tomatoes have three distinct characteristics. Learn what makes them different from other kinds of tomatoes.

  • bunches of bananas

    All About Potassium

    Potassium, like other nutrients, helps our bodies function properly. Potassium is a mineral that helps our bodies perform a number of functions, like muscle contractions, fluid regulation, and mineral balance in cells. It also helps us maintain normal blood pressure by limiting the effect of sodium. But many of us don't get enought of it. You might be surprised at the variety of potassium-rich foods.

  • Turtle crossing the road

    Why do Turtles Cross Roads?

    In the South, there’s a legend that says rain is on the way any time you see a turtle cross the road. There’s very little truth to this myth, even though it does seem like rain is in the forecast after we see one of these creatures slowly making its way across the street. 

  • closeup of meatballs

    The Food Factor: BBQ Venison Meatballs

    No matter how you slice it, venison is a great addition to your diet. These meatballs are versatile, and there are lots of ways you can add them to your meal plan.

  • close up of a person pruning a branch with pruning sheers

    When and How to Prune Landscape Plants

    Pruning is one of the least understood gardening tasks and for good reason – it’s confusing. When, how, and if you should prune depends on the type of plant or tree you have and your goal for the plant.

  • White and pink native azaleas.

    All About Azaleas

    There’s no plant more iconic in the springtime than azaleas. Their bright, colorful blooms are exactly what we need to welcome the warm weather after a dreary winter. 

Mississippi State University Extension 130 Bost Drive Mississippi State MS 39762