News

Certain plants keep gardens bright despite winter weather

Though the temperatures have cooled down, it doesn’t mean our gardens have to fade into the background.

Some plants truly shine when the weather turns crisp; they offer long-lasting color and charm throughout the winter months. With a little planning, you can create containers and garden beds that stay vibrant even during the coldest days.

Poinsettia colors add to holiday decorations

Every holiday season, few plants capture the spirit of Christmas quite like the poinsettia.

With their festive colors and cheerful presence, poinsettias have long been a favorite for decorating homes, churches and businesses. But did you know that poinsettias come in far more colors than the classic red?

Emerald ash borer has arrived in state

-- The invasive emerald ash borer that is decimating ash trees across North America has arrived in Mississippi with its discovery in Issaquena County in July.

The pest, known by the abbreviation EAB, was confirmed by the Mississippi Forestry Commission and verified by the Mississippi Entomological Museum at Mississippi State University before being sent to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for confirmation.

MSU Winter Catfish Seminar set for Dec. 2 in Columbus

COLUMBUS, Miss. -- Catfish farmers and infrastructure personnel are invited to the Winter National Warmwater Aquaculture Center Catfish Seminar Dec. 2.

MSU vegetable short course set for Feb. 24-25

VERONA, Miss. -- Current and prospective commercial vegetable growers can learn about specialized production methods during Mississippi State University’s 2026 Vegetable Short Course Feb. 24-25.

Container gardening is a winner for fall landscapes

The rich hues of fall don’t have to stay in the landscape. Cheerful planters brimming with seasonal color can greet family and guests at your front door, porch or patio.

Even if you don’t have much time to spend in the garden during the holiday season, these thoughtfully arranged containers can make your home warm and inviting.

Container gardening isn’t just for spring and summer.

Family tradition helps Christmas tree farms

It seems Christmas tree farms benefit from the fact that Mississippians like to pass down the tradition of choosing and cutting their own trees.

Jeff Wilson, horticulture specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, said there are at least 22 Christmas tree farms scattered across the state serving the population who likes to choose and cut their own tree as the way to begin the Christmas season. 

Pecan harvest decent despite weather, disease

RAYMOND, Miss. -- While most Mississippi pecan producers are reporting fair to good crops, dry summer weather and disease reduced harvest at some orchards.

Try these ferns in shady landscapes

Who says shade gardens have to fade into the background? Ferns are among the plants that can turn cool, quiet corners into enchanting spaces in the landscape.