Penn State Extension

Join us for an Evening in the Garden Open House and discover what’s growing at the Penn State Flower Trials!

Explore vibrant displays of annual flowers, exciting new plant introductions, and the latest research helping shape recommendations for home gardeners and the green industry. Guided tours will feature the Bees, Bugs, and Blooms Project, highlighting pollinator-friendly plantings, beneficial insect habitats, and new patio vegetable varieties.

Visitors can also enjoy:
— Happy Birthday America: Crops from 250 Years Ago 🌼
— Family-friendly pollinator activities 🐝
— A container gardening demonstration 🪴

Whether you're a passionate gardener, industry professional, or simply curious about what's blooming, this open house offers a unique opportunity to explore the research and innovation influencing Pennsylvania's gardens and landscapes.

This event is free to attend. Registration is encouraged and appreciated.

Part of the Penn State Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center's seasonal open house series.

➡️ https://ow.ly/1X0o50ZfV2p

With recent discussions surrounding the New World Screwworm, our own Barnyard Broadcast podcast wanted to provide timely, science-based information to help producers, veterinarians, animal owners, and the public better understand this emerging issue.

In the latest podcast episode, we’re joined by Dr. Erika Machtinger, Penn State Associate Professor of Veterinary Entomology, and Dr. Tara Felix, Penn State Extension Beef Specialist, to discuss what the New World Screwworm is, why it matters, current outbreak concerns, and what steps can be taken to help protect animal health.

Whether you work with livestock, horses, or simply want to stay informed about emerging animal health threats, this episode offers valuable insights and practical information.

Be sure to check out the helpful resources included with the episode, and keep an eye out for the next conversation:

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Do you rely on a private well, spring, or cistern for your drinking water?

Join us for a free educational workshop to learn about PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), often called "forever chemicals," and how they may impact private water supplies. You'll learn how PFAS move through the environment, potential exposure pathways, how to interpret water test results, available treatment options, and the latest research and regulations.

As part of the workshop, eligible participants will receive a complimentary PFAS water test valued at approximately $300.

To qualify for free testing, participants must:
— Register and attend the live workshop
— Live in a primary residence with a private water supply (well, spring, or cistern)
— Complete water sample collection and return it to a designated drop-off location

Only one test is available per household, and testing capacity is limited. Please register only if you can attend the workshop and complete the testing process.

This program is funded through support from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the CDC Environmental Health Capacity Building Initiative, and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's Master Well Owner Network program.

➡️ https://ow.ly/1oof50ZghBT

How much pasture does a horse need? 🐴

The answer depends on several factors, including forage quality, pasture management, and whether the pasture is meant to provide most of the horse’s nutrition or simply serve as an exercise area.

In Pennsylvania, a common guideline for continuous grazing is 2 to 4 acres per horse to maintain healthy, productive pasture. However, intensive management practices may allow horses to thrive on less land.

Visit the Extension website and ask Tilva your equine questions for trusted guidance ➡️ ai.extension.psu.edu

Warmer weather means more time outdoors—whether you're grilling with friends, gardening, or enjoying your backyard. But as temperatures rise, so does mosquito activity.

Here are a few simple ways to reduce mosquito bites around your home:

— Eliminate standing water. Mosquitoes need water to complete their life cycle. Check your property regularly for items that collect water, including buckets, toys, tarps, bird baths, rain barrels, and outdoor containers. 🦟

— Maintain water features. Clean and refill bird baths weekly, keep fountains and ponds circulating when possible, and cover rain barrels with fine-mesh screens. Water that cannot be emptied can be treated with Bti mosquito dunks, which target mosquito larvae without harming other animals when used as directed. 💧

— Enjoy screened spaces. Screened porches and enclosed tents help keep mosquitoes out during summer gatherings. Inspect screens annually and repair any holes. 🏡

— Use EPA-registered insect repellents. Products containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus can help protect against mosquitoes and may also reduce tick bites. Always follow label instructions.🧴

— Dress for protection. Loose-fitting, long sleeves and pants can provide an additional barrier against mosquitoes and ticks. 👕

— Stay informed. Monitor local public health updates about mosquito and tick activity in your area to help plan outdoor activities safely. 📍

With a few precautions, you can spend more time enjoying the outdoors and less time swatting away unwanted pests.

Virginia bluebells are beloved native wildflowers that commonly signal the arrival of spring. 💙

These ephemeral perennials emerge early in the season with striking purple foliage that quickly turns green as the plants mature. Their nodding, bell-shaped blooms open in shades of pink before transitioning to beautiful blue-purple flowers from April through May.

Not only are they stunning in woodland gardens, but they also provide an important nectar source for hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators. 🐝

With it being early June, Virginia bluebells have already begun to go dormant, with their foliage dying back for the season. Pairing them with later-blooming perennials helps keep garden spaces full and vibrant through summer and fall.

Did you see any Virginia bluebells this spring?