Join University of Illinois Extension for a season full of hands-on learning, scenic tours, and outdoor experiences as we explore native plants, pollinators, prairies, and sustainable landscaping practices. Check out these upcoming horticulture events and reserve your spot today!
Rainscaping Planting Day
Monday, Sept. 21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Moline
Join us for a Rain Garden planting day at the Floreciente Community Garden! This session runs from 9 am to 3 pm with a break for lunch. Light lunch provided. Feel free to come and go, no obligation to stay for the entirety of the planting day. For more information visit: go.illinois.edu/RainscapingPlanting.
Fall Harvest Prairie Tour
Tuesday, Sept. 22 at 5:30 p.m. in Aledo
Join Illinois Extension and the Mercer County Master Gardeners for a night on the prairie. You will ride on an open hayrack and tour the amazing Prairie Hills Farm as homeowner Bill Joseph talks about the plants and history. Space is limited, so please register. The cost is $10 per person. For more information visit: go.illinois.edu/PrairieTourAledo.
Rainscaping Education Program
Wednesday, Sept. 23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Moline
Join Horticulture Educator Emily Swihart for the Rainscaping Education Program! This program will provide practical, research-based methods to manage rainwater at home or in small public spaces. This session runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with an hour break for lunch. Taco bar provided. For more information visit: go.illinois.edu/Rainscaping2026.
Plants and Pollinators: A Perfect Pair
Monday, Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to noon, Milan
Join Horticulture Educator Emily Swihart for this Botanical Workshop Series. Explore the perfect pairing of plants and pollinators and how their interactions help sustain ecosystems. Following the discussion, participants will design and decorate a custom photo frame using an assortment of pressed and dried flowers. For more information visit: go.illinois.edu/PlantsandPollinators2026.
Fall Walk
Tuesday, Sept. 22 at 9 a.m., Alexis, IL
Bring your favorite coffee mug and we will bring the coffee! Join us at Brownlee Cemetery Prairie Nature Preserve for a fall walk through one of Mercer County’s outstanding native prairie remnants. Learn about the native grasses and wildflowers that make this landscape unique while enjoying the changing colors of the season. For more information visit: go.illinois.edu/FallWalk.
Native Plants Support Pollinators
Tuesday, Oct. 20 from 10 to 11 a.m., Milan, IL
Discover how native plants provide critical habitat and food sources for a wide range of pollinators, including butterflies, birds, moths, beetles, bats, and more. Learn ways to support pollinator populations while enhancing the beauty and ecological value of your landscape.This program will include a presentation by Master Gardner, Cindy Lenger. For more information visit: go.illinois.edu/NativePlantsSupportPollinators.
University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, contact them at uie-hmrs@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged.
