Saturday, February 28, 2009

Friday, February 27, 2009

Von Bergen's Country Market

Von Bergen's Country Market

Bobette Von Bergen, 9805 Rt 173, Hebron IL 60034, (815) 648-2332.

Mid-July - Oct 31, Mon-Sun, 8:30am-6pm. Tues at Woodstock Farmers Market.

Sells sweet corn, tomatoes, muskmelons, peppers, cauliflower, beets, broccoli,
summer squash, winter squash, fall decorations, green beans, large variety of fruits, other vegetables in season.

vbacres@hotmail.com
www.vonbergens.com


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Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Klehm Farmers Market (Rockford IL)

Klehm Farmers Market

U of I Extension at 815-986-4357 or Jane Snively, (815) 965-8146

June 16-Sept 22, Mondays, 4-7pm.

Held on the grounds of the Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, the emphasis of the Klem Farmers Market is on locally grown foods including fruits, vegetables, and plants.

2715 S Main St, Rockford IL 61102

jsnively@klehm.org

www.klehm.org


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Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Susie's Garden Patch

Susie's Garden Patch

Susie & Doug Silberhorn, 10258 US Hwy 20, Garden Prairie IL 61038, (815) 597-3011, (815) 597-3011.

May-Oct 31, Mon-Sat 9am-6:30pm, Sun noon-5pm.

Attend local farmers markets including Edgebrook (Wed), Colonial Village
(Fri), Belvidere, Dodge Lanes (Sat).

U-Pick Vegetables: Asparagus, strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes, peppers, hot pepper, egg plant, okra, brussel sprouts, cabbage.
Fruit: Michigan strawberries, blueberries, and peaches.

susie@susiesgardenpatch.com,
www.susiesgardenpatch.com


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Monday, February 23, 2009

New Look - Same Great Taste!

In the spirit (if not actuality) of spring, I decided to change up the site a little bit. The sidebar is on the left, rather than the right side of the page now, and I've moved some topics around. I hope you like the new color scheme. Let me know what you think!

DIY: Attract Migratory Birds to Your Garden

If you enjoy birdwatching, or even just enjoy watching wildlife in general, then there's nothing more satisfying that creating your own little bird sanctuary and watching periodic visitors drop by. All right - fly by.

To make the most of your backyard, start with a water source. Whether it's an ornamental pond or a classic bird bath, nothing will draw your feathered friends faster than a visible and inviting stretch of water.

Next, plant trees and shrubs that are native to your area or region. Remember - the birds that summer (or winter) in your area have adapted to living in, on and around native plants. Moreover, native flowers and shrubs will attract typical insects that migratory birds love to feast upon.

And speaking of ground cover, a brush pile or large shrubs will attract birds by giving them a secure place to nest in, or even just spend time in. Remember: most migratory birds nest in shrubs and spend time on tree branches, so birdhouses will not lure many traveling species.

Migratory birds are delightful summertime companions and bring excitement and a dash of color to even the smallest backyard or patio. These simple tips can help you create a small sanctuary for these lovely little creatures.

Bonus! Come back later in the week for a video with more tips and ideas to encourage birds to stop by.

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Calendar Update: 2/22 - 2/28

What: BCCD Garden Club
Where: Boone County Conservation District
Address: 603 N. Appleton Rd., Belvidere, IL
When: 7:00 PM on February 24, 2009
How much: free

What: Catch the Wave of Ornamental Grasses
Where: University of Illinois Extension-Boone County
Address: 915 Alexandra Drive, Belvidere, IL
When: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM on February 24, 2009
How much: $7
Description: Ornamental grasses offer great all-season interest. Class will be also be offered from 7 to 8 :30 p.m. Feb. 26. Preregistration required by callling 815-544-3710.

Friday, February 20, 2009

Local ENERGY In Northern Illinois: The State of Biodiesel

First, What Is Biodiesel?
Well, you could also call it "used vegetable oil" that's been purified and refined. Generally, however, it comes from raw soybeans that are crushed and distilled.

Can I Use Biodiesel in My Vehicle?
Most vehicles that can run diesel can run blends of 20% biodiesel without any problems. Burning straight vegetable oil is also possible, but may require some engine modifications for long-term maintenance.

Where Can I Find Biodiesel?
Well, try this link.

Interested in Buying a Diesel Automobile?
Check out this link at edmunds.com before you buy.