Horticulture

photo of a field of wildflowers

Horticulture is often defined as the art and science of growing plants – flowers, fruits, vegetables, trees and more! Research shows an intimate connection between people and plants – fresh fruits and vegetables feed and nourish our bodies, trees shade and cool the places we live, flowers brighten our landscapes, and as research shows, our spirits too.

There is another side to horticulture as well. Invasive pests destroy our natural resources at a large financial and environmental cost. Additionally, the misuse and misunderstanding of pesticides causes pollution and health risks. Division of Extension programs aid in finding the appropriate, most cost effective and environmentally sound solutions that are best for you.

As the demand for horticultural products increase, Division of Extension programs aid in finding the appropriate, most cost effective and environmentally sound solutions that are best for the individual.

several people talking and enjoying their time working in different areas of a large garden

Ask Your Gardening Questions

  • We are here to assist you with your indoor and outdoor plant, yard and landscape questions.
  • Contact Julie, your Rock County Horticulture Outreach Specialist, directly with your gardening questions:
    julie.hill@wisc.edu
    262-741-4958
    Text/Mobile – 262-374-4191
  • Or ask your question here using the Ask Your Gardening Question online form.

Additional gardening and horticulture resources can be found at the Wisconsin Horticulture Program website or you can use the quick links below:

  • The Extension Horticulture Program has a new lineup of free online gardening programs scheduled for October 2024. These programs focus on soil health and weed prevention, so plant lovers and gardeners alike can be more successful with growing and caring for plants in Wisconsin. There is no cost to attend these programs, though registration is […]
  • The Extension Horticulture Program has a new lineup of free online gardening programs scheduled for October 2024. These programs focus on soil health and weed prevention, so plant lovers and gardeners alike can be more successful with growing and caring for plants in Wisconsin. There is no cost to attend these programs, though registration is […]
  • The Extension Horticulture Program has a new lineup of free online gardening programs scheduled for September 2024. These programs are intended to help plant lovers and gardeners of all skill levels be more successful with growing and caring for plants in Wisconsin. There is no cost to attend, though registration is required for each session. […]
  • Growing and Caring for Plants in Wisconsin: Foundations in Gardening is an online, complete-at-your-own-pace introductory course offered by the UW-Madison Division of Extension Horticulture Program. This course is designed for anyone who wants to improve their gardening skills, regardless of experience level. Participants learn key concepts for selecting, growing, and maintaining plants—from trees to houseplants […]
  • Thinking about Farm Succession?  You know you should make plans for the future of the farm, but maybe you’re not sure where to start? Or maybe you’ve had a few conversations with your family or farming partners, but that conversation drifts to other more pressing matters about the operation.  It is common for farmers to […]
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