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The Tulsa Beacon

 

Trisha Gedon

Keep your cool in the garden

Tulsa Beacon

STILLWATER, Okla. – Oklahoma gardeners are feeling the heat now that the temperatures are nearing the triple-digit mark. Couple soaring temperatures with high humidity, and gardeners may need to look for respite in the shade. As the summer heat intensifies, gardeners must be aware of the dangers of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Both can…

Soaklahoma – where the rain comes sweeping down the plains

Tulsa Beacon

STILLWATER, Okla. – By June, Oklahoma gardeners usually encounter parched soil begging for a drink, but the last few weeks have delivered an onslaught of rain in nearly epic proportions. Now, gardeners are grappling with how to salvage flowers and vegetables from record-setting rainfall. Laura Payne, Oklahoma State University Extension horticulture educator in Payne County,…

“Oklahoma Gardening” celebrates golden anniversary

Tulsa Beacon

STILLWATER, Okla. – For half a century, gardening enthusiasts have tuned in to the television show “Oklahoma Gardening” for cutting-edge information, tips and inspirational ideas. Kicking off the 50th season of the popular program on Feb. 15, the show will continue providing viewers with the latest horticulture information while celebrating the past and looking to…

Taming clutter makes a home safer and more usable

Tulsa Beacon

STILLWATER, Okla. – While made with good intentions, a New Year’s resolution to reduce clutter in the home may have waned by now. Hopping back on the bandwagon to clean up living spaces has multiple benefits. When clutter interferes with daily life, develop a plan to get it under control, said Gina Peek, assistant director,…

Winter hydration is important for good health

Tulsa Beacon

STILLWATER, Okla. – Hydration is important in the heat of the summer, but it is just as crucial – if not more so – during the winter months. Several factors contribute to dehydration in cold weather, including warmer indoor temperatures, cold air and less water consumption. “You may not feel as thirsty in the winter…

Summer heat can adversely affect blood sugars

Tulsa Beacon

STILLWATER, Okla. – Temperatures are rising, and the summer heat can directly impact people with diabetes. People with diabetes or who have prediabetes are affected by more than their physical activity levels and what foods they put in their body, said Lauren Amaya, Oklahoma State University Extension diabetes specialist. “Individuals with type 1 or type…

Gardeners, don’t be fooled by magic beans

Tulsa Beacon

STILLWATER, Okla. – While Jack may have gotten lucky with the magic beanstalk beans he received when he traded his cow, gardeners may not be so lucky when purchasing seeds for their gardens. Casey Hentges, host of Oklahoma State University Agriculture’s television program “Oklahoma Gardening,” has a word of caution for gardeners purchasing seeds this…

Grow bags are a lightweight, mobile option for gardeners

Tulsa Beacon

STILLWATER, Okla. – Traditional in-ground beds, raised beds and ceramic/plastic pot gardens are mainstay gardening methods, but grow bags add another dimension to this popular pastime. “One of the biggest advantages is the convenience. Grow bags are great for both seasoned and novice gardeners,” said Casey Hentges, Oklahoma State University Extension associate specialist and host…

Stay busy this winter planning your spring garden

Tulsa Beacon

STILLWATER, Okla. – Although it’s too early in the season for gardeners to plant any seeds in the ground, the winter months are the perfect time of year for spring and summer garden planning. Taking care of a few tasks before the glory days of gardening begin will help ensure gardeners have ample time to…

How to handle the Christmas trash

Tulsa Beacon

STILLWATER – ‘Tis the season to celebrate the holidays, exchange gifts, attend parties and enjoy extended family around the table. It’s also the season to generate more waste: Between Thanksgiving and mid-January, most households generate about 25% more waste than any other season. All the pretty wrapping paper and colorful bows make a nice backdrop…