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Dakota Gardener: How to ripen tomatoes quickly

The clock is ticking! Will the green tomatoes in our gardens ripen before frost? Some factors we cannot control — starting with the weather. The first killing frost can strike anytime from mid-September to mid-October. Let’s hope for a late frost. Let’s focus on the factors we can ...

Prairie Fare: Moving day makes every step count

I grabbed a somewhat heavy box in my arms, walked down the ramp, up a few steps to a landing, up a flight to the second floor and then down the hall. I repeated this process at least 75 times. We were moving our daughter to a new place. I coached myself on good body mechanics to avoid injury: ...

Field to Fork: Tomatoes

Botanically, a tomato is classified as a fruit because it has seeds and is derived from flower tissue. Nutritionists consider tomatoes to be “vegetables” on the menu. Tomatoes can be frozen, canned or dried, so they can be enjoyed year-round. Growing Tomatoes are available in many varieties, ranging from yellow, pink and purple to black and even white. Tomatoes are easy to grow in a garden plot or a large pot. They produce high yields, so you need only a small number of plants. Plant them in a location with as much direct sunlight as possible. Storage Fresh use: If you purchase ...

NDSU Extension program accepting applicants

Anyone who loves gardening and sharing plant knowledge is invited to apply to the North Dakota State University Extension Master Gardener program. Online training starts in January 2027, offering a learning experience for adults. The Extension Master Gardener Program is a national volunteer service organization that works in cooperation with land-grant universities. The program trains and empowers volunteers to teach others how to garden, conserve natural resources such as pollinators, beautify communities and diagnose common garden problems. NDSU Extension is now accepting ...

Dakota Gardener: Emerald ash borer by the numbers

In case you missed it last week, emerald ash borer (EAB) was found in Bismarck, North Dakota. City crews were removing some declining ash trees and noticed the telltale signs of EAB – serpentine galleries beneath the bark and D-shaped exit holes. The arborists looked closer and found the ...

Prairie Fare: Pickling is an ancient art still going strong

My burger was served with a pile of crispy pickle rounds. I arranged them on my sandwich. These tangy cucumbers added both a crunch and a burst of flavor. With a lettuce leaf, a tomato slice, onion slices and a fresh bun, my sandwich was a tasty meal. Maybe you like sweet relish on a hot dog ...