Iowa had its share of ups and downs in 2018. Take a look back at some of the highs and lows chronicled by Homegrown Iowan during the past year: Iowans braved the cold last winter to demonstrate in favor of common-sense gun laws. Advocates in Cedar Rapids also turned out to show their support for […]
You are browsing archives for
Tag: 2018
Winter farmers markets in Eastern Iowa
Even if the calendar says otherwise, it certainly feels like winter. Whether you’re getting ready for the holidays, or just craving homegrown food, winter farmers markets offer a chance to buy fresh and support your local farmers. Oftentimes, vendors also sell one-of-a-kind handmade items that make great gifts, too. Following are indoor farmers markets operating […]
Iowa Organic Conference set for Nov. 18-...
Early registration is still available through Nov. 11 for the Iowa Organic Conference, happening Nov. 18-19 at the University of Iowa. Learn more about the conference from Iowa State University Extension & Outreach: IOWA CITY – The 18th annual Iowa Organic Conference, a joint effort between Iowa State University and the University of Iowa Office […]
No Maddie Poppe, but large crowds still ...
Fans of American Idol winner Maddie Poppe were crushed to learn she won’t perform as scheduled for the Aug. 25 Market After Dark in downtown Cedar Rapids. The 20-year-old Clarksville, Iowa, native had signed on to give the free performance before winning American Idol earlier this year. She explained on Facebook that she was contractually […]
Linn County Master Gardeners to host fir...
The Linn County Master Gardeners annual Garden Walk, set for Saturday, July 7, 2018, will feature something new. A “garden crawl” will allow visitors to have a card stamped at each garden on the tour for a chance to win a beautiful garden bench. Admission for the garden tour, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. […]
Photos: Houby Days 2018 in Cedar Rapids,...
CEDAR RAPIDS – It was nearly a clean sweep in the morel contest during this year’s Houby Days, a three-day festival that celebrates the springtime mushroom and the city’s Czech heritage. Mike Haugsted of Cedar Rapids won the largest, smallest and best mushroom displays in the annual contest. Brody Driscoll of Hiawatha broke Haugsted’s streak […]
Morel mushrooms and Czech traditions to ...
By Cindy Hadish/Homegrown Iowan CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – An annual three-day event that celebrates the morel mushroom kicks off Friday, May 18, in Czech Village. Last year marked the 40th anniversary of Houby Days and this year promises more music, food and fun, beginning with the Taste of Czech on opening night at the National […]
A lost morel season?
Iowa may have one of its most fleeting morel seasons this year. With winter weather lingering well into late April, soil temperatures in the state have only recently been favorable to see the rare delicacies “pop.” Experts say soil at 50 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for morels to make an appearance, and almost […]
Ready or not: farmers market season kick...
Dawn Troutner has seen snow at one of the first farmers markets in Toledo, but never a spring like this. “We already had things growing: asparagus, rhubarb, onions,” she said of that late-season snowfall. “I’m not sure what we’ll have this year.” Iowa’s seemingly endless winter finally broke its grip on the state this week, […]
Eastern Iowa plant sales usher in spring
With snowfall still fresh on Iowans’ minds, it’s hard to believe that gardening season is finally here. Local plant sales offer a great way to jump-start your efforts, with plants grown by master gardeners and others with gardening expertise for Iowa’s conditions. One major change for plant sale enthusiasts: given the unpredictable weather in May, […]