Iowa State University releases home gardening guide and announces symposium

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has released a new guide, “Cover Crops for Home Vegetable Gardens,” to assist home gardeners in improving soil fertility, structure, and the garden microbiome. Authors Aaron Steil and Ajay Nair designed the resource to address practical needs for backyard gardeners, such as species selection, timing, and management, which are often overlooked in agricultural-focused literature.

The guide highlights several ecological benefits, including soil building through organic matter, natural nitrogen fixation via crops like clover, erosion control, and pest management. It also provides strategies for the proper termination of cover crops to prevent them from becoming weeds.

Additionally, the 2026 Seeds for Thought Garden Symposium will be held on October 10 at Grinnell College. This annual educational event, organized by ISU Extension and Outreach and various Master Gardeners, features keynote speakers and breakout sessions covering topics such as budget gardening, Iowa weather, soil testing, and pest scouting.