The days are getting longer!

On this week's episode of Mid-American Gardener, Chuck and Phil join Tinisha in the studio to get us excited about bulbs and share why bees and wasps are so important to garden health. Phil, a retired extension entomologist, emphasizes the often-overlooked importance of wasps as pollinators. He showcases a few different species of wasps, highlighting their role in efficiently transferring pollen and controlling garden pests like caterpillars.

Switching gears, Chuck, a vegetable and herb specialist, shares valuable insights into dividing and replanting tender bulbs like tuberoses and gladiolus. He walks through the process of dividing the plants and offers practical tips for optimal growth. Tinisha also brought in some of her tulip bulbs she didn't get in the ground before the first freeze. If you're like her and haven't planted your bulbs yet, Chuck and Phil have some ideas of how to still enjoy the spring flowers.

We also touch on the impending cicada convergence in Illinois, which promises billions of cicadas beginning Memorial Day weekend. Expect a noisy summer and lots of crunching beneath your feet!

If you’ve got any questions for our panelists, please send us an email at yourgarden@gmail.com com, or you can find us on Facebook and Instagram.

Get out and enjoy the sun when you can, and get ready for a buzzing and blooming season in the garden!