Content by Prairey Walkling

Cristi™ Hardy Hibiscus and Summerific Coconut Cream Hibiscus flowers in bloom at McCrory Gardens.

Hardy Hibiscus

Hardy hibiscus is a showstopping perennial that can bring huge, colorful flowers to gardens. Unlike the tropical hibiscus, which is commonly sold for patios and containers, hardy hibiscus can survive South Dakota winters when the right variety is selected and planted in an appropriate location.

A group of Custer County Master Gardener volunteers gathered for a group photo.

Master Gardener Gold Star Award

Master Gardener Gold Star Award evaluation criteria and nomination form.

Monarch butterfly visiting a blanket flower near a backyard garden.

SDSU Extension to host Greatest Gardens contest

July 08, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension will celebrate gardens of all kinds with its inaugural South Dakota’s Greatest Gardens contest.

Gardeners browsing a tablet computer while visiting a garden center.

SDSU Extension adds staff to 2026 Garden Hotline

June 09, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension has added seasonal staff to serve its Garden Hotline during the 2026 growing season.

Youth and two adult helpers work with plants in box planters

SDSU Extension salutes their volunteers during National Volunteer Week

April 22, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension is proud to salute its dedicated volunteers during National Volunteer Week on April 19-25, 2026.

A home with ample defensible space throughout the property.

Protecting Your Home and Landscape Against Wildfires

Wildfires pose a significant risk in western South Dakota, particularly within the Black Hills region, where periods of minimal precipitation can lead to drought conditions that elevate fire risk.

A group of Custer County Master Gardener volunteers gathered for a group photo.

Becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer

If you enjoy gardening, volunteering, and helping your community, the Master Gardener program may be for you!

Three bright red and green apples ready for harvest

Brookings Master Gardener donating 30 apple trees to local youth

May 19, 2026

A Brookings-area Master Gardener is donating 30 apple trees to local youth for the sixth annual Fruitful Children Project.

A young master gardener setting up a “make your own seed bomb” station at a seed swap.

How to Organize a Seed Swap

A seed swap is a gathering of people who come together to share seeds, including vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Learn some tips on planning a seed swap event to help build excitement for the upcoming growing season!

Women look through potted plants on a table in a classroom

Registration open for 2026 SDSU Extension Master Gardener training

January 29, 2026

Registration is open for the 2026 South Dakota State University Extension Master Gardener training that will be offered from April 1 to July 31, 2026.