MU Extension in Putnam County

MU Extension in Putnam County MU Extension empowers people to improve their lives, businesses and communities by providing practical, relevant and research-based educational strategies.

Social media guidelines: bit.ly/mizzousocial
ADA/EOE Employer

Labor Day marks the unofficial transition from summer to fall in the garden, making now the perfect time to start prepar...
09/07/2026

Labor Day marks the unofficial transition from summer to fall in the garden, making now the perfect time to start preparing for the next season. MU Extension horticulturist David Trinklein recommends focusing on a few key tasks to keep your garden productive and healthy.

◾Harvest late-season vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and squash.
◾Plant cool-season favorites like lettuce, spinach, kale, broccoli and radishes.
◾Divide overcrowded perennials, including hostas, irises and daylilies.
◾Seed or overseed cool-season lawns and fertilize established turf.
◾Begin fall cleanup by removing dead plant material that can harbor pests and diseases.

A little effort now can help set the stage for a healthier garden and landscape next spring.

Read more autumn gardening tips from MU Extension: https://brnw.ch/21x5vdg

A new soybean pest has been confirmed in Missouri for the second time.MU Extension state crops entomologist Ivair Valmor...
09/04/2026

A new soybean pest has been confirmed in Missouri for the second time.

MU Extension state crops entomologist Ivair Valmorbida confirmed the latest finding of the soybean tentiform leafminer in Macon County on Aug. 19. First detected in Missouri in 2025, this emerging pest feeds inside soybean leaves, creating distinctive "mines" that can reduce leaf area.

Farmers are encouraged to scout soybean fields, especially along field edges near wooded areas, and contact their local MU Extension agronomist if they suspect soybean tentiform leafminer activity. Researchers are continuing to study the insect's distribution and potential impact on soybean production.

Learn how to identify this pest and what researchers know so far: https://brnw.ch/21x5rHg

09/03/2026

Would Zoe's college experience be the same without 4-H?

As a nursing student, Zoe says Missouri 4-H helped her build the confidence, communication and leadership skills she relies on today. The experiences she gained through 4-H helped prepare her for college and gave her a strong foundation for success.

Her story is just one example of how Missouri 4-H helps young people grow through hands-on learning, leadership opportunities and service experiences that build skills for college, careers and life.

Open enrollment begins Oct. 1. Learn how to get your child involved: https://brnw.ch/21x5q29

MU Extension in Putnam County is presenting this year at the Putnam County Fair the Livestock Updates: The Biggest Chall...
09/02/2026

MU Extension in Putnam County is presenting this year at the Putnam County Fair the Livestock Updates: The Biggest Challenges Facing Cattle Producers Today Mini Program by Zachary Erwin, Field Specialist in Livestock.
Have you found yourself wondering where is the cattle market headed? What’s driving today’s input costs? What does the future hold for the U.S. cow herd? What threats and opportunities should producers be watching? How can cattle producers position themselves for what’s next? If these are the questions you are asking yourself, come tune into this informative session!
Friday, September 11th in the 4-H Building on the fairgrounds starting at 11:00 AM. You won't want to miss this! Free to join and welcome to everyone!

09/02/2026

Even though it's September, it still feels like summer outside. That makes this cool, refreshing watermelon salad the perfect way to enjoy the season's fresh flavors a little longer.

This alpha-gal friendly salad combines juicy watermelon, ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumber and fresh basil for a light, refreshing dish that's perfect for family meals, cookouts or any warm-weather gathering.

Best of all, it costs just about $6 to $7 for the entire recipe, making it an affordable way to enjoy the best of summer's harvest.

Recipe card: https://brnw.ch/21x5nP3

Stronger connections = healthier communities.Through the ShowMe Connection project, eligible participants can take free ...
09/01/2026

Stronger connections = healthier communities.

Through the ShowMe Connection project, eligible participants can take free MU Extension classes focused on:
• Healthy relationships
• Physical activity
• Mental health awareness

If you live in a rural area, are 18+ and can complete a short training, you may qualify! Eligibility required. Spots are limited.

Contact Candace Rodman to express interest and learn more: https://brnw.ch/21x5m9l

This work is supported by ShowMe Connection, project award no. 2025-46100-45377 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture

Missouri farm families are the foundation of one of the state's most important industries.During Farm Family Day at the ...
08/31/2026

Missouri farm families are the foundation of one of the state's most important industries.

During Farm Family Day at the Missouri State Fair, outstanding farm families from every Missouri county and the City of St. Louis were recogized. Nominated by MU Extension County Councils and local Missouri Farm Bureau board members, these families exemplify the innovation, resilience and dedication that keep Missouri agriculture thriving.

These photos highlight just a few of the many farm families recognized during the celebration.

Congratulations to the 2026 Missouri State Fair Farm Families, and thank you for all you do to feed, fuel and strengthen Missouri.

Take a SNEAK PEEK!Our silent auction items are rolling in this year for the Putnam County Fair!!Shout out to Welby's Clo...
08/29/2026

Take a SNEAK PEEK!
Our silent auction items are rolling in this year for the Putnam County Fair!!
Shout out to Welby's Closet for donating this yummy popcorn basket. Thank you for your continued support.
This basket includes all of your buttery popcorn essentials to make that movie night or game night a hit! This will be displayed at the fair in the 4-H Building for bidding.

08/28/2026

Please note the Extension Office will be closed for the Putnam County Fair from September 3rd to the 15th. To reach us during this time please email us at [email protected] or visit us at the fair!

08/28/2026

Is that shrub along your fence line or woodland edge actually invasive bush honeysuckle?

Bush honeysuckle is one of Missouri's most common invasive shrubs, crowding out native plants and disrupting natural ecosystems. In this video, you'll learn how to identify it by its distinctive leaf arrangement, hollow stems and extended growing season, plus get practical tips for removing it from your property.

Whether you're managing a backyard, acreage or woodland, knowing how to spot and control bush honeysuckle can help protect native plants and improve habitat for wildlife.

Watch now to learn how to identify and remove this invasive species. ⬇️

Address

1601 Main Street
Unionville, MO
63565

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when MU Extension in Putnam County posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The University

Send a message to MU Extension in Putnam County:

Shortcuts

Share

Category