Ohio State - Athens County Extension

10/16/2026

🫙⚠️ “Dry Canning” Isn’t Canning! ⚠️ 🫙
Seeing “dry canning” tips online? Just because canning jars are used doesn’t mean it’s a safe or recommended canning method. True canning uses specific heat-processing methods to create a safe, shelf-stable product. Dry foods like beans, grains, and nuts don’t require canning, and heating them in jars may trap moisture, affect quality, and does not guarantee safety or sterilization.
✅ Store thoroughly dried foods in airtight containers
✅ Use vacuum sealers or oxygen absorbers for long-term quality
✅ Follow research-based food preservation methods
Stay safe and preserve smart! 🌾🫘🥜

10/16/2026

10/13/2026

Join us November 13th for A DAY in the WOODS as we explore the fascinating wildlife that calls Ohio’s woodlands home. Learn about wildlife restoration efforts and the complex relationships between …

10/13/2026

10/13/2026

The October Newsletter is here -- and it has wonderful information about terrariums, a "sexy plant juice" recipe for any of your special house plants, tulip tricks if you are dreaming of spring bulbs, and how to do a fall garden cleanup while keeping in mind they are their own mini-ecosystem. Plus, some awards and another field trip for our Master Gardeners.

https://athens.osu.edu/sites/athens/files/imce/MG_Forms_Docs/October%202026_0.pdf

10/13/2026

We are excited to launch our 2026-2027 Horticulture Webinar Series, beginning at noon on Tuesday, October 20.

Join us for an engaging presentation by Laura Akgerman from Ohio State Disability Services, who will be speaking on "Gardening Across the Lifespan."

As we grow older, gardening does not have to stop. Laura will discuss a variety of tools, techniques, and adaptive strategies that can help gardeners continue enjoying their favorite hobby, even when faced with challenges such as arthritis, mobility limitations, or other disabilities. Her presentation will highlight practical ways to make gardening more accessible, comfortable, and enjoyable throughout all stages of life.

Whether you are looking for new ideas for yourself, a family member, or members of your community, this is a presentation you won't want to miss.

We hope you'll join us for this informative and inspiring session! For more information and free registration, please visit go.osu.edu/mgvlearn

10/13/2026

October still has time to plant small grains as winter forages. You can also sneak some clover in there.

10/13/2026

Fall gardening is wrapping up. Plant some garlic and add cover crops. The rest of month has some some chores for you to complete before winter.

10/13/2026

💨🫙 Steam canning: Is it safe? YES, when you Can It Right!
Steam canners can safely process many acidic and properly acidified foods using research-tested boiling-water canning recipes. 🍓🥒🍑
But remember:
📖 Always use a research-tested recipe
⛰️ Adjust processing time for elevation
⏱️ Processing time must be 45 minutes or less
🥩 Low-acid foods, including meats and most vegetables, require a pressure canner
🔎 Learn more from these trusted resources:
🔗💨 National Center for Home Food Preservation:
https://nchfp.uga.edu/resources/entry/national-center-burning-issue-using-atmospheric-steam-canners
🔗🫙 Steam Can It Right! Guidelines for Safely Using a Steam Canner for Home Food Preservation:
https://www.ncrfsma.org/files/page/files/fn2065_steam_can_it_right_fillable.pdf
❤️ Like & share to help spread safe canning information, not canning myths!

10/13/2026

🚨 Botulism & Home Canning: What You Need to Know 🫙
Improperly canned foods can allow Clostridium botulinum to grow and produce a toxin that cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. ⚠️ It is one of the deadliest toxins known.
✅ Use only tested, research-based canning recipes
✅ Pressure can low-acid foods like vegetables, meats, and poultry
✅ Discard bulging, leaking, foamy, foul-smelling, or spoiled foods
✅ Never taste food from a swollen container
✅ When in doubt, throw it out!
Protect yourself and your loved ones by following safe canning practices. ❤️
🫙✅