Texas Garden Blog

Category: Plants

  • Plant of The Month : Mealy Sage

    Mealy Sage: A Texas Native Beauty

    Known as Mealy Sage or Mealycup Sage, Salvia farinacea is a hardy perennial that thrives in Texas’ diverse climate. Its striking blue-to-purple blooms add vibrant color to any garden while requiring minimal effort to maintain.

    The Benefits of Growing Mealy Sage in Texas

    This drought-tolerant plant is a favorite among Texas gardeners for its resilience and beauty. Mealy Sage attracts beneficial pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, enriching your garden ecosystem.

    Mealy Sage: Texas Gardens’ Secret to Blooming Glory

    One secret to keeping your Mealy Sage blooming all season is strategic trimming. After its stunning flowers fade, cut back the stems slightly to encourage fresh growth and new blooms.

    Preventing Mealy Sage from Taking Over Your Texas Garden

    While Mealy Sage can spread and provide great coverage, it’s essential to manage its growth. Regularly remove seed heads and monitor its self-seeding tendencies to keep it from overwhelming your garden.

    The Perfect Plant for Texas Summers: Mealy Sage

    Texas summers can be harsh, but Mealy Sage loves the heat. This perennial is not only heat-tolerant but also thrives in well-drained soil, making it ideal for Texas landscapes.

    Maximizing Coverage with Mealy Sage in Texas

    For gardeners seeking lush coverage, plant Mealy Sage in groups. Space plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow them to fill in beautifully without crowding each other.

    How Mealy Sage Elevates Texas Pollinator Gardens

    Pollinator enthusiasts in Texas will love Mealy Sage. Its nectar-rich blooms are a magnet for bees and butterflies, creating a buzzing haven in your backyard.

    Mealy Sage Maintenance Tips for Texas Gardeners

    Ensure your Mealy Sage stays healthy by watering sparingly—overwatering can lead to root rot. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and prevent weeds.

    Texas Wildflower Vibes with Mealy Sage

    If you love that classic Texas wildflower aesthetic, Mealy Sage is your go-to. Its vibrant blooms pair beautifully with other natives like Indian Blanket and Black-Eyed Susan.

    Mealy Sage: A Texas Gardener’s Delight

    Incorporating Mealy Sage into your garden is a win-win. It’s low maintenance, supports pollinators, and adds year-round charm. With a little care, this Texas treasure will thrive season after season.

  • Crape Myrtles

    Crape Myrtles

    Introduction to Crape Myrtles in Texas

    One of our favorites here at Texas Garden Blog, crape myrtles are a staple of Texan landscapes, celebrated for their vibrant blooms, adaptability to the climate, and minimal maintenance needs. These trees bring year-round beauty, from their summer flowers to their attractive bark in winter.

    Types and Colors of Crape Myrtles

    Crape myrtles come in a wide range of varieties, from dwarf shrubs to towering trees. Their colors include striking reds, soft pinks, elegant purples, pristine whites, and more. Popular types include the showy Dynamite with its bold red blooms and the enchanting Twilight with its deep purple flowers.

    Hardiness and Drought Tolerance for Crape Myrtles

    Known for their resilience, crape myrtles thrive in Texas’ hot and dry conditions. They are drought-tolerant once established, making them an excellent choice for water-conscious gardeners. Additionally, they are resistant to pests and diseases, ensuring longevity in challenging environments.

    Proper Trimming Techniques

    Pruning is crucial for maintaining healthy, beautiful crape myrtles. Avoid the infamous “crape murder” by trimming carefully in late winter or early spring. Focus on removing deadwood and shaping the tree to enhance airflow and sunlight penetration.

    Maximum Sizes and Growth Habits

    Crape myrtles vary in size from compact 2-foot shrubs to majestic trees reaching up to 35 feet. Their growth habits depend on the variety, so it’s essential to choose a type that suits your space and landscape needs.

    Water Needs

    Although drought-tolerant, crape myrtles benefit from deep watering during extended dry spells, especially in their first year. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot and support optimal growth.

    Wind Storm Resilience

    Crape myrtles are sturdy trees that can endure strong winds. While their flexible branches help them resist damage, occasional trimming and support can help younger trees recover quickly after severe storms.

    Shade and Color Benefits

    With their sprawling canopies, crape myrtles provide much-needed shade in hot Texas summers. Their vibrant blooms not only add color but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing your garden’s ecosystem.

    Seasonal Care

    Crape myrtles need care throughout the seasons. Plant them in early spring or fall, fertilize in late winter, and protect their roots with mulch during harsh winters. These steps ensure healthy, flourishing trees year-round.

    Choosing the Right Variety for Your Garden

    When selecting a crape myrtle, consider your garden’s size, soil type, and desired bloom color. Dwarf varieties are perfect for small spaces, while taller types make excellent focal points or shade providers.

  • Blackfoot Daisies: Plant of The Month April 2025

    Blackfoot Daisies: Plant of The Month April 2025

    Growing Blackfoot Daisies in Texas

    When it comes to gardening in Texas, few plants are as resilient and rewarding as blackfoot daisies (Melampodium leucanthum). These cheerful perennials thrive under the harsh conditions of the Lone Star State, making them a favorite among local gardeners—including me!

    Why Blackfoot Daisies are Perfect for Texas Gardens

    Heat and Drought Tolerance: With Texas summers that can test even the toughest plants, blackfoot daisies rise to the challenge. Their native roots in the Southwest have equipped them to endure scorching temperatures and minimal water.

Full Sun Champions: Sun-loving plants are essential for Texas landscapes, and blackfoot daisies bask happily in full sunlight.

Compact and Low-Maintenance: These hardy plants form neat mounds, reaching about 12 inches in height and spreading up to 18 inches, requiring little upkeep.

    Beauty in Every Bloom Not only are blackfoot daisies tough, but they’re also stunning. Their small, daisy-like flowers boast delicate white petals and bright yellow centers. During their blooming season—typically spring through early fall—they offer a continuous display of color that brightens any garden. Plus, their subtle honey-like fragrance adds an aromatic charm to the garden.

    Tips for Growing Blackfoot Daisies in Texas

    Planting: Choose well-drained soil, preferably sandy or rocky. These daisies dislike soggy conditions, so avoid heavy clay soils.

Watering: Once established, they require little water—ideal for water-wise gardening. Let nature take care of them during rainy seasons and water sparingly during dry spells.

Pruning: Remove spent blooms periodically to encourage fresh flowers and maintain their tidy appearance.

Companion Plants: Pair them with other Texas natives like bluebonnets, lantanas, or salvia for a colorful, sustainable garden.

    A True Texan Treasure If you’re looking for a plant that embodies the rugged beauty and resilience of Texas, the blackfoot daisy is an excellent choice. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, you’ll find that growing these hardy beauties is a joy.

  • Blooming Rosemary: Plant of the Month for March 2025

    Blooming Rosemary: Plant of the Month for March 2025

    Introducing the Star of March: Blooming Rosemary

    Welcome to another exciting edition of Texas Garden Blog! This March, we are thrilled to feature the versatile and aromatic rosemary as our Plant of the Month. With its evergreen foliage, fragrant aroma, and stunning blue blooms, rosemary is not only a culinary delight but also a garden showstopper. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of blooming rosemary and discover why it’s the perfect addition to your Texas garden this season.
    Top Tips for Growing Rosemary Outdoors in Texas

    Rosemary thrives in the sunny, warm climate of Texas, making it an ideal plant for outdoor cultivation. Here are some essential tips for growing rosemary in your garden:

    Sunlight: Rosemary loves the sun, so plant it in a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Soil: Ensure well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline pH (6.0 to 7.5). Sandy or loamy soils work best.

Watering: Rosemary is drought-tolerant but appreciates regular watering, especially during dry spells. Avoid waterlogged soil by letting the top inch of soil dry out between waterings.

Pruning: Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and helps maintain the plant's shape. Trim back after blooming to promote new growth.

    Blooming Varieties of Rosemary

    While many rosemary varieties are suited for Texas gardens, some are particularly known for their blooming prowess. Here are a few top picks:

    Tuscan Blue: This variety boasts striking blue flowers and an upright growth habit, making it perfect for hedges and borders.

Arp: A hardy variety, Arp produces pale blue flowers and can withstand colder temperatures, making it ideal for North Texas gardens.

Majorca Pink: For a unique twist, Majorca Pink features delicate pink blooms that add a pop of color to any garden.

    The Many Benefits of Rosemary

    Rosemary is more than just a pretty face in your garden. This herb offers numerous benefits:

    Culinary Uses: Fresh rosemary adds a delightful flavor to dishes, from roasted meats to savory breads.

Medicinal Properties: Traditionally used to improve digestion, boost memory, and reduce inflammation.

Pest Deterrent: Rosemary's strong scent helps repel garden pests like mosquitoes and aphids.

Aromatic Delight: The fragrant foliage can be used in homemade sachets, potpourris, and essential oils.

    When to Expect Your Rosemary to Bloom

    The timing of rosemary blooms can vary based on the variety and growing conditions. In Texas, you can typically expect to see blooms from late winter through early spring. For continuous blooms, ensure your plants receive adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. Deadheading spent flowers can also encourage new blooms throughout the season.

    Explore More on Texas Garden Blog

    We hope you enjoyed learning about blooming rosemary! Be sure to check out our other blog posts for more gardening tips, plant profiles, and seasonal advice tailored to Texas gardeners. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, there’s always something new to discover on Texas Garden Blog. Happy gardening!

  • Top 5 Vegetables to Plant in Spring in North Texas

    Top 5 Vegetables to Plant in Spring in North Texas

    Spring is the perfect time to kick off a new growing season in North Texas. With its warm climate and relatively mild winters, this region offers ideal conditions for a variety of vegetables to thrive. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, here are the top five vegetables to plant in spring, why they’re perfect for North Texas, and the best planting dates for 2025.

    1. Tomatoes: The Classic Spring Favorite

    Tomatoes are a must-have in any North Texas garden. They thrive in the warm temperatures of spring and produce a bountiful harvest through summer if planted early. Their versatility in the kitchen—from fresh salads to homemade sauces—makes them a popular choice.

    • Best planting dates: March 15 to April 15 (after the last frost).
    • Varieties to try: Cherry tomatoes like ‘Sweet 100’ or slicers like ‘Celebrity.’
    • Why they’re ideal: Tomatoes love the sunny North Texas climate and tolerate the dry spells well.
    tomato on vine

    2. Peppers: A Heat-Loving Superstar

    Whether you prefer the sweet crunch of bell peppers or the fiery kick of jalapeños, peppers are a fantastic addition to your spring garden. They’re easy to grow and provide consistent yields throughout the growing season.

    • Best planting dates: March 20 to April 20.
    • Best types to plant: Bell peppers, banana peppers, and hot peppers like jalapeños.
    • Why they’re perfect: Peppers flourish in the warm soil of spring and can handle the intensity of Texas heat later in the season.

    3. Squash: Quick to Grow, Easy to Love

    Squash is another excellent vegetable for spring planting. With fast-growing vines, squash can quickly fill your garden with healthy, delicious produce. It’s perfect for gardeners looking for a rewarding and low-maintenance crop.

    • Best planting dates: March 20 to April 30.
    • Great options: Zucchini and yellow summer squash.
    • Why they thrive: They germinate quickly in the warm soil and produce prolifically in North Texas’ long growing season.

    4. Green Beans: A Dependable Harvest

    Green beans are a reliable spring crop, providing a fresh, crunchy harvest in just a few weeks. They’re great for smaller spaces since they can grow as bush beans or climb up poles for a vertical garden.

    • Best planting dates: March 15 to April 15.
    • Varieties to consider: Bush beans like ‘Blue Lake’ or pole beans like ‘Kentucky Wonder.’
    • Why they’re great: Green beans grow quickly and don’t require much fuss, making them a staple for North Texas gardeners.

    5. Cucumbers: The Cool, Refreshing Option

    Cucumbers are another spring favorite that thrives in North Texas gardens. Their crisp texture and refreshing taste make them a perfect addition to salads, pickles, and summer beverages.

    • Best planting dates: March 20 to April 20.
    • Types to try: Slicing cucumbers like ‘Marketmore’ or pickling varieties like ‘Boston Pickling.’
    • Why they’re perfect: Cucumbers grow vigorously in warm weather and do well with a trellis for efficient use of space.

    Tips for a Successful Spring Garden

    To ensure your garden flourishes, keep the following in mind:

    • Prepare your soil: Enrich it with compost or organic matter to provide essential nutrients.
    • Time your planting: Aim to plant after the last frost, typically mid to late March in North Texas.
    • Water wisely: Keep your soil moist but not waterlogged, especially as the temperature rises.

    Spring is the time to embrace the joy of gardening, and with these five vegetables, you’re well on your way to a productive and delicious growing season in North Texas. Whether you’re looking to enjoy fresh produce or explore new recipes, these crops are bound to bring flavor and fulfillment to your gardening journey.

  • Central Texas Gardener

    Central Texas Gardener

    The Public Access show Central Texas Gardener has a blog. The show and web site are very informative. They are also both very rich in beautiful photography and scenes.

    Central Texas Gardener Episodes

    Watch 139 full episodes of Central Texas Gardener on their web site. The long-running program has covered everything from azaleas to zenias.

    Central Texas Gardener Resources

    Be sure and check out CTG’s long list of gardener resources. While usually brief, they cut to the chase and highlight the important information.

  • Perennials for Texas on Dallas News Texas Gardening Calendar

    Choosing Perennials for Texas

    The Dallas News has information for a Texas gardening calendar in August this year. It focuses on perennials that can withstand the tough Texas elements.

    Other Topics

    It also mentions garden education, building a butterfly puddle, vegetables, rare and limited quantity bulbs available in Collin County, and a contest for residents in Fort Worth.

     

  • Plants of Texas Rangeland

    The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension from the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management has an excellent database available. It can help you identify plants from the Texas Rangeland.

  • Plant Of The Month for June 2013

    The Allen Garden Club’s Plant of the Month is the Rose.