Plants are re-emerging and blooming and grass is starting to awaken from its winter dormancy. But that doesn’t mean it’s time for full-scale watering. We’re seeing all the familiar indicators of spring in Central Texas: cool mornings, warm afternoons, an occasional shower. Your yard may be looking like spring is here too. Plants are reemerging …

Oak wilt season is upon us. Only make cuts that are absolutely necessary. Save any cosmetic pruning for later in the year. While San Antonio largely dodged the severity of ice storms many of our neighboring communities suffered recently, some of us, particularly those along the northern fringes of the city, still saw some damage …

Even the hardiest citrus trees struggle to survive days of ice, snow and frigid temperatures. Those that do can benefit from a little TLC from you. There are many plants that can survive cold conditions, but there are times when weather is worse than anticipated and extreme freezing temperatures wreak havoc on our plants. That’s …

While a poorly placed mulberry can be messy, its edible berries and healthy growth habit make it a wonderful choice for any Texas landscape. Native mulberry often flies under the radar until mid-summer when the small tree begins dropping its succulent berries, staining sidewalks with red splats. While a poorly placed mulberry could be considered …

Not a fan of oranges, lemons or limes? There are plenty of non-citrus species to consider. Read on to learn about them. Last week we recommended the best fruit trees to grow in San Antonio. While many experts agree that citrus is the premium fruit tree to grow in Bexar County, it’s not your only …

A few easy changes to your landscape maintenance are all it takes to create little spaces for wildlife — and help protect other residents that call Texas home. As temperatures fall and plants begin to go dormant, the natural inclination is to trim up bare stems and old flower heads. But consider leaving a little …

Timing is everything when it comes to gardening. Winter for our area usually means that most days are cool and ideal for getting some prep work done for a great spring garden. While you may find it tempting to stay inside on a cold day, waiting will put you behind nature’s calendar for the frenzied …

In fall, winter and early spring, irrigation systems are mostly unnecessary. Do yourself and your wallet a favor and put them to bed for a long nap. We are way below our annual rainfall — only 1917 was worse — and unfortunately a small percentage of plants will perish here next summer. Still, this is …

In the garden, winter can be overlooked because most plants are dormant. But there are a few plants that will add cheer to an otherwise sleepy landscape. Most plants are dormant in winter. But there are a few that will make your landscape a yuletide treasure. From holly and mistletoe to poinsettias and Christmas trees, …

The creamy flower clusters and abundant white berries are distinctive, but its burgundy autumn color is a standout in an evergreen landscape.Note: In celebration of central Texas’ tree-planting season from October to February, this occasional series will highlight a few favorite trees for cultivating more shade in the residential landscape. Humble and a bit rotund, …