Our area hasn’t seen single-digit temps since the 1980s. So what garden tasks should take priority? First, check for leaks. Then assess your plants — or what’s left of them. This week’s valentine vortex will be long remembered, with Texas’ lowest temperatures in 40 years: a veritable gut punch to those who forget how far …

There are several fruit trees that are well-adapted to our climate. Choose wisely and you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your labor before you know it. If you’ve had the privilege of tasting fruit collected with your own hands, you know it’s worth the time and effort of planting a fruit tree. Of course, being …

Hardy winter perennials like salvias and Turk’s caps typically thrive without any additional water. And they entice a spectacular show of some of the feistiest, freakiest hummingbirds of the year. When our south Texas summer perennials slow down and drop flowers in autumn, we tend to stow away the hummingbird feeders for the season. But …

Spice up your autumn garden with warm hues, berry-bursting blooms and fragrant foliage. It’s the coziest backdrop for enjoying your preferred pumpkin-spiced beverage outdoors. Fall in South Texas always warms my heart with its beautiful weather and exhilarating snout butterfly explosions — it’s the perfect backdrop for enjoying the outdoors with a pumpkin-spiced drink in …

In Bexar County, water is the hot commodity. With our growing population, how we use this invaluable resource matters. Replacing some or all of your lawn with beautiful WaterSaver landscaping plants is an easy and effective way to reduce your water use, save money and create a more interesting yard! When maintained effectively, a WaterSaver …

Stay wicked busy this month in your fall garden. From harvesting to planting to tidying up, there’s plenty to do to get it in gear for spring. October can be quite magical. The cooler temperatures and crisp air beckon, encouraging us to slow down and linger longer outdoors, perhaps with a pumpkin spice latte in …

At the nursery, plants always look pretty in the pot. But will they grow and thrive once you get them home? Most likely, yes — as long as they’re planted in the right place. Plants need the sun’s energy to grow. If they don’t get enough, some will become stunted, bare and diseased. But some …

Every landscape has its own quirks and charms. So ditch the one-size-fits-all advice and find out how much water your unique yard really needs. Living in Texas, we’re all accustomed to extended periods of extreme heat and prolonged drought. This year is no exception. While always a precious commodity, water is even more vital when …

While there are several watering methods you can use, some are more effective than others. Here’s a closer look at the top techniques, and the pros and cons of each. Many newcomers have arrived to San Antonio lately from all corners of the world, and many are first-time homeowners, too. One of the first things …

A xeriscape is not rocks, decomposed granite, cactus, agaves, or rain barrels, although these could all be components of one. In its simplest form a xeriscape is minimal lawn, native flowering perennials and shrubs, mulch and other soil amendments, and pervious patios or decks. There are seven principles of xeriscape. They include: Planning and design …