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 …

If you’re an early riser, there are a few odds and ends you can tackle in your landscape — even during these sizzling summer days. Even during the hottest times of the summer, South Texas gardeners have lots to do in the garden. As long as you start early in the morning, stay hydrated and …

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 …

Blooms may last longer in climates that are cooler than ours, but cooler climates do not have the potential for two spectacular bloom periods each year like we do in South Texas. We expect our flowering perennials to bloom well in the spring but we overlook the best possible season for bloom—fall. Plants do not …

Notice a ghostly mist lingering over your landscape? It’s the in-ground sprinklers screaming they are under pressure. You’ve probably seen it before, clouds of a foggy mist spewing out of the in-ground sprinkler system. The problem is your sprinklers are watering the air instead of your actual landscape. It’s called high pressure and there’s a …

Plant fall tomatoes now. Select varieties that are determinate or semi-determinate, so they grow their foliage quickly and then concentrate on maturing their fruit before the cold weather arrives. To extend the bloom period cut off the spent blooms or new seed pods on poinciana, vitex, crape myrtle, and zinnia if it is practical. Removing …

The clear benefit of using ground covers instead of grass is less of everything — less water, less fertilizer, less pesticides and less mowing. Tired of mowing, weeding, feeding and watering the lawn over, and over, and over again? It may be time to forget turf and move on to something that’s drought hardy, water …

One summer color plant that we are sure is not eaten by the deer is vinca (also called periwinkle). This annual flower is available at area nurseries in white, red, pink, and lavender. Vinca was once the best-selling annual flower but its popularity declined because its severe susceptibility to the disease, aerial phytophera.  It got …

When fully grown your Muhly Grass will block the view of your trash can. This side-yard garden project proves that designs don’t need to be complicated to be functional and beautiful. This one is a simple and fast weekend makeover. Calling all weekend warriors! Take that side-yard space from forgotten to functional with this simple-yet-elegant …

Available in organic and inorganic forms, mulch comes in many shapes and sizes. Choosing the right one depends on where you plan to use it. In the world of gardening, there are many different types of mulch for your landscape. Deciding which to choose depends on where you plan to use it. But first it …