Ground Cover, Moses-In-A-Basket, And Yadda, Yadda, Yadda

This Oregano ground cover likes this well drained area of our backyard.  I will be honest, I thought I was buying St. John's Wort.  However, the Oregano is easy to keep in-bounds.  It is planted next to the Mexican Petunias.  I don't want it taking over the whole area but just the border of the bed.  I just trim back this tender foliage plant with scissors.  It smells good and adds a little variety to my other perennials.  It did great in the heat of our summer.  Overall, a very tough herb!

I  like this little succulent.  I like the color and the jagged little leaves.  I wish I knew the name...anyone?

More easy to care for succulents and a daylily I popped in the ground for color.  There is purple heart, sedum and a Moses-In-A-Boat with the spikey green and purple foliage.  Moses-In-A-Boat is an annual outside of zones 9 through 11.  I'm not sure what our winter is going to be like and I don't want to have to cover up a lot of plants.  It will probably be fine, but I will just have to wait and see...

This vine is hanging on the iron fence along the back of our yard.  It started blooming only about 3 weeks ago.  It is a Coral Honeysuckle.  It is starting to grow and reach the top of the fence.  I planted three, so I am hoping it will cover the fence for a nice backdrop.

Ice plant is a succulent that has not produced a lot of blooms for me.  I'm thinking it might need a little bit more sun.  I think I might have to move it...hmmm.

Here is another ground cover that I have enjoyed.  It is easy to stay in-bounds and has pretty yellow flowers.  It is called Golden Globe.  It required a little more water than a lot of my other plants did this summer.  I had to hand water it in the hot weather.  

Hope everyone has a nice weekend!

A Rose that Rocks...

My rock rose is growing fast and has a few blooms. It likes a little bit of sun/shade in Texas. It is a biennial and will reseed freely. One day maybe it will look like this...

 I took this photo at Zilker Botanical Garden here in Austin.  There are quite a few rock roses in the Green Garden.  This little rose is a butterfly magnet, as well. 

Hello, you have seen me before. This is my clock vine that I had in a container. I recently planted it in the ground and so far it likes the new location. If it gets too cold I might have to protect it. I made the trellis out of twigs. I hope it holds up with the weight of the vine. I guess we will see.

Thought I would share my middle son's latest creation...The Frozen Glass! 

Can I Have A Little Background Please?

This little aloe has a bloom that I have been trying to take a photo of but having a hard time with all the busy background.  I got this idea from a garden blog and I wish I could remember the name of the blog.  I just held an orange piece of paper behind the bloom and took a photo.  I have learned some handy tips from other blogs. 

Here is a photo of the aloe.  This is just a little succulent and when it grew this bloom I was surprised.  It reminds me of a plant holding out a sign or flag saying....look at me! 

Here is another photo with a blue background.  Can you tell I am having fun with this?

Acorns and Flowers...

"Large streams from little fountains flow, Tall oaks from little acorns grow."

-D. Everett in The Columbian Orator, 1797

'Hot Lips' Autumn Sage

This small leaf bushy perennial has white flowers during the cooler months and solid red during the warm. I trimmed these back, so I will have lots of blooms in time for Thanksgiving.

Red is my favorite color and I have a lot of it in my garden. Here is 'Hot Lips' next to a Texas Superstar...Firebush.

'Pink' Autumn Sage

Autumn Sage is so carefree. It requires little from me and gives a lot. It blooms from spring until fall. Easy blooms are my favorite. I have enjoyed watching all the butterflies and hummingbirds visit.

Indigo Spires is really opening up and showing the blue. I'm glad I added this to my garden. I can tell we are going to get along great ... hardly any maintenance required.

This is Pink Sedum that I planted in the middle of Purslane for my container. Purslane is my 'winner' for a container flower. It never stopped blooming and popping with color. I put a variety of pink, yellow, orange and red blooms in one container and have really enjoyed it. The Sedum got a little lost in the container, but is starting to show color.

I love the little buds and popping flowers.  I can see this container from our window and I love to look at it in the morning when the buds open up. It grows like a weed...

oh, well I guess I like some weeds.

My Favorite Photos...

This is my 129th post! You might be wondering why I am celebrating this specific post. Well, I don't really know why... I was just looking through some of my older photos and remembering why I like gardening so much.

This photo was taken in the spring when my hosta was just waking up and looking healthy. This represents my beginning in the world of gardening in Texas. I started off with a small space for my rock garden. I like this photo because it reminds me of my beginning and what I have to look forward to in the spring.



The Plumbago is the first plant I bought for our backyard. I hardly ever turn down a blue bloom.

This photo reminds me of how much blogging has made me more aware of the world around me. I started carrying my camera with me, so I could take photos of interesting landscape. I love the agaves popping up through the beautiful wildflowers. They are like shining swords in a sea of little flowers. Very opposite plants that I like together.

This photo made me realize that I really do have a wildlife habitat in my own backyard. Catching this green anole in a photo was a lot of fun.

I picked this photo because I love daisy like blooms. This Black-Eyed Susan is everything in a flower that I love. They are bright and cheery.

I love the spiny centers and lavender rays of the Purple Cone Flower. It is one of my recent additions to my garden. A reminder that my garden is constantly changing and growing.

Fall Asters are very photogenic. Their fall blooms are welcomed after a hot summer.

Well, thanks for reminiscing with me and helping me celebrate my 129th post.

Things That Made Me Go....Hmmm

These are some things that were new to me and I thought I would share them. These are things that made me go....hmmm.

• I didn't realize that you do NOT add any amendments to the soil when planting a tree. First, you dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball or container. The depth should be no deeper than the height of the root ball. What you dig out is what you will use to fill up the hole around the root ball. Why not add compost, peat moss or shredded pine bark? If you add these amendments to back fill around the root ball the roots will love this area and not spread out. Research has shown that this can impede the long-term establishment of the tree. Adding amendments will also create a "bathtub" effect in which that area will become more easily saturated with water. However, when the hole is back filled with native soil, the tree is immediately forced to establish new roots in the back fill and beyond.

• What the heck is the understory? It is a group of small trees, shrubs and vines that grow under the taller trees. Understory trees usually stay small even if they might be very old.
  
• When is the best time to water? Early in the morning when the last drop of water is being applied at dawn to reduce evaporation and ensure maximum infiltration.
• Mulch, mulch, and more mulch...It reduces the amount of moisture evaporated from the soil. Mulch also reduces the amount of weeds and soil compaction. In addition, it helps moderate the soil temperatures for better root growth. A 3-4 inch layer of mulch should be maintained year round. Replenish this layer every time the garden is replanted or when the mulch layer decomposes by half. Also, don't forget to mulch containers or pots to retain moisture. For a young tree a circle of mulch will make it easier to mow around it without damaging the bark. Do not layer the mulch too deeply, and never pile it against the trunk.
• Pruning New Trees...Newly arrived trees and shrubs need pruning to remove broken, crossing, and pest-infected branches. The traditional rule of pruning trees by 1/3 of the top growth at transplanting to compensate for root loss is no longer valid. Recent research shows that excessive pruning at transplanting reduces plant size and does not aid in plant survival.
  

For more information about planting a tree just click on my title post.
Well, I know I am preaching to the choir, but I think they are good points to share.

Waiting for the Sun...

It was a foggy morning, so I waited until the sun broke through to make my way outside. There was a lot of dew on the flowers and grass.



I noticed the Bulbine with the drops of dew glowing in the sun. It is a South African native and very low maintenance. It has green succulent foliage and each individual flower is about one inch across. It is drought tolerant, so I don't want to over water. It can go two weeks without supplemental water, especially in the fall and winter. I think this plant is pretty all year round and I hardly have to do a thing!



There are two varieties of Bulbine. The original is yellow flowering and the other has more compact, orange flowers called 'Hallmark'. In the photo you can see the Yucca and Autumn Sage in the background.

The dew was on the Chinese Fringe Flower. This is a low maintenance shrub that has green, purple, and red leaves and produces hot pink fringe flowers in the late winter through early spring. It can also bloom sporadically in the summer months. Wow...it can reach 6-8 feet tall with a spread of 8-10 feet. It is a good thing you can transplant these shrubs any time of the year because they may be too big for the area I planted them.

One thing I am learning is to always look at the spacing of new plants before I plant them in my landscaping. A low maintenance plant can become high maintenance when there is a lot of pruning involved.

Another low maintenance plant is the Trailing White Lantana. It is a low growing, spreading plant that produces clusters of lavender, purple, or white flowers. Lantana is also an excellent ground cover and is tolerant of dry or poor soil. I will need to shear it back in late winter because it becomes ragged. In the spring, it will come back stronger than ever! It attracts butterflies in the garden and I have enjoyed the butterflies so much this past summer and now fall. If you plant native plants in your landscaping you are setting the stage for butterflies, hummingbirds and a balanced habitat to watch emerge in your garden.

This little, daisy like bloom decided to wake up next to the sedum. I cannot remember the name of this little flower. I think I need to carry one of those little notebooks to write down names of plants that I buy.

I have been wanting to buy one of these Foxtail Ferns and I finally purchased one and planted it in my garden. I just love this little fern. Actually, it is not a true fern. I learned that it produces seeds not spores. It is related to the vegetable Asparagus, which also has fern like foliage. In the summer it has small, white flowers followed by red berries.

Now, the sun is shining very brightly and it is going to be a pretty day!

View of Fall...

After walking through the pretty and lush tropical section of the San Antonio Botanical Garden, I was quickly reminded as I noticed this view that fall is a beautiful season.

Autumn Leaves

Leaves in the autumn came tumbling down,

Scarlet and yellow, russet and brown,

Leaves in the garden were swept in a heap,

Trees were undressing, ready for sleep.

-Unknown

Pretty In Pink & Blue!

Confederate Rose

I wish this was in my garden. I noticed this pretty bloom at Zilker Botanical Garden today. It is an old-fashioned perennial hibiscus. It is shrubby, but tends to be treelike in zones 9 and 10. The flowers are double and roughly 4 - 6 inches in diameter. I have never noticed this beauty before and I have been going to Zilker every week since August. Today was the last class of the Master Gardener Program. I loved going to Zilker every week and discovering new blooms!

Clock Vine

Thunbergia battiscombei

This dark blue-purple bloom is mine. Right now, I have it in a large container and I am debating whether or not to put it in the ground. I'm not sure what kind of winter we are going to have and it is hardy until freezing. It likes moist soil, so I have to keep it watered regularly. I usually buy hardy Texas native and adapted plants, so we will see how this little vine does. I really like this pretty bloomer.

My Indigo Spires is a fast grower and a proven winner.

This pink Gerbera Daisy was standing tall and caught my eye at Zilker. I like all the lush green foliage and large daisy-like blooms. Well, those are the pink and blues that I discovered today.

A Day Out with the Austin Bloggers

What a great day for a road trip! Some of the Austin garden bloggers took a road trip to visit the San Antonio Botanical Garden. It was a beautiful day to walk around the garden and look at all the wonderful plants that grow so well in San Antonio. We also had a great tour of Madrone Nursery that focuses on native plants for Texas. We had the whole place to ourselves because it was by appointment only. Lastly, we went to the Antique Rose Emporium where I was in awe over the variety of roses.



Papyrus
Cyperus papyrus

Today, when I looked at the other Austin blogs, who attended this trip, I was amazed at how collectively we captured a beautiful garden with all our photos. Each one with a different point of view.



I enjoyed looking at all the unfamiliar and familiar plants. I especially loved all the different color combinations.



Unfortunately, all the water features were turned off because of the drought. However, I thought they were still pretty to look at with the lush green background.



Here is a familiar one...Penta.



Phillipine Violet
Barleria cristata

This one really caught my eye and I am going to add some to my garden.

The garden had wide, open areas and areas with shade.

There was plenty of wildlife to watch at the garden. These mallards came up to say hello and take a look around.

There was an area dedicated to cacti and succulents.

Plants from desert regions to rainforests were housed in individual glass buildings with a climate controlled environment.

In the center of the buildings was a courtyard with a tropical lagoon.

Overall, it was a great day. I think we all had a good time sharing what we all have in common .... a love of gardening!

And the Winner Is...

Mexican Narrow-Leaf Zinnia! I just had to give this little, annual bloomer an award for being the Most Giving Bloomer!



The Mexican Narrow-Leaf Zinnia really brightened up the flower bed! I also used some for cut flowers in my "catch-all" vase and they lasted a LONG time!



It was much more tolerant than I was during our long, hot summer.

What is your Most Giving Bloomer?

Worth the "Thyme" ...

Sage "Nazareth"
Hardy Perennial
Full Sun
Silver Leaves with Lavender Blooms

Growing different types of herbs has added interest, color and fragrance to my garden. I have enjoyed my herb garden and I started it by planting herbs that I like to cook with in the kitchen. Easy to grow and they rarely suffer disease or insect damage. Herbs actually help to keep pest problems to a minimum.



I positioned my herb rock garden in the corner of our yard where it receives about 5-6 hours of sunlight a day. There is just something about rock gardens that I love. First, you can't get more of a natural look than using rocks. Second, they are readily available (in abundance) in the Austin soil. Third, I can move them around easily as the herbs grow or die. Next, it blends in with my landscaping and is not a focal point (the way I want it). Also, I just like rocks and have large ones placed in and around my other plants.




I like the light green foliage of the Basil "Spicy Globe". I also have mint in which I love to add to my ice tea. I plan on freezing some of my herbs for later use in the winter. I just wash them in cool water and shake or pat them dry. Put them in zip lock bags and label with name and date. Herbs can be minced or frozen whole. This way, I can enjoy them all year!



I planted some extra dianthus around my rock garden to add a little color. However, I think the herbs alone add enough variety of textures, colors and foliage.



I love the little leaves of thyme. I also have a large quantity of rosemary that I like to cook with and I love to cut off pieces and bring them in the house and sometimes I put them with a mixture of flowers. It brings beauty and fragrance into our home.



This is my little corner of the yard. I can hideout for a little while before anyone finds me. Eventually, I will hear those famous words, "MOMMMMMM."


Dwarf Lavender "Munstead"
Full Sun

Herbs are EASY to grow and well worth the "thyme" to supply not only a wonderful fragrance but also wonderful seasonings.

Also, Janie from... An Obsessive/Compulsive Plant Collector has a great post that is entitled, A Basic Guide to Herb Gardening . I will definitely refer to her post for information. If you want to read her post just click on my post title. Thanks for visiting!

HodgePodge

Here is a hodgepodge of what I found yesterday in my garden ...



I like to plant Dianthus in the fall. I think the lacy-edged blooms and dark green foliage are very pretty. It likes the sun and usually survives the hot summer. However, it does much better in the cooler temperatures.

Pink Lantana camara is one hardy plant and grows like a weed! I have all colors mixed in one

bed and I love it when they are full of blooms!

'Dallas Red' puts on quite a bright show.

Don't you just want to touch these soft, velvety leaves of the Dusty Miller and Viola?

For some reason, I don't have much luck with Penta :). However, this summer I put some in a

container in which I could move around to find the right location!

Nothing says ...

fall more to me than mums. I have to admit mums are not my favorite blooms, but when I get

up close I think they are really interesting.

I said this was a hodgepodge ... I wanted to share the juniper that my son shaped into a bonsai tree. I'm not sure who had more fun creating this little tree. :)

Have a great day!

Grocery Lists Are A Lot Easier!

My grocery list is a lot easier to compose than my bulb and perennial wish list. Some of you may not be able to relate to my thoughts. However, the items on my grocery list come to me automatically with no real thought but to the ingredients I might need for a certain recipe. Usually, I just "wing it" without a list and buy the main staples our family likes and hope it all goes together and taste great. The items in the grocery store usually have one name with different brands, but the ingredients are usually the same. Not much variety to dwell on or contemplate. There are varieties in the meats and cheeses, etc., but it is easy for me to distinguish which one my family prefers. The items are easy to pronounce and asking for them is pretty darn easy. You can usually go to one store and find everything you need. When it is time to go, the groceries fit easily in my trunk and usually no spills or mess.

In a couple of days, I am going to a plant nursery and Rose Emporium and my list is taking me a long time to write. I look at my notes from my classes and speakers we have had and try to decipher them because it looks like they were written in a foreign language. I try to google my "inventive" spelling to figure out the words and sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. My mind is racing ...."Where will I put it and what does it need?" and "Is it a native and will it compliment the other plants I already have or overpower them?" There are so many varieties and complicated names! :/

STOP! What am I doing? I think I am making this list more difficult than it has to be. Maybe I should just "chill" and take a deep breath and put things in perspective. Or maybe I should stick to the grocery list and start blogging about recipes. Oh, I don't think so... :o

So, I decided that I will write down a few "must have" bulbs and perennials that I have seen and heard about and go to the nursery. I will spend my time enjoying looking at all the beautiful variety of plants and buy what I like and if it doesn't work I will just have to try a different one later. I will know in the back of my mind that if it is a Texas native it will be easy to care for and my chances of success are greater. However, if I really like it and I think it is worth trying I will do so. I think I will keep my blog and continue gardening and not over think this matter. I think I need a ...

Margarita 'Esperanza'

My Wish List
Assortment (Rough Draft)

(You get to see this because I couldn't cut and paste it on another document and I wasn't about to write it again!) :)

Viola Odorata 'Purple Robe' - will bloom mid-winter and needs shade

Lavender, Copper Canyon Daisy, Rosemary
'Roman' or French Hyacinth - hardy and fragrant and will bloom in Jan. (Heirloom Bulb)
Byzantine Gladiolus -April bloomer color magenta and is a heirloom (wild perennial glad) Leucojum Aestivum Graveltye Giant Snowflake -early Spring blooms for 1 month

Oxblood lily or schoolhouse lilies
Campernelle daffodil Texas heirloom bulb

Grand Primo - Citroniere excellent southern bulb daffodil and Feb. /March bloomer

x Italicus or Minor moraque- Jan. /Feb.
Narcissus Chinese Sacred Lily has white petals with golden tangerine cups
Day lily - Quanso and Kindly lights
Verbena - Texas Apple Blossom and Homestead Purple - can plant together
Flowering Tobacco or Jasmine Tobacco

Proven Easy!

Indigo Spires

Salvia 'Indigo Spires'

I really like this easy to care for Salvia! I planted it about 4 weeks ago and it is growing fast. You have to allow plenty of room for this one. It can spread 5 - 7 feet and can reach 3 - 4 feet in height and likes the sun/part shade. It will bloom from spring until frost. It has blue or purple blooms and only requires a low to moderate amount of water. Usually, if I like the plant and the color is blue... I don't have to think long if I want to add it to my garden!

Butterfly Bush

Buddleja davidii

This is one perennial bush that I have really enjoyed having in the garden. The color is wonderful and it attracts many butterflies! I watched this monarch for some time on Sunday enjoying it as well.

By planting native and adapted plants in my garden I am providing a habitat that is low maintenance, resistant to most pests and disease, and providing food and shelter for many birds, insects and other desirable wildlife. Native and adaptive plants provide us with proven success and a garden we can enjoy!

If You Don't Know...Google It!

Happy Halloween!

When I started this post, I had just let my dogs outside and the weather was great! Anyway, I left the backdoor open like I often do in the mornings. Well, I heard flapping against the window and noticed a bird got in our house! I have never had a bird stuck in our house before and I wasn't quite sure what to do except instinctively open all the windows and doors. Poor little guy was in a panic and I was too.

As you can see, we have these windows way up high in our family room and he continued to hit the windows trying to get out. I couldn't just sit there and watch. He wasn't moving or trying to fly around looking for an exit.

So, what did I do? I googled it of course. What did we do before google? You can find anything on that search engine! I found some advice to cover up all outside openings (which I couldn't cover up the huge ones) and shut the blinds and leave just a couple of doors open. I also turned out all the lights, which didn't help much because it was morning. It said if all else fails grab a towel and gently cover the bird up and take him outside. When he lost his energy this is what I did and he sat on the towel for about 10 minutes and finally flew away. I was happy and relieved he was outside and okay. Quite a crazy morning and now it is afternoon. :/

Now, back to my post...

Heavenly Bamboooooooooo!

Heavenly Bamboo
Nandina domestica

I planted this little evergreen last spring. It forms a clump of slender stems and fine textured compound leaves that change color with the seasons. They change from bronze to green to red. It does well in the shade or full sun and has virtually no pest problems. In the spring, I will remove old, weak or damaged stems. I need to cut some of the stems to the ground, so it will encourage new growth from the base of the plant. This plant's growth needs to be controlled and shouldn't be planted near parks and preserves.


These were little marigold seedlings my son planted in the crevice of a rock.



My Root Beer Plant or as I call it my Jack in the Beanstalk plant is finally starting to grow. I planted this last spring. What sparked my interest in this plant was that I saw one at a nursery in Austin that was huge! During the hot, dry summer we had... it was not too happy. However, now it likes the rainy, moist weather we have been having!

Well, thanks for visiting and enjoy your weekend!

Antique Roses

While attending my Master Gardner Class, I had the priviledge of hearing Dr. William C. Welch talk to us about his love and knowledge of antique roses. He has definitely sparked enthusiasm for these beautiful, fragrant, low maintenance roses in his book entitled Antique Roses For The South. Not only do these antique roses hold historic interest, fragrance, and form but they also require low maintenance.

I enjoyed listening to Dr. William Welch and learning a great deal about what types of roses do well in Texas. He talked about climbers that are exceptionally hardy hybrids such as 'Lady Banks' , 'Fortuniana', 'Cecile Brunner', 'Lamarque', and 'Zepherine Drouhin'.

Also, a number of specimens can be used in a lawn area. They can be used to screen unsightly areas or to cover up dead trees, stumps, etc. A weeping form of rose called the 'Swamp Rose' can be used as a single specimen and likes wet conditions. I have just the place in mind for one in my yard!

In addition, loose shrubs and trailing roses are sometimes used on banks and other sunny spots as groundcover. 'Banksias', 'Swamp Rose', and 'R. Fortuniana', can be very effective when allowed to cascade over a wall, especially if there is a pool of water below.

Lastly, Teas, Bourbons, Polyanthas, Chinas, Hybrid Perpetuals, Hybrid Musks, Noisettes, and many of the species roses all lend themselves to use in mixed borders. 'Mrs. Dudley Cross' and 'Mrs. B.R. Cant' are excellent Tea Roses for Texas. 'Champney's Pink Cluster' is a wonderful Noisette for this area. Also, the 'Green Rose' is a good choice. In the Polyantha Class , the 'Marie Pavie' makes a good choice. In the Hybrid Musk class the 'Prosperity' (white) does very well.
For the large flowering class the 'Don Juan' (red bloom) does quite well. 'Belinda's Dream' has a fragrance and does well. 'Peggy Martin' or Hurricane Katrina Rose is a thornless easy to grow rose that is a climber. I was writing all of this so quickly and I hope I got the names right!

This is only a little sample of what he presented to us. I'm sure his book is beautifully illustrated and very informative and I am looking forward to reading it and learning more about antique roses. All the framed photos on this post are my Knockout Roses. However, maybe one day I will post photos of my antique roses!

If you would like to read more about Dr. Welch just click on my post title. Also, he is a regular contributor to Southern Living Magazine. One of my favorites!

You can visit his web site at:
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/southerngarden/contents.html

Cone Flower...Achoooooo!

Purple Coneflower

Echinacea Purpurea

Ivy decided to take a whiff of the Purple Coneflower I planted about 3 weeks ago. This was one perennial I had on my list to add this fall to my garden. It likes the morning sun with afternoon shade. It will reach 1-3 feet tall with a spread of 1-1.5 feet. You need to prune the top 1/2 after first bloom period, and then to a 3 feet height after first frost.

ACH...OOOOOOO! She actually did sneeze.

I planted the Cone Flower next to my Plumbago and Daylily. I added a few rocks to the garden, as well.

It has lavendar rays...

and purple-brown spiny centers with rough, scattered leaves.

I really like daisy-like flowers and it is a great butterfly plant!

Hello, Different Garden!

The autumn sun sends a glow on this Sage. I cut it back about 3 weeks ago and it is producing more beautiful blooms. I guess the reason why I like it so much is because I like the little red blooms that it keeps giving even during and after the summer drought. It does tend to get leggy, so I just trim it back and it comes back better than ever.

With the fall, brings new life to the garden. After the long , hot summer we had the garden is looking healthier with the lower temperatures and rain we have been receiving. I love to walk outside in the morning with my camera.

I was pretty sure the caterpillar was going to eat this whole milkweed! I'm glad it grows fast and I am going to plant more of this Butterfly Weed! I loved watching the monarch caterpillar and butterflies in the yard. I only saw a couple. Also, I love red, orange and yellow together!

I still have blooms on my Butterfly Bush and a moth (not sure what kind) came to visit. I lost one Butterfly Bush this summer but this one is still blooming. It shows interest in the summer and fall. I am so glad I added this to my garden because it is a definite attraction.

It was a short visit and now, I have learned to have my camera ready! The cooler weather has brought with it a different garden. There is always something new to look at each time I go outside. When I first started this adventure, I thought I am going to run out of posts! NoT!

Easy Blooms!

Ice Plant
Delosperma Cooperi

I was wondering, where did it get the name ice plant? I read that what gives it the name is the little hairs on the leaves reflect and refract light in a way that it looks like ice crystals shining.
Also, I think the blooms have a frosty look to them.


This easy to please ice plant is a hardy annual that can survive our winters in Central Texas. Therefore, we can treat it as a perennial. It is a succulent ground cover with bright, neon colored blooms. I have seen yellow, pink, and purple blooms that are very eye-catching! It loves full sun and the only thing to remember is not to water it too much. You will see blooms from late spring until summer. I have this yellow ice plant in my rock garden.



This pretty pink bloom belongs to my neighbor and it is in a great location along a wall in which it can spill over. Also, Ice Plants are easy to propagate. All you need to do is break a piece off and put it in the desired location and keep moist until rooted. I love easy to care for plants!

Now, A Texas Superstar!

Duranta, Brazilian
Sky Flower
Duranta Erecta

In a previous post, I wrote about my new purchase of a blue-purple Sky Flower and now I have added a new addition to my garden...

Skyflower, Duranta

Duranta Erecta

This white bloomer is a Texas Superstar and it is well deserved. It is one hardy plant with little maintenance and I have discovered it will produce more blooms if planted in full sun. This plant looks great in the ground or a large container! I love a splash of white in my garden. I think it adds softness and a sense of "coolness" to a hot summer.

This adapted plant for Texas has a fine texture and needs fertile, well-drained soil. It will reach 5-10 feet in height with a spread of 4-10 feet. So, you need plenty of room for this one!
It is treated as an annual, root-hardy perennial in most parts of Texas, but will be a perennial in south Texas.

These are two easy bloomers to grow in a garden!

Ornamental Grasses and Fall

I know it is fall when all the ornamental grasses start to glow! Ornamental grasses add interest to any garden. With their motion and sound they also add a peaceful feeling. All the different colors and sizes make great companion plants with colorful bloomers and woody ornamentals and are also great by themselves. They are eye catching and easy to care for in my garden.



Gulf Muhly
Muhlenbergia Capillaris

This wispy grass makes a beautiful fall color with its pink feathery seed heads. I love it when the sun is shining behind this lovely grass and it gives off quite a hue of a sea of pink and purple. It reaches 2-2.5 feet in height and a spread of 2-3 feet. It does well in sun/part shade. It does need to be cut back in January.

A pretty color combination of Bulbine and Gulf Muhly.

Mexican Feathergrass

Nassella Tenuissima

I added a little Mexican Feathergrass or Wiregrass to my garden. It is a delicate weeping grass that is drought tolerant. Wiregrass is a Texas native and easy to grow. I like one individual planting to add variety to my colorful perennials and rocks. In addition, it is amazing all the different earthy colors contained in one plant.

Purple Fountain Grass

I love the dark purple foliage of this ornamental. It is an annual and doesn't do well below 40 degrees. I just added this to my garden, so we will see how it does. There is something about dark purple against all the different shades of green in a garden that I enjoy.

Big Muhly

Muhlenbergia Lindheimeri

This ornamental grass likes the sun and can reach 3-4 feet tall with a spread of 3-4 feet. It has feathery seed heads that are an added interest in the fall. I will just cut it back in January.

In the fall, the ornamental grasses show their true colors and shine!

Take Time to Look at the Roses...

'Knockout Rose'

This rose is one, easy shrub to grow in Texas. It loves the cooler weather and is showing it's true colors this fall.

A bouquet of roses is always nice to receive, but I think one rose is just as nice.

To produce more lovely blooms I just crumble up the spent flowers...easy enough!



They can have a spread of 3 feet and can reach 3 feet in height. It likes the morning sun and is a semi-evergreen. The new growth is a deep shade of purple and it will bloom from spring until frost.




I will need to prune it back 1/3 in late winter. It will come back stronger than ever in the spring. I always thought roses would be hard to care for and I was mistaken. They are simple and give more than they have to receive!



"You can complain because roses have thorns, or you can rejoice because thorns have roses" -Tom Wilson

The Growing Box... LOvE iT!

This idea comes from AgriLife Extension: Texas A&M System and it has been adapted by master gardeners. This was designed by Don Freeman and Ron Miller.


I received this idea at my Master Gardener Class. The growing boxes are self-watering, weed-free, and easy to maintain container gardens. They are great for teachers, apartment/condo dwellers and anyone who has limited space to garden. I think this is a very clever way to have a garden which doesn't cost much and is portable and reusable!

Click on the post title for complete easy to follow directions how to make a Growing Box.

A big thank you for the great design and easy to follow directions!

As Long As They Are Outside I'm Fine!

Today was a great day to sit outside and open up the umbrella. Well, I got a surprise by seeing this mud dauber's nest. They build their nest in a place that will stay dry. Well, what better place than under an umbrella? I guess it will hold up on the umbrella fabric.

The female wasp gathers mud to build a cement nest or brood chamber. Her nest is definitely camouflaged with the tan umbrella. You might be wondering...how did she carry that mud? She collected soft mud with her jaw and front legs, forming it into a ball that she carried in flight. Also, how did she get that hole perfectly round? She shaped it with her mouth parts and feet while making a high-pitched singing sound. Pretty talented little mud dauber!

Then, after she builds her nest she goes off in search of food for the larva that will live and grow in the tube. She puts enough live spiders in the tube and lays one egg attached to one of the spiders. Then, she seals up that tube with mud and starts another one alongside. The wasp does not kill the spiders she only paralyzes them with her sting. That way the larva has fresh food every day until it emerges next summer. It is amazing what mothers will do for their children. They provide a nice shelter with warm food and they are even happy enough to sing while they work.

So, are these little builder's beneficial? Well, if you don't like spiders in and around your house you might be thankful for their help. If you don't like the muddy dwellings on or near your house... well that is up to you.

This spider decided to make a home inside the spiky leaves of my iris. Location, location, location must be her motto. She has prime real estate to catch her prey.

This spider web is quite large and is connected to the wrought iron fence and crape myrtle. The spider is hiding in the wrought iron fence waiting for the catch.

Yesterday, my son and I were outside and we saw a dragonfly trying to escape from the web but was losing the battle. I knew exactly what my son was thinking ... if I could just free him from this web. We both thought about it but realized that even if we did it probably wouldn't survive because his wings were caught in the web. This is my son that saves every bug that is drowning in our pool. I call him the bug resuscitator. He has a very kind heart which I love.

Today, when I looked outside the dragonfly was gone. Well, spiders are beneficial to my garden even though some of them look kind of intimidating. As long as they are outside...I'm fine!

Beautiful Fall Day!

Lion's Tail
Leonotis Leonurus

I just added this Lion's Tail to my garden. It is on the top of my list of favorites right now just because I think it has unusual flowering. I like the multi-tiered orange blooms which resemble a lion's tail as you can see. This Texas loving perennial can reach 4 - 6 feet tall with a spread of 4 - 6 feet. So, it needs to have plenty of room to grow. It loves the sun and is an evergreen! It takes little water which is a definite plus. You can prune after flowering to keep smaller. It prefers well drained soil and you don't want to plant this near preserves it seeds out readily.

Yellow Lab

Lazy Dog

What a beautiful, fall day to be outside. Our Cody is enjoying a nap outside in the cooler temperatures. This is our eleven year old lab who has the easy life. He loves to be outside with me. He is a very sweet dog.



My garden mum is waking up and getting ready to open up like crazy. A true sign of a welcomed fall!

With the cooler temperatures at night and the rain we have been having everything is coming to life again with new growth. My caladiums have perked back up and my newly planted white, trailing lantana is growing fast. I love white flowers in my garden. Overall, it was a great day to be outside.

Have a good weekend!

What Caught My Eye...

I was walking in my backyard this morning and these are the flowers that caught my eye!

Bulbine

B. frutescens

Being a Texas adapted this perennial does wonderfully all year. The blooms are starting to show their true colors of orange and yellow. It is an evergreen with aloe-like leaves. I just have to trim off old bloom stalks. If you are looking for a carefree plant you might check out bulbine to plant in your garden.

It is a great time to plant dianthus. I planted mine last fall and it is looking great with the cooler, wet temperatures. This is an annual but you wouldn't know it in Texas.




Lobed Tickseed 'Nana'
Coreopsis Auriculata

This little yellow flowering perennial is not a Texas native and I had trouble finding the right location for it to do well. I do like the dark foliage and little flowers.


Thanks for visiting!

Welcoming Fall and Halloween

When I think of fall I often think of violas and mums.

I usually put together a few containers of each and put them by our front door.

I just love their faces of color and combining them with silvery-white, soft foliage of dusty miller.

I also enjoy getting out all the fall and Halloween decorations and displaying them by our front door. Just a few simple containers, pumpkins...

cats and ghost

to welcome our friends and neighbors.

Amy vs. Nutsedge...Round 1

For those of you who did not see my earlier post, you are viewing my side yard and the nutsedge that has taken over. I would like to clean up this area. A lot of gardeners have given me some very good advice. I kind of like the hog idea the best. I decided the first thing I would do is do what I instinctively felt like doing and that was just to pull those weeds right up. Even though I knew in my heart that it was instant gratification and would not be the solution to the problem. So, ...

I set out early this morning with my dog, Cody. He ate a few for me and I pulled the rest. Actually they were easy to pull out because the plastic allowed me to pull the nutsedge easily and LEAVE THE NUT BELOW THE PLASTIC...UGH! Even though I knew this, I just kept plugging away. Then after about an hour and a half...

I filled up three trash bags of nutsedge and another weed that I have decided I like because it lifted up just like carpet. I don't know the name of this weed but it cooperated much better and I was able to GET ALL OF IT INCLUDING THE ROOTS.

As you can see by the picture, it LOOKS GREAT NOW! I know it will not last but it gives me happiness to know I won TODAY! My happiness will be taken away I know in a few days when they start popping up. I know the battle has just begun!

Now, after publishing this post I am going to think about my next move. What do you think? Should I...

1. put down a ground cover in hopes that it will drown out the nutsedge?
2. xeriscape the side yard in hopes of out numbering the sedge?
3. take up pulling nutsedge as a hobby?
4. spray a weed killer each time I see it popping up?
5. tell my boys to... " GO PULL NUTSEDGE!" when they have consequences to their behavior?
6. go buy a hog to graze the side yard?
7. have a sedge pulling party every week so the neighbors can pitch in to help?
8. look in my kitchen pantry for some home remedies?
9. forget about the whole thing and just post pictures of lovely flowers?

It's such a dilemma. What do you think? Any other better suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks for listening to my woes! Until next time...

It's Beginning to Look Like Halloween...

Amy vs. Nutsedge

I am ready to tackle
this nutsedge and messy side yard.

We have a side yard that used to have rocks as a ground cover. Now, it is covered with nutsedge. I would like to clean it up and get rid of the nutsedge!

There are a lot of gardeners out there who have probably dealt with this nutsedge problem before so advice is welcomed.

Here is one option that I was informed about which includes:

1. first, using the weedeater to cut down the tall nutsedge.


2. then, covering it loosely with fabric and hold it down with bricks, etc. Cover it with a fabric so that it has buoyancy, in which it will loosely cover the sedge, so it won't pop through. This loose fabric will allow the nutsedge to just bend under the fabric instead of popping through and growing. I'm not quite sure what type of fabric to use for this...any ideas?


3. next, allowing it to sit for 1-2 weeks in order for the nutsedge to die back.


4. then, take the cover off and clean up.


5. lastly, keeping on top of it by pulling and covering it up until you have WON the battle.

I don't want this to be a breeding ground for snakes, so I would like to clean it up. Any advice from those who have won the battle would greatly be appreciated!

What's Going On?

What have I
been doing
lately in my
backyard?

I have been busy...

1. cutting and removing dead foliage and cleaning up perennials.


2. planning a design for the empty spaces in my garden.


3. making a list of new perennials I would like to purchase.


4. figuring out how many large rocks I want to add to my landscape.


5. pulling weeds in my garden beds.


6. putting down lawn runners and top soil in open spaces in the lawn to promote growth.


7. cutting back over grown perennials.


8. moving patio furniture and cleaning patio with power hose.


9. moving some perennials to a better location.


10. figuring out how much mulch I need to buy for beds.


11. planting some of my container perennials in the beds.

Also, Some Interesting Happenings In My Garden...


I finally know the name of this perennial. It is a pyracantha shrub that I am training to vine and it does have thorns. It is a pretty traditional shrub that likes part to full sun with deep regular watering. The berries attract birds. I bought this last summer and had kind of given up on it, but instead I replanted it in a new location. It now has some added interest of berries. It seems to be doing well.


A New Addition



Blackfoot Daisy
Melampodium leucanthum

This is my latest addition to my garden. It is an evergreen that can reach 6-12" tall and have a spread of 1-2 ft. It loves the sun and takes very little water. If it gets leggy, all I need to do is cut it back. It does require dry conditions, so it is perfectly suited for Texas.

So, that's what I have been doing in my garden. I have been busy, but having fun being outside in the cooler temperatures. Fall is a great time to garden in Texas!

What's going on in your garden?

One Muddy Day!

This is what Austin City Limits Music Festival looked like on Sunday! The rain on Saturday took a toll on the condition of the grass. Actually, what grass? Now, there is not a good patch of it left. Zero grass and all mud! The smell was awful and I probably would not have gone on Sunday if I would have known about this mess! A lot of people just gave up wearing shoes and left them in the mud. It took us at least 30 minutes to walk from one end to the entrance on our way out. People were falling all around. The informed and lucky ones had on rain boots. Last year, it was all the dirt flying in the air and this year the mud. With all this said, we enjoyed the great music and food. We could have done without the mud. However, I will never complain about the rain because of the drought. I guess that is a whole different post!

OoH....YuCK!

Okay...I don't mind the small ones at all, but the large ones are just disgusting to me. By the way, that is a quarter. This part of gardening I do not like. I don't like digging and running into one of these! I have never seen one this big before and you could have heard me a mile away when I did!

I'm sure many of the Texas gardeners out there have run into these. So, how do you know when they are a problem in your lawn or garden? If you click on my title it will take you to a site that might help answer your questions.

Well, they won't stop me from digging, but if you hear me you know what I have found in my garden.

Austin City Limits Music Festival

Well, this is where I have been all weekend and having a great time! ACL or Austin City Limits is a three day music festival in which tickets to the festival helps improve parks throughout Austin. There are two stages at ACL that are named in support of local non-profits the LIVESTRONG Foundation and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

The weather was absolutely beautiful on Friday. During the festival it is hard to find family and friends, therefore a lot of people bring their own flag to fly high, so people can find their group to join.

Kings of Leon played last night. Other bands include Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs...Dave Mathews Band, The Decemberists, Them Crooked Vultures and the Sunday night show is Pearl Jam. There were so many bands on the list! If you ever get a chance to go to ACL it is well worth the time and money. Oh, the food is great, too!

How Does Your Garden Grow?

This is my rock garden in my backyard which I started last summer. It just keeps getting bigger and bigger. I have planted mostly succulents in the garden.

Cigar Plant

Cuphea melvillea

Red is my favorite color! I have a lot of different colors in my garden, but the predominant color is RED. This includes the cigar plant, ...

autumn sage and firebush. We have a lot of hummingbirds that visit our backyard!

Other red perennials in my garden include:

Red Yucca

Mexican Honeysuckle

Pride of Barbados

Knock Out Rose

Turks Cap

Bottlebrush

Have a great day!

A Walk...

I enjoy walking through Zilker Botanical Garden in Austin. Every time I walk through I discover something different that I didn't notice before. Gardens are always changing. The garden gives me motivation to look at the color combinations of flowers that compliment each other and I can design my landscaping on a much smaller scale. In addition, all the different shades of green foliage and textures are all compatible to create a beautiful garden.

I found these little impatiens at the entrance of the garden and an interesting tropical hanging basket.

Below the hanging basket was a sea of coleus and caladiums. I love the vibriant color combinations. Caladiums bring back good memories of my mom always putting a large container of them on our front porch.

I noticed a pretty hibiscus flower among lush, green foliage.

Mexican Bush Sage

Salvia Leucantha

Lately, I have noticed these beauties around Austin. They are a vibrant, purple spike flower. The blooms look velvet soft. This drought tolerant is on my list to add to our backyard garden.

Hope you enjoyed my short walk through Zilker Botanical Garden. Have a great day!

"Pop" of Color!

Texas Superstar!

Large Flowering Purslane

Portulaca x Yubi

If you are looking for an easy flower container. You might want to try this showy bloomer. It's my very favorite and there is no maintenance required. I have set it in my flower bed to add some interest and color! The sprinkler hits it every once in a while, so I don't even have to hand water. An added bonus is that the flowers "pop" open every morning with the sun shining on them. I could not ask for an easier flower to maintain.

Non-Chemical Weed Control

Did you know

you can use

newspapers

to get rid of

weeds?




This is a handy tip or option that I learned at my Master Gardener Training Class. The class topic was organic gardening and the discussion was on non-chemical weed control. I love this idea because not only will it save me time but my back as well.

Here is how it works. Do you have a flower bed or garden in which you want to remove a lot of weeds? First, you need to cover the entire weed filled area with newspaper at least 4 layers thick. You just layer the newspaper around existing plants. Spray the area with water, so the newspaper sticks to the ground. Then, place whatever you want to show on top like mulch. The newspaper allows for moisture to go through and the weeds will die and not come up through the paper! The newspaper will slowly decompose. That's a quick way to get rid of the weeds and make your flower bed look great!

However, I'm sorry to say that this does not apply to nutsedge!

That's a whole different post.

Friend or Foe?

I have learned that the best pest control for your garden is YOU. Knowing the difference betweeen the good and bad insects is important for pest control. Also, monitoring plants regularly to catch a problem early is helpful. Pest management is all about developing and supporting a balance in nature. This means that in my landscape design, I might have to learn to tolerate low levels of pests in order to get the beneficials in my garden.


This means giving time to allow for the beneficial populations to build up. For example, I wrote a post about the monarch caterpillar and aphids on my Mexican butterfly weed and how it was doomed. Well, I have recently learned that one of the keys to creating a more eco-wise garden is understanding that the milkweed is a host plant for the monarch butterfly and attracts aphids. In return, aphids attract ladybugs, which in turn help keep the rest of the garden under control. I want to keep the good guys hanging around my garden. How do I keep them around? Supplying them with what they need to sustain their life. Providing the right type of plants, a supply of water and shelter like leaf litter or groundcover plants.

Some of the beneficial insects include:

Assassin Bug

Damsel Bug

Damsel Fly

Giant Wheel Bug

Ground Beetle

Honey Bees

Lacewing

Lady Beetle

Praying Mantis

Predatory Flies

Predatory Wasps

Spiders

Syrphid Fly

For pictures and information about each insect click the title of this post.

In addition to increasing the beneficials there are many other options to get rid of pests if needed:

Handpicking

Blasts of Water

Screens or Barriers

Traps
Solarize Soil

Insecticidal Soap

Horticultural Oil
B.t.
Neem
And the list goes on...

However, choosing the safest most natural methods available and avoiding synthetic products helps our environment and all it's living creatures.

Hello, Rain! Hello, Rainbow!

My husband took this picture yesterday. A rainbow is a wonderful thing to see after the hot, dry summer we had in Austin. Today, the high temperature in Austin was 67 degrees and the eight day forecast features a repeat of another wet weather forecast, in the form of 20-30% rain chances through the end of next week. Just goes to show how quickly things can change. It's predicted that our drought situation will improve with the coming months. With the change, I noticed a change in my garden. The flowers and foliage are standing a little taller.

Gaura
Gaura Lindheimeri

When it rains, I know the gaura will open up new blooms. It attracts butterflies and needs little water. It is located in a sun/part shade spot in our yard. It can reach 2-3 feet tall with a spread of 3 feet. I like the airy blooms and fluttering blooms that resemble butterflies.

These little blooms were on the other side of our back fence. I think everyone is a little happier with the cooler temperatures and the desperately needed rain. Things can change pretty quickly!

Photo Painting

As you can see, I had a lot of fun at http://www.photobucket.com/.

Still Blooming

Hello, fall...

the flowers are still blooming.

Each one a different shape and color.

Unique and wonderful

to see as I step out my door...

into my garden.

Not A Texas Superstar but...

they shine in my garden!

This popular old-fashioned perennial ranks very high

in my book of favorite perennials. I have an assortment of

cannas in different colors all planted together.

What I Learned About Plant Propagation

My Propagation Journal
On Tuesday, when the master gardener introduced the topic of plant propagation, my ears perked up and I sat a little straighter. I definitely have an interest in this subject. I think there are lots of positives in learning about how to do this. One, it's an inexpensive way to accumulate new plants. Second, the variety of plants are plentiful. Next, you can share plants with friends and last but not least, the gratification of knowing you started a new plant that is hopefully healthy and growing strong! Oh, and also I think it is fun to experiment in finding different ways to produce new plants.

A Self-Watering Propagator

Clippings...

The instructors walked us through making a self-watering propagator. First, you fill a 10-12 inch pan with a moist media. A quality media means one in which is termed artificial or it contains no soil. The basic ingredients of such a mix are sphagnum peat moss and vermiculite, both of which are generally free of diseases, weed seeds, and insects. Next, you sink a clay pot, which the bottom hole has been plugged with beeswax or hot glue, into the middle of the soil. First, use scissors to scrape the side of the bottom tip of the cutting. Next, dip your cutting in water and then a root growth hormone and use a pencil to push a hole in potting mix. Next, place the cutting in the mix. You use the pencil so you don't rub off any of the hormone that you put on the cutting. Just keep the clay pot filled with water and place in a bright, well protected location. When cuttings are well rooted they are ready to transplant into individual pots. Remember to start out small and gradually work your way up to a larger gallon pot. The clay pot will gradually seep out water for the cuttings.

We were given labels to write down the name of each cutting and the date. A little tidbit they shared was that if you use a pencil it will not fade off or smear like a pen. If you need to erase the label, rub a little bit of your potting mix on it.

9/17/09: It seems to be drying out fast. I put some clear wrap around it to hold in the moisture. I also watered the soil and filled the cup.

9/18/09: Plants look a lot better! Most of them are not wilting anymore. My hairspray bottle makes a great mist.

9/20/09: Well, now there is too much moisture...mold on some of the plants. I took off plastic wrap and put water in pot. :/

9/25/09: The moisture seems to be just right, now. The plastic is off and I am keeping the pot full of water.

Update on October 16th: The true survivors were coleus, rosemary and pickle plant. The rest of the plants died I believe due to mold, etc. The survivors did not surprise me.

I planted the survivors in new pots. We will see how they do and I will keep you informed.

Soda Bottle Propagator

For the next project, we made a soda bottle propagator. Use a six inch pot and quality mix to plant cuttings. Using the same procedure use the root hormone and pencil to place your cuttings in the hole and label. Cut off the bottom of a two litter soda bottle and it fits right inside the pot pretty tightly. Keep bottle top on, so it collects humidity. Mist plants with water and you have a mini greenhouse! If too much moisture collects just open the bottle top.

9/25/09: Plants look healthy. I occasionally have to take the top off because of too much moisture.

Succulent Propagation

When you are propagating a succulent you have to let your cutting sit out for 24 hours to establish a callous on the bottom of the cutting and then you are ready to put it in the quality mix. Remember to label and date each cutting. I am going to put a soda top on my succulents to retain the moisture. I will place these inside the house in indirect lighting.

Prickly Pear Cactus

I have a post concerning my cactus propagation. It is the same process as succulents, but I let the cutting sit out for a little over a week before I planted it. I planted it in a more sandy soil.

July 23, 2009

September 1, 2009

September 16, 2009

October 16, 2009

Cactus looks pretty healthy and has turned a great shade of green.

Brugmansia Stem Cutting

I already have a post about this propagation. I explained my mistake of transplanting it in a container that was too large. I learned you should gradually increase the size of the pot so the moisture level is accurate for the size of the plant. This cutting recovered and looks about the same as when I started! Oh, well...trial and error.

September 16, 2009

We also talked about seeds and propagation by layering and division. There is a lot to learn about propagation. There are so many ways of propagating the same plant. It is kind of like an experiment of trial and error. You also have to have patience in waiting for the plant to grow. All-in-all I think it is worth trying to get the end result....a beautiful plant that you started!

A Very Hungry Catepillar!

Asclepias curassavica

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner!
Butterfly Weed

(Milkweed)

Crunch, crunch, crunch...

and munch, munch, munch!

When I went outside yesterday, I noticed this monarch caterpillar chewing on my

Mexican butterfly weed. I only bought one little plant not knowing how it would do and

if I really liked it or not. Well, it didn't take him long to munch and crunch through the leaves.

However, I actually do think monarch caterpillars are pretty, colorful and interesting to watch.

I don't like to see them destroying my plant, but...

I LOvE watching these beautiful butterflies in my garden!
I wonder where he is headed off ?

Mexico, maybe...

Where Did I Put My Gardening Gloves?

A Little Tidbit

Where did I put my gardening GLOVES? I found myself constantly looking for items when I garden. I would have to keep running into our garage to get certain things. I knew there had to be a better way. So, I was ready to get organized.

I recently saw a garden bucket that a master gardener was using at Zilker Botanical Garden. Her bucket had nice pockets that were built into a bucket. With that idea in mind, I decided to put a similar version together.

Pretty easy to do...just tie the waistband tie to the bucket. Tie above the handle so it doesn't slip and you have an instant garden bucket to store all your items that you want handy. As you know, when you garden things get very dirty. Can you tell I just bought my bucket and pockets? I know it will not stay clean. It will be very cheap to replace when needed. I decided to glue a decoration on the front pocket where they put the store logo.



Some of my other important gardening items include a light, fold-away container that holds all my clippings that I drag around our yard. Also, my crocs that I wear with socks now because of those awful fire ants. A tin for my extra gloves and all the other stuff I'm sure you have when you garden. All this helps me stay a little bit more organized. The total cost of the bucket and pocket was only $3.11. Pretty inexpensive way to keep from searching for those gloves.

Have a good weekend!

Fragrant Fall Container Recipe

Start with some garden mums...

and add a little boxwood basil.

Next, put a dash of rosemary in the bunch...

and add Sansevieria trifasciata or mother-in-law's tongue.

Put it all together and you have a fragrant, fall container.

My Walk Through the Garden

Zilker Botanical Garden in Austin, Texas

Zilker Botanical Green Garden is an environmentally friendly garden because of it's native and adaptive plants. These plants require less water and allow for successful gardening. The garden allows for Austinites to see all the native and adapted plants to incorporate in their own landscaping. It also demonstrates which plants compliment each other. Spacing and sun requirements are also evident. I have found some I would like to add to my garden.

Pigeonberry
Rivina humilis

This groundcover caught my eye! It likes part shade/shade with a height of 1 -1.5'. It spreads rapidy and tolerates moist or dry soil. Also, birds love the attractive red berries.

Rock Rose
Pavonia lasiopetala

It looks so healthy in this sun/shade spot. It is a biennial and reseeds freely. The butterflies love this rose!

Leadwort Plumbago

Ceratostigma plumbaginoides

They also love this leadwort plumbago.

Engelmann Daisy
Engelmannia peristenia

The flowers open up in the afternoon.

I love the contrast of the purple heart, wooly stemodia and the dark foliage of the purple coneflower.

Well those are a few of my favorite...this week!

The Anole and the Bee

Texas Sage
Leucophyllum frutescens

(A Plants Perspective)

I decided to bloom today after the fresh, cool rain yesterday.

This little green anole must like my new blooms

because he has been visiting all day.

She better hurry up and take that picture

before the little green guy runs away.

The bees must like me because

they sing me a buzzing song.

She must really like the anole, bee or me.

She has been staring at me all day

and taking a million pictures .

She must love my gray leaves and lavendar flowers.

Step Right Up!

I was outside all day enjoying the nice overcast. It kept raining on and off and it felt so nice to be outside in the cooler weather. When I say cooler weather, I mean in the 80's. I just kept working in the rain! One of my projects today was putting in stepping stones.

One, two,

three, four...

step right up to my rock garden.



Also, three simple steps to

my little herb garden.

I also noticed that the Texas sage is just about to bloom like crazy.

Well, that was a very small portion of my day. Overall, it was a nice day to be outside!

My Garden Collage

Autumn Sage After the Rain

Autumn Sage

Salvia greggii

I went outside after the rain and the autumn sage was looking better than ever! The rain helped to perk it back up. I trimmed it the other day, so it had a lot of new blooms.
I love the smell of autumn sage and rosemary after a rain.

These plants have held on through the heat of summer and drought. I think they are happy for the drink of fresh rain!

The hummingbirds love it, too!

Have a nice weekend!

My Catch-All Vase

I call this my catch-all vase. I usually have it filled with something I have found or trimmed from outside. Seems like I am constantly trimming or finding something outside to save. My vase has been filled with a variety of items from my garden including lantana, limbs from my flowering sienna, zinnias, roses, black-eyed Susans, esperanza, potato vine, and the list goes on.



It is kind of nice to bring the outdoors inside to admire. My catch-all vase is a simple thing that makes my day!

It's Raining, It's Pouring...

It's raining, it's pouring...The elementary teacher comes out in me every once in awhile. I'm just so excited that it is actually pouring down rain. I have missed that sound. I never thought I would be so excited about rain especially after living in Seattle for a couple of rainy years!

Yippee!!

Bob Is On His Post!

I know, you are probably wondering....Bob? My son named this brown anole Bob. We usually see him every morning on his post. I took this picture through the glass by our front door. So, we get to view him very closely. Coming from Colorado, we are not used to seeing anoles. They live in confined parts of the United States with year-round warm temperatures and relatively high humidity.

Bob eats insects, spiders, worms, snails and slugs. We are starting to see a lot of anoles around our neighborhood. In fact, I saw "Mini-Me" Bob in the plumbago bush this morning. Another "Mini-Me" made his way in our house! Of course, my son took him outside. They are very common in urban and suburban areas. They do climb shrubs and trees but are rarely found perching higher than five feet from the ground. He does like my flower pot and seems to think no one sees him.

So, where will Bob go when the weather gets cooler? I read that he will hibernate in colder regions, which includes the Carolinas, southern Tennessee to Arkansas and east Texas , and throughout the other Gulf states . Often they hibernate in groups and spend winter under bark, inside rotten logs, or under boards of houses and barns. They come out sometimes in the winter to bask in the sun. Also, they eat little or nothing in winter.

Do you have a Bob in your garden?

Are You Ready? Fall Is On It's Way...

Fall Aster

Aster oblongifolium

Just one tiny bloom a few days ago.

Now...

they are all

waking up to

say...

we are ready for fall!

Geometric Arrangements

Currently, I have been enjoying the book Designing With Succulents by Debra Lee Baldwin. This book is beautifully illustrated with over 300 photographs. You can find gorgeous designs for paths, borders, slopes, and pots. It also, gives an extensive list of drought tolerant companion plants.

What I like about it is that there are many ideas in the book that I can incorporate in my garden and backyard setting. I wanted to start out small and create a geometric arrangement. It seemed pretty simple to arrange identical small succulents in rows in a square, shallow pot. I found a pot that I really liked. However, it was not shallow, but I thought I would give it a try.

It reminds me of a present with bows on the top!

Maybe not exactly like the book, but I made it my own. This is just one of the many ideas you can find in Designing With Succulents.

Beauty In A Weed?

You are probably wondering...why did Amy post a picture of a weed? An invasive weed, too.

Do you recall my Plant and Life Lessons that I posted a couple of days ago?

Remember I said that if you look hard enough you can even find beauty in a weed. Well, in reference to this weed, I have been looking and I'm finding it very hard to find it's beauty. This most invasive weed or sedge is called nut grass. It looks so little and innocent. Well, don't be fooled. There is a lot under the ground that you don't see!

This invasive grows rapid in tropical and temperate regions of the world.

Why is it so hard to get rid of in your garden?

Well, it has quite a system of underground tubers that are resistant to most herbicides. I have these in my flower beds. Unknowingly, when I prepared my flower beds I made it ideal for these dormant tubers to come alive and grow in my bed. They can be as deep as 18" in the ground and I brought them up closer to the surface to spring up in my bed.

With all that said... what can be done about these little weeds called nut grass? I guess they can be pulled one weed at a time.

If you have any better suggestions please let me know.
Until then, happy gardening!

*******************************************************************

From Blog...

to Book!

In a previous post I wrote about making a blog into a book. I received my book about a week ago. I thought it was kind of fun to have it all compiled into a book. My family has seen my blog many times! However, my parents and computers don't get along. So, they might like to take a look. I just wanted to share this idea with you. It was new to me.
http://www.thecutestblogontheblock.com/

Have fun blogging!

Superstar!

**PRIDE OF BARBADOS**PRIDE OF BARBADOS**PRIDE OF BARBADOS**

Pride of Barbados
Caesalpinia pulcherrima
The species name pulcherrima literally means "very pretty" and I can see why. It qualifies as a Texas SuperStar Plant. I have moved this container around many times to find the right location. Finally, I think it likes the spot of sun/part shade. I was happy to see that it started blooming a couple of days ago. In frost free climates it's an evergreen shrub or small tree. In the tropics it gets 15-20' tall! However, in Texas it reaches 5-6' tall. I guess not everything is bigger in Texas. It is drought tolerant when established and can take the heat. I think a grouping of them would be pretty in a garden.

I like the dense foliage and...

showy

flowers!

I have a lot of favorites and
Pride of Barbados ranks at the top of my list!

**PRIDE OF BARBADOS**PRIDE OF BARBADOS**PRIDE OF BARBADOS

Plant And Life Lessons...

Since I began this blog, I have
discovered ... a lot of life lessons

when dealing with nature and plants.

There are obvious differences,

but also subtle likenesses.

Amy's thoughts

on plants

that pertain to life as well:

1. Make sure you notice the little things in life and appreciate them.
2. Know that there are weeds in everyone's lives that need to be "pulled" out and thrown away. They might keep coming back, so be persistent.
3. A weed may look very similar to the real thing, but it's not. Therefore, things may not always appear the way they really are.
4. Always look for the hidden treasures in life. Some treasures are not obvious at first view.
5. We all need nourishment to grow and tender, loving care to bloom.
6. Sometimes we have to go through hard times to grow.
7. There is the ability to start completely over and come back better than ever.
8. Even the littlest flower can be just as "pretty" as the largest.
9. If you look hard enough you can even find beauty in a weed.
10. There has to be boundaries, so we make room and protect our ourselves to grow.
11. The grass is usually not greener on the other side.
12. Maybe he/she is just a late bloomer.

Thoughts by Amy Emerick

Love My Little Flowers...

Purple Heart

Setcreasea pallida

When I first started this adventure of gardening, I was immediately drawn to the purple heart. It stood out to me because of it's uniqueness. The thick, purple succulent stems and purple foliage stood out to me like no other. It also has the added bonus of a little pink flower throughout the growing season. In addition, it is one of the easiest perennials to grow.

It doesn't ask for much and will grow, grow, grow...

However, my purple heart did not do well in full sun. Therefore, I decided to put it in a shady afternoon spot. It seemed to say, "Thank you, what a relief. I am much happier here!"

Tradescantia fluminensis
Family: Commelinaceae (spiderwort Family)
Here is purple heart's friend! It also has parallel-veined leaves that are oblong with pointed tips. It creeps on the ground, but will not go unnoticed. When I went outside today, I saw a little white flower, which made me smile. I guess it is the little things in life that we might have to search for but are worth being noticed and appreciated.

Also, a little rain would be appreciated!

Please... let it rain in Austin and in my neighborhood this time! This is the driest summer on record. Tonight we have a 40% chance of rain. I'm getting my umbrella ready and I am thinking...rain!

WE FINALLY GOT SOME RAIN! You would have thought we were having a party at our house. We all enjoyed sitting outside watching it pour down.

Hello, Rosemary!

Trailing Rosemary

Rosmarinus officinalis

Hello, Rosemary! Trailing Rosemary is one tough ground cover. It does well in the heat and blazing sun of Austin. It is drought tolerant and I love the little pale blue to white flowers . Not only do I like the way it looks, but I really love the way it smells! After it has been watered you can really smell the aroma it provides. There are also definite benefits of cooking with fresh herbs. I could go on and on about this ground cover. Rosemary is just a great addition to my garden!

Nature Prints

By Laura Donnelly Bethmann

Creating a garden allows for self expression and opens doors to beauty, creativity, and a connection to the earth and to life. Using nature to create prints requires a little bit of practice, but no particular artistic talent to make a beautiful painting. Just let nature create it's own beauty by using images from the natural world. You just roll the paint directly on the plant and press on canvas for a beautiful print.
I have had a lot of fun creating nature prints using various plants. Even when your plants are dormant you can remoisten previously pressed plants and create freshly printed plants. It is nice to have a finished product that you can keep or give as a gift.
Nature printing is fun to do with a group. You can help each other and exchange plants to save for printing later. So, when the gardening has slowed down and your looking for ways to be creative, you might check out nature printing.

A True Welcome Sign

Fall Aster

Aster oblongifolium

What to my wonderous eyes did appear?

One tiny bloom that was peeking out of the gray-greenish foliage

of the fall aster.

It is definitely a welcome sign that fall is on it's way.

The Austin mornings are starting

to get cooler and the days shorter.

So, relief is in sight!

This native perennial bears daisy-like flowers.

It likes full sun to part shade with well drained soil.

It is drought tolerant with no pest problems.

This carefree perennial

looks great in combination with dark green foliage in your garden.

Also, a little splash of purple compliments any garden.

So, thank you little fall aster for reminding us

that FALL is just around the corner!

Keep that Camera Handy!

You never know what you might find while running errands. I was driving along minding my own business and this view caught my eye. I thought they were beautiful! I wanted to share them. I have never seen agaves with flowers surrounding them like this. Two very different plants that I think compliment each other.

Constantly Growing

When I look at my garden, I think a lot about my next addition or change. I know I will be removing, adding, and varying styles as time goes forward. My tastes have changed a bit since I started this adventure. I have already added more to my rock garden because I now love the interesting succulents that are available to suit where I live. In addition, I know I want to plant more yuccas. Agaves have also sparked my enthusiasm. Also, looking at all the beautiful blogs I have learned a great deal of information on plants and ideas for the garden.

Constantly learning, changing and loving what I enjoy. I think H.E. Bates put it best,

"The garden that is finished is dead."

I think Ivy has the right idea to just love and enjoy life.

Okay, I think I'm done ... I am going outside :) .

ONE POPULAR AND "Batty" PLACE TO BE!

What can you see during the months of March until fall flying from under the Congress Avenue bridge in Austin, Texas? This is the time when the Mexican free-tailed bats take up residency under the bridge to give birth to their young pups.

My family viewed the bats for the first time yesterday during sunset. Under the bridge houses 750,000 bats with up to 1.5 million during the peak of the bat watching season! This is the largest urban bat colony in North America.

First, a couple of bats pop out from under the bridge, then more and more and MORE. It can take up to 45 minutes for all the bats to exit the bridge. Until there were swarms of bats flying through the sky which look like clouds of smoke. Some bats have been tracked flying all the way to Houston and San Antonio to feed and return to the bridge early the next morning.

We viewed the bats at the right time which is late summer. August is when you can see the young pups on the backs of their mothers in flight. If you look very closely in the picture you can see the pup in the picture.

Click on the title to see a video of the bats in action!

This event is worth seeing if you live or visit Austin. You can view the bats from the bridge, grassy area, or even a viewing from a restaurant. There is also a Bat Hotline to call for the best times to view the bats...Hotline: 416-5700 ext. 3636.

This is a popular place to be during the summer months in Austin. It is fun to watch the bats wake up for a night on the town.

Go Away, I'm Gardening!

Go Away, I'm Gardening!

When I'm gardening all my cares are gone and I'm in a world of my own.
I'm proud and happy
of all the seeds I've sown!

There is a lot to learn about botany, entomology and pathology.
All I know is that I'm having fun!
All the time I spend in my garden, there is really no apology.
For I know there is a great feeling with the warmth of the sun.

I would love to sit and chat, but there are matters to attend.
Gardening is the time I want to spend.

So please...go away, I'm gardening!

By Amy Emerick

Amy's Thoughts...And A Bee!!

Your front porch expresses you and might give the first impression of you. So, why not make it welcoming and inviting. We receive a lot of sun by our front door, so I wanted some eye-catching perennials. I am always attracted to native and adapted plants for Central Texas. I like them not only because they are pretty, but because of their lasting ability through the Texas heat of summer. I love the colorful flower clusters of lantana. Autumn sage is also a shrubby perennial that is native to Central Texas and Mexico. It has few pests and is drought tolerant. It just needs full sun and well drained soil to be happy. So, with the combination of these two perennials put together, I think I have a bright, cheery, and welcoming front porch.


I also enjoy seeing a lot of butterflies and hummingbirds visiting!

WELL, I'LL BEE!!!!!!!!!

I just couldn't wait to post these. I finally 'caught' a picture!

Yes, I had my camera ready this time. The honey bee stayed still for me long enough to take it's picture. It is visiting my Esperanza/Yellow Bells.

Lucky me...caught a bumble bee on my Rose of Sharon this morning! He is climbing to the top.

Thanks for visiting...

Hmmm...I Did Look!

Hmmm...I did look. I actually did look, but this was the only bird I found willing to "pose" for me. This morning at 6:30 A.M. I opened the backdoor to let my dogs outside and a toad was staring at us! How I wish I had my camera. He was looking at me as if saying, "Where is the rain?" I am going to assume he is in his house.

Yes, well these are actually REAL flowers that I took a picture of this morning! These are annuals called 'orange star' a Mexican zinnia. If you are looking for a steadfast and true flower, then you can count on this variety! Mexican zinnias are happy about the hot weather we have been having this summer. They can tolerate this hot, long summer. More tolerant than most of us. I love these little daisy like blooms. They won't survive a frost in the winter.

In my master gardner class we were talking about how annuals are suppose to only live a year and are designed to die. In Mexico, however there are some tomato plants that live 2-3 years and become woody.

I guess I need to have my camera tied around my neck, so I catch that bird, toad, or insect. I guess one day I will catch them. Until that day, here is a flower!

What Is That Rumbling?

NEWS UPDATE!
At approximately 9:25 P.M., I heard rumbling in the sky! It has to be thunder. Oh, please let it rain in Austin.

Update at 10:20 P.M. still no rain and the storm has fizzled out... :(

Who Is Happy Today?

Today is the 66th day of temperatures in the three digits! Everything is starting to look a little brown in Austin. I went outside this afternoon just to see what I might find. I found...nothing. Even the insects were hiding in this heat. I did put out some water for anyone/thing that desired a drink. I am trying to attract the beneficials to my yard. One beneficial I have seen quite often is the damsel fly. They like to eat mosquitos, gnats and other flying insects.

Well, my dog got a drink! However, I didn't see even one insect lurking about the water. I know I will have to refill the water in about an hour because of the evaporation!


The skyflower, duranta doesn't seem to mind the heat. This is it's first bloom after I planted it last week in a container. This is a native Texas plant...can you tell?


Well, of course this guy is happy!

P.S. If you are getting rain, please send it this way. :)

It Will Rain...Eventually

I have posted a picture of what will come next spring. This will remind me that the rain will come, eventually. Until that time, I know I could do more to conserve the water we have. The link provides 100 ways to conserve water. For example, shortening my shower by a minute or two, I'll save up to 150 gallons per month! There are some easy ways to conserve. Also, I need to help my boys become more aware of the water shortage and ways they can help.

Hopefully the fall will bring the predicted rainfall. Until then, my family can do more things to conserve what we have.

http://www.wateruseitwisely.com/100-ways-to-conserve/index.php

Lighting Pathways

Not every garden benefits from lighting. However, for some it is worth considering because it can make a real difference enhancing your garden design. I wanted to light up our pathways because it was hard to find our way at night. I put in solar-powered garden lights that stand alone. It was simple to do with no specialized installation and no running costs. I would eventually like to add a few more lights around our trees in the backyard.

Seeds Travel...

Did you know that Charles Darwin once grew 80 plants from the mud he scraped off a bird's foot? I love it when a plant just pops up out of the blue. It is kind of like a present I didn't expect. This zinnia was a surprise in my backyard.

Like Finding A Treasure...

You would have thought I had found a treasure this morning. While checking for damage in my backyard, I noticed a bloom. I had kind of given up on the blooms. This is only the second rose this bush has produced. However, it was worth waiting for!

Look Out! Here Comes A Sweet Potato Vine

Sweet Potato Vine 'Margarita'

Ipomoea batatas

I think the potato vine could take over the world if we let it. It grows so fast! I am constantly cutting it back. However, I do like this plant mainly because of it's color and the contrast it provides. It is great for containers to control it's growth. While driving around Austin, I noticed it is used frequently as a border plant. It is eye-catching with it's lime green color. It wilts pretty quickly, so watering it every day is a must in this Texas heat.

The "I Don't Know" Tree

Do You Know the Name of This Tree?

Flowery Senna

Cassia corymbosa

I cringed everytime someone asked me the name of this tree. I shrugged and said, "I don't know." When we first moved here we went to a nursery and bought it and I forgot to write the name down. I have learned my lesson. Oh, I take that back. I'm sure I will have more mystery plants. I tried to look it up, but they all started looking the same to me. Thanks for your help. It is nice to know the name!

Insects, Insects, Insects...

On a different note, the speaker at my master gardener class recommended this book. Being from Colorado, I'm not accustomed to all these insects. I have noticed with the drought the bugs are starting to make their way in the house. Maybe, I will at least be able to identify the unknowns with this book.
I just learned that the genista catepillars like Texas mountain laurels AND crape myrtle. I better go check!

Watch Out Coming Through!

Agave, Century Plant
Agave americana

Think BIG on this one. I didn't have to search very long for these! I found them in the front entrance of a neighborhood. The century plant can reach 6' in height and spread up to 8 - 10'. It likes sun/part shade. Temperatures in the low teens can cause damage. Blooms rarely but when it does it kills the plant. This plant is often used as a fence in Mexico and Central America. I don't think our Home Owners Association would allow that here! Ouch! Never plant near path or high traffic area. However, this can be planted in a LARGE container. That is an option for all these varieties of agaves.

Queen Victoria...Sounds Impressive!

Picture Coming Soon...

Agave, Queen Victoria
Agave victoriae-reginae
I really like this agave! I like the streaks of white on the geometrical leaves. This one is a managable size. It can reach 1.5' in height and spread 1.5'. This queen likes sun/part shade. There is no maintenance required. It is small, compact, slow-growing, and long lived. It is very cold hardy and tough! It may take up to 40 years to bloom and then it dies. Did I actually say 40 years? Kind of sad...that it blooms and then dies. Well, if it lives for 40 years it deserves a bloom before it dies. This agave is definitely in the running! It is very unique. Next, I will take a look at the Agave, Century Plant.

I've Been Thinking...

Lately, my mind has been on cacti, agaves, and yuccas. I'm thinking this might be the road to successful gardening in Austin. When we first moved to Austin, I really didn't care for these plants, but they have definitely grown on me. I have to admire their uniqueness and ability to hang on while the other perennials die all around them. They are like an army of stronge survivors.

So, first I need to explore the different varieties of these plants. Anyone with me? Some of you are very knowledgable on this subject. I am just beginning to learn about this type of perennial.

First item up for discussion...the Agave. There are many different varieties of this beautiful perennial. Yes, I did say beautiful, steadfast plant. However, I can't have them taking over my backyard like a spaceship. I have seen some of them that are absolutely enormous. My backyard cannot accomodate such a plant. So, I need to gather my information and learn about the different options.

Here We Go...

I took this picture when we were in Mexico.
Agave, Blue

Agave tequilana

It can reach 6' in height and 6' spread. It has bluish foliage with a yellow flower. Loves sun and little water. No maintenance required, but is susceptible to agave weevils and has thorns. Tomorrow I will explore another agave...the Queen Victoria.

Fringe Flower

Loropetalum chinensis
You have seen me a lot around Austin. The Chinese Fringe Flower is a popular large evergreen shrub. It has lovely, bright pink, fringe-like flowers among small purple, green leaves. Blossoms occur in the spring and fall. It looks pretty natural without pruning. This is one of my favorite shrubs.

Last Resort!

Some of my perennials are worse for the wear in this Austin heat! I have definitely won some and lost some. I'm thinking I might have to resort to photos of my indoor plants. I hope not because I only have about 4 of them. I think I will stick to outdoor gardening.

Hello, God...this is Amy. Please send rain to Austin! Thank you.

Blog to Book...Kind of Fun!

I just discovered that I could go to http://www.thecutestblogontheblock.com/ and print my blog into a book. This is probably old news to the bloggers out there! I thought it would be kind of fun to make a book. Not that I would see my blog at Barnes and Noble or anything, but I'm sure my parents would like to take a look, considering they are not computer savy. This photo was taken in the spring! Can you tell?

Hello!

Glad you could drop by and take a peek at my garden! I have definitely become more aware of my surroundings since I started photographing. Lately, my camera has become my new best friend.
In addition, I have really enjoyed looking at other gardening blogs. The blogs have motivated me to learn more about what I love...gardening.

What Is A Texas Superstar?

Using Texas Superstar plants increases the consumer's chances for gardening success and helps to further beautify and protect the Texas environment, because a few cents of each sale is returned to A&M to fund additional research. The Texas A&M CEMAP team, composed of horticultural researchers and Extension specialist and agents, is constantly searching for outstanding plants specifically adapted to Texas. Once testing has been completed, only the truly outstanding plants, those which consistently delivered the highest levels of landscape and garden performance, coupled with the widest range of adaptation and the strongest pest resistance, are designated Texas Superstars. Two to four new Texas Superstars are announced each year. I find myself using the following words a lot in my writing:
steadfast and true
count on
trust
faith in
depend on
friend

These words describe the native and adapted plants in Texas. The Superstars are labeled so for a good reason.

Steadfast and True...Bloom Day!

Callistemon citrinus

Another steadfast and true perennial...the bottlebrush! I know when I go outside, even in this heat, that I can depend on the bottlebrush to look good and thrive. I love the interesting red blooms. You don't have to worry about pests with this one! In addition, shaping is not necessary. This perennial looks great naturally!

Hesperaloe parviflora

What can I say? It's no surprise. You can have faith that the red yucca will thrive in this heat. It demands little if anything from us and even gives us a red flower to view. I like the red yucca in clusters. I am discovering the many varieties...

Duranta, Skyflower LIkE iT!

Duranta erecta
TEXAS SUPERSTAR! This adapted plant for Central Texas made me take a second look at the nursery! The flowers vary from light blue to purple. Also, it is a Texas Superstar. It must be treated as an annual-root hardy perennial in most parts of Texas, but will be a perennial in south Texas. It does well in sun or shade and will bloom summer until frost. It will produce more blooms in the sun. This flower will definitely have a spot in my garden!

I'm Not Going Outside!

Our Colorado Superstar! This is our native Colorado dog. The heat has been unbearable in Austin! He likes the air conditioned comforts of home. The other day my youngest son said, "I want to be a dog that lives in our house."

Turk's Cap: A Native Texas Shrub

Malvaviscus arboreus

I put turk's cap at the base of my oak tree. It provides a little shade for this perennial. It can reach 2-6 feet tall and 3-5 feet spread. It blooms late spring to fall and attracts hummingbirds and large butterflies.

Go Away, Genista!

Image From: http://www.whatsthatbug.com/2005/05/13/genista-caterpillar/

Have you looked at your Mountain Laurels lately? I had these catepillars on my tree and they were eating and destroying the tops right off. It is the only pest problem for Mountain Laurels. It can be controlled using B.T. or I just picked them off the tree.

Good Morning, Bob...

Good morning, Bob! I never can find him in the afternoon. I guess he is a morning person (I mean...anole). I have seen so many lizards around our neighborhood this summer. I don't remember them last summer. Either I wasn't paying attention, or there is an increase in the lizard population!

Can You Stand This Heat?

Butterfly Bush

Buddleja davidii

These guys don't mind the three digit temperatures. This will be our 52nd day over 100 degrees in Austin.

Just Like A Kid In A Candy Store At Barton Springs Nursery!

I just had my first trip to Barton Springs Nursery in Austin. I have found my new favorite place to spend my time! In the unbearable heat, I made my way through every isle, every nook and cranny, and even the shop inside. Drenched in sweat, I discovered there are so many plants out there that I have yet to discover. I purchased some herbs, succulents and a few perennials for an open space I have in our backyard. I was just like a kid in a candy store!

Esperanza...I'm Sure You've Seen Me Around!

Esperanza/Yellow Bells

Tecoma stans

When I saw this perennial I knew I had to have one in our garden. This Texas native loves the bright sun and will show it's beauty spring through fall. Even the small ones will bloom. Recently, I saw it with orange blooms. I think they look nice in containers, as well!

Texas Superstar!

'Katie' Ruellia (dwarf only)

Ruellia brittoniana

Dwarf Mexican petunia is extremely durable. It grows in low dense clumps 1 ft. tall and wide. This low maintenance perennial flowers from spring to summer. It will grow in full sun or partial shade and tolerates most soil types. This perennial is not picky and few pest problems. You couldn't ask for a better perennial. I like it as a border plant in my garden.

Rocks + Flowers = Pretty Combination!

Surprise! I happened to find one, red verbena flower.

Golden Globe

Lysimachia procumbens

I love rocks and flowers together because they compliment each other. Golden globes... make a pretty ground cover with golden, yellow flowers that bloom spring to summer. This is planted near my rock garden. It requires full sun or partial shade. It can grow 4 inches in height and prefers moist soil.

Beautiful Bulbine...

Bulbine

B. frutescens

(B.caulescens)

You can almost always trust that bulbine will look good in the heat! It loves the sun and gets about 2 feet in height. Bulbine takes very little water...and loves Texas.

Hello, Susan!

Black-eyed Susan, Goldstrum

Rudbeckia fulgida var.

sullivantii 'Goldstrum'

I think this black-eyed Susan is one of my favorite perennials! All of a sudden, it has decided to wake up. I guess it loves the hot weather... unlike most of us, right now. It didn't do much last summer when it was planted. However, this summer it has decided to show it's true colors!