VOLUME 13, ISSUE 4 • January 26, 2017

Neil Sperry editor. Gretchen Drew design and circulation.

I can feel spring just around the corner! Hooray!

However, let's not jump too fast. There are lots of things we need to get done before it starts to warm up for good. In this issue you'll find:

• This weekend's checklist;
• Blackberries for Texas;
• Transplanting guidelines;
• My feelings on weed-and-feed products; and
• Why some plants won't grow in Texas.

I hope you enjoy this edition, and we'd appreciate your telling your friends about it. Tell 'em it's free (always will be), and that we don't send out spam. (I don't even eat Spam!)

Photo: Iceland poppies are some of the most cheerful early spring flowers.

Gardening This Weekend

The final week of January brings many critically timed tasks for our landscapes and gardens. For many plants, it's prime time to plant and prune. I have the details.

Photo: Iceland poppies are great in patio pots and entryway gardens.

Blackberries in Texas

Fruit specialists from Texas A&M will tell you that blackberries are some of the most rewarding fruit crops you can grow. It's time to plant them now! I have the details to ensure your success.

Photo: Blackberries harvested from the Sperry home garden within the past several years.

Transplanting Time

If you have an established tree or shrub that needs to be moved you're in the prime time to do so. I have tips on how to succeed.

Photo: Have a plant you need to move? I'll show you how.

Question of the Week #1: January 26, 2017

"Neil. Is this the proper time to apply a weed-and-feed fertilizer? I heard an ad on the radio earlier this week."

No, and I'll tell you why this is a very bad plan - in my opinion.

Photo: Broadleafed weeds are growing vigorously. But lawns are not.

Question of the Week #2: January 26, 2017

"Neil. Why is it that we can't grow rhubarb, lilacs, peonies and cherries well here in Texas? They were some of our favorites up North."

I'm asked about these all the time. They share a common need.

Photo: Peony last spring in McKinney

And, in closing…

That's it. That's our masterpiece. Great, wasn't it? If you agree, let your pals know.

Want one of my books to prep up for springtime? It's ultra-thorough, yet it's only $31.95 plus tax and postage. My website is the place to order it. Or you can call my office weekdays at (800) 752-4769. But you won’t find my book in stores or on Amazon.

Until next week, join me on the radio, on Facebook, in my newspaper columns or at church. If you see me in a nursery or burger joint, come up and say "Hi!"

Until next Thursday evening,

Happy gardening!

Neil