Beware of flashy claims
My first memories with my dad are of building a rose garden for my mother. That was in the backyard in College Station, and I’ve been gardening ever since.
My dad was a scientist. A PhD botanist from Nebraska, then 17 years at Sul Ross out in Alpine, then 27 years at Texas A&M. He worked with the sheep and goat raisers of Texas to make their ranchlands safer and more productive, and when he said something, it was based on valid research. Research that was repeated several times over several years to be sure it always came out the same.
If I were to give you any advice to propel you into the New Year – and beyond – it’s always to check claims against what the true scientists say. What has research at Texas A&M, Oklahoma State, LSU, Clemson, NC State, Auburn, Arkansas, Ohio State, Purdue, Rutgers or any of the other major state agricultural universities found? Don’t settle for “As tested by…” A lot of bogus products put those words on their labels. What results did the university get? It could be that the products flunked their tests at those universities.
Establish a great working relationship with a local nursery. Know the owner or manager. Know their name. Greet them by name and introduce yourself by name. Get to know them and go on days when you know they’ll be there. My wife and I have “mom and pop” restaurants where we dine on those terms. You get the best service, and they know they’re appreciated. It works well for everyone.
When it comes to new plants being brought into the market, trust your instincts. There are millions of dollars spent developing these new plants, then on the proprietary rights to market them. You need to know that “new” really is “improved.” I’ve been amazed at how often these new plants aren’t even being offered for sale just 5 or 8 years later. They’re gone and forgotten. Find that nursery professional you trust and ask their honest advice before you plunk down your money. Let them know that they’re a respected part of your buying decision – the final vote.
I’ve had the blessing of making an entire career by writing and talking about my favorite hobby. Few of us are so lucky. But your hobby becomes almost like one of your children, and when someone comes along and does something wrong to your child, you rise loudly.
That’s why it angers me when I see or hear somebody suggesting craziness that has no chance of being good for the gardeners of Texas – especially when that craziness is merely being promoted to line the pockets of the zealots.
As a consumer, you have the ability and the knowledge to sort through that fog and fiction and come out with the facts. You are the one to draw the lines in the topsoil.
Enjoy gardening to the fullest. You too will agree: Gardening is the world’s greatest hobby!
Happy gardening, friend!
