VOLUME 15, ISSUE 34 • August 22, 2019

Neil Sperry editor. Gretchen Drew design and circulation.

Gardening This Weekend

We've almost made it through another Texas summer. I'm ready for fall. Let's take a look at some of the things that are most critical this weekend as we make ready for that big transition.

Photo: Plan now to plant gaillardias and other spring wildflowers in early fall.

Time Is Now to Prevent Winter Weeds!

I'll be driving this message home for the next three weeks. You must apply pre-emergent granules between now and September 5 if you want to avoid winter and early spring weeds. I'll give you the facts.

Photo: Annual bluegrass (Poa annua), "Queen of the winter weeds."

Spider Lilies Are Southern Traditions

They're staple items in the southern fall garden, and they're about to make their return. Your local garden center might even have bulbs available if you don't delay. Spider lilies are venerable survivors and every garden deserves them. I'll explain.

Photo: Spider lilies brighten the fall landscape.

Question of the Week - Number 1: August 22, 2019

"How often should I water my plants?"
I've been asked this question almost every week of every month of every year since I started answering gardening questions. I'll explain how I've always replied.

Photo: This is a water bubbler, just so you'll know what one looks like.

Question of the Week - Number 2: August 22, 2019

"Why is the bark on my tree splitting?"

This is a common question. In some cases it's a cause for concern, and other times it is not. I'll explain the difference.

Photo: Red maple trunk on left. Crape myrtle on right.

And, in closing…

I finish this issue of e-gardens with exciting news from two great guys.

Bob Brackman, recently retired from the San Antonio Botanic Garden, has taken a position as Interim Director of the American Horticulture Society in Alexandria, Virginia. Bob was instrumental in the early horticultural "roots" of the Dallas Arboretum. And he served a similar time at Cheekwood Gardens in his hometown of Nashville as well. He left every place far better for his presence.

And our good friend Steven Chamblee retired from Chandor Gardens in Weatherford last week as we reported here. He will be the top horticulturist in the new Longview Arboretum when it opens in October. Steven is a brilliant Texas plant man, gifted speaker and incredible writer, as you have witnessed right here in e-gardens.

Congratulations to both of these fine horticulturists. They have meant so much to our state and to me personally. We wish them the very best!

Until next week, stay cool, and keep yourself and your plants well hydrated.

Happy gardening!