Central Texas Gardener - April 25th, 2009

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April 25th, 2009

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Take care of your recently planted woody ornamentals.
Trees, woody vines, and shrubs need extra attention this first year as they get their roots established. Even if they're considered xeric plants, they need water this first hot season, but don't overwater and drown them. Build a berm around them—a 3-foot circle of raised soil—sort of like a doughnut around the plants. That way you can put a water hose in, fill it up and give it one good soaking a week, or maybe two good soakings a week depending on the weather and the type of soil you have.
Prune spring blooming plants to shape them and encourage new growth and bud set for next year.
Fertilize annuals and perennials every month or so to keep them vigorous.
Plant hot weather annuals, like celosia, cosmos, zinnias and sunflowers, from seed or transplants.
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