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A. Now is the best time to test your soil. It’s the only way to know for sure what’s going on and what nutrients you need to supply your growing plants.

Until Valentine’s Day, Texas A&M is offering soil tests at reduced rates to help you get ready for the new season. Pick up a soil sample kit from one of the participating nurseries and return it and your check for $6. The nursery will have the results after March 4.

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Mexican Buckeye, (Ungnadia speciosa) a native shrub or small tree is a spring bloomer (fragrant pink ones) with an unusual 3-chambered seedpod.

This under story plant is adapted to alkaline soil, has few disease or insect problems and adds a great southwestern look to the landscape. Just give it plenty of room-it matures at 25 feet tall by 25 feet high.

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• It’s time to get busy in the garden. Plant your potatoes and it’s time to get in the onions. You can still plant cool weather crops like broccoli, cauliflower, arugula, lettuce and cabbages. Just be ready with the row cover!
• Check out Grow Green’s pruning guides to help you make the right cut. You can pick up a free handout at most nurseries and garden centers, or go online at growgreen.org and look under “Gardening Basics.”
• If you’re planning a tomato bed this summer or a new rose bed, now’s the time to compost and prepare raised beds.

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