Instant Gratification

Gardening is usually an exercise in patience, but we've got some selections that provide INSTANT gratification! Look for a fiesta of color -- dahlias, bougainvilleas, geraniums, Gerber daisies, and more!

Watch for aphids

Aphids can multiply quickly, and love the tender new growth which emerges in spring. One solution can be to spray them with fish emulsion or a strong blast of water. Or, do nothing, and attract ladybugs to their favorite meal. Whiteflies and thrips can also become an issue this time of year, and can be controlled with horticultural oil.

Remain prepared for cold snaps

Don't put the row cover away yet! While March in Central Texas is often pleasant, late freezes are still possible. In fact, some areas of the Hill Country have experienced freezes as late as April. When planting your garden, be aware of which plants are cold tender. Basil, tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers can experience damage or delayed production when exposed to weather below 50°F.

In Central Texas, much of our annual lawn maintenance is ideally done this month.

• Apply corn gluten as soon as possible to prevent spring weeds.

• Fertilize with a high nitrogen fertilizer (our favorite is Sustane 8-2-4!).

• Topdress the lawn with up to a 1/2” of compost before the temperatures climb.

• Lawns should be aerated every 3-5 years, ideally before topdressing, so that the compost can work itself deeper into the soil.

DIY aeration! Ask about our new YardBreather by Corona Tools, an ergonomically designed tool, perfect for small yards.