Houston Landscapers Know the Best Time to Plant |
| Date Added: March 25, 2011 09:42:13 AM |
| Author: WhinnyHarper |
| Category: Business & Economy |
| Houston landscapers are often asked when the best time is to plant trees, shrubs and other landscaping. A good rule of thumb is to plant as far as possible from the “stress time” for your area. In Houston, summer is the stress time due to the heat. Planting in late fall or winter will allow roots to become established before moisture demanding summer sets in. A general rule of thumb is to plant them when you know they won't have to endure excessive stress. Planting in fall, winter and early spring allows roots to grow and develop. Beginning this slow process at a low-stress time of year helps the plants become established before summer begins. Ground Cover Ground cover may be planted at any time of the year, although spring is usually considered the best time to plant. Spring is also the time when nurseries have the best plant selection. Remove all weeds before planting ground covers and dig the soil down to about 4 inches. Add compost and mix with soil. Trees In general, the best time for planting trees is late winter or early spring. If that doesn't fit your schedule, then aim for autumn. Summer's a bad choice, because the weather's too hot and the actively growing plants too susceptible to damage. Intense heat is a major enemy to newly planted saplings. But lack of water for their root systems is another. So watering trees properly in fall is important -- regardless of whether you've opted for planting in autumn or in late winter / early spring. Shrubs and Perennials Transplanting shrubs to a better location can still be done in early March. Be sure to get as many roots as possible and water well afterwards. Ferns will respond well to dividing and transplanting as well. Bulbs can be planted, or separated and transplanted with a little bone meal for great blooms within a few months. Some of the favorites in Houston include agapanthus, amaryllis, calla, canna, crinum, dahlia, daylily, gladiolus, iris, kniphofia (torch lily), liriope, mondo grass, oxalis, society garlic, and zephyranthes (rain lily). Vegetables In March, Although we should be freeze-free, a late cold snap is not unheard of for Texas. Be prepared to cover freshly planted tomatoes and peppers if necessary. If you are unsure of the best varieties of vegetables for your garden, call on the County Extension Service. (http://county-tx.tamu.edu/) They should be able to supply you with a list of preferred plants for your area and answer any horticultural questions you might have. This is a tax-supported service that is free to county residents. The pecan tree has historically been our indicator of warm weather.Old Houstonians will tell you that when the pecan trees begin to bud, cold weather has moved north till next year.But listen to the news for reports of cold weather headed your way and cover or bring tender tropicals inside. A house becomes a home when one’s personality is added to a yard that is beautifully maintained. Fresh Start Landscapes is a dedicated company of professional and creative Houston landscapers that values their customers. Every stone and timber used is hand-picked to ensure that every aspect of your project is perfect and meets Fresh Start’s dedicated standards. From decorative stonework to spring planting, Fresh Start offers lasting beauty for every landscape. They stand behind their products and make any reasonable adjustments to ensure customer satisfaction. To learn more about preparing your lawn and garden for spring or to request a free proposal, Call Fresh Start Landscapes at (281) 469 - 9614 or visit them online at www.freshstartlandscapes.com Heather Preston. Houston Landscapers - Houston Landscapers Get a free quote! Quality service and competitive prices from Fresh Start Landscapes. |
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