Showcase
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Gardening in the Hill Country: Ask Us Anything!
Gardening in the Texas Hill Country is rewarding, but between the rocky soil and our local “landscaping critics” (the deer), it definitely has its own set of rules. “I have two inches of dirt, a million rocks, and ten deer staring at my porch. What do I do?” If you’ve lived in Lakeway for more than a week, you know the struggle is real. Between the limestone “soil,” the scorching July heat, and our local four-legged landscaping critics, gardening here is a unique adventure. We are putting together a Q&A resource to help us all get those thumb-sized tomatoes and keep our Mountain Laurels thriving. Whether you’re a newcomer trying…
- Education, Gardens, Lawn Care, Native Plants, News, Showcase, Tips, Trees & Shrubs, Vegetables, Wildlife
Earth Day: Healing the Earth from Your Own Backyard
Every year on April 22nd, we see the same headlines about global shifts and industrial changes. But for Earth Day , remember that the most immediate power we have isn’t in a boardroom—it’s right outside our back door. We often think of “saving the planet” as a monumental task involving oceans and rainforests. While those matter, the ecosystem in your own backyard is the front line of environmental stewardship. Here is how you can turn your patch of grass into a powerhouse for the planet. 1. Ditch the “Perfection” of the Great American Lawn The traditional, manicured green lawn is often a “green desert.” It requires massive amounts of water…
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Springtime Gardening in Lakeway
Spring in Lakeway is nothing short of spectacular. March, April, and May aren’t just months on a calendar; they are the “grand opening” of the gardening season. While we’re all eager to see those vivid blooms, patience is your best tool. Aim for mid-to-late March for most transplants to ensure we’ve truly shaken off the last of the winter frost. By late March, you can welcome cheerful annuals like poppies and cosmos. As we move into late April, the real “heat-seekers”—zinnias, sunflowers, tomatoes, and peppers—can take center stage. This year, I challenge you to experiment! Whether it’s a vibrant new floral variety or a vegetable you’ve never tasted fresh off…
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The New Reality: Gardening in Lakeway After the Deluge
The story of gardening in Lakeway, TX, remains one of climate extremes and water vigilance. After a punishing start to the summer, Central Texas experienced a historic reversal in July, bringing dramatic relief—and a fresh set of challenges—to our hill country landscapes. Here is a look at the current state of our gardens, the water supply, and the necessary next steps as we move into the cooler seasons. 🌧️ The Mid-Summer Miracle: The July Rainfall Event Lakeway and the broader Central Texas region received an extraordinary amount of rain in early July. Unofficial reports and regional data confirm that many areas saw 8 inches of rain or more during that…
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Save the Bees: Simple Steps to Make a Big Difference
The plight of the bees has become a global concern. Bees are critical to our ecosystem, but their populations are declining. These industrious insects are vital pollinators, ensuring the diversity of our food supply and the health of our ecosystems. But facing threats from habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change, bee populations are dwindling at an alarming rate. Fear not, fellow humans! We can all play a part in their survival. Here are a few simple yet impactful ways to lend a helping hand: Plant Bee-Friendly Gardens: Ditch the manicured lawn and embrace a wildflower haven! Native plants provide a continuous source of nectar and pollen throughout the season, unlike…
- Education, Flowers, Fruits, Herbs, Native Plants, News, Plants, Showcase, Texas Superstar, Tips, Trees & Shrubs, Vegetables
Embrace the Beauty of Texas Superstars this Fall
Do you need help choosing plants for your landscaping needs? Are you looking to create a beautiful, low-maintenance garden that thrives in our Texas climate? Consider incorporating Texas Superstar plants into your landscape! These plants have been rigorously tested by Texas A&M AgriLife Research to ensure their superior performance in our challenging conditions. Fall is an ideal time for planting in Texas since the cooler temperatures reduce stress on the plant’s root system leading to more rapid root growth and ultimately a healthier plant. We suggest that gardeners follow the Earth-Kind® principles when planting a Texas Superstar® or any other desirable plant. These principles provide recommendations for plant placement, soil, spacing,…
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Let’s Grow: Brassica Vegetables
What Are Brassica Vegetables? Brassicas may be associated with cool weather and root cellars, but this massive family of flavorful, easy-to-prepare cold crops has something to offer year-round. Brassica vegetables are part of the genus Brassicaceae, or mustard family. Brassicas are also categorized as cruciferous vegetables (Cruciferae), or members of the cabbage family. Brassicas are among the most commonly cultivated vegetables in the world, and some of the most nutritious vegetables you can eat. The Brassica oleracea family of vegetables contains hundreds of subspecies with a range of health benefits, like vitamin C, vitamin K, beta-carotene, and glucosinolates. Brassica vegetables are also a great source of soluble fiber. 15 Favorite Brassica Vegetables…
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Grow Green with Free Garden Educational Resources
Looking to create a beautiful yard that’s easy on your wallet and kind to the environment? Look no further than the Grow Green program in Travis County! This fantastic initiative by the Austin Watershed Protection Department and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers a wealth of resources to help you achieve a sustainable landscape. What is Grow Green? Grow Green is your one-stop shop for transforming your yard into a central Texas oasis. They promote practices that benefit both your garden and the environment, including: Water Conservation: Learn how to use water wisely with rainwater harvesting techniques and efficient irrigation methods. Smart Plant Choices: Discover the “right plant, right place” philosophy…
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Celebrate Summer’s Bounty with a Classic Provençal Ratatouille
The sun is shining, the days are long, and gardens are overflowing with the vibrant flavors of summer. What better way to celebrate the season than with a classic French dish that showcases these fresh ingredients? Today, we’re diving into ratatouille, a Provençal vegetable stew bursting with color and taste. The cute Pixar movie Ratatouille is also worth a look if you haven’t seen it yet too! This French vegetable stew is a symphony of textures and tastes. Tender eggplant, zucchini, peppers, and onion mingle with juicy tomatoes, all bathed in a fragrant herb sauce. It’s a vegetarian masterpiece that’s perfect as a main course, a delightful side dish, or…
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The Inside Austin Gardens Tour is Back!
Get ready to immerse yourself in a wonderland of flourishing flora! The Inside Austin Gardens Tour, designed “For Gardeners, By Gardeners,” returns on Saturday, May 11th, from 9 am to 3 pm. This self-guided tour offers a rare glimpse into four exceptional private gardens, each meticulously crafted by a Travis County Master Gardener. This year’s theme celebrates the diversity and beauty of Central Texas gardening. Whether your backyard boasts sprawling acres or a cozy urban nook, the featured gardens promise inspiration for all. A Journey Through Four Unique Paradises The Suburban Farm: Prepare to be enchanted by Katie Bird Farm, a sprawling three-acre haven bursting with life. Encounter 35 distinct…
