garden patch
Phyllis Webster earned a degree in journalism before embarking on a long career in public relations and marketing. Residing in Granbury since 1998, she has been deeply involved in the community. She is an award-winning writer and photographer, as well as a lady gardener. She has authored Garden Patch since 2001.
Although winter leaves its mark, January is a good time to launch plans for new gardens and rehabilitate existing landscapes. It’s time to create the garden of your dreams.
Your first step is an honest assessment of how well your plants, garden beds, and landscape design will meet your needs. Take a closer look at your front yard from the street and take a closer look at your back yard from the back door. Is your landscape attractive? Are your plants healthy? Do you have an outdoor space with play and entertainment areas? Do you have enough greenery to provide color and shape for all seasons?
Next, consider what is needed to keep your landscape safe, attractive, and thriving. Does it need extra resources such as water and maintenance? Are home vegetables and herb gardens productive? Are the plants so overgrown that they overwhelm your home?
Trees, shrubs, and vines can be cut down to restore the landscape’s look. If the plants seem unhealthy, replace them. From time to time, you’ll want to replace tired plants, change design, and renovate landscape beds. And if you are planning to sell your home, it is a good idea to increase its attractiveness.
More weeds appear
The winter dormant season makes it easy to scan under trees and shrubs for weeds and unwanted seedlings. Green weeds really stand out against less colorful mulch and fallen leaves.
Most herbicides will not be effective in cold weather. Dig up and remove weeds by hand before developing stronger root systems. Use tools that let you grip with enough force to pull out the deep-rooted plants.
After removing unwanted plants, give your soil a boost with amendments like compost. Add bedding over the soil to cool temperatures and reserve the water. If the soil is not draining well, consider adding raised beds.
If you’re not sure what nutrients your soil might be lacking, get them tested. Call the AgriLife office in Hood County at 817-579-3280 for information.
Check your plants for signs of insect pests and diseases, and take action to reduce problems before they get worse. Remember to keep an eye on any newly planted trees, shrubs, and perennials to ensure they are getting adequate moisture. Keep the root balls moist, not soggy.
For answers to your gardening questions, please call the Texas AgriLife Extension, Hood County at 817-579-3280 or go online to visit lakegranburymastergardeners.org.
pwebsterco@gmail.com | 817-680-4849
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