My perennial plants have died back, what do I do now

Posted on 25th February 2012 in Ask a Master Gardener, Feed & Care, Perennials

Q: A lot of my perennial plants have died back and look bad what do I need to do now?A: Many perennial plants normally die back every year. Some may die back more than others. So in general I recommend cutting most perennials either all the way to the ground or at least half to two thirds. … Continue reading

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Rose Pruning in Mid-February

Posted on 25th January 2012 in Feed & Care, Perennials, Roses, Waco Trib Articles

Rose Pruning in Mid-Februaryby Carol Wood and Elizabeth Milam  (Or MCMGs’) Mid February is time to start pruning roses to tidy up their appearance; control size; and improve their vigor, growing habits and bloom. One exception is climbing roses which bloom on last year’s growth and should be pruned after flowering.

Proper pruning shears are a must.  A sharp pair of bypass (scissor like) shears will not crush the cane left… Continue reading

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My rose blossoms are smaller now than they were in the early spring

Posted on 31st July 2011 in Ask a Master Gardener, Feed & Care, Perennials

Q: My rose blossoms are smaller now than they were in the early spring, I have been feeding them regularly, is there a special type of food they need?

A: No, a good all-purpose rose and flowering plant food is fine, the only special one would be if you wanted to feed and control insects at the same time. What is most likely going on is simply the time of… Continue reading

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My lantana and esparanza plants are not showing any sign of growth

Posted on 14th April 2011 in Ask a Master Gardener, Perennials

Q: My lantana and esparanza plants are not showing any sign of growth, they have come back for several years, what is wrong and can I safely re-plant in the same area? A: We were cold enough this winter that many plants that have grown well for years had problems. Your plants most likely were killed by the extended cold this winter. So yes you can safely re-plant in the… Continue reading

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Ornamental Grasses

Posted on 22nd March 2011 in Feed & Care, Perennials, Waco Trib Articles

Winter is here, and most people in Central Texas begin to hibernate with their dormant plants waiting for the sunshine days of spring. This is the perfect time for a little education about ornamental grasses, and how to use them in the landscape. Understanding the requirements for growth habits, plant zones, proper planting and maintenance of grasses will enhance their beauty in your landscape, and minimize frustration. This article was… Continue reading

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