The New Central Texas Gardener

For almost twenty years, The Central Texas Gardener has provided indispensable advice about gardening in our unique Central Texas environment. This updated edition expands upon that mission by adding a chapter detailing the tools of the trade and sources for more information and with new sections explaining how to create xeriscape gardens, ponds, and gardens that attract butterflies and birds. This volume also discusses changes in gardening, such as the increased use of native plants and water-wise gardening.Cheryl Hazeltine and Barry Lovelace offer practical tips on plants suited to the climate, soil, and growing conditions of this area. Maps of temperature zones, freeze dates, and soils distributions make all information easily adaptable to every corner of the region. A special feature is the month-by-month guide to planning, planting, tending, and harvesting Central Texas plants. Residents of Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, Waco, San Antonio, Bryan-College Station, and the surrounding areas will find the information tailored to their needs.In examining grasses, ground covers, trees, shrubs, flowers, and vegetables, The Central Texas Gardener describes all stages of the gardening process, including soil preparation, mulching, pruning, watering, pest and disease prevention, and landscape design. Handy charts and checklists help with selection of plants by comparing the features and uses of a wide range of trees, shrubs, and flowers. These descriptions are supplemented by graceful, easy-to-recognize illustrations and a new section of beautiful color photographs.A wealth of gardening insights from area experts and the enthusiasm and experience of Hazeltine and Lovelace are combined here in a lively and conversational text that is a pleasure to read. Amateur and seasoned gardeners, native Texans and newcomers will all benefit from this practical and attractive guide to gardening in Central Texas.