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Hyacinths |
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GARDEN CHECKLIST (for all Southern states except Florida and Texas) by Gene B. Bussell Florida Garden Checklist
Texas Garden Checklist Plant Supports
Hold up forced hyacinths, daffodils, and crocus
as they begin to bloom. Pepperwood (used here with these white hyacinths) or
curly willow can be purchased from your local garden center. However, your own
backyard may provide the greatest inspiration. Branches of winged elm, sweet
gum, dogwood, and oakleaf hydrangea offer interesting bark with distinctive
texture and form.
- Seeds--It's a great time to think about seeds for
spring sowing. Order now for the best selection, and you'll be prepared to plant
your garden when the weather warms.
- Camellias--In the Middle, Lower, and Coastal South, purchase camellias
(Camellia japonica), and add them to your garden while they are blooming.
Beautiful early-flowering selections include 'Debutante,' 'Lady Clare,' and
'Professor Charles S. Sargent.' Midseason selections include 'Kramer's Supreme,'
'Nuccio's Pearl,' 'Pink Perfection,' and 'Swan Lake.' Late-blooming selections,
which will extend your flowers, include 'Purity' and 'Governor Mouton.' Add them
to your garden when the ground is no longer frozen. Container-grown plants have
an easier transition into the garden. Camellias prefer well-drained soil that is
rich in organic matter. When you're choosing a planting location, be sure to
find an area that is sheltered from sun and drying winds.
- Greens--Continue to harvest collards and kale; cooler weather sweetens
the leaves. Harvest regularly from the bottom of the plants so they will
continue to grow.
- Vines--Add vines to your garden for vertical color. Good choices
include Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), 'Tangerine Beauty'
crossvine (Bignonia capreolata 'Tangerine Beauty'), and 'Magnifica' trumpet
honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens 'Magnifica'). These are excellent for
climbing on arbors, fences, walls, or simple strands of wire.
- Garden notebook--A new year is beginning, and there is absolutely no
better time to start a garden journal. Note the weather, plants in bloom, chores
completed, and plants added. Over time these monthly observations will sharpen
your gardening skills.
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