The Backyard Gardener

Information may not be reliable

How to Layer Bulbs in Containers
Using a layering technique, you can extend the flowering period of your containers and really make the most of them....

What is deadheading & why is it a good idea? Deadheading is simply the removal of spent flowers from a plant....

Tips for preparing your plants before you go on holiday
The easiest way to ensure your plants are well watered whilst you are on holiday is to install and automatic...

RHS experts have warned in the last few days to be on the look out for increased slug and snail...

Watch out for Pests on Roses & Shrubs
Summer is a glorious time for roses and other flowering shrubs. They make a bold statement in a mixed border...

WHAT IS IT?
In theory, natural landscaping is adapted to the climate, geography and hydrology and should require no pesticides, fertilizers and watering to maintain, given that native plants have adapted and evolved to local conditions over thousands of years. However, these applications may be necessary for some preventative care of trees and other vegetation.

Native plants suit today's interest in "low-maintenance" gardening and landscaping, with many species vigorous and hardy and able to survive winter cold and summer heat. Once established, they can flourish without irrigation or fertilization, and are resistant to most pests and diseases.

Many municipalities have quickly recognized the benefits of natural landscaping due to municipal budget constraints and reductions and the general public is now benefiting from the implementation of natural landscaping techniques to save water and create more personal time.

Bush regeneration shares many similarities, though it targets preexisting patches of (often heavily degraded) original bushland and has removal of weeds as a high (sometimes higher) priority than replanting of native plants.

Native plants provide suitable habitat for native species of butterflies, birds, and other wildlife. They provide more variety in gardens by offering myriad alternatives to the over-planted cultivars and aliens. These plants have co-evolved with animals, fungi and microbes, to form a complex network of relationships. They are the foundation of their native ecosystems, or natural communities.
WHY IS IT BETTER?

Many weeds in an area are usually the result of imported plants. These plants become invasive because there are no natural controls such as disease, weather, or fauna in their new environment. They take over native habitats, reducing shelter and food for local fauna. Using local provenance plants increases the biodiversity of and is important for the health of a region's overall ecology. Much of our wild areas have been destroyed to make room for development. Housing developments have replaced native habitats with houses and vast lawns. While development won't be stopped, gardeners can keep wild areas and green spaces filled with native species on their lots and in their communities.

Such gardens often benefit from the plants being habituated to the climate and soil conditions present and may require fewer soil amendments or pesticides/herbicides in order to present a pleasing display.
WHO DOES IT?
WE do! We use plants native, not only to Texas but specific to Houston as much as possible. We understand the ground water level and chemistry of the city and use the best adapted plants available. Of course, there's always room for something more exotic, or delicate.

no additional water
more water available for other uses and other people
zero to near zero work needed for maintenance

erosion reduced to a minimum
natural landscaped plants take full advantage of rainfall
when water restrictions are implemented, natural landscaped plants have the best chance to survive, while less adapted plants may not
increased habitat for native flora and fauna
where heavily forested, provides shade on homes and businesses saving energy
native plants rarely become invasive

not good for outdoor games that require a manicured turf
poisonous plants such as poison ivy and/or poison oak may make the habitat home
increased wild animal intrusion
in certain areas, wildfires or bushfires may be of great concern

May 22 -Spring doesn't have to be the ONLY comfortable time of year in Houston! Call us, we'll make your yard comfortable all year.

Mar 31 - Did you buy a new house last year? Let us take a look at the yard to get ready for summer!

Mar 26 -The weather is getting warmer! Give us a call to get your backyard ready for entertaining!