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Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

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Monday - April 26, 2010

From: Leland, NC
Region: Southeast
Topic: Non-Natives
Title: Trimming time for non-native Pampas grass in Leland NC
Answered by: Barbara Medford

QUESTION:

When is the best time to trim Pampas plants, onset of winter or onset of spring? Also, what's the best way to trim and how far should they be cut back?

ANSWER:

We are assuming you are talking about Pampas Grass. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is dedicated to the use, protection and propagation of plants native not only to North America but to the area in which they are being grown. This website from the National Park Service, Andean Pampas Grass, tells why we don't like it, and discourage it being planted. However, since you asked, here is an article from Buzzle.com, Pampas Grass Maintenance.

 

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