Native Plants

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.
Help us grow by giving to the Plant Database Fund or by becoming a member
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
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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What is considered mid-winter in Austin, TX April 03, 2007 This question was submitted, but I am unsure of the dates the answer is indicating. When is mid-winter? Question: When should I cut back (and how far should I cut back) the following plants in ... View Mr. Smarty Plants' Answer | ||
Pruning for Spring January 21, 2007 When should I cut back (and how far should I cut back) the following plants in order to promote growth in the spring: Salvia gregii, Salvia leucantha, Ruellia (Mexican petunia), Plumbago, Sku... View Mr. Smarty Plants' Answer | ||
Winter trimming and shaping of native perennials November 08, 2006 Granted, it's a bit early, but for planning purposes: What is the best care for shrub-like woody perennials, like Lantana, Copper Canyon Daisy, Salvia greggii, Chile Pequin, Eupatorium wrightii, Pav... View Mr. Smarty Plants' Answer | ||
Native flowers and plants for landscaping in March in Austin February 18, 2004 What are the best flowers and plants to landscape with in the Austin area in March? View Mr. Smarty Plants' Answer | ||
Survivability of plants after freeze December 08, 2003 I have many beautiful plants that froze. Some were Lantana, Hummingbird Bush, Candlestick Trees, Esperanza, Some flowers, and Marigolds. I love all of my plants and flowers and I want them to grow bac... View Mr. Smarty Plants' Answer | ||
Optimum mowing time for acreage with spring wildflowers November 17, 2003 I have several acres where wildflowers grow in the spring, & would like to know when and how often to mow this field for optimum blooms? View Mr. Smarty Plants' Answer | ||
More on bluebonnets May 09, 2003 When can I harvest my Bluebonnets? View Mr. Smarty Plants' Answer | ||
Best preparation time for wildflower garden for summer January 21, 2003 Is it too late in late Fall to prepare a wildflower garden for next spring/summer? View Mr. Smarty Plants' Answer | ||
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