Native Plants
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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants
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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Thursday - July 29, 2004
From: Georgetown, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Shrubs
Title: Low growing native shrubs to go next to a rock pool deck
Answered by: Stephen Brueggerhoff
QUESTION:
I have a pool surrounded by a rock deck, & want to plant some low-growing shrubs next to the deck. However, I want to ensure the root system of the plant isn't invasive enough to crack the rock deck in later years. What should I plant?ANSWER:
When planning to landscape around your pool, take in to account the existing features; i.e. is the area in full sun, is the soil depth restrictive of the root zone around the pool (what I like to refer to as the “cement planter”), is there adequate drainage, etc? These issues will aid in determining the appropriate plants for use. I am suggesting that you review our Native Plants Database, researching regionally appropriate native plants that fit with your needs.More Shrubs Questions
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March 22, 2012 - We have rocky limestone shelves on our property. We want to plant a mountain laurel. Are the roots strong enough to break through the limestone or should we try to find another location? The limestone...
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April 21, 2012 - I have a row of 7 live oaks that help block my neighbors two story house. Unfortunately, there is a gap between each tree of about 8 feet wide and 15 feet tall (from ground to the first branches/ leav...
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