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.

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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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Friday - March 18, 2016

From: Bartlett, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Soils
Title: Expanded Shale Availability in Austin Area
Answered by: Mike Tomme

QUESTION:

Where can you find expanded shale in bulk or bag in the Austin area?

ANSWER:

Expanded shale is a relatively new product for use in amending heavy clay soils as explained in this TAMU Horticulture update. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center doesn't have the problem of dealing with heavy clay soils and has not used this product.