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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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Monday - October 08, 2007

From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Grasses or Grass-like
Title: Winter expectations for Buffalograss (Bouteloua dactyloides)
Answered by: Nan Hampton and Joe Marcus

QUESTION:

I planted some buffalo grass (from seed) in April of this year. I’ve got a nice patch now, though it’s starting to brown up some. I’m wondering what to expect from this patch over the winter- will it all go brown? Should I mow the patch at some point during the fall or winter so that new, green growth in the spring can grow up through the existing clumps? Thank you.

ANSWER:

It will turn brown with the onset of winter.  You will probably want to mow it to a height of 3-4 inches in late winter/early spring to remove the ragged old growth before the new growth gets started.  Otherwise, you don't really need to do anything with it over the winter.  It will start to green when the rain and warm temperatures come in the spring.
 

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