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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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Friday - July 17, 2009

From: Hemphill, , TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Non-Natives, Grasses or Grass-like
Title: When to plant bermudagrass in East Texas
Answered by: Barbara Medford

QUESTION:

When to plant Bermuda grass in East TX, Center, Nacodoches, Lufkin and Center area?

ANSWER:

Is "never" a long enough answer? Bermudagrass is a non-native to North America and certainly to Texas. It has become one of the worst, most invasive weeds in the South. Because it spreads both by stolons (underground rhizomes) and runners (above ground stems) it is very difficult to get rid of, and a lot easier to just never plant it. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is dedicated to the care and propagation of plants native not only to North America but to the area in which the plant is being grown. Please read our How-To Article on Native Lawns to help steer you in another direction.

 

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