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.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
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.
rate this answer
Friday - January 14, 2011
From: Frisco, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Non-Natives, Herbs/Forbs, Shrubs
Title: Needs Help with Peonies
Answered by: Marilyn Kircus
QUESTION:
With the clay soil in North Texas (Frisco) which variety of peony would thrive and become a reliable bloomer? I do work on amending the soil with expanded shell and compost, but ultimately, we still have a lot of clay. Any suggestions would help. I'm also looking for a dwarf (3 ft or less) encore azalea that would also do well in our area. Any suggestions would help. Thank you.ANSWER:
Mr. Smarty Plants exists to help people become more successful in growing native plants. We do not answer non-native questions. But here are some places for you to go for help.
Denton County Master Gardeners
Dave's Garden Be sure to check out the various forums and also check out various peonies to see if someone is growing them near you. And split your question into two - one for peonies, and the other for azaelas.
Good luck with your gardening endeavors.
More Herbs/Forbs Questions
Erosion controlling plants for a shady Minnesota lakeside
August 11, 2015 - I live about 50 yards from a lake and there is a steep embankment. Recently someone decided to cut the trees off the embankment and now the dirt is eroding off the embankment as well as off my back ya...
view the full question and answer
Is the Obedient Plant a bog plant?
August 16, 2008 - I purchased 2 obedient plants at a farmer's market in Michigan. As I was unfamiliar with this plant, the merchant told me it did well in full sun. It was just what I needed. When I got home I look...
view the full question and answer
The origin of Juncus effusus var. Big Twister
May 04, 2008 - Juncus effusus, var. 'Big Twister' We're trying to figure out the nativity of this thing, and whether it is safe to plant in our very wet rain garden. Thank you for any assistance...
view the full question and answer
Resurrection plant not reviving.
February 04, 2009 - I have what might be a resurrection plant but it never turns green. When it is watered it opens up and turns from tan to dark brown. Is it just a different variety of resurrection plant or something...
view the full question and answer
Transplant shock in Texas Star hibiscus
July 31, 2008 - Why is my Texas star plant wilting and now is starting to turn yellow? I just bought it from a nursery and put it in a new pot.
view the full question and answer
| Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |