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 is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
rate this answer
Monday - July 02, 2012
From: Houston, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Propagation, Shrubs
Title: Is slow growth of young Tx mountain laurel normal?
Answered by: Guy Thompson
QUESTION:
My Texas mountain laurel is 2 or 3 years old and is about 4 feet tall. It seems quite healthy but has grown very little, if any, and has never bloomed. Is this normal? Although I don't want it to grow fast, I would like to see it bloom. Thanks, Jamie DANSWER:
Yes, it is normal for Sophora secundiflora (Texas mountain laurel) to grow very slowly for the first 2-3 years. I believe that if you keep the soil somewhat moist and fertilize the shrub in late winter it will begin to show stronger growth next year. It may not bloom for another year of so. Once it reaches 5-6 feet in height its growth rate and bloom production will be noticeably greater. Texas mountain laurel is such a beautiful plant that the wait will be well worthwhile.
More Propagation Questions
Propogating snowbells from Elmendorf TX
June 06, 2012 - Is it possible to propagate Styrax platanifolius and Halesia diptera from cuttings? If yes, what is the process?
view the full question and answer
Different colors of Argemone spp. from McAllen TX
March 16, 2014 - I took pictures of at least 5 colors of pricklepoppy today. Is this common to have so many colors in one area? How do I harvest the seedpods and when is the best time to do so?
view the full question and answer
Transplanting birdwing passionflower in Canyon, TX
April 17, 2009 - First, thank you for all your help! Second, I have two bird-wing passionflowers that are growing next to the house. I'd like to move them because this is the area where I want to put in some raise...
view the full question and answer
Propagating Texas Mountain Laurel by seed from Tucson AZ
May 20, 2010 - Propagation of Texas Mountain Laurel from seed
view the full question and answer
Looking for an apple tree to plant in Austin, TX.
December 08, 2010 - I want to plant an apple tree in my yard that bears fruit and will provide habitat and shade. Are any varieties that will do well in the South Austin area? And do I have to plant two trees to get fru...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |