Last year was a rough one for the central Texas landscape. It was a year of extremes. Between the harsh ice storm in early February 2023 and the extreme drought over the summer, Wimberley residents have experienced some dramatic changes to the local landscape that remain challenging. Two summers of brutal heat and drought have killed plants and have left local watering holes, rivers and lakes with notably low water supplies going into 2024.
So, what can we do to keep Wimberley beautiful? Consider planting native plants. Native plants are generally drought-tolerant, naturally conserving our precious water resources. They are more successful as landscape plants than non-native, because they have adapted to our local conditions. They also provide habitat and food for birds, butterflies, bees and other wildlife, and don’t need special pampering or fertilizing.
When selecting native plants for Hays County, we must consider several environmental factors. The right plant for the right place is key. Consider the amount of sunlight, drainage and soil conditions in the potential location. Check the mature size and growth habits of the plant and its water and sun requirements. Check yards, parks and other areas landscaped with native plants near you to see which plants are doing well. The Lady bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin is an invaluable resource where many of the native plants are identified.
Curious about rainwater harvesting? Every Thursday between 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Wimberley library offers a master gardener’s table display where you can get ideas for collecting some spring rain and talk to master gardeners with questions you may have about planting and caring for plants.
One last thing. As temperatures get warm enough to uncover your plants, there are a few things you should keep in mind to help your garden recover. Some of those plants may have died during the freeze. Experts say to pull out any plants that look slimy or mushy to prevent fungal disease, but leave the rest alone, because some plants that look dead may still be okay. Pruning sends a signal to the plants to promote new growth, and we’re not at that time yet. Be patient and wait until spring.
Let’s hope for a continued wet winter without the ice, and a Spring with lots of rain. I don’t know about you, but I can do without the extremes!
