Native Plants
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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.
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.
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Wednesday - August 12, 2015
From: Kerrville, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Non-Natives, Watering, Drought Tolerant, Grasses or Grass-like
Title: Will Bermuda grass survive a drought-induced dormancy?
Answered by: Guy Thompson
QUESTION:
If I stop watering a Bermuda grass lawn and let it go dormant, will it green up again when it rains again?ANSWER:
Bermuda grass is one of the best grasses for use in drought-prone areas. But I suggest that you give your lawn a good deep watering before letting it go dormant. The grass roots will grow down to capture the deep moisture, and this will help to keep the roots alive during the subsequent drought.
More Grasses or Grass-like Questions
Plants for steep slope in Virginia
October 24, 2008 - Please help! Looking for landscaping ideas for a very large Steep hill. Features: slope is approximately 45-60 degrees, clay soil mixed with fill dirt, lots of deer, partial sun, seeking minimal maint...
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Native turf grass for Austin
March 24, 2014 - I am installing a xeriscape landscape in my yard. It will be in full sun and I am looking for an alternative to turf, such as monkey grass. However, I am concerned about the light. Suggestions?
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Native grasses as low-water option for ranch yard
March 19, 2007 - We have a weekend ranch in LLano Texas and are looking for a grass to plant in the front yard. (approx 3/4 acre) The house is very small and cute but not a real big fancy house. We do have a fence aro...
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Buffalograss (Bouteloua dactyloides) and buffalo grass mixes
October 05, 2007 - I live in Austin, TX and have visited the Wildflower Center in the past and enjoyed the display of native grass mixes. Can you tell me about the variations of buffalograss mixes... which ones are most...
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Holding soil on a bank in Goldsboro, NC
July 25, 2010 - I live in Goldsboro, NC on a small ridge with a very steep bank on one side of our property. What native plants can we plant on the bank to help hold the soil. Also, what would be best to plant on t...
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