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.
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Monday - September 14, 2009
From: Round Rock, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Grasses or Grass-like
Title: Native buffalograss for Round Rock, TX
Answered by: Barbara Medford
QUESTION:
Hi, I am wondering what the best Buffalo grass selection would be for Round Rock, Tx? I have about 400 - 500 Sq Ft that boarders the street that I would like to maintain as a natural type of environment. Additionally, would you recommend planting from seed or sod? If seed, can I plant now (late summer, Sept)? And can you recommend sources? ThanksANSWER:
Begin by reading our How-To Article Native Lawns:Buffalograss for general information about planting and caring for this form of native lawn.
To go on to your last question, go to the Online Catalog for Native American Seed, then click on "Grass Mixes," next, "Native Sun Turfgrass." This mix consists of 34% Bouteloua gracilis (blue grama) and 66% Bouteloua dactyloides (buffalograss). This catalog will give you a great deal of information about the planting and culture of these native grasses for Central Texas.
Since you live near the Austin area, we also suggest you come to our Fall Plant Sale. Not only will we have thousands of plants native to Central Texas for sale, but both Native American Seed and the Native Plant Society of Texas will have tents. You can talk to the people at Native American Seed, get a catalog, which is like a textbook on native grasses and wildflowers, and purchase seeds directly.
More Grasses or Grass-like Questions
Ground cover under live oaks
June 18, 2012 - I have some areas under Live Oak trees (maybe 200 sq. ft.)that remain bare, in spite of trying Habiturf. Soil is dry, poor and shallow. Can you suggest a living ground cover that would not require m...
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Grass for Charleston SC
August 13, 2010 - Hey Mr. Smarty Plants. I live in Charleston, SC and am having trouble with my grass. What is the best wear resistant grass to plant in my area and when is the best time to plant it?
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Native Wildflowers and Grasses for Texas Acreage
April 15, 2015 - I recently purchased about 36 acres in Somervell County, Texas where cedar had been bulldozed and burned (many large spots). What would be the best native flowers or grasses to replant in that area? L...
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Native xeric grasses for Colorado
June 24, 2010 - Tired of mowing - replacing western exposure full sun lawn with native xeric grass. Please explain the pros and cons of Bouteloua Gracilis (Blue Grama) and Bouteloua Dactyloides Bella (Bella Blue Gra...
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Habiturf in Houston
January 30, 2012 - I want to install a Multi-Species Native Lawn, like HABITURF. However, I live in Houston, Texas and most of your information on this topic doesn't address my region. As I don't have a heavily shaded...
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