As an expert gardener in Austin, Texas, I have seen firsthand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with gardening in this city. The weather here is unpredictable and can range from hot and dry to mild and rainy. But with the right knowledge and plant selection, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden that reflects the spirit of Austin's unofficial slogan, “Keep Austin Weird.” In this article, I will share my top tips for gardening in Austin and introduce you to six of the best native plants for your garden. Austin's climate sets it apart from the rest of Texas. While it receives more rainfall than other parts of the state, it is also less humid.
This makes it important to choose plants that are well-adapted to the unique conditions of this city. Native plants are the best choice for an Austin garden as they are already accustomed to the hot summers, mild winters, prolonged droughts, and flash floods that are common here. If you're looking for a stunning addition to your garden, consider planting Texas wisteria. This beautiful plant produces a waterfall of purple flowers and is best planted in spring or fall. It thrives in well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.
Another great option is the desert willow, which can grow up to 25 feet tall and offers an abundance of pink flowers with a sweet scent. Hummingbirds are attracted to its flowers while birds enjoy its large seed pods. Don't be fooled by its name – Texas sage is not actually part of the sage family. This native plant has silvery-gray leaves that can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide, with beautiful pink, purple, or lavender flowers that bloom all summer long. Another great choice is evergreen sumac, which produces small white flowers and fuzzy red fruits that attract bees and butterflies. With such a wide variety of native plants to choose from, Austin gardeners have endless options for creating a dynamic and exciting garden.
To get started, I recommend using the vegetable seed source guide to find recommended suppliers for the best varieties for Austin. It's also important to keep in mind that the LCRA has predicted that Austin will need additional water supplies by 2050, regardless of drought conditions. This makes it crucial to choose plants that are well-suited to the local climate. At Lettuce Grow Something, we specialize in designing, installing, and maintaining family gardens in the Austin area. We understand the unique challenges of gardening in this city and can help you create a productive and beautiful garden that thrives in the local climate.
Whether you're a newcomer or a veteran gardener, our expert advice and services can help you achieve success. When it comes to gardening in Austin, timing is everything. Trying to grow plants that can't tolerate the heat during the summer months or the cold during winter will only lead to frustration. The weather here is notoriously difficult to predict, which is why it's important to know when to plant and which varieties can withstand the elements. Whether you're looking for low-maintenance plants or something new and exciting, these six native plants are perfect for your Austin garden.
