Greenscape

The worst of the DFW heat is finally breaking, and that means it's go-time for North Texas gardens. September and October aren't a wind-down here — they're basically a second spring, with a fall vegetable window, the best tree-planting weather of the year, and curb-appeal season all overlapping at once. Get Your Fall Vegetables In Now Direct-seed cool-season crops like turnips, radishes, carrots, beets, Swiss chard, and collard greens straight into the bed this month, and set out transplants of broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale. Water new seedbeds twice a day until germination, use 40–50% shade cloth while afternoons are still warm, and mulch 3 inches deep once seedlings hit 4–6 inches tall. This Is Prime Tree-Planting Season If a new tree or shrub has been on your list, plant it now rather than in spring. Cooler air lets roots establish through fall and winter without the stress of summer heat, so the plant hits next year's growing season already settled ...

  Building My Backyard Geodesic Dome: A DIY Oasis in Frisco The Spark of an Idea A couple of years ago, I set out on a DIY project that combined my love for design, sustainability, and a bit of engineering curiosity: building a geodesic dome in my backyard. What started as a simple experiment with metal conduits has grown into one of my favorite spaces — a shaded retreat that feels both rustic and alive. Materials and Cost The dome’s frame is built from ½‑inch x 10‑ft Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT) Conduit , sourced from Home Depot. At around $5 per 10‑ft piece , the price was reasonable, and the total frame cost came to about $500 . For the flooring, I mixed reclaimed concrete tiles with about $80 worth of new ones , and added reclaimed wood to tie it all together. The result is a rustic, mixed‑media design that feels grounded and unique — a floor with character, not just utility. Nature Meets Structure One of the joys of this project has been watching nature interact with the ...

As the days grow shorter and the temperature begins to drop, it's time to think about how to prepare your garden for winter. According to recent commentary from gardening experts, a little proactive care can ensure your plants thrive when the warmth of spring returns. Here are ten essential tips to help you navigate this seasonal transition. Start by trimming any plants that have crept over paths or sidewalks. This not only makes snow shoveling easier but also maintains a tidy appearance. It's important to remember that you don't have to completely clear every leaf or stem; a layer of decaying leaves can actually benefit the soil by enriching it as microorganisms break them down. October is the prime time to plant spring-blooming bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and crocuses. When planting, choose a sunny spot and dig holes that are at least twice as deep as the bulbs are wide. Interestingly, experts argue that adding fertilizer at this stage is unnecessary; simply ...

Recent discussions among gardening enthusiasts suggest that fall may actually be the best time to set up your kitchen garden, especially in regions with milder winters. This seasonal shift invites a whole new array of plants that can thrive in cooler temperatures, allowing gardeners to enjoy a bountiful harvest even as the days get shorter. According to recent commentary, plants such as lettuce, radishes, and carrots flourish during this time, providing both flavor and nutrition. Many experienced gardeners argue that the fall garden is a hidden gem, filled with opportunities for growth that spring simply cannot match. For those living in warmer climates, like Houston, the fall season becomes a remarkable time to plant cool-weather crops without the worry of frost. By March, gardeners can already be reaping the rewards of their fall planting, having nurtured their crops for months. Herbs also make a fantastic addition to a fall garden. Varieties like parsley and cilantro thrive ...

As the crispness of fall settles in, many gardeners are turning their attention to container gardening—a perfect solution for those with limited space. Recent commentary highlights the appeal of growing vegetables in pots during this season, particularly for urban dwellers and small-space enthusiasts. With the right choices, you can cultivate a thriving garden that not only beautifies your surroundings but also provides fresh produce for your kitchen. Among the best options for fall container gardening, radishes stand out. These small, fast-growing vegetables thrive in cooler temperatures, and in fact, they often taste better when grown in the chill of autumn. Planting radish seeds in late August or early September can lead to a delightful harvest just in time for cozy fall meals. Experts argue that garlic is another stellar choice, albeit with a longer wait time. While it takes up to nine months to mature, planting garlic in the fall allows you to reap the rewards by next year....

10 Essential Tips for Preparing Your Garden for Winter As the seasons shift and winter approaches, it's time for gardeners to pivot their focus towards preparing their outdoor spaces for the colder months. According to recent commentary from gardening experts, winter preparation isn't just about putting your garden to bed; it’s also about setting the stage for a vibrant spring bloom. One of the first steps in winterizing your garden is trimming back perennials and ground covers that may have overgrown pathways. This not only tidies up your landscape but also facilitates snow removal, making it easier to navigate your property during winter storms. October is the prime month for planting spring-blooming bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and crocuses. When selecting a site, ensure it receives full sun. Experts recommend planting bulbs at a depth that is twice their width and avoiding fertilizer at this stage. A good watering and a layer of mulch will help insulate the bulbs as ...

Watermelons are not only a delicious and refreshing treat during the hot summer months, but they are also packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, and antioxidants such as lycopene. Whether you're looking to grow them for their sweet taste or to add a touch of beauty to your garden with their sprawling vines and vibrant fruits, watermelons are a rewarding crop to cultivate. Starting Seeds Indoors: In the DFW area, starting watermelon seeds indoors in February might be a bit early. However, with the right indoor setup, you can get a head start on your garden. Tips for Starting Seeds: Containers: Use peat pots or seed-starting trays. Alternatively, use upcycled containers like empty yogurt containers or egg cartons with drainage holes. Soil: A light, well-draining seed starting mix made from peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite works well. Alternatively, create your own mix using coco coir, homemade compost, and sand, with the addition of crushed eggshells for improved drainage...

Basil and mint are two of the most popular and versatile herbs that can elevate any dish with their fresh flavors and aromatic scents. Basil, often referred to as the "king of herbs," is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and is perfect for pesto, salads, and pasta. Mint, on the other hand, is a refreshing herb used in a variety of dishes, from desserts to savory meals, and is a key ingredient in beverages like mojitos and teas. Both herbs are easy to grow, making them ideal for beginner gardeners and experienced green thumbs alike.      Basil and mint are two of the most popular and versatile herbs that can elevate any dish with their fresh flavors and aromatic scents. Basil, often referred to as the "king of herbs," is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and is perfect for pesto, salads, and pasta. Mint, on the other hand, is a refreshing herb used in a variety of dishes, from desserts to savory meals, and is a key ingredient in beverages like mojitos and teas. Both ...

Timing is everything when it comes to growing tomatoes. Starting seeds early can give your plants a head start and lead to a more productive harvest.  When to Start Tomato Seeds: In the DFW area, the ideal time to start tomato seeds indoors is late January to early February . This timing allows the seedlings to grow strong enough to be transplanted outdoors after the last frost, which typically occurs around late March to early April. Starting seeds early ensures that your tomato plants have a long growing season to mature and produce a bountiful harvest. Steps to Start Tomato Seeds: Choose the Right Variety: Select tomato varieties that are well-suited to the DFW climate. Popular choices include 'Celebrity', 'Better Boy', and 'Cherry Tomatoes'. Prepare Seed Starting Mix: Use a high-quality seed starting mix to provide the necessary nutrients for germination. Avoid garden soil, which may contain pathogens. Plant the Seeds: Sow the tomato seeds about 1/4 inch de...

When it comes to gardening in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area, timing is everything. The region's hot summers and mild winters offer a unique growing season. Here's a guide to help you get started: Edibles Spring: Vegetables: Start seeds indoors for tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants in January. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost in late February to early March. Herbs: Plant basil, parsley, and cilantro seeds indoors in February, and transplant them outdoors in March. Root Vegetables: Direct sow carrots, beets, and radishes in early March. Summer: Vegetables: Plant beans, cucumbers, and squash in late April to early May. Fruits: Plant watermelon and cantaloupe seeds in late April. Vegetables: Start seeds indoors for broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage in late summer. Transplant seedlings outdoors in late August to early September. Root Vegetables: Direct sow carrots, beets, and turnips in late August. Ornamental Plants Spring: ...