Welcome To Texas!

 

 

If you’ve recently relocated to East Texas from states with harsher winters like Minnesota or tropical climates like Florida, you might be wondering what your garden can offer during the cooler months. The good news: East Texas winters are mild enough to support colorful winter gardens, yet cool enough to require some seasonal adjustments.
 
 

Understanding East Texas Winter Climate

 

East Texas falls into a humid subtropical zone, with winter temperatures typically ranging from the 30s to 60s Fahrenheit. While occasional freezes do occur, they’re usually brief and not severe. This climate allows for a longer growing season and opens the door to winter planting that might be impossible in northern or tropical regions.
 
 

Flowers That Thrive in East Texas Winters

 

New residents often assume winter means a dormant garden, but East Texas winters are typically cool but not harsh, making the region ideal for enjoying a variety of winter annuals that add color to gardens and containers during the colder months and last through early spring.
 
 

Coldy Hardy Annuals That Flourish:

 

 

Pansies & Violas

 

These are among the most popular winter annuals in East Texas. Known for their cheerful faces and wide range of colors, pansies and violas tolerate cold temperatures well and bloom continuously through winter. Violas are slightly more cold-hardy and often outperform pansies during extended cold spells.
 
 

 

Snapdragons

 

Another favorite, offering tall spikes of blooms in shades from white to deep red. They can withstand light frosts and continue blooming into early spring. Their vertical growth adds structure to garden beds.
 
 

 

Dianthus

 

Produces fragrant pink, red, and white flowers that thrive in cooler temperatures. It’s a low-growing, low-maintenance choice that does well in the garden or in containers.
 
 

 

Ornamental Cabbage & Kale

 

Grown for their striking foliage these plants bring texture and color with their ruffled leaves and shades of purple, pink, or white to containers and flowerbeds once cooler weather arrives.
 
 

 

Cyclamen & Stock

 

For shaded areas, cyclamen offers delicate blooms in pinks and purples, while stock provide an aromatic burst of color. Both are best in containers placed where they are protected from frost.
 
 

 

Dusty Miller

 

Grows well whatever season it is – winter, spring, summer or fall. It’s silvery foliage pairs beautifully with other winter annuals.
 
 

Tips For Successful Winter Gardening

• Start early: Plant in late fall to give roots time to establish before the coldest nights.

• Mulch generously: Helps insulate soil and retain moisture.

• Plant in well-draining area: Don’t plant in low areas that stay wet during winter. Build the soil level up higher if necessary to prevent roots from rotting in wet soil.

• Choose the right soil: Use a soil amendment that contains compost for added nutrients.

• Feed the plants: Spread an organic or synthetic fertilizer when planting to ensure plenty of blooms.
 

Unlike northern states where winter halts all gardening, or tropical zones where seasons blur, East Texas offers a unique rhythm. Winter is a time for cool-season, colorful annuals, and prepping for spring. With a little planning, your garden can stay lively year-round.
 

Whether you’re escaping snowdrifts or tropical humidity, East Texas welcomes you with a winter gardening season full of possibilities. Embrace the change – and WELCOME TO TEXAS!