Welcome To Texas! (Part 4)
Changes From Gardening in a Tropical Climate to Gardening in East Texas?
1. You Now Have Winter (sort-of)
Tropical gardeners rarely deal with frost. East Texas has frosts and freezes every winter, sometimes light and sometimes for longer periods of time. This makes it necessary to over-winter true tropical plants indoors or in a greenhouse. There is a multitude of plants that flourish in our area throughout our mild winters that don’t require “special care” though. We still have many days that are in the 60s and sunny. (In our Christmas photo several years ago we were wearing shorts it was so warm!)
What this means:
• Many tropicals must be treated as annuals or container plants.
• You’ll need to learn basic freeze protection (mulch, covers, timing) or over- wintering plants indoors or in a greenhouse.
2. Heat Feels Different Here
Florida heat is humid but moderated by ocean breezes. East Texas heat is HOT once we reach summer and is also humid. When the 2 are combined together it can seem brutal. This heat causes plants to stress more here than in other Zone 8 regions around the country.
What this means:
• Even tropical plants can sunburn in Texas sun.
• Afternoon shade becomes valuable for many shrubs and perennials to help cool them off.
3. Rainfall Is Not as Reliable
Tropical climates have steady moisture or predictable rainy seasons. East Texas has wet springs, dry late summers, and occasional drought cycles. These changing conditions makes irrigation a bit more challenging but very doable.
What this means:
• Supplemental watering for newly planted items is necessary.
• Be prepared to water more in the summer.
4. Soils Are Very Different
Tropical soils are often rich, organic, and moisture retentive.
East Texas soils are typically acidic and can be sandy or clay based which makes it is either fast-draining or slow-draining.
What this means:
• Adding soil amendments (compost, peat replacer) when planting is advised along with Bio-Tone Starter to promote fast root zone growth.
• Acid loving plants (Azaleas, Camellias, Blueberries) thrive here so be sure and include them in your plantings.
5. Pest and Diseases are very similar:
East Texas has all the same bugs, pests and fungal issues you are familiar with.
What this means:
• Monitor plants for outbreaks as before.
• Follow directions for application of chemicals during higher temperatures.
6. Your Plant Changes
Tropical gardeners are used to lush, evergreen, year round growth. East Texas supports many of your favorite plants along with a few new ones. There are so many plants that can handle both heat and cold while rewarding you with healthy, evergreen plants year-round.
What this means:
• The most significant difference is that true tropical plants are unable to withstand East Texas winters outdoors.
• Don’t despair, you will still enjoy lush, tropical looking landscapes using a mixture of shrubs, trees, perennials and annual seasonal color
• East Texas gardening is all about choosing the right plants — and once you learn the rhythm, it becomes incredibly rewarding.