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Have a Colorful Fall & Holiday Season!

Fresh from a wet and wild Spring and a warm Summer, we are all in the mood for this first breath of Fall. At this point, a few degrees of relief are welcomed, and our gardens appreciate it. This season let's take a look at some of the interesting companions that we can use with our Fall staples.

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More Pansies in 4-inch pots are sold in our area than the same size of Spring Begonias, Impatiens and Petunias combined. When I heard this bit data I was astounded, but it makes a lot of sense. We are all ready for Fall and Winter after enduring our Texas Summer, and ready to brighten up our garden with the colors and promises that Pansies bring. This year, we present additional colorful annuals that can be planted alongside our 'Matrix' Pansies, sure to brighten our souls and our gardens.

Diascia - This relatively new species of cool-season annual in our area has made huge leaps from its original introduction. Long used in northern and milder climates, many more colors, larger flower sizes and more compact growth habits are now possible, along with greater heat tolerance. We present 'Diamonte' that is at home in the ground as well as in containers. This native of South Africa was selected as an All-America Selection Winner in the Cool Season Bedding Plant category in 2006.

Erysimum - Also called Wallflower, you'll find this moniker inadequate to describe its performance. Hardly timid or quiet, 'Citrona' shouts boldly from the garden with flaming iridescent orange or brilliant yellow flowers that bloom throughout the Winter. It is comfortable alongside ornamental Kale & Cabbage (its botanical cousins) as well as Snapdragons and Dianthus.

Helenium - At home in the full sun, this hardy and hearty annual sports daisy-like flowers and fine-textured leaves that are ideal in contrast to Pansies. You'll also find 'Dakota Gold' comfortable in the Summer sun, and you may see it return from year to year as it re-seeds easily but not "weedily". Helenium also provides the ideal filler for containers and beds.

Nemesia - Well-branched and well-suited to our mild Winter climate, 'Poetry' Nemesia provides an upright element among other plants with spreading habit. If you choose the white variety among your selection, it is the more fragrant in the series.

Fall is our time for renewal in our gardens. Take this opportunity to do some sprucing up and don't forget that colder weather is on its way. Prepare now with plenty of Frost Cloth for those unexpected arrivals, and don't hesitate to let us know if we can assist you.

Enjoy your garden and have a great fall & Holiday Season.

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