![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/IAujYhyWhiqbOHyzjyFz6NUQFQvuj2I4pc0kkG_GEpPRgkHDbedud1tWw-tSl8u5lLD4SUErYX1jawFWbfdTpNs6zx_Cd8b1hLSby8HcMZmKulLbZukItYRNevfhRyjKn25ZAPKw\")
When’s the last time you stopped to smell the roses in Houston? How about any of the native flowers like the purple coneflower or black-eyed Susan? These are the native plants for Houston landscapes that attract birds, bees and other pollinators. Since they grow here naturally, they need little maintenance or water to thrive. Planting […]
\n","content":"\nWhen’s the last time you stopped to smell the roses in Houston? How about any of the native flowers like the purple coneflower or black-eyed Susan? These are the native plants for Houston landscapes that attract birds, bees and other pollinators. Since they grow here naturally, they need little maintenance or water to thrive. Planting native helps the environment and your yard.
\n\n\n\nWhen designing your landscape, don’t forget the smaller details that set your property apart from the neighborhood. Native plants in Houston and other cities in Texas are celebrated for their visual appeal, and for being eco-friendly. Since they’re easy to maintain, they’ll increase the curb appeal of your home.
\n\n\n\nHere are some of the trees, vines, shrubs, and plants that grow easily in H-Town.
\n\n\n\nThere are many species of large trees in Texas; oaks are ones you’ll find everywhere in Houston. They fall into two groups; red and white. Red oaks have jagged leaves with acorns that take two years to mature. White Oaks have smooth foliage with acorns maturing in one season. You’ll also see maple, walnut, ash, cypress, pine, sycamore and tulip trees that typically grow anywhere from 60 to 80 feet tall. The pecan may be our state tree, but don’t forget about the tree that gave Houston one of its many nicknames. The Southern magnolia tree is losing ground to invasive species, but it continues to be the centerpiece in many Houston gardens.
\n\n\n\nSmaller varieties of native trees include the American holly, with its sharply jagged foliage and bright red berries. Pawpaw gives off a tropical-like appearance that highlights your landscape with maroon-red flowers. Acacia sprouts white-yellow blooms, and crape myrtle comes in a variety of colors including lavender, white, reds and pink. You can’t walk far in Houston without seeing a Basham Party Pink Crape Myrtle — a hybrid that can grow up to 30 feet tall.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Gzce4KAaryUIcFtEITJNsdxf48uoM2X-rqy4v2n9DePqDD5Ony7JP9jgifltb08ELuwcOjc22JdH8u6wg9d5e3YiQlTFA5YoTkXn3lgvLU3JH4CWqmssbJ8yv3CpsmsmA6nVLy16\")
Coral honeysuckle has reddish green stems, dark green leaves and looks similar to small shrubs. This vine climbs fences and features red trumpet-shaped blooms that attract hummingbirds. Birds will enjoy a sumptuous feast of orange and red berries during September and October. Coral honeysuckle prefers morning sun and afternoon shade.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/sE86jEBcqWKxF-M92mDKHrnmbixjg18LkCtWraPmOAKx7RwpmT5X4zAaTd3R97gVO77MDiIcii8TBlzOtxFkoZW--1liGil3oSdw6Y5_uXGer1niLxFRqIdjsxlGc_b0MGNJZUwn\")
Photo credit: dunnmary735 on Visualhunt.com / CC BY-NC
\n\n\n\nCarolina Jessamine climbs high with its long, tapered leaves. In winter, you’ll see bright yellow trumpet flowers tinged with a spicy scent.
\n\n\n\nCrossvine blooms in spring with dark-red and yellow flowers.
\n\n\n\nPassionflower vine. With small lavender blooms from April to September, this vine spreads out over fences and trellises. The deep green leaves also attract colorful butterflies. Passionflower vines can grow 10 to 20 feet tall and sprout tiny melon-like edible fruits. A Yellow passionflower vine grows to about 10 feet, blooming in May to September with bluish-black berries.
\n\n\n\nTexas native grapevines draw the birds! With 15 grape species native to Texas, the most common ones are muscadine grape, riverbank grape, and mustang grape.
\n\n\n\nTrumpet creeper is a woody vine that climbs trees and fences, producing red-orange flowers. Houston hummingbirds love these blooms! Trumpet creepers thrive in moist soil and partial shade to full sunlight.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kRurmXejG2XnLwp_LpX1W6xu6z6EVxHo1RnRolb2Fk9B87uTryabo4I7bQbxFf8OT0nX_kvuoX6wKclMNbCXFxgPXAIu_6gBD-0E2-WP6fwrZ40kzIElyG0VArJAnx0VCvBFOE07\")
Agarita is an evergreen that yields single yellow flowers in the spring and then red berries. Agarita prefers full sunlight and well-draining, alkaline soil.
\n\n\n\nGardenia is an evergreen shrub found in many areas of the South. Its white flowers bring about a pleasant scent.
\n\n\n\nJasmine shrubs are evergreens that grow in the Houston area. Primrose and Italian jasmine sprout yellow flowers.
\n\n\n\nPineapple Guava is a grayish green shrub that produces white flowers with bright red stamens.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/uNdVGiSx2EG9v5x1-MZfcVx9dcMOe_glWWlidL4AckyX5OPL6tC5boje8E_bDPS2Q4m98CsZLZ-0Me1DHgSCeZ5zayFH1EA1cTsUCeRLAYmm2RYlqJG9rod4bT84eMQGfQ6Phazi\")
The obedient plant blooms in the spring, with some varieties flowering in autumn. Indigenous to Harris County, they spread thickly through their habitats to protect nearby vegetation, especially in winter. Pigeonberry plants develop red fruits to attract birds, and when the sun shines, you can see a red hue on the foliage. Frog fruit perennials grow just about anywhere; it’s an evergreen thatch in the verbena family. If you prefer something with more of a fleshy root system, Mallows hibiscus helps to stabilize the soil in small landscapes.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1atdfgu7JUNDWUCbbU9kVRZAJgX6B551nnuyhKZcvt8AcAYRUFQamIJH554Dg5I2Ze6ZZYMPTLxZ0SXB4YJj5BR81Rc7pyqgdHmfyaBCRM9y39ds0lfUQaykbnqUE7njtdQcmcHP\")
Photo credit: FritzFlohrReynolds on Visualhunt.com / CC BY-SA
\n\n\n\nWith thousands of native plants to choose from, there’s no reason to plant anything else in your garden. They’ll bring color to your landscape that will return year after year with little help from you. The native plants for Houston landscapes will thrive in our heat and humidity and keep your yard Texas strong.
\n\n\n\n
Have more questions about landscaping and maintenance? Visit our Houston, TX lawn care page for more guides and additional information.
You may be hot, but you can get into hot water if you use too much water in Houston. With average summertime temperatures in the mid-90s, it’s an absolute must to stick with the city’s water conservation plan. Watering restrictions in and around Houston are in place because drought in Texas is common. Sticking to […]
\n","content":"\nYou may be hot, but you can get into hot water if you use too much water in Houston. With average summertime temperatures in the mid-90s, it’s an absolute must to stick with the city’s water conservation plan. Watering restrictions in and around Houston are in place because drought in Texas is common. Sticking to the watering rules will help you avoid any sticky situations, later on.
\n\n\n\nLocal lakes and rivers make up Houston’s water supply. Eighty-six percent comes from the Trinity River into Lake Livingston, and the San Jacinto River into lakes Houston and Conroe. The rest comes from deeply-drilled underground wells into the Chicot and Evangeline aquifers. With roughly 2.3 million people living and working in the city, and more on the outskirts, the need for water isn’t exaggerated. Houston’s Public Works Department estimates Harris County’s population will exceed 5.5 million people in the next 30 years.
\n\n\n\nIn the end, Mother Nature decides how much water lakes, rivers, and aqueducts will provide.
\n\n\n\nIn a “normal” summer, water customers can irrigate their lawns between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m. Homeowners whose addresses end in even numbers can water on Sundays and Thursdays. Addresses ending in odd numbers may water on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Businesses and the like can water the grass on Tuesdays and Fridays. These watering times differ in severe droughts and shortages.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/u86Wbq_OrfgflIQ4UwsGSsKkvs-_qUV7_7du0YbfZUuFs650k0FlFZeIFYPsOdNJOvQxrqJGjNxYDjPuIITACghhlesR5X7tgLubV0NWjFJjiBt8TRzQGrCo_6DDY7Nwf8fM0pPM\")
Violating Houston’s drought contingency plan rules during dry periods can cost you! Although there are exceptions for new lawns, violations of Stage Two restrictions can lead to fines ranging from $100 to $2,000. Stage Three violations can cost you $500 at the very least (up to $2,000). Blowing off the rules at Stage Four means a fine starting at a grand or higher – this in addition to surcharges tacked on to your next several water bills. AND … there is the possibility of having your Houston area water service disconnected. The expense, hassle, and inconvenience of wading through the paperwork far outweigh that of sticking to the city’s water conservation plan.
\n\n\n\nGiven the summer heat in the Houston area and the everlasting need to preserve nature’s precious resources, it’s always a good idea to have a basic maintenance plan for your yard.
\n\n\n\nThe standard of lawn watering is to provide an inch of water once a week, or half an inch twice a week. Rainfall is best, but when it’s not raining, you can set up your sprinkler to run during Houston’s schedule of watering hours. The best time to water is at 4 a.m. so the soil and roots of the grass can soak it all in before the heat of the day. Too much water and watering during the heat of the day is a waste, and it can lead to disease and grass damage.
\n\n\n\nYou can do your part to save water by:
\n\n\n\nThe city and county will put out the word if there are watering restrictions in and around Houston, but think of it this way: When in doubt, prepare for drought.
\n\n\n\nHave more questions about how Houston’s local watering restrictions affect your lawn and landscape? Please visit our Houston, TX lawn care page for more information.
\n","title":"Watering Restrictions in and Around Houston","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/1789c/sprinkler-3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/107df/sprinkler-3.jpg 320w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/293e9/sprinkler-3.jpg 500w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/f2cbb/sprinkler-3.jpg 800w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/1789c/sprinkler-3.jpg 960w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/6f669/sprinkler-3.jpg 1950w","srcWebp":"/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/1dd6e/sprinkler-3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/67b76/sprinkler-3.webp 320w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/8df11/sprinkler-3.webp 500w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/98a65/sprinkler-3.webp 800w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/1dd6e/sprinkler-3.webp 960w,\n/static/8da11b863f176455f77efa04d9204ccb/ca720/sprinkler-3.webp 1950w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Watering Restrictions in and Around Houston | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Water conservation is serious business in Texas. Learn the watering restrictions in and around Houston to avoid hefty fines and high water bills."}}},{"node":{"id":"76df3949-d47d-57c8-a5b8-f5505736480b","slug":"best-landscaping-plants-houston","path":"/lawn-care/tx/houston/best-landscaping-plants-houston/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Abdul Wadood is a writer and SEO specialist from India. He recently started writing about lawns and enjoys it. In his spare time, he enjoys going on trips.","name":"Abdul Wadood","id":"236127ca-c7a6-50bb-9ab7-dd3e7e3fe6d8","path":"/author/abdul-wadood/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/395f0103c8419fd32e2c021818b78121?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"656604f4-56e7-55ed-8540-cc48be40652a","name":"Houston","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/houston/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"May 2nd, 2023","excerpt":"Houston is hot, dry, and sunny, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful yard. Texas native plants can adapt to Houston’s climate and soil conditions as they have been growing here for years. Let’s take a look at the best native plants for Houston that can add charm to your yard. In this […]
\n","content":"\nHouston is hot, dry, and sunny, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful yard. Texas native plants can adapt to Houston’s climate and soil conditions as they have been growing here for years.
\n\n\n\nLet’s take a look at the best native plants for Houston that can add charm to your yard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\nNative plants are well-adapted to a region’s soil conditions and climate, giving them a distinct advantage over non-native plants.
\n\n\n\nHere are the advantages of native plants over non-natives.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan looks distinctive, with bright yellow petals and a brownish-black head in the center. It grows best in full sun and prefers moist soil with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan is a low-maintenance plant that blooms from summer to fall, attracting butterflies, birds, and bees. You can remove the faded and dried flowers to keep black-eyed Susan in bloom longer.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PumpkinSky / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEastern purple coneflower is popular in Texas for its appealing pinkish-purple flowers and a dome-shaped brownish-orange head. Eastern purple coneflower blooms from spring to summer. Butterflies and bees love them.
\n\n\n\nEastern purple coneflower grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It prefers moist loam soil with good drainage. However, it can quickly adapt to various soil types.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Giant](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Giant-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGiant coneflower is an attractive tall herbaceous perennial with bright yellow flowers and a large, dark brown center. It’s a super-sized black-eyed Susan. Giant coneflower grows best in full sun and prefers moist soil with good drainage. It tolerates partial shade and drought.
\n\n\n\nGiant coneflower blooms from mid-summer to early fall. It attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Herb
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 7 feet tall and 4 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Texas-Lantana-Lantana-urticoides-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTexas lantana blooms throughout the summer, producing tiny bright flowers arranged in thick clusters. The flowers may appear orange, red, white, purple, or pink. These flowers create a bicolored effect as they are mixed within the same cluster.
\n\n\n\nTexas lantana grows best in full sun and prefers soil with good drainage. If you have children and pets playing on your lawn, we recommend avoiding this shrub as it’s toxic. Texas lantana leaves have a wrinkled appearance with a pungent citrusy smell. The strong aroma prevents deer from entering your yard.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall and 6 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, well-drained soil. Grows in almost all soil types.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to children and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American_Beautyberry_6172956232.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Virginia State Parks staff / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAmerican beautyberry blooms from late spring to early summer, producing clusters of tiny pink flowers. These flowers mature into berries during fall. Birds love them. We can eat them, too, but they don’t taste good.
\n\n\n\nAmerican beautyberry grows best in full sun and can tolerate shade. It prefers moist, well-drained soil. It can grow up to 6 feet, but keep it trimmed for a better appearance.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 6 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Light green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Autumn](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Autumn-Sage.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Consultaplantas / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAutumn sage is a fast-growing shrub that blooms for a lengthy period, from late spring to mid-fall. The beautiful red flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Autumn sage grows best in full sun and prefers dry, well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nAutumn sage requires regular watering after planting. Once grown, it can survive with an inch of watering each week. Avoid overwatering as it can damage the shrub. Autumn sage leaves are small and have a minty aroma.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Shrub
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 3 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Non-toxic
\n\n\n\n![\"Passionflower\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Passionflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: H. Zell / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPassionflower looks beautiful with purple or white flowers. It features complex purple threadlike coronal filaments that stand out. Passionflower grows tall, reaching up to 30 feet. It grows best in full sun and prefers rich, moist soil with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nPassionflower blooms in summer and attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. It’s toxic to pets but doesn’t affect humans much.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 30 feet tall and 6 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Lonicera_sempervirens_-_Coral_honeysuckle_02.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Zeynel Cebeci / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCoral honeysuckle is a showy vine that can add charm to your lawn. It features clusters of pinkish-red tubular flowers. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds love these flowers. Coral honeysuckle usually blooms throughout the summer. During fall, these flowers mature into berries that songbirds love.
\n\n\n\nCoral honeysuckle grows best in full sun. It can tolerate partial shade but will flower slowly. It grows in any soil type with good drainage.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 25 feet tall and wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Carolina](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Carolina-Jessamine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Evans / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCarolina jessamine looks beautiful with its trumpet-shaped bright yellow flowers. It blooms from late winter to early spring, making it one of the earliest bloomers. Carolina jessamine prefers moist, well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nYou can plant Carolina jessamine near your fence or arbor as it acts like a privacy screen. It also does well as a ground cover. Carolina jessamine grows best in full sun and can tolerate partial shade.
\n\n\n\nCarolina jessamine is extremely toxic and can even cause death to humans and pets when consumed. So, if you have kids and pets, we strongly recommend you avoid this vine.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Vine
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 10 feet tall and 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"image](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Eastern-White-Oak.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhite oak has many benefits. Its bark is used to make medicines, furniture, and even boats. It grows extremely slowly at a rate of 2 feet per year but can comfortably last 500 to 600 years. White oak grows best in full sun and prefers deep, moist, well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nWhite oak can grow up to 100 feet in height, and the canopy can spread to 80 feet. So, if you want to plant this tree, ensure there’s sufficient space in your lawn. White oak is susceptible to many diseases and pests.
\n\n\n\nDeers love the acorns that white oak produces. But don’t worry yet. Most white oak trees don’t produce acorns until they reach 20 years of age.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 100 feet tall and 80 feet wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Dark green in summer and brown to orange-red in fall
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Clay, loamy, sandy, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\n![\"Shumard](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Shumard-Red-Oak.jpg\")
Photo Credit: F. D. Richards / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want a fast-growing oak tree, go for Shumard red oak. It grows about 3 feet per year. The growth rate isn’t too fast, but definitely better than white oak. On the downside, Shumard red oak lasts up to 480 years, significantly lesser than white oak.
\n\n\n\nShumard red oak grows best in full sun and prefers moist loam soil with good drainage. It can grow up to 120 feet. Shumard red oak turns reddish-orange during fall. Similar to white oak, this tree’s bark also has many benefits.
\n\n\n\nGrowth habit: Tree
\n\n\n\nMature size: Up to 120 feet tall and 90 wide
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deep green
\n\n\n\nSunlight needs: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil preferences: Loamy, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and pets
\n\n\n\nHouston’s hardiness zone is 9a, meaning the weather is hot, dry, and sunny for most of the year. All these plants are native to Texas and can survive Houston’s climate. We recommend you analyze your lawn’s condition and choose a plant that best suits your lifestyle.
\n\n\n\nAlso, don’t forget to consider a plant’s size when purchasing it. If there isn’t much space in your lawn, it’s best to avoid planting large trees.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to know more about these plants and want to make your lawn the envy of your neighbors, get in touch with Wikilawn’s Houston lawn care experts.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Brian Reading / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n","title":"11 Best Plants for Houston Landscaping","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/1789c/Market-Square-Park.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/107df/Market-Square-Park.jpg 320w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/293e9/Market-Square-Park.jpg 500w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/f2cbb/Market-Square-Park.jpg 800w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/1789c/Market-Square-Park.jpg 960w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/c26c2/Market-Square-Park.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/1dd6e/Market-Square-Park.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/67b76/Market-Square-Park.webp 320w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/8df11/Market-Square-Park.webp 500w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/98a65/Market-Square-Park.webp 800w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/1dd6e/Market-Square-Park.webp 960w,\n/static/8ffeb9201006cbc0d44f442cd91d8126/3cc96/Market-Square-Park.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Best Plants for Houston Landscaping","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Plants add charm to your yard. Here is an introduction to native plants that will turn your ordinary garden amazing right here in Houston"}}},{"node":{"id":"c9c780c6-7743-557c-bb63-0e5e53f29266","slug":"a-monthly-lawn-care-checklist-for-houston-tx-homeowners","path":"/lawn-care/tx/houston/a-monthly-lawn-care-checklist-for-houston-tx-homeowners/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"656604f4-56e7-55ed-8540-cc48be40652a","name":"Houston","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/houston/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"July 6th, 2018","excerpt":"Keeping a beautiful lawn and garden is less about hiring the best professionals or purchasing the most expensive lawn care products and more about knowing the best time to do certain activities. For example, planting mums in the springtime is most likely going to result in a failure as mums are best planted in the […]
\n","content":"Keeping a beautiful lawn and garden is less about hiring the best professionals or purchasing the most expensive lawn care products and more about knowing the best time to do certain activities. For example, planting mums in the springtime is most likely going to result in a failure as mums are best planted in the fall before any threat of frost sets in. Similarly, watering your lawn during the middle of a scorching, summer day will cause much of the water being lost to evaporation and could often cause your lawn to suffer from water stress.
\nFurthermore, taking care of a lawn and garden will be substantially different in Minnesota than in Florida. While planting out your flower bed in Miami might be possible in early February, you would have a hard time breaking the frozen ground in Minneapolis at that same time of year. Knowing the specifics of your planting and heat zones where you live is important. However, the specific guidelines for the optimum times to do certain lawn and garden activities can vary widely even within certain plant hardiness zones.
\nFor Houston, Texas residents, the average high temperature of 62 degrees in January means that we lived in an extremely privileged part of the country when it comes to maintaining a beautiful lawn and garden year round. The heat and humidity of the summer months, however, can be a challenge for certain homeowners trying to keep their lawn and ornamental gardens healthy and vigorous during those summer heat waves when temperatures in the high 90s are a daily occurrence. Below, we offer a complete breakdown of the most essential summer garden and lawn care tasks for Houston homeowners.
\nWhile much of the country is finally enjoying the arrival of the warmer temperatures of spring, Houston residents have been enjoying average temperatures above 70 degrees since March. One of the most important activities for May is to prepare your lawn for the barrage of hot summer temperatures that are set to arrive. Broadcasting a slow-release fertilizer is a great idea to help strengthen the root systems while also increasing the resiliency of the plant to droughts that can be common in late summer and autumn. Slow release fertilizer formulas designed for lawns, such as 15-5-10 can be spread dry over the lawn. However, the fact that we average well over 5 inches of rain in May should mean that a couple of afternoon showers will help to activate the fertilizer so that it can be best used by the grass.
\nMay is also a good time to control chinch bugs that are reproducing around your home and probably causing damage to your lawn. While there are several pesticide options to control this common lawn pest, you can also use organic controls such as applying diatomaceous earth around your lawn or spraying your lawn with a biodegradable soap that will penetrate the exoskeleton of these bugs and cause them to die.
\nLastly, if you have a decent sized flower garden, it might be a good idea to apply a bit of chelated iron to the base of your flowering plants. The high temperatures of summer can cause flowering plants to suffer from iron deficiency, thus yellowing leaves and sometimes causing the plant to die. A bit of chelated iron will go a long way in helping to avoid this common problem.
\nJune is the wettest month in the Houston area with close to 6 inches of average rainfall. The abundance of rain and warm temperatures usually leads to abundant foliar growth in your ornamental shrubs. Early June, then, is a great time to get out the pruning shears. By pruning back your bushes and hedges early in the season, you can effectively stunt their growth and thus make it easier to keep them the size you want. Of course, subsequent pruning in later summer and autumn will also most likely be necessary.
\nThe early spring flowers that you planted in January and February will most likely be done flowering by June, thus giving you an excuse to replant other flowers. Perennial flowering plants are a great option if you have some extra space around your home. Pink Autumn sage offers yearly pink flowers that are incredibly aromatic and bloom almost year round. They are also very drought tolerant. Another option for perennial flowers is verbena. This plant can flower pink, purple or red, and is a great groundcover for areas around your home that will keep the weeds at bay.
\nLastly, if you have any overgrown trees around your home, pruning large tree limbs might be a good idea before hurricane season begins.
\nDuring July, the heat really picks up in the Houston area. To protect your lawn, it is a good idea to raise your lawnmower to 4 inches height. This will protect the grass against droughts and heat as extra moisture can be stored in the longer, individual blades.
\nIf your lawn has an automatic irrigation system, you will want to run it continuously during July, especially during dry spells. If you are irrigating fruit or ornamental trees in your yard, July is a month when you want to make sure that the root areas of your trees are being slow-soaked at least once a week. If you are using sprinklers, make sure to only run them at night as this will help limit the amount of water you use through minimizing evaporation.
\nAlso, in July you might spot fairy rings popping up around your yard and garden. While these strange looking creatures might cause alarm for some homeowners, they are simply a type of mushroom indicating healthy soil with an abundance of organic matter.
\nAugust is a great time to set out your hummingbird feeders around your garden. Migrating hummingbird species generally past through the Houston area this month and they are a delight for gardeners. You can attract them by simply boiling 4 cups of water and 1 cup of sugar to make a delectable nectar that they will love.
\nAlso, if you have cacti plants in your garden, you will want to let the roots completely dry out before replanting. Digging up fresh cacti roots will usually kill off the plants. Since August is usually the month when most fungal and bacterial infections of plants prosper, you might consider spraying your ornamental and edible plants with a seaweed spray. These sprays are full of essential plant nutrients and will boost their immune systems in order to help them avoid certain diseases.
\nThere are dozens of other activities that could (and should) be done around the garden and lawn throughout the summer. The fast growth of plants and grasses mean that you will most likely spend a fair amount of time mowing and pruning. For garden lovers, however, there is simply nothing better than being outside on a cool, summer evening, watching hummingbirds float through your flowers in full bloom.
\nHave more lawn care or gardening questions? Visit our Houston, TX lawn care page for more information.
\n","title":"A Monthly Lawn Care Checklist for Houston, TX Homeowners","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.499267935578331,"src":"/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/1789c/houston-tx-home.jpg","srcSet":"/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/107df/houston-tx-home.jpg 320w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/293e9/houston-tx-home.jpg 500w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/f2cbb/houston-tx-home.jpg 800w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/1789c/houston-tx-home.jpg 960w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/a2a79/houston-tx-home.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/1dd6e/houston-tx-home.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/67b76/houston-tx-home.webp 320w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/8df11/houston-tx-home.webp 500w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/98a65/houston-tx-home.webp 800w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/1dd6e/houston-tx-home.webp 960w,\n/static/98bda924c0b1a776ee9e9b67ec0b1749/7aa54/houston-tx-home.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"A Monthly Lawn Care Checklist for Houston, TX Homeowners | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"f725b102-82bb-57be-a1bc-8bf8c58376b0","slug":"best-grass-types-houston","path":"/lawn-care/tx/houston/best-grass-types-houston/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"656604f4-56e7-55ed-8540-cc48be40652a","name":"Houston","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/houston/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"July 29th, 2022","excerpt":"Want a lush, green lawn that will last most of the year? The key is selecting the grass type that will grow best in our humid, subtropical climate. Here’s a list of the four best grass types for Houston: Bermudagrass Seashore Paspalum St. Augustinegrass Zoysiagrass 1. Bermudagrass Popular for its sun-loving, salt-tolerant makeup, Bermudagrass has […]
\n","content":"\nWant a lush, green lawn that will last most of the year? The key is selecting the grass type that will grow best in our humid, subtropical climate. Here’s a list of the four best grass types for Houston:
\n\n\n\nPopular for its sun-loving, salt-tolerant makeup, Bermudagrass has a coarse to a medium-fine texture. Its wide leaf ranges in color from light green to dark green, depending on the cultivar (or type).
\n\n\n\nClassification: Bermudagrass is a warm-season grass.
Spreads by: Stolons (above-ground stems) and rhizomes (below-ground stems).
Shade tolerance: Bermudagrass prefers full sun at all times.
Drought tolerance: High. Regular rainfall should be enough to water it. This type will go dormant during extended dry periods.
Foot traffic tolerance: Its sturdiness withstands high levels of foot traffic.
Maintenance needs: High. Bermudagrass requires monthly fertilization during the summer. Water as needed to the top 4 to 6 inches of soil. Thatch buildup is a threat.
Recommended mowing height: Mow to a height of 1 to 2 inches once or twice a week to keep up with its incessant growth rate.
Also resilient in saltwater environments is seashore paspalum. Great for waterfront properties, this type is low-growing and has pointy, medium-coarse blades and a blue-green hue.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass.
Spreads by: Stolons and rhizomes.
Shade tolerance: Prefers full sun, but can withstand shade better than Bermudagrass.
Drought tolerance: Low. Seashore paspalum prefers very moist growing environments. Due to its high saline tolerance, you can use saltwater in irrigation.
Foot traffic tolerance: High. Seashore paspalum’s dense turf stands up well to heavy foot traffic.
Maintenance needs: Requires little fertilization throughout the growing season. Over-fertilizing can lead to scalping, which exposes the grass’s roots, opening it up to disease, stress, and stunted growth.
Recommended mowing height: For a well-manicured, dense lawn, mow to a height of 1 inch.
With its dark green color and curved, wide leaf, St. Augustinegrass is another favorite among Houstonians. This salt-resistant grass is one of the most selected options for lawns in the Houston area.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass.
Spreads by: Stolons.
Shade tolerance: Unlike most other warm-season types, St. Augustinegrass is able to thrive in shade.
Drought tolerance: Some degree of drought tolerance, but will begin to show stress during long periods of dryness.
Foot traffic tolerance: Light. Regular lawn foot traffic is no problem.
Maintenance needs: Fertilize every eight to 10 weeks and recycle grass clippings to help provide nutrients to this type of lawn. If rainfall isn’t enough, water to a soil depth of 6 inches when the grass is showing signs of dullness and stress. Over-watering and over-fertilizing can lead to thatch problems.
Recommended mowing height: Mow to a height of 2.5 inches.
Zoysiagrass is a popular choice because of its low-maintenance nature. There are many varieties, but Zoysia japonica is one of the best grass types for Houston Lawns. It has a high salt tolerance, pointy leaf blades, and a light- to medium-green color. It turns brown in early winter, going dormant soon after the first frost in November.
\n\n\n\nClassification: Warm-season grass.
Spreads by: Stolons and rhizomes.
Shade tolerance: Moderate shade won’t bother this turf, but it does grow best in full sun and temperatures of 80 degrees or hotter.
Drought tolerance: Zoysia can withstand periods of drought, but as a dry period lingers, it will go dormant and turn brown. Once watered, it will revert to its green color once again.
Foot traffic tolerance: Zoysiagrass grows well in high-traffic areas.
Maintenance needs: Low. Fertilize with about two pounds of nitrogen a year, and water about 1 inch a week during the growing season.
Recommended mowing height: Keep mower blades sharpened to tackle these stiff leaves, and cut to a height of 1 to 2 inches weekly.
1. When is the best time to plant grass in Houston?
\n\n\n\nEarly March to late May, when the temperature is between 65 and 75 degrees. This is the best time for warm-season grasses to germinate and become established in time for the first frost.
\n\n\n\n2. Can I plant a cool-season grass in Houston?
\n\n\n\nYes, but you should wait until September when the ground is a bit cooler (about 50 degrees.) Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue will give you a greener lawn in the winter, but will not do well in the heat and humidity of the summer.
\n\n\n\n3. Is there such a thing as a no mow grass for Houston?
\n\n\n\nYes, buffalograss is one of the easiest grasses to care for. It’s one of the best grass types for Houston since It only needs occasional mowing and is extremely drought-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nIf you don’t have the time or energy to replant or reseed your lawn, we’ll find a local lawn care pro to get the job done for you.
\n","title":"4 Best Grass Types for Houston Lawns","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/54e8af60c1e796e0b283f6da408afff4/1789c/houston-house-1290-pxfuel.jpg","srcSet":"/static/54e8af60c1e796e0b283f6da408afff4/107df/houston-house-1290-pxfuel.jpg 320w,\n/static/54e8af60c1e796e0b283f6da408afff4/293e9/houston-house-1290-pxfuel.jpg 500w,\n/static/54e8af60c1e796e0b283f6da408afff4/f2cbb/houston-house-1290-pxfuel.jpg 800w,\n/static/54e8af60c1e796e0b283f6da408afff4/1789c/houston-house-1290-pxfuel.jpg 960w,\n/static/54e8af60c1e796e0b283f6da408afff4/1ff5b/houston-house-1290-pxfuel.jpg 1290w","srcWebp":"/static/54e8af60c1e796e0b283f6da408afff4/1dd6e/houston-house-1290-pxfuel.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/54e8af60c1e796e0b283f6da408afff4/67b76/houston-house-1290-pxfuel.webp 320w,\n/static/54e8af60c1e796e0b283f6da408afff4/8df11/houston-house-1290-pxfuel.webp 500w,\n/static/54e8af60c1e796e0b283f6da408afff4/98a65/houston-house-1290-pxfuel.webp 800w,\n/static/54e8af60c1e796e0b283f6da408afff4/1dd6e/houston-house-1290-pxfuel.webp 960w,\n/static/54e8af60c1e796e0b283f6da408afff4/bdec4/houston-house-1290-pxfuel.webp 1290w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"4 Best Grass Types for Houston Lawns | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want a gorgeous lawn that will stay lush and green most of the year. We list the four best grass types for your Houston lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"3f1cec6d-e2ca-5725-9e63-6563e46dfcc3","slug":"houstons-worst-weeds","path":"/lawn-care/tx/houston/houstons-worst-weeds/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Bob Greenly has been mowing and caring for lawns since he was 12 years old. His summer job turned into a permanent career after college when he opened his own landscaping company.","name":"Bob Greenly","id":"86622de6-1450-5165-836f-e7397d91491b","path":"/author/bob-greenly/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38ceb71a8b949ee91fe8f7d81c04ccde?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"656604f4-56e7-55ed-8540-cc48be40652a","name":"Houston","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/houston/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 27th, 2019","excerpt":"Weeds are troublesome plants growing where we don’t want them, and Houston has plenty of them. They’re classified in several different groups: grasses and broadleaf, and perennials and annuals. Annuals have winter and summer varieties: winter weeds die when it gets hot, and summer annuals die when it cools off in the fall. Many of […]
\n","content":"\nWeeds are troublesome plants growing where we don’t want them, and Houston has plenty of them. They’re classified in several different groups: grasses and broadleaf, and perennials and annuals. Annuals have winter and summer varieties: winter weeds die when it gets hot, and summer annuals die when it cools off in the fall. Many of Houston’s worst weeds are winter annuals because not much plant life holds up in the summer heat. Here are our picks for Houston’s worst weeds:
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/fKqAFK-BIfeGLfsB02ztqOp27X_hc7_J5yUkbbuOJ4avGMmK6t24WABV03IxEZIkqZT65nDzIVtMIh07lrEzN5fZP7sIKIdhTDGsbESB3Qb_h49ENOJ0DRtodRhn06c7Hg2aJQUz\")
This pervasive weed looks a lot like the grass in your lawn. It’s not always noticeable if you have St. Augustinegrass, a popular type of lawn grass in Houston. While it’s an annual weed that dies in winter, it’s a prolific seeder, and those seeds can stick around for years. It grows in clumps and will choke out your lawn if not removed
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/FFpSpRfFW2Pzol_KlS6X1A7-x0zyxaClVT-flOoOslcCvy9sNy_ydnFWlmqci6Pi3X4cg2cCKXZMvMkF7ykVLbfBFasdCvAjfA7C2WfbvifMAmVmmbq9GjS-f9Fj2ilRiJawyCpH\")
Bluegrass is a winter annual that’s common in Houston. Its upright tufts stand out in dormant St. Augustine lawns. Don’t confuse it with the Kentucky bluegrass that grows in northern climates – winter bluegrass is its homely relative. It appears when the temperatures begin to cool in the fall. It turns a yellowish-white after seeding, which can happen several times over the winter but usually occurs in the spring. It’s a prolific seeder, so you’ll want to remove it before seeding starts.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/5kplB1mD-VCgQ08Hmqcua5w9UoolnJCB98xN8CVpjuyIcUmEfGW9Zaj2A9Axd2kd-r614PSDQCzhmP__sY5t6wdGRUQNPy3gxtApjI87yq2h-QnM0NtpWuIDIMfKit3Bp7x8_muG\")
This is a newer weed on the Houston lawn scene, and it loves the hot, humid climate. It resembles grass and has a small purple flower. It looks innocent enough but does major damage to a yard in a short amount of time. It kills grass then leaves brown patches when it dies in winter. It can spread from yard to yard with lawn clippings.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/uhx0oMNJUdg3GQ5JuG2aNwQROQvaJqCor9wc1j2RRcy36F9h-74I3MSriqrO90a8xgTH8XcqYSiCKQ5EirdnyW1focBKkbqLa3CzMIKqb09XGzQYYhfotDmRACgNIbeTD3QrSE4Q\")
Like doveweed, this hard-to-control weed appears from May to June and loves Houston’s hot and wet conditions. It also spreads quickly and aggressively, then dies in winter. It’s a low-growing, vine-like weed with tiny white flowers.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IRNj46kd1SLINUuuOhiTa_mbT7PgDQhxFdNfzub3v0YA2o3whSHZqEfP_q2zi3h2k4VMS5Ss4M6QB2GdywZj0DrlOEBLCt_SCZFSaJBFQQqtWlhjh_GN6U8DaM68cte-47sPc5zi\")
Your bare feet will have no problem identifying this waxy winter annual. It fruits in late spring with small, sharp (and painful) barbs. Treat spurweed with a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall when the plants first emerge.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ihVKW82DGkzDnVGHmzokPzP5g8b3czdeHjIOOAmUagYdLL-eVpzrTVTzHPRT2j-gd89sPe_NwYC3fjGbYORWshC5r-bXqQdM7NElali5LhGyh1w1IZCdXdtflclhCrTNGXZRaM8h\")
Buttercups are a perennial weed with a pretty yellow flower. The name comes from the shiny, waxy appearance of the flower’s petals. They grow and spread in early spring and will take over your garden year after year if not removed. While they’re attractive and grown in some areas as a desired plant, they’re best left out of lawns and gardens.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/v0moNDc_n0hw0Nasljdm4ol652I-iI-VXTBOlhW-rhdCr8DHjqHyNfFsRqpfnWkZ6X5t5ePpA6wvNMjwRN7bPewtPVzZxH406VObvHRmhrvQsvCEDQcbcIsfctJYr4V-Xn6bJZ9P\")
This grass-like weed may drive you nuts because it’s extremely hard to kill. It has thicker leaves at its base than your regular grass and typically grows in groups of three blades. To get rid of it, you have to get rid of the nut at its base. Here’s the hard part: You have to get rid of all the nuts, every single one, or they’ll be back in short order.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/81/Duchesnea_indica9.jpg\")
While it may seem sad to kill anything with the name “strawberry,” this weed will invade your flowerbeds and produce a decidedly not-tasty (but not poisonous) fruit. Mock strawberry is common in wooded areas or open meadows. It has rounded red berries with hard, protruding seeds.
\n\n\n\nKeep in mind that a healthy lawn is your best defense against weeds. Aerate, fertilize in spring and fall, mow properly and remove thatch. Work with your lawn care service or local nursery on other strategies to control weeds.
\n\n\n\n
Have more questions about lawn care in your lawn? Visit our Houston, TX lawn care page for more guides and additional information.
Houston has a bug problem. One 2017 survey named the city as the most-pest-infested city in America. We’ve singled out the worst creepy-crawly pests and how to get rid of them. Cockroaches Cockroaches love hot and humid urban environments, which means Houston is perfect. About 38 species of cockroaches live in Texas, and Houston generously hosts […]
\n","content":"\nHouston has a bug problem.
\n\n\n\nOne 2017 survey named the city as the most-pest-infested city in America.
\n\n\n\nWe’ve singled out the worst creepy-crawly pests and how to get rid of them.
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Cockroaches love hot and humid urban environments, which means Houston is perfect. About 38 species of cockroaches live in Texas, and Houston generously hosts all of the four most-common —the German, the brown-banded, the Asian and the American cockroach. According to the 2017 Realtor.com survey, Houston has the worst cockroach problem in the United States, with roaches present in 38% of its homes.
\n\n\n\nIt’s not just that they’re numerous — they’re huge.
\n\n\n\nIn 1982, The New York Times’ profiled the city of Houston. Much of the article was devoted to the legendary size of Houston’s bugs.
\n\n\n\n“The Houston cockroach is a creature of altogether different dimension,” the Times wrote. “There are those who maintain that it clanks when it walks, bellows like a wounded water buffalo, and stands flat-footed as high as a turkey. One man, new to Houston, upon first seeing a local cockroach, thought it was a Volkswagen and tried to drive it away. Their shadows weigh 15 pounds. ”
\n\n\n\nCockroaches live both inside and outside — really, they live wherever they want in Houston. But most species live outside and rarely hazard the indoors.
\n\n\n\nThey enter your home looking for food and water, so preventive measures will help keep them away. Clean up after cooking or eating, seal outside garbage cans tightly. Boric acid mixed with cornstarch is another popular potion. Roaches love the sweet starch, and the poison will kill them. Note: Boric acid is toxic, so keep it away from pets and kids.
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Ants are high on the list of Houston’s worst pests. Pharaoh, fire, carpenter, odorous, and crazy ants are among the most common species. Their colonies can be huge with as many as 400,000 ants. It’s crucial to eliminate them to make sure they don’t relocate somewhere else. If you’re looking to do your own ant removal, bait boxes are more effective than sprays. Ants take the bait back to their nest and spread it. The poison gets to and kills the queen, preventing future populations. To keep from attracting ants, eliminate food and water sources in your home. Do this by keeping food sealed and cleaning up spills and crumbs. Check for cracks and leaks around windows, floorboards and doors so ants can’t enter your home. Maintain a healthy lawn to give ants fewer places to hide.
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Houston’s subtropical climate attracts mosquitoes like a magnet. It doesn’t help that Houston also has lots of bayous. The wet and humid conditions are breeding grounds for these bloodsuckers. And they breed quickly: females can lay 100 eggs at a time, and those eggs hatch within a couple of days. They need a water source to lay their eggs, so one way to control them is to remove standing water from your property. Make sure windows and screens are in good repair to keep mosquitoes outside and use air conditioning whenever possible. Yellow light bulbs, citronella candles, and mosquito foggers can provide temporary relief. You can also see if your community has a mosquito control program. Use insect repellent when you’re outside and avoid the outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. You can also plant mosquito repelling plants such as marigolds, basil, lavender, and chrysanthemums.
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The humidity in Houston attracts many types of spiders, (and all of them bite), but only two are considered deadly. The black widow is easy to recognize by the hourglass-shaped red marking on her back. (Yes, only the female is poisonous.) The brown recluse is tougher to spot, but it has a violin-shaped marking on its back and six eyes. Like most spiders, both of these find dark corners to hide and can live months without food. But they need water to survive, so it’s best to seal all cracks around leaking pipes avoid leaving standing water around.
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Termites also love Houston’s wet conditions. These persistent pests do significant and costly damage to homes, buildings, and crops. Prevention is going to be your best friend and a termite’s worst enemy:
\n\n\n\nYou can treat infestations yourself or hire a pest control service.
\n\n\n\nIf any of these pests have checked in with no plans to check out, you may want to hire a professional exterminator. These experts can de-bug your house and help you keep them away for good.
\n\n\n\nInterested in more information about lawns and landscapes in Houston? Make sure to visit our Houston, TX lawn care page.
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