Planting, Trimming and Nurturing in a Tough Climate
We’re partial to the Bryan-College Station area, so we never hesitate to call attention to the attributes that make its lawns and landscapes so beautiful. At the same time, we recognize that the weather here can offer serious challenges for homeowners who want to keep their properties looking great all year long. From crushing droughts and searing summer temperatures to unexpected fall freezes and soaking spring thunderstorms, these four tree species are adept at handling the region’s variable climate.
The Texas ash is a hardy tree that grows well in most soils and provides a brilliant color display in November or early December. While it prefers well-drained upland areas, it can tolerate slightly sandy soils as well. For maximum effect, plant young trees after the last frost and provide plenty of water. Although the Texas ash grows rapidly during its early life, its water needs quickly diminish. It tends to be more resistant to ash borers than other members of the genus.
If you have a large, open yard or livestock pastures that need to be walled off from where your kids play, the eastern redcedar serves as a perfect windbreak or “divider” tree. Its thick, tangled branches serve as a reliable barrier for deer and other mammalian pests as well. What’s more, it produces prodigious amounts of berries and thus serves as a natural bird feeder. Plant this drought-resistant tree in well-drained or dry soils during the spring or early summer.
The Mexican plum is one of Central Texas’s most popular ornamental trees. Although it produces a brilliant early-spring flower display and reliable quantities of fruit during the late fall, it’s quite drought-tolerant and doesn’t form overgrown thickets. Plant the Mexican plum in moderately rich soils during the spring.
The Texas walnut is a small, tough tree that thrives quite well in sandy, dry soils and resists extreme heat. What’s more, it produces an attractive nut and doesn’t grow to excessive heights. While it’s not a great shade tree, it’s an attractive ornamental tree for homeowners who live along seasonal stream beds. Plant the Texas walnut during the spring and water regularly for its first year of life.
Get a Second Opinion
While we’re happy to provide general information about landscaping and lawn care in Bryan-College Station, every property is different. If you want to select the perfect trees for your spread, visit us online or schedule service to learn more.