Help out the wildlife in heat and drought with Habitat Steward Meredith O'Reilly's summer survival tips. Visit her blog, Great Stems, for her birds-eye perceptions in her certified Backyard Habitat.

What's that pest destroying your drought-loving agaves, yuccas, and cacti? Wizzie Brown, Texas AgriLife Extension Service Extension Program Specialist- IPM identifies pests like agave snout weevils, cactus bugs, and more, and explains how to control them. On tour, visit Jeff Pavlat's diverse succulent garden for design ideas with these drought tolerant plants. Daphne Richards explains how to grow beneficial aloe vera and how to pinch a plant for lush growth. John Dromgoole mixes up a soil blend for succulents.

Cheryl Hazeltine, author of Central Texas Gardener, notes the significant changes in garden philosophy since her first edition of the book in 1980. On tour, visit Michael McNichol, who followed sustainable re-use/recycle practices when he built his home and garden. Daphne Richards explains the proper way to mulch. Plant of the Week features the heat-loving Texas Superstar annual, Angelonia. Steve Kainer from Hill Country Water Gardens & Nursery tackles algae in ponds and fountains.

Get ready for the cool-weather vegetable garden with Master Gardener Patty Leander. She explains how to transition from summer crops and lists the ones we can enjoy all winter. On tour, visit Eastside Cafe's organic gardens. Daphne explains the difference between a fruit and a vegetable, and how to grow mint. John Dromgoole demonstrates how to plant vegetable seeds.