<%=tDate%>

A. If you buy a bare root tree, you can prune 1/3 to ½ from its top to compensate for its root loss. If the tree is container-grown, no pruning is necessary its first year or two. Leave its limbs—called nurse limbs—to allow their leaves to gather carbohydrates to help build the root system. Avoid pruning the lower limbs until they are 1” in diameter.

If necessary, remove lowest limbs to avoid running into the lawnmower, but if you can wait until its second year, your tree will be off to a better start.

<<view past Questions of the Week

Bush Germander (Teucrium fruticans)  
The silvery gray-green foliage of Bush Germander makes it a standout plant for our central Texas landscapes. This western Mediterranean native is well at home in our local soils and climate. It grows to 4-6 feet, and with minor pruning can be kept compact and attractive. In summer lavender blue flowers appear in summer. The attractive silvery gray shoots make an attractive addition to floral arrangements too. Plant bush germander in a well-drained bed with full sun to part shade exposure. This is another plant that is reportedly not on a deer's "favorite snacks" list.

<<view past Plants of the Week

• Finish pruning oak trees while the weather is cold, and paint immediately with pruning paint for oak wilt protection.
• Start another round of lettuces, peas, and other cool weather crops.
• Prune back the woody salvias.

<< more Planting Tips