Green Jay Gardens
Seasonal Tips
In the Garden and Landscape - Fall through Winter
In late winter (January-February) in Central Texas, focus on preparing soil with compost if you have not already done so. Ideally, this is done in the Fall to allow the soil time to "come alive" and settle after being amended, with a recommended waiting period of 1 to 2 weeks before planting. This resting period allows organic matter to break down, soil microbes to activate, nutrients to blend, and the soil to drain and warm up, ensuring a better environment for plant roots.
You may plant hardy leafy greens and root crops beginning early October.
Protect late winter crops from initial freezes for a longer harvest season.
Be sure to water the landscape during dry spells as this protects and insulates root systems of perennials, shrubs, and trees. Perennials take 1-2 years to completely establish themselves. Newly planted trees take 2-3 years to establish.
Start select seeds indoors late Winter such as tomatoes or peppers, for a head start on Spring and extending your harvest season.