GROW A FIG TREE

If you’d like to try growing an unusual fruit crop that’s delicious and nearly trouble free, consider figs. These trees will grow well unprotected in Zones 8–10, and also in colder areas if you choose hardier cultivars or give plants proper winter protection. Selecting trees: More than 200 fig cultivars are grown in North America, with a broad range of fruit shapes and colors. It’s important to select a cultivar adapted to your climate, such as ‘Brown Turkey’, ‘Chicago’, or ‘Celeste’ for colder areas. Also look for self-pollinating cultivars, as some figs are pollinated by tiny, specialized flies native to the Mediterranean and won’t set fruit without them. (Reputable U.S. nurseries sell only self-pollinating figs.) Planting and care: Plant trees as you would any young tree. Figs need a sunny spot that’s protected from winter winds. Mulch trees well with compost, and apply foliar sprays of seaweed extract at least once a month during the growing season.  Go to this link for more information: http://www.organicgardening.com/learn-and-grow/fig-trees-growing-guide

BENEFIT OF FIGS

Benefits of Figs | Fig Fruit: Figs are an ancient fruit; they originated in the Middle East, are mentioned in the Bible, and were hailed by Plato as an important food for athletes. Now available worldwide, figs are finally being recognized as the important female fruit they are, and not just for their sensuous curves, sweet taste, and delectable nature. BENEFITS OF FIGS FOR FEMALE HEALTH You may only think of figs in “Newton” form, but figs are a super food that is a powerful tool for female health. Fresh figs and indeed all fruit should be an integral part of every human’s diet, but figs are especially potent in nutrients and minerals that help balance the woman’s body and mind. Figs possess many characteristics that make them an important addition to the female diet. Click on the link for the health benefits of figs: http://www.divavillage.com/article.php?id=47960

GROW AN ORANGE TREE INDOORS



Photo found at http://lemoncitrustree.com/calamondin.html

 How to Grow an Orange Tree Indoors | Home Guides | SF Gate: Most gardeners are familiar with the large, spreading orange trees (Citrus) that permeate the backyard with their dark green foliage. You can successfully grow an orange tree indoors as well. Specific dwarf varieties, such as calamondin (Citrus mitis) and trovita (Citrus sinensis "Trovita"), thrive well inside as long as their basic soil and light needs are met. Having these orange trees potted also allows you to move them outside during the summer so the fruits can sweeten properly.
For more information click on the link: http://homeguides.sfgate.com/grow-orange-tree-indoors-35372.html

Fall Is Here!!!!

Fall is here and it’s time to get out and enjoy the beauty and color of the outdoors that comes with this season in Texas!  With the arrival of Fall and with cooler temperatures it is a great time to work out in your yard and garden. Now is the perfect time to add texture and bursts of color to your flower beds and container gardens.  Plant Petunias, Mums, Violas, Bulbs, Ornamental Cabbage, Kale, Cyclamen  and Pansies among others. You can also add color by adding pumkins and fall decorations!

Fall is also one of the best times in Texas to plant trees and shrubs.  The roots of newly planted trees and shrubs have an opportunity to spread and become establish throughout the Winter, thus providing for more vigorous Spring blooms when spring arrives.