Cold weather is the time to consider Moving those overgrown shrubs around or adding new container- grown plants to spruce up your garden. Do it now while the plants are dormant. Even bare-rooted trees such as pecan and fruit trees, should be planted now.
If you haven't finished planting your spring-flowering bulbs, such as daffodils, hyacinths or tulips. Do it now while chill requirements can still be met. For vegetable growers late January is the time to start onions and English peas.
Winter is a good time to assess your shade trees and evergreens for shape and to make plans to prune them in early spring. In late winter, you may want to remove the old seed heads and small stems from your crepe myrtles; however do not prune any mature wood.
Prepare the soil of your beds for spring planting. Turn any organic material, such as shredded mulch or compost, so it can mature before spring planting. A soil test at this time of year may help you plan your fertilization program for your new garden. The success of a garden begins with the soil.
Paul Ferguson, Smith County Master Gardener
Miscellaneous Index
Gardening Tips For NorthEast Texas Index
East Texas Piney Woods Gardening Home Page