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Q&A with gardening expert
Our resident expert gardener, James Salazar, answered questions from H-E-B customers like you. Read their questions and his response below.
Twitter User:
Should I remove any yellowing or browning leaves at the bottom of my cucumber plants?
James:
No need! It's very common on vegetable plants, no need to prune.
Twitter User:
Is clay soil good for planting herbs?
James:
Clay soil doesn't drain very well - you'll want to add compost or good garden soil (like New Earth Top Shelf) for drainage.
Twitter User:
For a first time garden owner, what is the easiest veggie to not kill? Especially with this crazy Texas weather
James:
Snap Beans and Okra are two great ones to try!
Twitter User:
When is the right time to plant a vegetable or fruit garden?
James:
If you're starting from seed, January! From a plant, after the last freeze in your area (here in SA, end of Feb-mid March).
Twitter User:
Is there a good potting soil to use for a person that doesn't have a green thumb lol
James:
The New Earth Top Shelf Potting Soil is great (made with food scraps collected in SA!), otherwise MiracleGro Potting Soil
Twitter User:
I have 2 indeterminate tomato plants 3 feet apart but limbs are starting to tangle. Is it safe to prune?
James:
I might try putting tomato cages on them - or stake/tie them up to give them form to direct growth rather than pruning!
Twitter User:
How do I keep deer from eating the vegetables I planted?
James:
Your best bet might be to put up a chicken-wire fence or dome (that goes over, not just around) to keep them away!
Twitter User:
What are several outdoor decor and flowering plants that will stand up easily to our extreme heat?
James:
Knockout roses are great, you may also like Esperanza, Plumbago, Rosemary, Society Garlic, or Lantana!
Twitter User:
Any tips on which produce to plant during the summer?
James:
Peppers and tomatoes are the most common - cucumbers, watermelons would work! Add some rich soil and 6-8 hrs of sun.
Twitter User:
Are garden boxes really necessary? I'm a little intimidated to build one from scratch.
James:
They're not necessary - but it's really easy (I promise!). You can build one for under $25.
Twitter User:
What's the best natural fertilizer to use?
James:
Texas Backyard Organic All Purpose (made with Medina Growin Green) is the best!
Twitter User:
I have a new garden!! Someone told me to put coffee grounds in the dirt for growth...is this true?
James:
Coffee grounds can add some acidity to the soil, which can be good - but make sure you don't overdo it!
Twitter User:
I don't have a big yard but I want to grow small garden, any ideas as to where in the yard to plant?
James:
Anywhere that has full sun and a well draining area is key!