Kimberly Toscano
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Southern Plains Regional Reports
How to Protect Broadleaf Evergreens from Winter Damage
Broadleaf evergreens such as southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora and cvs., Zones 6–10) are a welcome sight in winter, adding color to the dormant landscape. These plants, however, are often susceptible…
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Southern Plains Regional Reports
Hardy Shrubs With Showy Berries
Looking to brighten up the fall and winter garden? Consider adding fruit-producing shrubs to your plant palette. Flowering shrubs that develop colorful fall and winter berries not only add beauty…
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Southern Plains Regional Reports
Growing Shallots in the Southern Plains
Shallots (Allium cepa var. aggregatum and cvs.) are expensive to purchase in the store, which is one reason I like to grow my own. A member of the allium or…
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Southern Plains Regional Reports
Plants to Fuel Migrating Birds in the Southern Plains
Late summer through autumn, millions of birds pass through the Southern Plains on their migration to southern wintering grounds. Birds follow four main paths as they migrate. The Southern Plains…
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Southern Plains Regional Reports
Best Summer-Flowering Plants for Texas and Other Drought-Prone Areas
As temperatures soar, many plants turn to survival mode. Annuals and perennials that may have bloomed with abandon in May or June shut down production until cooler temperatures return. But…
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Southern Plains Regional Reports
Plants With Golden Foliage That Stand Up to the Summer Sun
Go for the gold this summer with stunning golden foliage. All too often the intense sun and heat of summer on the Southern Plains causes yellow foliage to turn a…
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Southern Plains Regional Reports
Pretty Penstemon Varieties for Pollinators in the Southern Plains
When it comes to underappreciated perennials that deserve more attention, penstemon, or beardtongue (Penstemon spp. and cvs., Zones 3–9) is among those at the top of my list. This genus…
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Southern Plains Regional Reports
Grow a Rock Garden in a Challenging Area
A rock garden can help you overcome a number of challenges in the landscape of the Southern Plains—from poorly drained soil to hot, dry, rocky areas. It provides a means…
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Southern Plains Regional Reports
6 Great Plants That Tolerate Both Full-Sun and Shade Conditions
When designing a garden, I am often looking for plant material that tolerates both full-sun and shade conditions. Perhaps the garden bed includes a young tree that currently provides very…
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Southern Plains Regional Reports
Plants for the Southern Plains to Add to Your Shopping List
Whether you’re walking through your local garden center, flipping through the pages of your favorite catalog, or scrolling the website of an online retailer, the sheer number of plant choices…