Guest Authors

SPECIALTY: Water conservation, landscaping, native plants, wildlife

ABOUT:

Our Guest Authors are fantastic former SAWS employees, incredible interns and community leaders in the local landscaping world. They are all as passionate as we are about saving water with beautiful, diverse landscapes.

Baby plant boot camp

After you bring home your plants from the nursery, follow these steps to ensure they live long and prosper. All babies need a sheltered environment to grow up in, one that supports and protects them from the harshness of everyday life. Your infant plants are no different. While plants don’t have to worry about doing […]
Skip the Sales Tax on Water-Saving Products

Before you fire up the pit for your Memorial Day weekend shindig, visit your local nursery for big savings on water-efficient and water-conserving products. By Carmela Cantu, Conservation Intern Whether you’re staying in or headed out for an adventure, saving water and energy will keep money from flowing out of your pockets. Just in time […]
Coupon Curations: Salvias

Drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, salvia is a savvy replacement for water-guzzling grass. Feast your eyes on a few of our favorites. If you haven’t checked out SAWS’ WaterSaver Landscaper Coupon list, you may want to peruse it for a bit. More than 100 water-saving plants are included. This article will explore one of the largest species groupings, and one of […]
The drought continues and so do Stage 2 watering rules

Make sure your irrigation system is set to water only on your day between 7 and 11. Late January showers were a welcome relief, but they didn’t put an end to the ongoing drought. We entered 2023 with very dry soil and a hefty rainfall deficit. This means Stage 2 watering rules – and enforcement […]
More lawn alternatives to try

Here are two more water-efficient options to replace your tired and incredibly thirsty turfgrass. Navigating accurate gardening information can be very overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing the right plants for your landscape. In a previous article, I shared trendy lawn alternatives being touted via social media — and I offered a few substitutes better […]
Plant this, not that

Before you replace your lawn with a trendy alternative, consult our go-to guide for substitutes that are made for central Texas’ unique weather and soil conditions. With each year, lawn alternatives become more and more popular. The rise of “anti-lawnfluencers” on various social media platforms are encouraging new generations of homeowners and even renters to […]
Sidestep a citation

Avoiding a water-waste citation is as simple as following the watering rules. Take these precautionary measures so you don’t accidentally get one. San Antonio remains under Stage 2 watering rules and enforcement officers are staying busy, issuing citations for water wasters. Not receiving a citation is easy, simply follow the watering rules. But there are […]
Coupon curations: Mistflower

These endearing plants excel in every way: freeze and heat hardy, bloom all fall and pleasing to pollinators! Fall offers ideal gardening conditions for planting new WaterSaver Landscape Coupon beds. But be careful — autumn will roll into winter in the blink of an eye. Start planning for your coupon bed as soon as possible. […]
Know the difference between EAA and San Antonio watering rules

Diverse water resources and conservation-minded residents help San Antonio avoid more severe watering cutbacks. By Byron Cox It’s no secret that drought and temperatures this summer have hit record-breaking heights, making things tough for both us and our landscapes. With increasingly dry conditions come regulations and restrictions, and it’s important to know what you can […]
Little Miss loves native plants

Many of our native plants have their own special quirks. Meet some of our favorite fill-in-the-blank floras. There’s a recent social media trend that uses the covers of a children’s book series to draw attention to distinctive (or not-so distinctive) personality traits. Since many of our native plants have their own special quirks, I thought […]
Add Some Sizzle To Your Summer Landscape

Scorching hot days are looming, but that doesn’t mean your landscape has to fry. Now’s the time to perk it up with some heat-hardy plants! Summer is officially here, even though it already feels like it’s been here for months. Is there any color other than various shade s of brown? Here are some examples […]
Red, White and Bloom: Purely Patriotic Plants

True patriotic plants are native plants — ones that have been growing here since the beginning. And there are several that flaunt Fourth of July hues. Fill your landscape or containers with bursting blooms of red, white and blue. To show your true American (and Texan) pride, think beyond just the color scheme. Although all […]
Join the ‘Healthy Soils, Healthy You’ Project

Scientists from the University of Texas at San Antonio will study how the microbes in our soil affect our health. Bexar County homeowners are invited to participate! By Allison Veach, Ph.D. The soil beneath our feet provides important functions for our communities — from sustaining plants to holding water and nutrients to serving as a […]
Sometimes No Planning Is Planning

Forget perfection. Your landscape doesn’t need a magazine-worthy design to bring the beauty — plus a fighting chance at surviving our brutal Texas summers. As I continue my half-hearted attempt to transform my front yard from grass to prairie, I find myself stressing about planning. I have little experience with hands-on gardening and instead lean […]
The Busy Black Thumb: Landscaping for the Non-Gardener

First tip: native plants are the non-gardener’s dream come true. Have you ever tried to grow plants, but constantly kill them? Or maybe you love the idea of plants, but are fully aware you don’t have the time or attention span to do it properly? I’m not going to lie, I’ve done some abominable things […]
Winter Chores for the Garden

It may be wintertime, but that doesn’t mean you can’t spend time in your garden. Tool maintenance and prepping your landscape for new plantings are two tasks you can tend to now. Winter has arrived, but just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t spend time in your garden. Tool maintenance and prepping […]
Prep Your Pipes for Winter and Get a $75 Rebate

Every house is different. A licensed plumber can help identify leak risks that may not be so obvious. Winter is fast approaching, and we want to help keep you from being left out in the cold — with a whopping water bill in hand. SAWS is offering the Be Ready rebate. Residential customers can earn […]
Managing Our Water: From Faucet to Gulf

Is a river still a river without water? Get the answer to this question and more during a webinar Oct. 21. By Gregg Eckhardt How much water does a river need for its own health and that of downriver? SAWS President Robert R. Puente authored a law that required scientists to answer that very question […]
Pave the Way for Wildflowers

A wildflower bed might be a great option for a sunny, well-drained spot in your yard. Sow seeds now for a splendid spring show later. By Jerry Parsons, Ph.D. Fall is the time to sow seeds for spring wildflowers. If you have a sunny, well drained area that you’re willing to leave less manicured, a […]
Herbs: Easy, Drought Tolerant and Tasty

Many herbs are more than just drought tolerant perennials and groundcovers. They can also add a little zing to your fall cooking. Herbs are used not only for culinary purposes but also for medicinal, cosmetic and craft purposes. The wide range of foliage, colors, textures, and flowers contribute to their landscape appeal as well. Herbs need […]
Our Fuss-Free Plant Picks for Shallow Soil

Some plants fail miserably in thin soil. But these natives prefer and even thrive in these far-from-ideal conditions. by Kahne Cobarrubias If you live north of 1604, you’re probably quite familiar — and frustrated — with how thin the soil is and have given up entirely. Equally annoying is digging just a few inches down […]
Bee a Friend to Pollinators

One of the most helpful things we can do for pollinators is provide them space and resources. Then, just let them be. by Bruce Venable Most garden enthusiasts don’t need to be reminded of how important it is to attract pollinators to their gardens. But did you know, in addition to providing food for our […]
Make Your Home and Yard Bird Friendly

The risk to our flying friends posed by human-made objects can be significant. But you can help keep them safe with these simple tips. by Andrew Barrett It’s a common sight in spring or summer, a bird pecking at a window, or even worse, flying right into it. While it’s easy to brush this off […]
Summer SOS for Your Landscape

Follow these practices and you’ll have a beautiful landscape even in the warmest months — and be the envy of all your neighbors. Sun, wind, and heat can be brutal to unsuspecting landscapes. Now is the time to tackle a few simple tasks to help it weather the inevitable scorching temps. We have had some […]
Lifeless Landscape? Perk It Up!

There are plenty of plants that don’t require a lot of water or maintenance. And many of them will bloom all summer long with very little attention from you. A hot and dry summer doesn’t necessarily equate to a lifeless landscape. There are plenty of plants that don’t require a lot of water or maintenance. […]
The Case for Growing Native Plants

When it comes to your landscape, there are many obvious reasons to go au naturel. We’ll let you in on a little secret: There are also many hidden benefits. The benefits of going native with your landscape are plentiful. Among them: minimal maintenance, less watering and little-to-no use of fertilizers and pesticides, to name a […]
Behold the Benefits of Bees

These powerful pollinators play a special role in our environment. But you don’t need beekeeper skills to entice them to your landscape. By Molly Keck We all know honeybees are extremely important, but many do not realize that in the United States there are over 2,000 species of native bees. Many of them are better […]
Got Pets? Beware These Toxic Plants.

There are lots of plants with some degree of toxicity to pets, but most are not a threat except in extreme cases of allergy or unusual consumption. By Calvin Finch, Ph.D. If your experience with pets and plants has been like mine, it’s easy to draw the conclusion that there is a minimal threat from […]
Wildscape for Wildlife

By Calvin Finch Ph.D., Guest Author Entice the widest selection of feathered finery with thickets and tangles. The most attractive landscape to the widest selection of birds is one that offers thickets and tangles. The cover offers nesting sites during the breeding season. In the winter it offers protection from severe weather and predators. A […]
Garden Gift Giving

One of the many great things about South Texas is that the growing season comes only a couple of months after the holiday season. So if you’re looking for a last minute garden gift idea, consider something for your friends or family that would help make them more water wise next spring. Not sure where […]
Whet Your Holiday Appetite With Delicious Landscape Desires

While you’re digesting your outdoor, safely distanced Thanksgiving feast, grab a pencil and jot down some ideas for an alfresco living space or garden bed. If you’re not cooking for family this Thanksgiving, what are you doing with all that free time? If you don’t have any plans, you could sit down with a pencil […]
Create a Texas-Style Cottage Garden

Forget water-intensive privets and thirsty rose trellises. Options abound for pretty, posh plants that are as drought-tough as they are bucolic and cozy. England in the 1870s saw the rise of the cottage garden, a style of landscaping that involved dense plantings and informal design. These landscapes are irregular and unpretentious with grass replaced by […]
Free Water Flow Sensor? Yes, Please!

Want to know exactly when your water meter is running? Apply for a water flow sensor rebate and get the Flume 2 for next to nothing! Have you ever been surprised by a large water bill? Sometimes the culprit is a leaky faucet that adds up drip by drip. Other times there’s an invisible leak […]
Time for a Seasonal Spruce-Up

While you’re out in your landscape prepping it for the holiday season, consider what changes you can make next year. In San Antonio, we’re fortunate to have milder winter weather in November and December. That makes it the perfect time to get outdoors and tend to some landscape chores. And while you’re out in your […]
Happy Home Offices Have Houseplants

Houseplants don’t need a lot of water, they help clean and purify the air around us and they brighten up the dreariest of spaces. I don’t know about you, but I’ve been working from home for almost five months now. And while I do enjoy it, sometimes it can get a little lonely. I miss […]
New Homeowner? Here’s Your Water Conservation Checklist.

If you’re not careful, home ownership can be an unwelcome adventure of water-wasting proportions. Use these tips to test your abode’s water-using ways. New homeownership is an exciting adventure with opportunities to create the indoor and outdoor living space of your dreams. But for those of us who have never lived in an apartment or […]
Gardening in August? Without a Doubt

If you’re an early riser, there are a few odds and ends you can tackle in your landscape — even during these sizzling summer days. By Calvin Finch, Ph. D. Even during the hottest times of the summer, South Texas gardeners have lots to do in the garden. As long as you start early in […]
Blooms for Bats

San Antonio is home to one of the world’s largest bat colonies — a boon for natural pest control since a bat can eat its weight in insects in a single night. Encourage these bug–munching mammals by growing bat–tastic native plants. Few San Antonio residents know that we have the largest colony of bats in […]
Buying a Home? Gauge Its Gardening Potential.

Picked out the perfect plot to plant your cottage-style dreamscape? Your new home’s soil, shade and other attributes may have different plans. Keep these garden-centric signs in mind before deciding on your dream dwelling. For some people, one of the biggest perks to buying a home is the freedom to garden, to plant whatever they […]
To Sod or Not To Sod: That Is the Question

Before you consider re-sodding your lawn, make sure you know these tips and rules regarding new turf. It could save you money! Maybe you’re looking at your lawn thinking it’s not looking so hot and perhaps re-sodding it will give it new life. Before you spend a boatload of money and time doing that, let […]
Get Rewarded While You Stay Home

Polish up that green thumb with online gardening and landscaping classes you can enjoy from the comfort of your couch — and earn points to cash in for gardening gear! As businesses begin to gradually reopen, many of us will still continue working from and teaching at home. Many public events may also continue virtually […]
Spring Into Action for Summer Survival

How fierce is your flora? Pick party hearty plants and your landscape will sizzle in the summer scorch. Feel the heat! Though spring has just sprung, it’s not too early to think ahead to summer and how your landscape will fare in what will likely be a hot, dry season. I know what you’re thinking… […]
Friendly Flora for the Furry Ones

Pets often get bored and decide to chomp on plants as a diversion. Before planting, research the flora to make sure they’re not toxic to Fido or Fluffy. Pets are not often taken into consideration when we decide to make changes in the landscape. But it’s actually really important to be cognizant of what kinds […]
Citrus Trees for Central Texas

Your landscape is longing for a little lemon love. Pucker up — the Meyer lemon tree is a perfect partner. A lot of people wonder whether we can grow citrus trees in central Texas and whether they’ll be fruitful. The answer: absolutely! While there are many varieties to choose from, I’ve had the most success […]
Is Your Tree Over the Hill?

While the age of a tree has no bearing on the care it needs, knowing its age can satisfy many a curious mind. When the Garden Geek makes the occasional house call, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to ask him how to know the age of their trees. Of course, his customary answer is that […]
Feeding Winter Birds

Wishing there was a bit more color in your winter garden? Feed the birds! This simple activity is a fun and easy way to liven up your landscape. By Calvin Finch, Ph.D. Bird feeding is a fun and easy way to enhance the winter garden in San Antonio. Insect-eating birds like woodpeckers, starlings, kinglets, wrens […]
The Thyme is Now!

Many fresh herbs are winter tolerant and just begging to be used in your home-cooked meal. Plus, your homegrown herbs make family dinners that much more special. Holiday feasts are the perfect opportunity to incorporate fresh herbs from your garden. Many fresh herbs are winter tolerant and just begging to be used in your holiday […]
Make Your Landscape Minty Fresh!

In South Texas, mint thrives in partial-to-heavy shade. That makes it perfect as a groundcover or as an accent between stepping stones. The mint family (Lamiaceae) contains more than 236 Genera and 7,000 species ranging from beebalm and coleus to lavender, salvia and thyme and, of course, mint. Each one offers a wide variety of […]
When the Same Old Plants Just Won’t Do

Tired of cookie cutter landscapes that all look the same? There are many not-so-popular perennials that thrive in our area. Try these eye-catching underdogs for unexpected flair in your flower beds. Have you had the same experience I have? You go to your favorite garden center in hopes of finding a plant you don’t see […]
Piercing Plants for Bloodthirsty Birds

When it comes to spooky birds, the usual suspects come to mind: ravens, owls and vultures. But there’s a bloody good reason the loggerhead shrike goes by the nickname “butcherbird.” Halloween is the ideal time to get away with killing, especially if you’re the loggerhead shrike. This unassuming little bird with a white belly, grey back […]
Lemon (and Orange) Love: Citrus Trees for Your Landscape

Believe it or not, you can successfully grow citrus trees in San Antonio — and they’ll even produce fruit. It just depends on what you plant and where. Many people wonder whether they can plant citrus trees in central Texas and if they’ll even be productive. I speak from experience when I say yes! In fact, […]
Wildlife: To Feed or Not To Feed?

There are lots of critters that will take food if you put it out, including deer, squirrels, ducks and more. Before you decide to feed them, consider what it will be like to have them around long-term. One of the biggest controversies in wildlife ethics is whether or not to feed wildlife. Almost everyone loves […]
Fall for Fall Gardening

Autumn is the time of year every South Texas gardener looks forward to. Our WaterSaver Coupons can help you make the best of the season — pumpkin spice latte optional! The time of year every gardener has been looking forward to has officially arrived: autumn. Well, at least according to the calendar it’s here. The […]
Lavender: Love It and Leave It

Add a flourish of Mediterranean panache to your landscape — and say, “Ciao!” to pesky mosquitoes — by planting lavender. Lavender, a native to the Mediterranean region, enjoys hot summers and mild winters — and that’s exactly what San Antonio’s climate offers this drought-tolerant perennial. Reputed to be a natural mosquito repellent, lavender is also […]
Graywater 101: What It Is and How To Use It

The water that comes from your showers, bathtubs, sinks and washing machines doesn’t have to go to waste. Your landscape could benefit from it! We occasionally get phone calls from customers asking questions about graywater, from what it is to whether it’s safe to use and if any permits are required to do so. Rules […]
Know Your Natives: Carolina Snailseed and Possum Grape

These two prolific-but-often-misunderstood vines are quite swell once you get to know them. Best of all, they are both drought-tolerant and popular with winged wildlife. As I make my way around town conducting irrigation consultations there are two vines that curious homeowners often ask me to identify: Carolina snailseed and possum grape. These are two […]
7 Simple Steps to a Successful Xeriscape

Making the jump from a turf-blanketed landscape to a xeric one can be intimidating. It helps to think about the process in baby steps — and also about how much time, energy and water you’ll save. Although it seems like fall will never arrive, it is right around the corner — and so is planting […]
Native Plants for Native Birds

Want to boost the bird variety in your yard? Check out our top recommendations of fowl-friendly flora. There are plenty of reasons to opt for native plants when it comes to your landscape. Among them: less watering, minimal maintenance and little-to-no use of fertilizers and pesticides. But here’s another great benefit to having an au naturel landscape: […]
Draw Dragonflies To Your Landscape

Cynthia Barsun is a former SAWS Conservation Consultant Here’s one good reason you want dragonflies hovering around: Mosquitoes. Those biting bloodsuckers are the preferred prey of these skillful, efficient predators. Here’s a trivia question for you. What eats hundreds of mosquitos per day — bats, purple martins or dragonflies? If you answered dragonflies, you’re correct! […]
Coupon Makeover: Urban Backyard Oasis

Newly built homes typically have teeny tiny patios that aren’t very inviting. But WaterSaver Coupons can help you create an alluring outdoor living space you’ll want to hang out in every day. It can be a real struggle to know how or where to start your landscape makeover. Having a plan before you begin can […]
Plants for the Forgetful Gardener

It is possible to have a healthy, robust landscape that only requires minimal maintenance. And being forgetful can work to your advantage — if you pick the right plants. I was once a helicopter plant mom, but with time I’ve regressed to a negligent, forgetful gardener. I can pass my plants every day and know […]
Know Your Flow

Flow sensors use the power of your smartphone to let you know when your water is running. This can tell you exactly how much water you’re using — in real time — and determine if you have a leak. Ever had a high water bill you couldn’t explain? Do you worry about a leak damaging […]
Your Garden Called — It Wants You To Start Composting

The simplest and cleanest way to perk up a lackluster landscape is with natural organic material. And it’s more accessible than you think. Just look to your food scraps and yard waste. Did you know that food scraps and yard waste make up about 30 percent of what we toss in the garbage? Imagine if […]
Get Rewarded for Your Water-saving Ways!

Are you a regular at conservation-themed events and workshops? Then make sure you are earning points to be there — and cash them in for plants, mulch and more! We all know saving water saves money, but did you know it can also earn you a little money? Money you can use toward more water-saving […]
The Case for Growing Native

When it comes to your landscape, there are many obvious reasons to go au naturel. We’ll let you in on a little secret: There are also some hidden benefits to choosing native plants and trees. The benefits of going native with your landscape are plentiful. Among them: minimal maintenance, less watering and little-to-no use of […]
Pick a Pallet for Planting

Pallet gardening is a fun, no-fuss way to get the whole family involved. It doesn’t require a lot of space and there’s no need to till and weed. No soil, no space, no problem. You can still garden like a pro — just get your hands on a wood pallet. Pallet gardening is fun and […]
SAWS Makes House Calls!

Is your water bill unusually high? You may have a leak on your property. Or perhaps your irrigation controller isn’t set properly. Either way, we’ll be happy to visit your home and help you figure out why you’re using so much water. Is your water bill unusually high? It could mean there’s a problem on […]
Stranger (Tree) Things

Ball moss and mistletoe are unsettling oddities that can strike fear in the hearts of tree lovers. Are they paranormal parasites? Interdimensional intruders? Turns out those theories (and other tall tales) are completely upside down. If you’re a helicopter gardener, you may stare at your plants regularly. Sometimes I see things — like a bizarre […]
Save the Date: Secret Garden Tour Is May 18

Few things arouse a plant lover’s whimsy like a mysterious garden wall or ivy-covered gate. The Secret Garden Tour sets out to tickle that fancy with a rare glimpse inside private neighborhoods around Hardberger Park. If you missed last year’s Secret Garden Tour, don’t worry — Green Spaces Alliance is providing another opportunity to explore […]
Pause Before Planting These Palms

Palms are some of the most drought tolerant and low maintenance plants you can grow in South Texas. Just be sure you’re planting a type that’s well-adapted for our climate. Late April begins the recommended time for planting palms and succulents in San Antonio. In the past, a fellow palm enthusiast recommended which palms to grow […]
How to Rein the Rain

There are some steps you can take to reap the most benefits from your rain barrel — and see the savings on your water bill. There’s something about rain barrels that makes people feel good about water conservation. Perhaps it’s the idea of capturing what Mother Nature provides and saving it for non-rainy days. Whatever […]
Level Up With Vines That Shine

Not enough ground to cover? Vines are a delightful way to occupy the vertical space. Plus they have the added benefit of giving your garden an air of mystery. Whether you live in a massive home or petite cottage, sometimes there’s just not enough room to garden. What do you do when there isn’t enough […]
Make the Most of Your $70 WaterSaver Coupon

We want to help you save water and money so we encourage you to combine your coupons whenever possible. Here’s a few ways to get the most water-saving bang for your bucks. Saving you water and money are the goals of SAWS’ WaterSaver programs including the WaterSaver Rewards program. The free points-based program is open […]
Composting for the Rest of Us

Not everyone has the time or space for a backyard compost pile. But that doesn’t mean you can’t compost. Whether you’re an apartment dweller or just don’t want the hassle, there are still options to soothe your environmentally conscious soul. As a renter I’m hesitant to do anything that could go awry, cause damage or […]
Small Changes That Make A Big Impact On Climate Change

The way you landscape your home can actually help combat climate change. But it doesn’t require a major overhaul to make a big difference for our local environment. Are you a gardening guru with a proverbial green thumb? Or maybe you’re simply an aspiring landscape architect looking to turn an interest in your yard into […]
Zero-waste Bird Feeding

A filthy feeder is bad news for the birds. Luckily there are several options that don’t require any upkeep at all — some you can even grow in your yard! Did you know that a poorly cared for birdfeeder can harbor diseases that can be contracted by birds? You simply can’t set it and forget […]
Witnessing the Life Cycle of a Monarch

It took four years, but I finally got to watch the life cycle of a monarch unfold before my eyes. Here are the snapshots so you can share this rare experience too. I had the unique opportunity last fall to actually observe the life cycle of the beloved monarch butterfly. It’s a truly rare experience I want […]
Bouquets of Grassy Grandeur

This time of year doesn’t lend itself to putting a bouquet of fresh-from-the-garden flowers on the table. But a dried grass arrangement is the perfect substitute — and you don’t even need to keep it in water! Everyone loves a nice bouquet, but this time of year doesn’t lend itself to putting tulips or lilies […]
How To Have a Zero Waste Garden

Gardening can be wasteful at times, what with all the cardboard and plastic packaging of planting materials. But being mindful of the quality and lifecycle of the purchases you make can minimize what winds up in the landfill. Gardening — wonderful activity that it is — can be wasteful at times. Mulch and soil are […]
Give Gourds a Grow!

From bird houses to pumpkin pies, there’s no shortage of uses for gourds. They’re surprisingly easy to grow, too, as long as you’ve got fertile soil and a trellis or two. Fall is here and so is gourd season. Most of the stores in town have a wide selection of them, but the most popular […]
300 Pollinator Habitats for San Antonio’s 300th Year

The monarchs butterflies may have moved on, but plenty of other butterflies are visiting the area and gracing our nectar plants. Won’t you welcome them with open arms and a garden planted just for pollinators? The monarch butterfly migration is winding down, but plenty of other butterflies are visiting the area and gracing our nectar […]
Horseherb: The Native Turf Alternative

Although regarded by many as a weed, hardy horseherb often grows in patches where grass can’t. And in many yards it means the difference between having barren spots or not. Turf grasses are wonderful and have their uses — not everyone can turn their yard into a huge flowerbed. The “conventional wisdom” is that grass […]
Sickles and Scythes: Not Just Scary Old-School Tools

More than just the preferred prop of the grim reaper, a scythe might be the dead-simple solution if you have a heavily sloped or oddly shaped yard. And you could save some storage space, too. Call me old-fashioned, but I love a good farm tool. Living in an 800-square-foot apartment leaves me no reason to […]
Get To Know Texas Native Plants

Native plant know-it-alls from across Texas will be sharing a wealth of information during the 2018 Native Plant Society of Texas Symposium, Oct. 18-21. Whether you’re pro-plant, all about animals, worried about water or just nuts for nature, this weekend’s event is for you! Native plant know-it-alls from across Texas will be sharing a wealth […]
Planting for Pollinators

Want to pique pollinator interest in your landscape? The WaterSaver Landscape Coupon can help you create your own pollinator garden. But hurry — deadline to apply is Oct. 15! If you’ve been wanting to pique pollinator interest in your landscape, you still have time to use the WaterSaver Landscape Coupon to create your own pollinator garden. With […]
Money-Saving City Services To Spruce Up Your Yard

If you have a barren, open yard, you’re the perfect candidate for several services and programs offered by SAWS, CPS Energy and the City of San Antonio. Combine them just right for an affordable total yard makeover! When it comes to sprucing up your landscape, the City of San Antonio and its two municipally owned […]
A Proper Palm for San Antonio: The Sabal Mexicana

Transform your backyard garden into a vacation destination — just add a Texas sabal palm or two. Now while our soils are hot is the perfect time to plant them. When many people think of a vacation they think of palm trees swaying in the wind. We get to create that vacation destination in our […]
Building a Patio with Pavers, Flagstone or Stepping Stones

Prepping for a patioscape is simple. Just follow our easy steps and you’ll be on your way to creating a pervious paradise. Are you thinking about using the Patioscape coupon to make your outdoor living space more functional? Follow these simple steps to start saving on your outdoor watering. First, measure out the length and width of your bed. […]
Do Your Garden Beds Measure Up?

Mapping out your 200-square-foot plot for the WaterSaver Landscape Coupon is easier than you think, thanks to some obvious and not-so-obvious measuring tools you probably already own. Over the past several years, I can say we’ve all learned a lot about coupons and the preparation for them. If you participated before, you know that landscaping […]
‘Lonely’ Bees Need Homes Too!

Do your part to save solitary bees — build them a humble abode. Bee creative and check our Pinterest board for buzzworthy ideas! A gentle and hard-working pollinator, the little mason bee, is becoming endangered. Mason bees are one of 4,000 bee species in North America and the easiest to raise because of their solitary nature. […]
Free-tailed Flights of Fancy

Experience a fabulous flight of Mexican free-tailed bats during Bat Loco: Tuesday, Aug. 7, from 6-9 p.m. near the Camden Street Bridge. The home of the largest colony of bats in the world is located just 20 miles north of San Antonio — in Bracken Cave. The wee little bats that live there save South […]
San Antonio Soils Not Meant for Madrone

The madrone tree is known for its lovely exfoliating bark, but San Antonio soils are all wrong for it. Rest assured, there are a couple of alternatives to ease your broken heart. Chances are you have or will visit Big Bend National Park. After all, more than 16 million people have since 1944, according to […]
Plan for Your Pets Before You Plant

There are plants that are toxic to our furry friends so it’s important to take that into consideration when planning landscape layouts. When it comes to deciding what plants we want in our landscape, one of the factors we often forget to consider are our pets. There are plants that are toxic to our furry […]
Container Gardening for the Budget-Conscious Apartment Dweller

Gardening requires a decidedly different demeanor when you don’t have a big yard (or budget) to work with. But that’s no reason to give up your green thumb. Grab a pot and work with what you’ve got. As a college student, I find I’m often alone among my peers when it comes to my passion […]
How To Prepare for Your Irrigation Consultation

When you schedule a free irrigation check-up with SAWS, there’s no major prep work required. But there are things you can do to help the appointment go smoothly. By Sarah Gorton So you’ve scheduled an appointment for a free irrigation consultation, now what? Many people aren’t quite sure what to expect or how to prepare […]
San Antonio Stage 2 Drought Rules

Watering days stay the same in Stage 2 as in Stage 1, but watering hours are shortened: 7-11 a.m. and 7-11 p.m. on your day. When in San Antonio dry, hot conditions settle in causing the Edwards Aquifer 10-day average to drop to 650 feet it triggers Stage 2 drought restrictions. Watering days stay the same […]
When Stage 1 Drought Rules are Declared

When steamy temps take their toll on the Edwards Aquifer level, prompting a return to Stage 1 landscape watering restrictions. Here’s what that means for your lawn and garden. Hot, dry summer temps are already creeping in, causing more landscape watering — and the Edwards Aquifer level has dropped to 660 feet. That means Stage […]
Gifts for the Mother in Your Life

Still pondering the perfect Mother’s Day gift? We’ve curated a few good ideas that are sure to get her nod of approval. Mother’s Day is quickly approaching and you may be wondering what to buy for the Mom who has everything. I’m betting most mothers like plants or gifts they can use to help keep […]
Decorating Au Naturale for the Holidays

Skip the lines at craft stores — and save some cash, too — by looking to your garden for holiday decor inspiration and supplies. I don’t know about you, but Christmas and the holiday season is my favorite time of the year. The cooler weather has arrived and most of the gardening chores have been […]
Whet Your Holiday Appetite With Scrumptious Landscape Desires

While you’re sitting around digesting your turkey feast, grab a pencil and paper and jot down some ideas for an outdoor living space or garden bed. If you’re not cooking for family this Thanksgiving, what are you doing with all that free time? If you don’t have any plans, you could sit down with a […]
5 Facts About Texas Wildflowers

The autumn months are the best time to sow wildflowers for spring. But before you start planting, get to know a few particulars first. This may be fallen leaves and pumpkin everything season, but now is the perfect time to look ahead to what spring will bring — when open fields along highways abound with […]
Reward Yourself

Got water-wise ways? There’s still time to earn points that’ll get you a bonus coupon to buy plants, landscaping supplies and other water-saving materials. Need a little extra cash for an upcoming fall gardening project? Sign up for WaterSaver Rewards and earn points for your water-saving practices. But hurry, you need to collect seven points before the […]
Easing Separation Anxiety

Taking an extended summer vacation? It’s important to plan ahead to help your plants survive the separation. The kids have been out of school awhile and you’re planning that much needed summer vacation — maybe for a week or longer. But what will you do about your plants and lawn while you’re away? Just like you would […]
Reward Yourself

Saving water and money is still the ultimate reward. But now SAWS residential water customers can earn a little bonus for their water-saving ways. Have you been on the fence about capping a few zones of your irrigation system? Or doing away with it altogether? How’s this for a little incentive… SAWS water customers can […]
Bring Fiesta Color to Your Landscape

Fiesta may only come once a year, but you can enjoy the bold, beautiful colors of the festive event year-round right in your own landscape! For those of us who’ve been in San Antonio long enough to enjoy at least one Fiesta, we know it means bright and colorful piñatas, dresses, decorations and food. It […]
Backyard Rain Harvesting Project

Capturing the rain is a great way to save water and irrigate your garden. If you already have rain barrels, just follow these simple steps and you’ll be ready for the next downpour. By Fred Wulff Harvesting rain water is a great way to help conserve water. And, for me, it was another step toward […]
Selecting and Measuring 200 Square Feet

Need to lay out a planting bed for the next WaterSaver coupon? Measuring wheels and tapes are obvious choices. But you can also get creative with other, more handy tools from your garden shed. I can say we’ve all learned a lot from previous coupon seasons. And if you participated, you know that landscaping is […]
Plant Bulbs and Other Subterranean Species in Winter

It may seem counterintuitive, but winter is the best time to plant — at least here in South Texas. And your options of what to plant are numerous. They include bulbs, corms, rhizomes and tubers. As winter progresses, our weather here in South Texas tends to become cooler and damp, which often discourages people from […]
Great Gifts for the Gardener in Your Life

We all have that one individual in our lives who’s hard to shop for during the Christmas season. Why not give them the gift of gardening? Be it our mother, brother, aunt, uncle or a friend, we all have that one individual in our lives who’s hard to shop for during the Christmas season. If […]
Plant Holiday Cheer to Last All Year

Want to keep the holiday feeling in your landscape long after Christmas has passed? Check out this compact list of yuletide yard additions. In South Texas, the list of evergreen trees you can utilize as year-round living Christmas trees is limited. But I’ve rounded up a few I’d recommend to keep the yuletide feeling in […]
Clothespin Wreath

The holiday season is nearly upon us and that means it’s time to get crafty! Here’s a simple project you can make to dress up your door and welcome weary travelers. I admit it, I’m a craft junkie. Pinterest has fueled my “craftiness.” Curses to Pinterest! I recently made a wreath made out of clothespins […]
Plants That Fertilize Others

Cover crops are an easy and economical way to provide extra natural fertilizer to your landscape or garden’s soil. And they have the ability to go “where no root has gone before.” By: Benjamin Trevino Sometimes called “green manure crops,” cover crops are an easy and economical way to provide extra and natural fertilizer to your landscape […]
Summer Sun = Fall Garden’s Advantage

Using the summer sun (solarization) as a process of weakening or killing unwanted plants by harnessing the sun’s intensity. And summertime — in the full scorch of the sun — is the best time to use this method. So, you want to replace your thirsty lawn with a productive, colorful garden? Great choice! You want […]
Hue Can Craft a Colorful Landscape

Just like on an artist’s palette, hue is a powerful tool in the landscape. Think of your garden as a blank canvas. The goal is to create a focal point and places for the eye to rest. Too many points of interest and haphazard color combinations can appear chaotic. Keep these tips in mind as […]
What are the Year-round Watering Rules?

The hot dry weather generally means the possibility of Stage 1 drought restrictions. For now, we remain in year-round watering rules. The hot dry weather has returned and with it the possibility of Stage 1 drought restrictions. For now, we remain in year-round watering rules. What exactly does that mean for you?<.p> Landscape watering with […]
Lavender Love

Lavender is a multitasking herb – beautiful in the landscape attracting wildlife and functional in the kitchen when added to food and drinks. I love lavender! It is beautiful in the landscape and attracts wildlife, but what I love most about lavender is that it is great at multitasking. Lavender can be a little tricky to […]
Herbs: Easy, Drought-tolerant and Tasty!

There are so many things to do with herbs — from adding them to our culinary delights, to making refreshing drinks on hot summer days or using them for medicinal purposes. They’re so easy to grow and even easier to cultivate and use. Our pinterest board is sure to delight and give you lots of ideas for […]
Debug your Summer Fun with Herbs

Before you run out to buy chemical pesticides for your yard, there are a number of herbs that grow well in our area that are also natural insect repellents. Summer is in full swing. This is a time of year when we enjoy barbeques, the beach, road trips and longer days. It’s also the time […]
Hot Colors = Cool Landscape

Turn up the heat in your landscape. Incorporate plants in hot colors to add a little spice to your garden. Heat is probably the last thing you want to think about in the middle of a scorching Texas summer. But I’m talking about adding a little heat to your garden in terms of hot colors. […]
Enticing Bee Pollinators

Bees play a special role in our environment and landscape. But you don’t need beekeeper skills to encourage them to visit your landscape and pollinate your plants. By Molly Keck We all know honey bees are extremely important, but many do not realize that in the United States there are over 2,000 species of native […]
Bring Fiesta Colors to Your Landscape

Fiesta may only come once a year, but you can enjoy the bold, beautiful colors of this hometown celebration year-round right in your own landscape! For those of us who have been in San Antonio long enough to enjoy at least one Fiesta, we know it means bright and colorful pinatas, dresses, decorations and food. […]
Get Social with SAWS on Nextdoor, Periscope

Can’t get enough of Garden Style San Antonio via the weekly e-newsletter? Follow @MySAWS on Twitter and Periscope for bonus water-saving and gardening-related tips and exclusive photos from our conservation consultants in the field. Watch for the hashtags #GardenStyleSA or #GSSA. SAWS is expanding our social media channels with Nextdoor and Periscope. These new networks join the MySAWS Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Vimeo social […]
What Are Valentine Flowers Really Saying?

Roses are red, violets are blue, giving the wrong flower to your Valentine could be calamitous for you. Learn the meaning behind the valentine flowers bouquet you pick for your one and only. This Valentine’s Day many of us will be giving or receiving flowers as a show of affection… or is it? Ever wonder […]
Succulents and Cacti in the Winter Landscape

Cacti and succulents are attention-getting, easy care additions to the landscape. And they practically guarantee a yard that looks as good in winter as it does in summer. Driving through my neighborhood this winter I couldn’t help but notice dormant plants and brown lawns. It doesn’t need to be that way, as I have discovered […]
4 Plants that Please the Powers that Be

One way to choose plants your HOA will approve of is to consider the same specimens used in the common areas of your neighborhood. Even simpler: go with our four types of plants that please. We hear time and again from customers who want to make changes to their landscape, but they believe their HOA […]
Maintenance Warm-Ups for Your Spring Garden

You can garden even in the winter. Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t spend time in your garden. Tool maintenance and prepping your landscape for new plantings are two tasks you can tend to now. Winter has arrived and it’s time to do our winter gardening chores. You’re probably looking for an […]
7 Ways to Woo Wildlife to your Winter Garden

Your garden may look boring and bleak to you, but to winter wildlife it’s a veritable safe haven brimming with food and shelter from the elements. South Texas gardeners enjoying a brief winter break from tending plants can direct their nurturing instincts to wildlife. Here are seven ways to help birds and small animals left […]
Living Garden Gifts

Whether you’re the recipient or giver of a living gift, follow our tips to keep those gifts giving long after the holidays are over. Several years ago I received a special gift for Christmas – a little amaryllis bulb that was about the size of a marble. It lacked much bravado with its two puny […]
Creating a Thanksgiving Tablescape

With Thanksgiving just days away, you may be thinking about your holiday table. It’s not too late to create a beautiful centerpiece. Fall is my favorite time of year. I love the cooler weather, the warm colors and all the scents and flavors of autumn. I particularly love decorating for fall. One of the best […]
The Top 5 Herbs You Should Be Growing in your Garden

Harvesting food from our own gardens is an activity humans have been savoring for centuries. And it’s truly not difficult to do. Forget fighting the crowds at the grocery store in search of fresh herbs for your Thanksgiving meal. Imagine instead being able to harvest generous clippings of your own homegrown herbs for your holiday […]
‘F’ is for Fungi

By Cynthia Barsun, Guest Author The arrival of fall means no more Daylight Saving Time — hope you also remembered to turn off the automatic clock on your irrigation system — and cooler, wetter weather. The occasional rain we get in fall is more than sufficient for our soon-to-be-dormant lawns. In fact, supplemental irrigation — especially after […]
Take Your Thyme

I’ve learned there are few plants that can survive the neglect that many of us can cast on our garden. Thyme is one of them. Nothing weathers the storm with such grace and tenacity as thyme. I have gone weeks in the summer without even considering its existence – much less its well-being – and mine still looks […]
Now Debuting: The GardenStyle Excellence Program

Is your landscape water savvy? Friendly to urban wildlife? Less than 50 percent grass? Then your landscape may be worthy of recognition. It’s coming soon! A new program that recognizes all of the hard work you’ve done to make your landscape a WaterSaver. You’re conserving water, providing habitat for local wildlife, going organic and increasing […]
Awash with Lavender

Looking to landscape with lavender? One of the best things about this sweet-smelling herb is its love for the dry climate and rocky soils of the Texas Hill Country. From perfume to insect repellent to food flavoring, lavender’s everyday use dates back more than 2,500 years to the Egyptians, Phoenicians and the people of Arabia. […]
How to Make the Most of the WaterSaver Coupon

The WaterSaver coupon program is a great way to help you maximize your landscaping budget. Plan ahead and read these six tips before starting your project. Whether you’re into extreme couponing, haggling at the flea market or shopping online for the best deals, most of us want to get the biggest bang for our dollar. The […]
Patioscape Pit Stop

A fire pit doesn’t have to cost a fortune. This one is functional and frugal — and it gives new life to an old charcoal grill. S’mores anyone? This fire pit was so easy to build and at only $40 total in materials cost, it was very economical to build. You’ll need: Lid or base […]
Sustainability is the New Black

Living sustainably can be as simple as purchasing goods from local businesses or from companies that give back to the community. Think about what you can live without, or commit to using things up until you can’t use them anymore. Have you heard of the staple-free stapler that sews your papers together? Or pig urine […]
Shade Love

How much do I love trees? Let me count the ways… they reduce your cooling needs. They purify the air. They provide much-needed shade. What’s not to love? Have you ever taken the time to understand what’s so wonderful about trees? Why do we love them so much? I know that when we were looking […]
Thoughts from a WaterSaver Coupon Pro

For one San Antonian the opportunity to create a landscape that saves water and serves as an oasis for people and wildlife convinced him to take advantage of the SAWS coupons. Here’s his story. By Rebecca Jost Now that a new round of WaterSaver Landscape and Patioscape Coupons is about to start, we thought we’d […]
Fall WaterSaver Landscape Coupon: It’s All About the Trees

Fall is the perfect time to plant trees. And while it doesn’t feel quite like autumn yet, we’re ushering it in with a new fall coupon program. Starting Sept. 1 it’s all about trees! We’ve all heard the saying “Money doesn’t grow on trees.” Well, this fall it kind of does. The fall cycle of […]
Embrace the Shade

If you have a tendency to complain about having immense amounts of shade in your yard, you won’t get any sympathy from me – not this native Texan. Shade is a priceless commodity in South Texas, but it’s understandable to have a little bit of frustration toward it. If you’re stumped about what can be […]
Nature’s Understory

By Ryan Davila Many people think of a forest and immediately imagine trees towering far above their heads. Although this is one component of a forest, what most don’t realize is that there is a completely different world at eye-level and below! A forest understory refers to plant life growing beneath the forest canopy without […]
Apple of My Eye Tote for Teachers

School teachers by and large are creative people who are constantly thinking of new projects and craft ideas to help children learn and grow. I don’t know many teachers (if any) who don’t have a lot of stuff to tote around. Between grading papers and making lesson plans for the year, teachers haul quite a […]
Keep Calm and Water Smart

By Nathan Glavy Being water smart with your outdoor watering is simple. Give your landscape the water it needs, but be smart about it! Here are a few ways you can water smart outdoors: Plan your irrigation system accordingly: An irrigation system can be VERY water-demanding if it’s not properly managed. Adjust your watering schedule so you are ONLY watering […]
Plant Your Pest Control

We think of many insects and arachnids (spiders) as pests. But all creatures perform a role in their ecosystems, even systems as small as a backyard. Scorpions eat other insects and ants help aerate the soil so water and oxygen can reach plant roots. Because insects have important jobs, it’s better to try and repel […]
Affordable Flea Market Gardening

If unique yard art appeals to you, then the flea market might be your shopping destination. Here are some tips to know before you go. For me, flea markets hold a certain attraction. I actually have no idea what I’ll discover until I get there. Today I’m shopping for a container to add a pop […]
Waste Not, Want Not

Are your K–cup empties piling up because you can’t bear to toss ’em? Well, those petite pods are perfect for plant propagation! I read recently that the inventor of Keurig’s K-Cup absolutely regretted its creation. A coffee drinker myself, I immediately understood why. Those cute little pods are used once and then dumped in the trash […]
New Home, New Landscape

Time to challenge your creativity and makes this place your home. You’re the proud owner of a new home. After you get all the boxes unpacked, you’re probably thinking about what you want to do in the landscape. Think of this as a challenge in creativity to make your landscape your very own. And there’s […]
Viva le Jardin! Bastille Day in South Texas

Container gardening with French flair. Bonjour my fellow gardeners! The month of July holds two holidays similar in spirit — first is the American Independence Day on the Fourth of July and the other is Bastille Day, observed in France on the fourteenth of July. Once you’re done honoring the Fourth, keep the spirit of independence going by […]
Bat House Project to Drive Dad Batty!

Building a bat house project with kids is a fun educational activity. Bonus: It’s also a natural way to keep your yard bug-free! Summer is finally here and the kids are out of school. There’s no better time for you and your kids to tackle a hands-on bat house project that’s educational and good for […]
Bat Basics

Mexican free-tailed bats are here! If you are lucky enough to live in South Texas the Bracken Maternity Bat Colony, located in the vicinity of Garden Ridge, is home to 15-20 million female bats. This colony is the largest assemblage of non-human mammals on earth. This cave houses only female bats and their offspring, the males […]
Crooked Tree? Stake it Straight.

Has your newly planted tree sunk and tilted as the soil settled? Follow these steps to help stake it straight. The first tree my hubby and I ever planted was a lanky Chinquapin oak on the southwest side of our new-to-us home. Considering it came root-bound in a tiny three-gallon pot and spent its first winter enduring […]
Summer Gardening Projects for Kids

When I was a kid, the end of school meant the beginning of a magical period of long lazy days, catching fireflies at night, camping out in the backyard and playing with my sisters, cousins and friends all day. Although, I sometimes long for those days of summer, what I look forward to now is […]
Beverages from the Garden

Beverages can be made with items you already might have. No need to worry about buying ingredients to make refreshing beverages on these warm summer days. Instead, head out to your garden and snip some herbs or grab some fruit and make those beverages from what you have. Visit our Pinterest board for a few […]
Summer Vegetable Garden: This is Not Your Grandma’s Vegetable Patch

The home vegetable garden trend has seen a definite uptick in the last few years. As people become more aware of the benefits of organically and locally grown produce, more and more are starting to plant vegetables in their landscape. Home vegetable gardens have come a long way since our grandparent’s gardens. Neat rows of […]
Weeds: Can You Hear Them Now?

Did you hear that? Shhh… listen carefully. Your weeds are trying to tell you something. The types of weeds popping up will tell you the overall condition of the soil in your garden. They can signal compacted soils, pH imbalance and, in some cases, balanced soil. The types of weeds popping up will tell you […]
Propagate the Frugal Way

I love to visit our local nurseries and window shop. At my stage in life, plants are a bit of a luxury item and if I come away with a cute 4-inch perennial or a couple of packets of seeds it’s a big deal. I’ve often wondered how folks grew their gardens before there were […]
Lisa’s Water Lily Succulent Bowl

My dearest friend Lisa loves to garden. She also has a knack for turning everyday junk into unique containers, like this one: But I have to say, her latest project is my absolute favorite. With her personal collection of succulents plus a few scoops of soil, a couple bags of glass gems and a miniature […]
Year-round Watering Rules are Back!

Congratulations San Antonio! Because of your diligence during our recent drought restrictions, SAWS and the City of San Antonio have decided to come out of drought restrictions and return to year-round watering rules for the first time since 2011. We know it’s been a while since we’ve been there, so let’s review what year-round watering rules mean. […]
Don’t Set it and Forget it!

You’ve heard “set it and forget it” – well don’t let this become your mantra; it could end up costing you. Irrigation is often the last consideration when building a home. So if it was designed with no thought to the plant material being installed, then chances are you have a poorly designed system on […]
What Your Landscape is Trying to Tell You

Large expanses of lawn simply aren’t practical here in South Texas. But for decades it’s been the standard in landscape design. The truth is a lawn demands an absurd amount of upkeep in the form of pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and ritualistic cutting with carbon-spewing machines, creating an environmental monoculture that robs pollinators of valuable food. Do you […]
Grill Up Some Tropical Treats!

Grilled pineapple is a light and refreshing desert that is just perfect for your Mother’s Day brunch, lunch or barbeque. It can be prepared on the grill or a grill pan on the stove. Either method will achieve nice grill marks on the pineapple and caramelize the natural sugars of the fruit. There are so […]
A Gift for Mother from the Garden

Bet you’re trying to come up with something extra special for the mother in your life. Why not give her something unique and handmade from the garden? Perhaps it’s cliché, but moms appreciate unique gifts made just for them by their children. It means so much more than a gift card. Here’s a simple, but […]
Elevate Your Landscape: Add Raised Garden Beds

Now is a great time to start thinking about how to add raised garden beds to your spring landscape. There are many different ways to build raised landscape beds. And, you can use just about anything to create them – from rocks and stones to wood and even glass bottles. Just keep these things in mind when planning […]
Coupon Selections for the Starter Gardener

If you are a starter gardener like me, trying to decide what to put in a new garden bed can be intimidating. Even the tags that come with the plants aren’t much help. What exactly does partial shade mean anyway? Well, help is here. The WaterSaver Landscape coupon has a number of drought-hardy plants that are also […]
Watering Once-a-Week Rules Still in Place

Summer is just around the corner and that means gardening, lawn care and, of course, watering will top many to-do lists. But before you haul out the hose-end sprinklers and set ‘em and forget ‘em, remember that Stage 2 drought restrictions remain in place. Yes, the weather has been mild and rain has been more plentiful […]
Monarch Butterflies Visit San Antonio Each Year!

By Monika Maeckle Monarch butterflies now leave their roosts in the Oyamel forest of Michoacán, Mexico generally late March — their latest departure on record, according to citizen science organization Journey North. And they start showing up in San Antonio, laying their first generation of eggs on local milkweeds. Because of Texas’ unique position in the geographic […]
Landscape for Wildlife

For city dwellers and suburbanites, native vegetation and wildlife habitat are at a premium. But it’s simple to plan your own small-scale nature preserve. You could start by limiting your lawn. Lawns provide little food or coverage for animals. Consider removing small portions of turf and replacing it with wildflower seeds or groundcover. Offer vertical […]
The Hummingbirds are Here!

Thinking the hummingbirds hadn’t arrived yet, I set out my feeder a few weeks ago in hopes of inviting them to visit on their way into town. Much to my surprise, I had my first visitor within an hour of placing the feeder out! There are several things you can do to attract these little […]
Creating a Family-Friendly Landscape

For most of us, our yard needs to be a multi-functional space. It’s where our children play, where we go to relax at the end of a long day, and a place to entertain family and friends. You can create your very own backyard oasis where you can live, play and relax — and reduce […]
Perennial Pruning – Now is the Time

If you’re like me, you’re itching to get outside and do something productive after a long, cold winter of being stuck inside. There is only so much house cleaning a person can do! Perennial pruning should be first on your list of outside chores. Early March is the time to get out and start tackling […]
Combine Coupons for the Ultimate Backyard Oasis

Each year SAWS offers two different coupon programs simultaneously twice a year. This is the perfect time to get those creative juices flowing and combine the coupons to create your perfect backyard oasis. Like previous offerings, the programs require you to remove at least 200 square feet of turf per program coupon. And new to […]
Valentine Gifts from the Garden

You don’t have to give traditional roses to your sweetheart for Valentine’s Day. Get creative and use some things that you already have in your garden. She (or he) might be more in love with you if you do something unconventional to show your love for them. Think outside the box for your gift giving. Follow […]
Tips on Using Coupons

I can say we’ve all learned a lot as we’ve offered the WaterSaver Landscape coupons. And if you participated, you know that landscaping is hard work! Deciding on a design, clearing away the existing grass and simply figuring out how each bed is going to meet the 200-square-foot requirement can be more challenging than expected. A 200-square-foot garden […]
Made for the Shade

If you have a tendency to complain about having immense amounts of shade in your yard, you won’t get any sympathy from me – not this native Texan. Shade is a priceless commodity here in South Texas, but it’s understandable to have a little bit of frustration toward it. Let me walk you through some […]
Early Spring Bloomers

You might think early spring is actually too soon for plants to be blooming, but there are some beauties that surprise us and start blossoming early in the season. This pinterest board features beautiful blooms you may see in early spring. Follow Garden Style San Antonio’s board Early Spring Bloomers on Pinterest.
Moonlit Garden Design

Even though I’ve yet to make one, having a moonlit garden is a personal dream of mine. A moonlit garden is one that’s enjoyed late in the evening and through the night as the bright white light of the moon is reflected by foliage and petals of various whites and yellows. Picture yourself strolling down […]
Fun with Flagstone: Give Your Landscape Direction

By Darik Conner, Guest Author When constructed thoughtfully, a flagstone path can be the cherry on top of a well-managed landscape. Depending on the length and width of your pervious walkway, prepare to put in some manual labor. The end result is worth the effort. Flagstone is the most popular choice for walkways because of […]
Get Your Garden On Safely

For most of us, gardening is a form of relaxation. While some people refer to it as puttering around, gardening can be an opportunity to just enjoy the quiet beauty or listen to the birds. Nonetheless, you may be surprised to hear that there are about 200,000 gardening accidents a year. People love to take […]
Black-eyed Peasy

That’s right folks, a new year is upon us and that means it’s time to bust out the black-eyed peas. (And, I don’t mean Fergie and friends.) It’s also time for a teachable moment — either give a man his black-eyed peas or teach him how to make them himself so he never bothers you again! Being somewhat […]
Refresh Your Landscape

This is the time of year that many gardeners start to ache for the color and inspiration that a spring garden in full bloom emanates. While it’s true that the bloom-to-brown ratio is far more appealing in the warmer seasons, it is possible to have attractive, appealing gardens throughout the year. Creating year-round interest in the landscape […]
Brining Olives

For the first time in seven years, my olive tree is loaded with olives! My enthusiasm has turned into motivation, with full intent to process my crop. Every olive starts off green in color then graduates to purple before finally turning to black. So I waited until the harvest was half green and half black […]
Winter Bird Feeder

Winter is the perfect opportunity for bird watching. During the cooler months, birds have to forage for food as the insects that were in abundance are now gone. And, native birds have to compete with visiting birds migrating south for the winter. Why not help them find food but making a bird feeder? Providing supplemental […]
Toy Garden – Upcycled Creature Feature

Giving isn’t just for adults. Teaching children the joy and satisfaction of giving to others can start at almost any age. Being intentional about teaching children to give instills values that will touch their lives and the lives of everyone they come in contact with and leaves them rich and fulfilling memories. This holiday season, […]
Gift of Nature for the Holiday

Night temperatures are dipping lower — a subtle reminder that winter will soon be upon us. It’s also a perfect reminder to start collecting for holiday gift giving. As gardens in and around San Antonio have leaves falling off the trees and grass turning brown, perhaps consider a gift of something green, either for yourself or […]
Three Principles of Landscape Design

Since we started offering the WaterSaver Landscape Coupon in the summer of 2013, I’ve heard one of the most intimidating factors of completing these beds is choosing the plant’s placement within the bed. The truth is,landscape design is very much like art — it’s personal and up to interpretation. Follow these basic principles to guide you as you […]
Your Water Meter As Leak Detector

Unfortunately, most customers don’t realize they have a leak until they receive an outrageously high water bill. Let’s get up close and personal with your meter, so this doesn’t happen to you: it can be used as a simple leak detector. First, find the water meter. It’s usually located either in front of your home or […]
Fall Decorating

Fall has finally arrived — and it’s my most favorite season! Fall is the time of year when temperatures cool down, there’s pumpkin everything and Thanksgiving is just around the corner. That means there’s a cornucopia of ideas for fall decorating this time of year. Most people tend to decorate their porches and front steps […]
My Date with the Grease Monster

While reading the classifieds in the newspaper, I came across a rather peculiar personal ad: “Monster who enjoys long walks through San Antonio sewer pipes, clogging them up and ruining people’s lives in general. Seeking same.” How despicable, I thought. I decided to confront this guy so I arranged a date. Of course, he wanted […]
Design Your Landscape Instead of Hosting Thanksgiving This Year

If you’re not cooking for the family this Thanksgiving, what are you doing with all that free time? If you don’t have any plans, how about sitting down with a pencil and paper and jotting down some landscape design plans? Design the area you want to revamp in preparation for the next round of coupons. […]
Backbone Plants

“Backbone” or “anchor” plants establish a solid framework for your landscape that’s essential to achieving balance with an attractive flow. They typically consist of large trees and shrubs, whose thoughtful placement is the first step in creating a design that works. Large trees and shrubs do more than just create structure — they make the spaces throughout […]
Give a Hoot for Wildscapes

By Alex Scott Antram, Guest Author Need some water conservation inspiration? A native plant oasis on the Southside of San Antonio awaits you at Mitchell Lake Audubon Center! The 1200-acre wildlife refuge owned by SAWS and managed by the National Audubon Society is much more than a nature preserve. The gardens surrounding the Leeper House, a […]
Cilantro Mayonnaise Recipe

By Leslie Bingham, Guest Author This is delicious cilantro mayo can be served as a spread on sandwiches or tacos and is really a great flavor changer when added to deviled eggs instead of regular mayo. It’s also delightful as a dip for raw veggies. Ingredients: 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, washed and dried, tightly […]
Starter Herbs for Texas Gardeners

By Leslie Bingham, Guest Author Herbs are plants that are used as ﬂavoring agents, medicinally, and in the garden landscape. The common herbs used in cooking are referred to as culinary herbs. If you’re considering growing your own herbs, here’s a list of basic herbs that are the best for cultivating in our south central Texas […]
Herbs to Fall For

Unless you adore the heat, most Texans live to bask in the gentler rays of a fall sun. And, many of us know this is the perfect time of year to get some planting done, particularly herbs. Herbs are beautiful and easy to grow. Plus, not having to buy the herbs I need for cooking is […]
Building an Herb Tower

I don’t know what it is about fall, but inevitably about this time of year I start itching to work on crafting projects, try new recipes and plant something. Like most people I have more great ideas than time so this year I found a way to combine all three of my hobbies into one […]
Side Yard Design

Our side yard is probably the most ignored space in our landscape. This ‘no man’s land’ often becomes the collection ground for garden tools, garbage cans and is the weedy causeway only traversed when taking the trash out to the curb or mowing the lawn. Have you ever thought about turning that space into something attractive and […]
Water-Saving Winners

By Anne Schiller, Guest Author Look around and you may be surprised how water-conscious homeowners are using creative ways to reduce their outdoor water consumption and lower their monthly water bills. You can see six unique and diverse water-saving winner landscapes that are doing just that during the annual WaterSaver Landscape Tour Saturday, October 4, […]
Show Your Garden’s True Colors

Adding color to our landscape is one of the main reasons we garden. Colors evoke emotion and symbolism. They can add drama, create impact, brighten up dark spots or create distance. It all depends how and where you use colorful plants. Choosing color for your garden can be dicey, especially if you’ve never done it […]
Get to the Root of Plant Selection

The next time you’re browsing your favorite garden center looking for that perfect WaterSaver plant, take a moment to look beyond the colorful flowers. Take a good, long look at the roots. A healthy root system is a primary factor in the success of your plants — not the enticing flowers or foliage that attracted […]
Lose the Lawn!

After years of drought restrictions and drought many of us may be wondering why we have lawns at all. It’s time to lose the lawn. Factor in the chemicals, fuel, water, labor and regulations associated with lawn care, and it’s a wonder why anyone would want a big yard. Some people have simply let their lawns die. […]
Fall into Autumn Gardening

With temperatures still soaring, it may be hard to believe that the fall planting season is just around the corner. The milder temperatures, still warm soil and typically higher rainfall make fall a perfect time to plant a new garden or enlarge an existing bed. The continuing drought also makes this a great time to […]
Itsy Bitsy Spiders

Ok, I’ll admit it — I am not a fan of spiders. Black widows must die at my home because I just can’t bear the thought of dealing with the aftermath of their poisonous bite for me or my dog. But spiders are actually good for your landscape as they feed on the pests in […]
The Dish on Dirt – Soil Mixes for Gardening

Good soil mixes play an important role in the success of container gardening. Good soil mixes will support plants through healthy growth by providing nutrients and allowing air to pass through the soil. Also, good soil provides drainage and retains adequate moisture for plant roots for short periods of time. Pre-mixed soils in bags fall into specific […]
Herbs + Grill = Yum!

The summer grilling season is in full swing. Whether you’re grilling by the beach or in your backyard, using herbs from your garden is a tasty and healthy way to add flavor and color to your food. Herbs can be used in rubs, go directly in the smoker box with your wood chips or even […]
A Pallet for Planting

No soil, no space, no problem. You can still garden like a pro even if you’re limited on space and soil in your landscape. Just get your hands on a wooden pallet — problem solved. Pallet gardening is fun and can be accomplished in just a few easy steps: Gather your supplies. You’ll need a pallet, sandpaper, […]
WaterSaver Coupons Combined = One Ultimate Backyard

If you’re looking to create a backyard oasis and get rid of some grass in the process, now is the time to make that dream a reality. Start with the WaterSaver Landscape and Patioscape Coupons. Both coupons require that irrigation heads be capped in the area of work and grass be eliminated. They also require a minimum of […]
Garden-to-Table

One of the fastest growing trends in the food world is farm-to-table. Farm-to-table chefs use seasonal, locally sourced foods, usually from small farms to create tasty dishes using simple preparations. Follow Garden Style San Antonio’s board Fruits of Our Labor on Pinterest. Fruits and vegetables that are commercially grown are picked before they’re fully ripe […]
Cut Flower Gardening

Nothing instantly beautifies a space like a colorful bouquet of flowers. The only real problem is they’re a little costly to have around all the time. So what if I told you that those fresh flowers don’t have to come from the florist or grocery store? That you could have a wide variety of them […]
Awesome and Under-used Natives

It’s time to branch out and try something new. Renew your landscape with natives. Now, those of you who have been gardening in south central Texas for a while may not be surprised by the selections I’m about to mention. But those who are relatively new to gardening or new to the area may be […]
Measure First, Then Plant

You have heard the old saying “measure twice, cut once”. Well, this is appropriate for your landscape too. If you’ve taken advantage of any of our WaterSaver Landscape Coupon programs, you know that landscaping is hard work. Settling on a design, clearing away existing grass and simply figuring out how each bed will meet the 200-square-foot requirement can be […]
Move Forth on the Fourth

The fourth of July is right around the corner — is your yard ready? Independence Day celebrations are about spending time with friends and family, showing your patriotism and enjoying the outdoors. If you have a shady spot underneath a tree you could create a new living space outdoors. SAWS Patioscape: Remove 200 to 400 […]
Starter Gardener? We Can Show You How!

For the novice starter gardener, getting started can be intimidating. There are so many things to consider — what to plant, where to put your garden, what plants to choose. It can become so overwhelming you may want to give up before you even get started. Don’t fret. Start by considering your other hobbies. Do […]
Garden by Moonlight – It’s Cool(er)

Gardening is a pastime that’s been enjoyed for centuries. Of course, not everyone finds it pleasant to garden when it’s 100 degrees or more outside. Sidestep the unbearable heat with a moonlight garden! When you garden by moonlight, it is a much more enjoyable experience. Here are a few elements to get you started: Choose plants […]
Getting Ready for Summer

Summer is quickly approaching. In fact, it feels like it’s already here! Now is the time to exchange cold weather annuals for warm season annuals such as marigold, pentas, periwinkle, portulaca, and purslane. Perennial plants (such as crape myrtle) should really be showy right now, but to keep them that way, dead-head any spent flowers to keep […]
A Bird? A Plane? No, a Bee!

By Molly Keck This is the time of year when bees are swarming and many people become concerned. But don’t be too alarmed. Unless you disturb them, many bees are harmless. If you see a large mass of bees balled up and hanging from a branch or attached to a wall, that is a swarm. […]
Pick Your Plants Prudently

Are you pondering new plantings for your spring landscape? Nurseries offer a range of plant sizes to accommodate your varying needs, including budget and landscaping goals. Before you begin your project, consider the advantages and disadvantages, such as plant watering requirements, of your options. Small plants are budget-friendly. Four-inch perennials can be purchased for less than […]
Seven Principles of Xeriscape

When I don’t quite understand something new or different, I break it up into manageable pieces. Take xeriscape gardening. It isn’t a new idea, but environmentally conscious citizens everywhere are opening their eyes to its practical and aesthetic possibilities. If xeriscaping is your goal, you can break the idea down into seven manageable pieces. First, […]
Is Your Landscape Sheltered from the Sun? Pick Plants Made for the Shade

Gardening, like life, sometimes presents us with challenges. Sunless voids in our landscape – aka shady spots – are prime examples. Shade rules out several plants ranging from vegetables and annuals to roses and lots of well-loved Texas perennials. Thankfully, there are several shade-loving, leafy selections that are sure to win you over. First, determine […]
Adding Hardscape to Your Landscape

If you are looking to reduce the amount of landscape on your property and thus reduce your water usage, consider adding hardscape. Defined as the non-living elements of landscaping, hardscape consists of stone walls, concrete or brick patios, tile paths, wooden decks and wooden arbors. Of course, pervious (or permeable) hardscape is preferable to impervious […]
Bee Garden – Build a Buzz

Have you heard about the decline in both honeybees and native pollinators? Both bees and native pollinators assist farmers in increasing production of most of our favorite fruits and vegetables. If we don’t learn to understand the cause of their decline, researchers say our long term food supply may be seriously affected. More and more gardeners are doing […]
Plant Roses for Your Garden’s Future

Throughout history, roses have been quintessential symbols of beauty and often represent some of life’s most intimate and cherished moments. In San Antonio, roses are the epitome of perseverance. While many lawns, shrubs and trees perish in long droughts, old roses rebound in full bloom. Old (aka antique) roses are treasured for their resilience including tolerance to cold, heat […]
Catch On to Composting

Composting doesn’t have to be difficult. You can feed your garden effortlessly and save money doing it. Composting also increases your soil’s water-holding capacity, reduces your waste-hauling costs and repays your efforts tenfold. A good compost heap consists of: two-thirds carbon (or browns) such as newspaper, wood ash, straw, leaves, dryer lint and pet hair; and […]
Oldies But Goodies; Antique Roses

They’re quintessential symbols of beauty and romance. They often represent some of life’s most intimate and cherished moments. And they’ve been the object of adoration in gardens all over the world for centuries. I’m talking about roses. Although our hearts belong to the bluebonnets, Texans adore roses just the same and proudly lay claim as the originator […]
Landscape 911: First Aid for Ailing Foliage, Flowers and More

Like us, lawns and landscapes have their share of illnesses from time to time. Knowing the symptoms and how to treat them can make all the difference. Here are five diseases to be on the lookout for in your landscape. Leaf spot causes circular spots on the leaves of plants, often causing leaves to drop. Pick […]
Grab Your Camera and Walk Among the Wildflowers!

Texas — especially the Hill Country and South Texas areas — is known for the wonderful wildflowers we see each spring. While severe drought conditions stunted the wildflower crop over the last couple of years, this year’s showing is spectacular thanks to winter and early spring rains. Bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, Mexican hats and many others are plentiful this […]
Don’t Let Weeds Succeed: Try These Organic Methods

I think we all look forward to a distinct spring season paired with plentiful rainfall to awash our city in green. Unfortunately, that usually results in fast growing weeds up to our knees! Organic weed control is one of the safest ways to remove and prevent undesired plants. Here are a few suggestions for tackling the oodles of […]
Mulch

By Calvin Finch Ph.D., Guest Author Mulch is an essential part of gardening in South Texas. There is a long list of benefits to the practice of mulching. Saving water leads the list. Mulch saves water by insulating the soil. Mulch also keeps the soil cool. The summer sun beating down on bare soil heats […]
Elements of a Butterfly Garden

By Janis Merritt, Guest Author It is a nice coincidence that most xeriscape gardens are also great butterfly gardens. Add basking places, shelter, food and water to your garden to maximize enjoyment of butterflies during all seasons. Basking Places and Shelter Some species of butterflies hibernate through the winter as adults. They use tree bark, […]
Hummingbird Feeders

By Calvin Finch, Ph.D., Guest Author San Antonio is a great place to observe hummingbirds. If you have blooms in your landscape, you probably also have hummingbirds. In the fall and spring we often have three species. The black-chinned, ruby-throated, and rufous hummingbirds move through in waves. Black-chinned hummingbirds nest in the San Antonio area. They […]
Proper Summer Irrigation

Lower your water bill with proper summer irrigation. Irrigation Check-Up At least once each month, your irrigation system needs a check-up. Follow these steps. Turn on each zone for a few minutes and watch the sprinkler heads. Are they spraying in the right direction? Are there any “gushers” indicating a broken head or missing nozzle? […]
Three Reasons Not to Rake & Bag Leaves

By Calvin Finch, Ph.D., Guest Author Leaves are reservoirs of nutrients and sources of organic material that can be recycled to your soil. The easiest way to achieve this recycling is to just let them decompose where they fall on the lawn. To speed up the process of decomposition, run the lawn mower over the […]
Winter Color

By Calvin Finch, Ph.D., Guest Author Cool season annuals for winter color thrive during our mild winter months. Our rare freezes may set them back, but they usually recover. Pockets of cool season annuals planted where summer plants are dormant can spruce up a winter landscape. An easy way to accomplish the look is to […]
To Prune or Not to Prune

By Calvin Finch, Ph.D., Guest Author February is the best time to prune most plants, but do not prune for the sake of having something to do. Prune to control plant size, remove unsafe branches, remove dead wood and, in some cases, to shape or maximize production of flowers. Pruning Paint Pruning paint is not necessary […]
More Great Inspirations — Wonderful Websites

We’ve never had more opportunities for searching, finding and gathering information than with the evolution of technology — especially on the World Wide Web. Websites happen to be one of my favorite sources of gardening information, allowing millions to share their knowledge and experiences. And because it can be difficult to decipher which sources are […]
Gardening for Butterflies

By Janis Merritt, Guest Author When we are in our gardens enjoying the beautiful butterflies fluttering from flower to flower, we think about their beauty and how relaxed they make us feel. What we don’t realize is they’re busy doing a very important job. How to Attract Butterflies to Your Garden Butterflies are second only […]
Drought Friendly Plants

Believe it or not, there are actually plants that are drought friendly. Some plants grow and thrive in drought conditions. Since most of our lawns probably look a tad sad during drought, you could help perk it up by adding some of these drought friendly plants to your landscape. Red yucca – spikes of salmon colored […]
Plant Selection Perfection

There are times when we think too much, and times when we just don’t think enough. But when it comes to creating the landscape you truly want, precise plant selection, planning, and thoughtfulness are key to rendering the terrain your senses desire. And, it all starts with being realistic about what you have to work […]
Think Inside the Pot

Container gardening provides a lot of options to fit your busy lifestyle. It doesn’t take much space to develop visual impact and containers often require much less work than a large garden. Old bird feeders, discarded chairs, even paint cans can be repurposed for your portable landscape. Whatever container you decide to plant in make sure it […]
Plan Ahead for Spring WaterSaver Coupons

The SAWS WaterSaver Landscape and Patioscape coupons run concurrently to encourage homeowners to look at their landscapes as a whole. The coupons are offered in the spring and fall. Be sure you are signed up for our GardenStyleSA eNewsleter to be the first to know the release dates. Get Planning Get started in the planning process, […]
Great Inspirations

What resource do you turn to when you need great gardening information and inspiration? Do you look for a good book, browse the Internet or visit with the experts in person? This series will guide you to some of the most valuable sources of information available on gardening and landscaping in our area and climate. […]
Groundcover Superstars

Sometimes you just need to shake things up, especially when it comes to groundcover. We’ve become so accustomed to the same old English ivy or Asiatic jasmine, that we often overlook the many superstar turf substitutes out there. Here are a few groundcover options that you might like to incorporate into your landscape as turf substitutes: Clover Fern – […]
Before You Banish Bugs, Consider the Benefits

Helpers in the garden come in many forms: the friend who comes over to help pull weeds or that nifty new watering timer for your outdoor faucet. But did you know bugs can be helpful, too? There are thousands of beneficial insects that play an important role in keeping plants and soil healthy. Here are […]
Landscaping with Pets in Mind

Gardeners take great pride in creating beautiful, functional landscapes. Some extend their indoor living space into the garden. Others create outdoor spaces for entertaining, playing, meditating or, just simply to have something to admire. But, do these spaces take Fido or Fluffy’s needs into consideration? Dogs and cats can have a certain sense of entitlement […]
Get to Know Your Garden

The scents and colors of our blooming landscapes tend to woo us outdoors. Of course, the lack of efflorescence might also lead us outdoors – to investigate why our garden doesn’t grow. Get to know your garden and what makes it work or not. Familiarizing yourself with the plants in your landscape is one of […]
Early Bloomers: Harbingers of Spring

Even if spring isn’t your favorite season, one can’t help but feel giddy at the sight of the season’s first flush of color. There are some early bloomers that let us know that spring is right around the corner. If you’re a veteran gardener or you’ve kept a garden journal of sorts, you may know exactly what […]
Botanical Garden Not Just for Gardeners

Lacking a green thumb? No problem. You don’t need one to enjoy what the San Antonio Botanical Garden has to offer. From children’s gardening programs and nature workshops to bird watching and low-water-use landscaping, there’s something for everyone at the Garden. When you go, stroll down WaterSaver Lane. Sponsored by SAWS, this exhibit showcases the beauty […]
A Backyard That Beckons

Urban development is happening all around us. As our city grows and we build more homes and businesses, native wildlife is often displaced. For some of us, this change is difficult to watch. But there are ways to recoup some of the natural habitat areas lost to progress and rebuild a practical, beautiful home for a variety […]
Garden Ready for Spring

If you’re like me, by the end of January you’re weary of the handful of cold winter days we have in South Texas and ready to be back outside working in the garden, enjoying warmer weather and all the other activities that make spring and summer fun. In the meantime, there are plenty of garden activities that […]
The Thyme is Now

Holiday feasts are the perfect opportunity to incorporate fresh herbs from your garden. Many fresh herbs are winter tolerant and just begging to be used in your holiday feast. Fresh herbs are a fast and simple way to enhance tried-and-true recipes, even those heavily seasoned with dried herbs. If your recipe calls for dried herbs, […]
Post-Freeze Plant Analysis

If you’re like me, you are probably spoiled by the mild winters we’ve become accustomed to. You may have even neglected to properly protect your plants from the December freezes, and probably wondering if those plants survived. The answer depends on what condition your plants were in before the freeze, and if they were in […]
Your Lawn: Love It or Leave It

Growing a lawn in San Antonio is not easy in the best of times, and during severe drought it’s even more challenging. Lawn grasses do best in conditions where there are relatively deep soils, mild temperatures and regular rainfall. The most common turf grass, St. Augustine, evolved in a region with acid soils and 50-60 […]
Garden Organically

Why garden organically? We hear this question frequently. And, the answers would fill a book, but here are a few good reasons: Garden organically for your plants. Beneficial bacteria and fungi that coat roots, stems, and leaves of all plants will be encouraged by an organic program. Pesticides and chemical fertilizers reduce or eliminate the beneficial insects […]
Winter Wildlife

Bare branches, brown grass and withered leaves skittering along the ground may appear bleak to gardeners looking out their windows, but winter wildlife sees something entirely different. When hospitality takes a winter holiday for birds and small animals seeking food and shelter amid dormant plants, gardeners can help. The first assistance requires nothing more than […]
Prep Your Landscape Tools

Sharp pruning tools are easier on both you and your plants. If you’re not getting clean, precise cuts, your tools may need to be honed. Start with a Clean Slate Before sharpening any tools, it’s important to remove the dirt, sand, sap and crud. Be careful as you may be working next to a sharp edge. […]
Feeding our Feathered Friends

By Calvin Finch Ph.D.,Guest Author The presence of birds enhances our landscapes with color and interest, and feeding the birds helps bring them into easy viewing range. For the long term, however, including plants in your landscape that provide cover, fruit, seed sources and nectar producing blooms is the most effective way to encourage birds […]
Friends in Low Places

Like a friend who lends a hand pulling weeds or installing a new watering timer for your outdoor faucet, garden helpers come in various forms – each with their own talent. There are thousands of beneficial insects that play an important role in keeping plants and soil healthy. Some of them include: Parasitic wasps in the […]
There’s Something About Rosemary

In celebration of the fall growing season, we’re highlighting some of our favorite herbs. Kicking it off is rosemary, a very “in” herb. Check out its versatility: In the garden – Rosemary thrives in dry, calcareous soil and full sun, making it the perfect choice for a xeric garden. In the kitchen – Rosemary’s culinary value has been known for centuries. Commonly used […]
Plant Some Pigment

Pigment aka color is one of the first things we notice when we cast our eyes on a new place. Dark, light, bold, muted, bright, rich and soft are all words we use to describe the color palette of a space. In landscape design, pigment truly dictates the character of a garden and sets the stage for […]
Need Gift Ideas? Think Outside the Pot

By Cynthia Barsun, Guest Author Trying to come up with an original Christmas present? Or, just want to brighten a room? I was at a friend’s house recently when I spotted this clever idea: a petite plant in a seashell. Dish gardens are simple, but unique. They add a spark of interest to a room, […]
Revamping Your Landscape? Go Wild!

By Cynthia Barsun, Guest Author Fall is a great time to plant wildflower seeds for spring. Wildflowers not only attract butterflies and other wildlife to your garden, but they also add beautiful color to your landscape. Planting in the fall gives the seeds a chance to acclimate, which helps them germinate faster in the spring. Wildflowers […]
Harvest Now, Enjoy Later

How did your garden grow this year? Do you have more than enough vegetables to give away to family and friends? Consider canning or freezing the extras! The goal is to preserve as much of the nutritive value of the food as possible. The potential advantages of preserving your vegetables are lost when you start with poor […]
Outdoor Space Limited? Garden Inside!

By Cynthia Barsun, Guest Author Just because you’re limited on outdoor space doesn’t mean you can’t be surrounded by greenery. Consider house plants. They brighten up your living space and add color, too! When choosing your plants, find ones that will do well in the space you’re providing. Try to mimic the plant’s natural environment. You […]
When It Comes to Turf, Just Mix It!

Contrary to popular belief, your entire lawn does not have to consist of one type of grass or turf. Just mix it! In fact, single species landscapes, aka monocultures, are an oddity in nature mainly because maintaining one requires constant and expensive vigilance. Why not allow nature to take its course? Multiple species of forbs and grasses growing together […]
No-Fail Fruit Trees for San Antonio

Around February, area nurseries will begin receiving shipments of fruit trees for the year. Did you know there’s a large assortment of fruit trees you can grow with much success in San Antonio? The key: choosing the right variety. Some fruit trees such as pears, oriental persimmons, figs, and pomegranates are easy to grow since […]
Seize the Rain!

There are lots of reasons to harvest rain water. But this one in particular comes to mind. A house with a 1,000-square-foot roof can yield about 600 gallons of rainwater from just 1 inch of rainfall. That’s a lot of water! Now consider all the rooftops in your neighborhood and imagine how much water is running […]
Turn Me On, Don’t Run Me Off

Familiarize yourself with your irrigation controller and avoid one of the most common mistakes when programming the device. Run times and start times are two completely different functions on a sprinkler system controller and confusing the two can really lighten your pocket book. Run Time – determines how long each individual zone will run. Start Time – determines when a […]
Hydrozone – Get in It!

We attempt to save water in many ways, such as collecting rain water or installing water-efficient fixtures in our homes. But putting extra thought into your landscape’s design can save water, too. You can do that with creating a hydrozone in the landscape. Hydrozoning is a technique that groups plants according to the amount of water they require. […]
Native Plants are Easy to Grow

There is a common misconception that native plants are not appealing for landscapes. Let’s dispel that ugly rumor right here and now. Native plants are easy to grow since they’re well-adapted to our soils and climate. Also, a native landscape provides shelter and food (nectar, pollen and seeds) for wildlife such as butterflies, insects, birds and […]
Plant a Panorama

Creating a landscape that is both functional and pleasing to the eye requires some basic knowledge of design principles, including texture, form, and color. But to produce a landscape that reads like a panorama, you need elements that serve as connectors. I’m talking about plants with trailing or cascading qualities. Here are a few examples: […]
Attract a Flock of Feathered Friends to Your Yard

Landscapes that attract feathered friends are easier to create than you might think. Shelter, food and water are the most important elements to incorporate. Accomplishing this is simply a matter of choosing the right plants for your landscape. The more variety of plants you have, the more species of feathered friends you’ll attract. Natural woodlands are […]
Drought Savvy Plants – Tried and True

Ever heard the phrase “trial by fire?” San Antonio’s hot, dry, drought conditions frequently test our plants’ abilities to perform well under pressure. And extreme conditions are very telling of a plant’s capacity to survive. You may be less familiar with these beauties, but they’re tough as nails! Consider incorporating any or all of them into […]
Leaf Raking Time, Maybe Not!

It’s that time of the year when deciduous trees start losing their leaves as we transition into fall. But resist the urge to rake up all that foliage and send it to the landfill. It might be better to think about alternatives to leaf raking. There are many beneficial and decorative uses for leaves in our gardens. They’re […]
Common Gardening Myths Debunked

Not knowing the facts in any situation can be harmful. When it comes to gardening myths, misunderstandings or a lack of knowledge can lead to plant damage, excessive use of chemicals, and expensive mistakes. Enter gardening myths, old wives tales and folklore. Here are a few of the more common gardening fables: Myth: Watering before […]
Draw Dragonflies to the Landscape

Creating a friendly environment in your yard for dragonflies and damselflies is easier than you think. And even though their life cycle revolves around water, they don’t require a lot of it. Incorporating an efficient water feature into your landscape is the simplest way to go. Pre-shaped ponds are available at local gardening centers. Flexible liners allow you to create your […]
Welcome Wintering Wild Birds

Birds add beauty and interest to the winter landscape. Feeders dispensing sunflower seeds, suet and fruit will bring a number of birds in for observation, but the real key to lots of aviary action in your garden is including wildlife plants. Wildlife plantings should include food plants as well as plants for cover. Not all […]
Beat Brown Patch to the Punch: Water Wisely

The weather is changing and the nights are longer and cooler. That means it’s time to adjust how we care for our lawn. Beginning in October, our lawns require less water because they’re shifting from growth mode to cold weather-preparation mode. Reducing lawn irrigation is important because the mild evenings produce the ideal environment for development of brown […]
Evergreens Fit for the Texas Scene

Winter is an ideal time to plant trees and shrubs. Roots have some time to develop before the plants must face the South Texas summer heat. Among the large palette of plants that are well-adapted to our climate are several evergreens. Arizona cypress is one of the few conifers that prosper in our area. It has a desirable […]
Tending to Tender Tropicals

Tropical plants are beautiful, but a little care needs to be taken during our infrequent cold weather. Although our winters are mostly mild, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the forecast so you can prepare your landscape for a freeze. Here are some tips to keep in mind when dealing with tropicals: Bougainvillea and oriental […]
Don’t Be Fooled By Your Green Lawn

The grass is green so it must be time to start working on the lawn, right? Wrong! The green you see now is just winter weeds. And the best thing you can do is mow them down. Here are some lawn chores you should avoid doing for now: Don’t buy weed-and-feed fertilizer. It’s too early for […]
Wildlife Watching Without Reserve

San Antonio boasts many great spots for wildlife watching, such as Mitchell Lake, Friedrich Wilderness Park and Government Canyon. What if you could create that kind of back-to-nature experience right in your own backyard? Plan your own small-scale nature reserve by limiting your lawn. Large, expansive lawns displace other diverse native habitats that are desirable […]
Garden Tools Getting Ready for Spring Now

Winter has arrived and it’s time to do our seasonal gardening chores. There are several tasks you can do to keep up your garden and garden tools during the cold months. Start by prepping your landscape for new plantings. Remove grass (it’s dormant right now) from areas you plan to put bedding. Also, collect seeds […]
Fall Back on Winter Watering

For many of us, fall is the best time of the year. It comes in the form of cooler, more pleasing temperatures and the end to daylight saving time. Without a doubt you’ve already set all your usual timepieces back one hour. But don’t forget to reset the most important clock – the one on […]
Weed Wars

Aren’t weeds the eternal gardening problem? We create a new bed, plant new grass or spend hours pulling up weeds only to find new ones taking root a week later. Don’t feel discouraged if this happens to you. As a gardener you’ll always have to contend with unwanted vegetation of all kinds in your landscape. […]
Moonlight in Your Garden

Gardening has been enjoyed for centuries, but who enjoys gardening when it’s 100 degrees or more outside? Not many folks I know. Maybe it’s time to enjoy a little moonlight in your garden. There’s no rule that says gardening is a daylight-only activity. Enter the moonlight garden. Here are a few elements to get you […]
Hot Colors for a Cool Landscape

Heat is probably the last thing you want to think about in the middle of a scorching Texas summer. But I’m talking about adding a little heat to your garden in terms of hot colors. Yellow, red, orange — all of these colors are bright, cheery and grab your attention quickly. Here are a few […]
Keep Your Cool Colors

Garden design, in essence, is the pleasing arrangement of attractive plants. Characteristics of attractive plants range from leaf texture and bloom size to overall shape and mature height. But a plant’s leaf and flower color are the most powerful design elements in a landscape. Green, blue and violet are considered cool colors, and when used correctly they have […]
Winter Wildlife

Beneath the fallen leaves, atop bare branches and deep within the soil exists the kind of life we don’t normally notice in the midst of wintry weather. While we retreat to the toasty confines of our homes from the seemingly dormant winter outdoors, vegetation continues to grow and bloom and wildlife still scurry about the […]
Spruce Up Your Winter Garden

During the winter season many gardeners start to ache for the color and inspiration that burst forth from a blooming spring garden. While the “bloom to brown” ratio is far more appealing during the warmer seasons, it is possible to have attractive, appealing gardens throughout the year. It’s time to spruce up that winter garden. Creating year-round […]
Watch the Winter Wildlife

Keep a watchful eye on the world around you this winter. Beneath the fallen leaves, perched on cold, bare branches, and deep within the soil exists the kind of life we don’t normally recognize in the chill of wintry weather. While we hurry inside to the warmth of a fire, Mother Nature continues to bloom […]
Winter Watering

While there’s no perfect answer to how much you should water in winter, there are some key conditions and observations to consider. As homeowners watch their landscapes enter winter dormancy, many wonder, “How much do I need to water my landscape this winter?” While there’s no perfect answer, there are some key conditions and observations […]
Fond of Fresh Fruit? Plant Fruit Trees Now!

Mid-winter is the best time to plant fruit trees in our area. Planting during that time period allows trees to focus on growing a strong root system before leaf, flower and fruit production begin. If you’ve always wanted to grow your own fruit, take a look at these San Antonio-specific recommendations. In the meantime, here are a few […]
Garden Tool Prep for Spring

Winter has arrived and it’s time to do our winter gardening chores. There are several tasks you can do to keep up your garden and garden tool maintenance during the cold months. Garden Tool maintenance is especially important as is prepping your landscape for new plantings. Tackle tools: Drain gasoline from all gas-powered equipment. Sharpen mower blades. […]
Holiday Decorating from the Garden

When most of us think of holiday plants, several come to mind: trees, poinsettias and mistletoe. All can be used to decorate your home during the holiday season. Another plant that’s become popular in recent years is the topiary-shaped rosemary. Both poinsettias and rosemary can be planted in your landscape after the holidays are over […]
This Holiday Season Go Green – Evergreen

Several years ago I received a very special Christmas gift – a little amaryllis bulb about the size of a marble. It lacked much bravado with its two puny leaves and I knew several years would pass before it revealed even one magnificent bloom. Still, I managed to keep it alive. Then much to my […]
Winter Gardening Chores

When it comes to chores, Mom never missed an opportunity to remind me of just how endless they are. You can bet that the same rules apply to the garden. So, as winter approaches, bear in mind there are some important chores we should consider because those sleepy plants still need your care and attention. […]
Watering in the Winter

By Calvin Finch Ph.D., Guest Author There is considerable debate whether our lawns and landscape plants need to be irrigated during the winter time. It’s not a simple question to answer. In a normal San Antonio winter, temperatures are cool, rains are common, and there’s limited plant growth. Under such conditions, irrigation isn’t crucial for […]
Gardening’s Not Just for Grown-Ups

From grandchildren to nieces to nephews, we all have children in our lives. And most children like to play in the dirt. Fall is the perfect time of year to take advantage of their love for getting dirty and cultivate a new crop of gardeners. Whether you’re planting a vegetable garden or just replacing plants […]
Time to Tackle Transplanting

Fall in San Antonio is generally beautiful and happens to be the most favorable time of the year to relocate your existing plants. Both the weather and the soil are cooler, creating a less stressful environment. Here are a few basic guidelines that apply to most transplanting situations. Timing – Mild temperatures mean less stress on the […]
Small Garden – Big Beauty

By Laura C. Rogers It’s not necessary to have a large garden to enjoy nature. A small garden home may have less square footage than a city lot, but you can have just as much beauty. In fact, there are many advantages to having a smaller garden: Purchase only four plants instead of four flats. […]
Daylight Savings Time Ends, Turn Back Irrigation Clocks, Too

For many of us, fall is the best time of the year. It comes in the form of cooler and more pleasing temperatures. As you go through the normal routine of changing the clocks, don’t forget turn back irrigation clocks too. And, while you’re there, take a moment to size up your landscape’s water needs. The days are shorter, […]
Preparing for a Fall Garden

Perhaps you found this years’ growing season to be a struggle. The days were long and hot as usual and watering just to keep your garden alive became a part-time career. Breathe a deep sigh of relief as the fall season is upon us. This mild time of year brings an added dimension of delight […]
Gourd Giddy? Get to Growing ‘Em!

Gourd-planting season is upon us again. From birdhouses and feeders to pots and vases, arts and crafts projects using gourds abound. These and other decorative pieces can be yours with very little effort or cost. Growing, harvesting, drying and decorating gourds is a great way to get the little ones involved in gardening. Here are […]
When a Rose is (Not Exactly) a Rose

Throughout history, a rose has been the quintessential symbols of beauty and romance, and they often represent some of life’s most intimate, cherished moments. I’ll share some tips to help you identify plants in the rose family, which encompasses more than the beautiful floral bushes we’ve come to know. They include herbs, shrubs and trees […]
Xeriscape = Zero Hassle

Making the jump from a turf-blanketed landscape to a xeric one can be daunting. Daily, I speak with folks who are tossing around the idea of minimizing the amount of grass they must maintain, but don’t know how to get started. Xeriscape doesn’t mean ugly. It just means zero hassle. Here are some things to […]
How Much Lawn is Too Much?

Homeowners have begun to ask this question especially during these hot summer months. This summer, many of us are wondering why we have lawns at all. Add up all the heat, drought, chemicals, fuel, water, labor and regulations, and it’s a wonder why anyone would even want a big yard. This year many people have simply let […]
Mint Condition

Let’s learn the easiest ways to identify members of the mint, or Lamiaceae, family – a culinary favorite! Peppermint, lavender, oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme are some of the superstars in this group of strong-scented, drought-tolerant plants. Their common features make it almost effortless to determine who their relatives are. Leaves are opposite from each other on the stem and are usually in […]
Bee Very Aware

Bees all around the globe are suffering from colony collapse disorder, a mysterious disease that’s believed to be the cause for the large decline in the European honeybee population. About 75 percent of all fruit, nut and vegetable plants in this country are pollinated by these insects. There are about 4000 bee species in the United States and Canada; protecting […]
Let Them Eat Bugs!

Almost all plants in our gardens attract insects of some kind. Some bugs are beneficial, but others can destroy a plant in no time flat. Perhaps you’ve tried organic pesticides to no avail. Why not let our feathered friends do the job instead? Nearly all birds eat insects and some rely on them exclusively. Birds […]
Coming Up Roses: Prepare for the Fall Show

Break time is over. It’s time to get your rosebushes ready for their second major blooming period: fall. The fall blooming season can be as magnificent as the spring, especially if you prepare your rosebushes. Preparation involves some light pruning, fertilization, restoring the spray program and regular watering. Fear not, fall pruning is not as extensive as […]
Pass Up These Invasive Plants

These non-native plants have the frightening ability to infest and destroy entire ecosystems in a short period of time. Here are a few examples of pushy plants to avoid: Chinese Tallowtree (Sapium sebifera) – This tree is liked for its unique, heart-shaped leaves, fast growth and lovely fall color. However, the seeds choke riverbanks, pastures and […]
Live Green, Save Green

We know you’re not “that guy.” You know the one. The irrigation system runs every day, even when it’s raining. Aside from using your irrigation system wisely, there are lots of other ways you can help conserve our most precious resource. Try these live green water-saving tips to help keep your bill low and maintain […]
Pretty Plants with Poisonous Ways

Nothing makes you more aware of the dangers that surround us day to day than having young children in your life. They’re curious, uninhibited, and love to explore the world around them using all of their senses. Just as some of the chemicals in our homes pose a threat to our kids, so do some […]
Arbor Amazing!

Are you looking for a dramatic change to your garden landscape? Then consider an arbor! Arbors can hold vines, frame a view, create an entrance and a lot more. So start looking for that perfect spot. What defines an arbor? An arbor: Is a vertical structure that’s larger than a trellis, but usually not as massive […]
Name That Plant

In the world of science, all plants are identified and classified by their unique characteristics. Known as plant taxonomy, it represents the relationships between plants. In school, we all learned about the hierarchy of that identification system: kingdom, division, class, order, family, genus and species. One of the easiest ways to learn plant identification on your […]
Taking a vacation? Protect Your Plants

Plan ahead to help your plants survive the separation. You’re planning that much-needed summer vacation – maybe for a week or longer. But what will you do about your plants and lawn while you’re away? Just like you would for your pets, plan ahead to help your plants survive the separation. Here are a few tips to […]
Conserve Moisture with Mulch

By Calvin Finch, Ph.D., Guest Author One of the best ways to conserve moisture in the soil is to use mulch that insulates the surface from evaporative pressures, resulting from the contact between the hot sun, dry air and dirt. In addition to breaking the direct contact between the moist soil and dry air, the […]
Take Cover: Winterize Your Landscape

You’ve seen ’em – blankets and sheets draped over plants and shrubs in local front yards. It’s an annual ritual as plant owners desperately try to protect their plants from the few truly cold days we have each winter. Although South Texas winters typically aren’t severe, it’s always a good idea to prepare your landscape – just […]
Awash with Lavender

From perfume and insect repellant to food flavoring, lavender’s everyday use dates back more than 2,500 years to the Egyptians, Phoenicians and the people of Arabia. Derived from the Latin word lavare, meaning “to wash,” the essential oil of lavender is used to scent bath and body care products, soaps, candles and even household cleansers […]
Uneven Landscape? Build a Retaining Wall.

Once winter has passed, it is time to usher in the part of the season we gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts love – spring! With the weather still cool and pleasant, now is the time to tackle weekend DIY projects, such as retaining walls for those of us that have uneven landscapes. Retaining walls not only prevent […]

Guest Authors

SPECIALTY: Water conservation, landscaping, native plants, wildlife

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Our Guest Authors are fantastic former SAWS employees, incredible interns and community leaders in the local landscaping world. They are all as passionate as we are about saving water with beautiful, diverse landscapes.

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