For optimum plant growth, the Austin gardener will need to improve the soil with liberal amounts of compost, peat moss, shredded bark or other organic materials. Although St. Augustine grass remains the most popular widely planted lawn grass, more homeowners are turning to Bermuda or Buffalograss, which are more drought-tolerant. Zoysia grass and fescue are sometimes planted in special situations. The hybrid Bermuda grasses are very beautiful but demand extra care. Visit with local nursery or garden center personnel and let them suggest sturdy, dependable varieties for your home gardens.
Many herbs make outstanding additions to the local vegetable garden.
Most fruit crops are fairly dependable, but choose the varieties you plant carefully, To avoid disappointment, it is best to avoid cherries, raspberries and blueberries. Peaches, plums, pears, apples and apricots do well. Blackberries, figs, strawberries. If you are a lover of citrus. Other citrus, such as kumquat, make excellent container grown plants with some winter protection.