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Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers Nan Hampton, Jimmy Mills and Barbara Medford to be the culpable and capable parties. Yet, others think staff members Damon Waitt, Joe Marcus and Philip Hawkins might play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants

Ever wondered what the best flowers and plants are for your garden? Do you want to start a water garden but don't know how? Want to stop your neighbor from mowing your wildflowers? Help is just a click away! Search our extensive database of frequently asked questions - and their answers!

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See a list of all Smarty Plants Q & As

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Most recently answered

Starting transplants of native Pleopeltis polypodioides
January 15, 2009
I would like to know how to start Pleopeltis polypodioides (resurrection fern) growing in my oak trees. I have a source for the plants but do not know how to start the transplants on the limbs of the...
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Probably non-native crapemyrtle trees damaged by hurricane
January 15, 2009
I have 5 crape myrtle trees. I live in Galveston, Tx and when Hurricane Ike came through in September the salt water I think killed them. They have not come back since then and are brown with no leave...
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Evergreen plants with showy flowers for pots in Central Texas
January 14, 2009
I'm looking for evergreen plants with showy flowers suitable for Central Texas. Plants need to do well in pots.. they will be planted in flower boxes in my very sunny porch. thanks!!!
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Seed for Kosteletzkya virginica, salt marsh mallow
January 13, 2009
I have a nursery in North Carolina. We are looking for a reliable seed source for kosteletzkya virginica salt marsh mallow. We are www.campbellfamilynursery.com
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Photograph of seedling or pigeon berry (Rivina humilis) seedling
January 13, 2009
Where can I find a photograph of a pigeon berry seedling?
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ID for pines along Interstate 45
January 12, 2009
Along the interstate (45) once you get up past Conroe and closer to Dallas, there are some type of pne tree that grows in the medians and on the sides. I love these trees but haven't been able to id...
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Grasses for yard in part shade and shade
January 11, 2009
I have a shady yard with no grass whatsoever in San Marcos, TX. Since there are no roots to anchor the soil, the air (and the house) is full of dust. I want to plant a native grass that does well in f...
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What flowers will ducks and swans not eat?
January 11, 2009
I live by ducks and swans. They love eating my flowers. Any suggestions on what flowering plants they won't eat?
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