Latest Posts

How to Grow Roses from Seed in East Texas

Red Tea Rose

Most people grow roses from cuttings or potted transplants, but did you know you can also grow them from seed? While growing roses from seed is a slower process, it allows you to explore natural variety, experiment with breeding, and experience the joy of watching a rose grow from the very beginning. In East Texas, this process can be rewarding—but it requires patience, care, and the right timing. Step-by-Step: Growing…
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Deer-Resistant Plants for East Texas Flowerbeds

Lantana 'Hot Blooded Red'

Protect Your Landscape Without Compromising Beauty If you live in East Texas, then you know how beautiful—yet hungry—our local deer population can be. For gardeners, this often means chewed leaves, missing flowers, and a lot of frustration. Fortunately, there are many plants that deer tend to avoid, allowing you to enjoy a thriving flowerbed without constant worry. Below is a region-specific list of deer-resistant plants for East Texas, grouped by light preference…
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Modern vs. Traditional Plant Breeding: A Petunia Case Study

Purple wave petunia

Overview Plant breeding has changed dramatically in the last century. As tools like F1 hybridization, tissue culture, and genetic mapping have become standard in modern horticulture, breeders and growers alike are faced with the question: Are these newer methods better than the traditional ones? Using the petunia as a central example, this article explores the strengths and weaknesses of modern-day breeding methods compared to historical approaches—and considers what this means…
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