Potted succulents for sale! If you are looking for a small gift, house plant, or patio decoration, then our homemade succulent arrangements are the perfect fit! Worried about the hassle of caring for them properly? We have you covered with hand-written detailed care guides that make things easy! 100% of profits go towards growing the business in preparation for our fall sales. Time: August 22nd-23rd, 10:00AM-5:00PM Address: 2081 FM 2713,…
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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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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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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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At Gen1 Greenhouse, we are exploring the wild side of petunias.Our breeding project mixes wild species, heirlooms, and hybrids to see what happens when resilience and beauty collide. From Petunia axillaris’s powerful scent, to Petunia Integrifolia‘s vigorous growth, and even to Petunia exserta’s rare red blooms, we are crossing, observing, and documenting, while chasing petunias that are as tough as wild species and as stunning as the modern hybrid. Experimental…
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Overview Lantana is a tough-as-nails perennial that thrives in heat, drought, and full sun. Its colorful flowers attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and pollinators throughout the growing season. Light Requirements Lantana requires full sun. Six to eight hours of direct sunlight ensures dense growth and prolific blooming. Soil & Planting Lantana is adaptable to poor soil, but prefers well-draining ground. Sandy or loamy soil is ideal. Avoid overly rich soil that promotes…
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Overview Lavender can be grown in East Texas with careful attention to drainage, airflow, and sunlight. While our humidity poses a challenge, choosing the right variety and planting technique makes success possible. Light Requirements Lavender needs full sun with a minimum 6 hours daily. Morning to mid-afternoon light is ideal. Avoid planting lavender in shade or overly humid areas. Soil & Planting Lavender must have well-draining, slightly alkaline soil. Amend…
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Overview Marigolds are one of the easiest and most rewarding annuals for East Texas gardeners. With their vibrant blooms and classic appeal, marigolds make a cheerful addition to flowerbeds, and container arrangements. These tough, sun-loving plants thrive in our hot climate and bloom from spring until frost. Light Requirements Marigolds thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct light daily. More sun encourages stronger stems and a…
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Overview Mexican Heather, aka Mexican False Lavender, or (Cuphea hyssopifolia) is a low-growing, evergreen perennial with delicate, lavender-like flowers and fine, airy foliage. Though not a true lavender, this plant offers year-round texture and color in the East Texas landscape. It makes an excellent ground cover or border plant and is highly attractive to pollinators. Light Requirements Cuphea hyssopifolia prefers full sun to partial shade. It performs best with morning…
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Overview: Caladiums are grown primarily for their vibrant, heart-shaped leaves in shades of red, pink, green, and white. These tropical plants are well-suited to East Texas gardens if given proper care, especially in shaded areas where many flowering plants struggle. Though most gardeners grow them as annuals, they are tuberous perennials that can be saved and replanted yearly. Light Requirements Caladiums thrive in partial to full shade, making them ideal…
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